Books like Messy Bessey (Revised Edition) (A Rookie Reader)
Award winning
Miami Gets It Straight (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))
Patricia C. Mckissack, Fredrick McKissack, 2010
96 pages
Why to read
Engages young readers with a fun, relatable storyline.
Encourages essential problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Features characters that mirror real-life diversity and challenges.
Supports language development and early literacy foundations.

Miami Gets It Straight (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))
Patricia C. Mckissack, Fredrick McKissack, 2010
Award winning
Bugs (Rookie Readers)
Patricia C. Mckissack, Pat Mckissack, Mike Cressy, Fredrick McKissack, 2000
32 pages
Why to read
Introduces young readers to fascinating world of insects.
Simple, engaging language suitable for beginner readers.
Colorful illustrations enhance understanding and engagement.
Encourages curiosity about nature and science.

Bugs (Rookie Readers)
Patricia C. Mckissack, Pat Mckissack, Mike Cressy, Fredrick McKissack, 2000
What's the Magic Word?
Joan Holub, Dana Regan, Shelagh Mcnicholas, 2012
16 pages
Why to read
Teaches manners through engaging, whimsical storytelling.
Encourages polite behavior with relatable scenarios.
Supports language development and social skills.
Interactive, promotes parent-child bonding during reading.

What's the Magic Word?
Joan Holub, Dana Regan, Shelagh Mcnicholas, 2012
Award winning
Lu and the Swamp Ghost
James Carville, Patricia C. Mckissack, David Catrow, 2004
40 pages
Why to read
Engages children’s imagination with captivating visuals.
Encourages bravery and resilience through relatable characters.
Fosters empathy and understanding of different perspectives.
Promotes literacy and creative problem-solving skills.

Lu and the Swamp Ghost
James Carville, Patricia C. Mckissack, David Catrow, 2004
Award winning
Goin' Someplace Special
Patricia C. Mckissack, Jerry Pinkney, 2001
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates resilience and courage in historical context.
Inspires understanding of racial integration and equality.
Encourages emotional growth and empathy development.
Strengthen child’s historical awareness and social values.

Goin' Someplace Special
Patricia C. Mckissack, Jerry Pinkney, 2001
Award winning
Smart About the Presidents (Smart About History)
Maryann Cocca-Leffler, Jon Buller, Dana Regan, Susan Saunders, Jill Weber, 2004
64 pages
Why to read
Engaging educational content on U.S. Presidents.
Enhances historical knowledge and curiosity.
Promotes critical thinking and retention.
Ideal for shared reading with family.

Smart About the Presidents (Smart About History)
Maryann Cocca-Leffler, Jon Buller, Dana Regan, Susan Saunders, Jill Weber, 2004
Award winning
What Is Given from the Heart
Patricia C. Mckissack, April Harrison, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Promotes empathy and community kindness.
Encourages gratitude and generosity in children.
Illustrates the joy of giving selflessly.
Rich, heartwarming narrative with beautiful illustrations.

What Is Given from the Heart
Patricia C. Mckissack, April Harrison, 2019
Award winning
What Is Up When You Are Down? (Rookie Readers)
David F. Marx, Susan Martins Miller, 2000
23 pages
Why to read
Explores emotional literacy through engaging storytelling.
Encourages resilience and understanding of feelings.
Supports early reading skills with simple, repetitive text.
Colorful illustrations enhance comprehension and engagement.
