Books like Missy Violet and Me
Award winning
Penny and Her Marble
Kevin Henkes, 2013
48 pages
Why to read
Encourages understanding of personal integrity and honesty.
Supports emotional development and decision-making skills.
Illustrated, captivating visuals hold children’s interest.
Stimulates discussions about right and wrong.

Penny and Her Marble
Kevin Henkes, 2013
Award winning
The Negro Speaks of Rivers
Langston Hughes, E.B. Lewis, 2009
32 pages
Why to read
Explores rich African-American historical and cultural heritage.
Encourages appreciation for poetry and lyrical storytelling.
Stimulates discussions on diversity and historical perspectives.
Beautiful, evocative illustrations complementing the poetic text.

The Negro Speaks of Rivers
Langston Hughes, E.B. Lewis, 2009
Award winning
Yo Soy Muslim: A Father's Letter to His Daughter
Mark Gonzales, Mehrdokht Amini, 2017
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural identity and diversity.
Strengthens father-daughter relationships.
Empowers self-confidence and belonging.
Encourages questions about heritage and faith.

Yo Soy Muslim: A Father's Letter to His Daughter
Mark Gonzales, Mehrdokht Amini, 2017
Award winning
Classics
Benny Uncovers a Mystery (The Boxcar Children Mysteries)
Gertrude Chandler Warner, David Cunningham, 1976
128 pages
Why to read
Engaging mystery stimulates problem-solving skills.
Enhances critical thinking through plot twists.
Encourages teamwork and collaboration among characters.
Stimulates imagination with suspenseful, captivating narrative.

Benny Uncovers a Mystery (The Boxcar Children Mysteries)
Gertrude Chandler Warner, David Cunningham, 1976
Award winning
The Lion Who Stole My Arm
Nicola Davies, Annabel Wright, 2013
96 pages
Why to read
Inspires courage and resilience in young readers.
Highlights wildlife conservation and empathy.
Encourages understanding of disability and bravery.
Engaging story about overcoming adversity.

The Lion Who Stole My Arm
Nicola Davies, Annabel Wright, 2013
Award winning
Estie the Mensch (The PJ Library: Jewish Bedtime Stories & Songs for Families)
Jane Kohuth, Rosanne Litzinger, 2011
32 pages
Why to read
Encourages positive behavior through relatable Jewish values.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and maintain children’s interest.
Addresses the importance of kindness and respect.
Ideal for bedtime storytelling, enhancing family bonds.

Estie the Mensch (The PJ Library: Jewish Bedtime Stories & Songs for Families)
Jane Kohuth, Rosanne Litzinger, 2011
Award winning
Tomás Rivera (Rise and Shine) (Green Light Readers Level 2)
Jane Medina, Edward Martinez, 2004
24 pages
Why to read
Captures Tomás Rivera’s inspiring story.
Enhances reading skills for level 2 readers.
Encourages literacy and historical awareness.
Supports Spanish language learning.

Tomás Rivera (Rise and Shine) (Green Light Readers Level 2)
Jane Medina, Edward Martinez, 2004
Award winning
Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
Benjamin Dean, 2021
352 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of diversity and acceptance.
Encourages understanding of LGBTQ+ community.
Develops empathy through engaging storytelling.
Inspires adventure and family bonding.
