Books like Moonlight on the River
Award winning
The World Belonged to Us
Jacqueline Woodson, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Captures joyful essence of childhood adventures.
Encourages teamwork and community building.
Enhances empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates imagination through vibrant storytelling.

The World Belonged to Us
Jacqueline Woodson, 2022
Award winning
This Little Kitty in the Garden
Karen Obuhanych, 2024
32 pages
Why to read
Encourages outdoor exploration and curiosity in children.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual perception.
Enhances vocabulary through repetitive and rhythmic patterns.
Supports early learning about nature and animal behavior.

This Little Kitty in the Garden
Karen Obuhanych, 2024
Award winning
The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
272 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of bravery and compassion.
Highlights the importance of forgiveness and hope.
Encourages empathy and understanding through diverse characters.
Stimulates young imagination with whimsical storytelling.

The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread
Kate Dicamillo, Timothy Basil Ering, 2023
Award winning
Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Educates on historical events through narrative storytelling.
Addresses complex themes with age-appropriate language.
Encourages awareness and understanding of racial history.
Supports discussions on equality and human rights.

Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2021
Award winning
Dory Fantasmagory: Can't Live Without You
Abby Hanlon, 2024
160 pages
Why to read
Promotes creativity through engaging, imaginative adventures.
Highlights value of friendship and cooperation.
Encourages resilience and problem-solving skills.
Fun, relatable content for young readers.

Dory Fantasmagory: Can't Live Without You
Abby Hanlon, 2024
I'm Good at Making Music
Eileen Day, 2022
24 pages
Why to read
Inspires creativity and musical exploration in young minds.
Features diverse characters, fostering inclusivity and empathy.
Encourages perseverance and confidence through storytelling.
Perfect for bonding during family reading time.

I'm Good at Making Music
Eileen Day, 2022
Award winning
The Sea of Terror: Once Upon a Tim
Stuart Gibbs, 2025
161 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled tale enriches curiosity and imagination.
Characters showcase resilience and teamwork.
Enhances critical thinking through problem-solving scenarios.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.

The Sea of Terror: Once Upon a Tim
Stuart Gibbs, 2025
Award winning
Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
160 pages
Why to read
Captivating storyline celebrating milestones and growth.
Characters exhibit realistic emotions and decisions.
Enhances understanding of friendship and sharing.
Supports social skills development through engaging narrative.
