Books like Sergio Sees the Good: The Story of a Not So Bad Day
Award winning
How to Be a (Young) Antiracist
Nic Stone, Ibram X. Kendi, 2023
208 pages
Why to read
Encourages empathy and understanding through interactive storytelling.
Empowers young readers to think critically about equality.
Supports developmental conversations around race and inclusivity.
Inspires positive social change from an early age.

How to Be a (Young) Antiracist
Nic Stone, Ibram X. Kendi, 2023
Award winning
What Do You Do When You're Sad?
Kyle Schoenberger, 2023
58 pages
Why to read
Addresses emotional literacy for children's psychological development.
Encourages constructive discussion about feelings in young readers.
Supports empathy building and emotional understanding.
Uses vibrant illustrations to engage and captivate.

What Do You Do When You're Sad?
Kyle Schoenberger, 2023
Dork Diaries Tales from a NotSoPosh Paris Adventure
Rachel Renée Russell, 2023
336 pages
Why to read
Engaging, humorous journey with protagonist Nikki Maxwell.
Cultivates empathy through diverse character relationships.
Boosts cultural awareness with Parisian backdrop.
Encourages self-expression and resilience in youth.

Dork Diaries Tales from a NotSoPosh Paris Adventure
Rachel Renée Russell, 2023
Award winning
She Drives Me Crazy
Kelly Quindlen, 2021
320 pages
Why to read
Captivating rivalry-to-romance teenage storyline.
Highlights themes of resilience and personal growth.
Empowers young readers through strong, relatable characters.
Encourages empathy and understanding in relationships.

She Drives Me Crazy
Kelly Quindlen, 2021
Award winning
Yusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero
Saadia Faruqi, 2021
368 pages
Why to read
Addresses bullying with sensitivity and understanding.
Promotes resilience and bravery in difficult situations.
Encourages empathy and inclusivity among peers.
Relevant, contemporary setting that engages young readers.

Yusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero
Saadia Faruqi, 2021
Award winning
Ain't Burned All the Bright
Jason Reynolds, Jason Griffin, 2022
384 pages
Why to read
Vividly captures complex emotions and resilience.
Innovative format engages young readers.
Encourages dialogue on social justice themes.
Strengthens comprehension and empathetic skills.

Ain't Burned All the Bright
Jason Reynolds, Jason Griffin, 2022
Award winning
Huda F Are You?
Huda Fahmy, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Explores identity and self-expression in relatable ways.
Fosters empathy and understanding of cultural diversity.
Captures humor and authenticity in personal discoveries.
Supports social emotional learning and self-esteem.

Huda F Are You?
Huda Fahmy, 2021
Award winning
A Place to Hang the Moon
Kate Albus, 2021
309 pages
Why to read
Captivating narrative set during World War II.
Themes of resilience, family, and belonging.
Encourages empathy and historical awareness.
Ideal for middle-grade readers' engagement and growth.
