Books like Small Places, Close to Home
Award winning
Follow the Moon Home: A Tale of One Idea, Twenty Kids, and a Hundred Sea Turtles
Philippe Cousteau, Deborah Hopkinson, 2016
48 pages
Why to read
Inspires environmental awareness and community engagement.
Showcases teamwork and leadership among children.
Provides a real-world problem-solving context.
Enhances understanding of marine biology and conservation.

Follow the Moon Home: A Tale of One Idea, Twenty Kids, and a Hundred Sea Turtles
Philippe Cousteau, Deborah Hopkinson, 2016
Award winning
Sky Boys: How They Built the Empire State Building
Deborah Hopkinson, 2004
48 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of determination and teamwork.
Historical insight into iconic Empire State Building.
Illustrations enhance engagement and understanding.
Encourages interest in engineering and architecture.

Sky Boys: How They Built the Empire State Building
Deborah Hopkinson, 2004
Award winning
Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity and personal identity.
Encourages respect for oneself and others.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading.
Inspires confidence and pride in heritage.

Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
Award winning
Maya's Song
Renée Watson, Vicki B. Williamson, 2022
48 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and resilience.
Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy in children.
Vibrant illustrations complement the engaging narrative.
Supports language development and vocabulary expansion.

Maya's Song
Renée Watson, Vicki B. Williamson, 2022
Award winning
Watercress
Andrea Wang, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and family bonds.
Enhances understanding of diversity and inclusion.
Encourages emotional growth through relatable storytelling.
Beautifully illustrated, captivating young readers.

Watercress
Andrea Wang, 2021
Award winning
Stickler Loves the World
Lane Smith, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of empathy and global awareness.
Encourages appreciation for diversity and cultural differences.
Stimulates curiosity about the world and different places.
Supports language development and geographical knowledge.

Stickler Loves the World
Lane Smith, 2023
Award winning
Only for a Little While
Gabriela Orozco Belt, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale about the value of time and change.
Encourages resilience and adaptability in young readers.
Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy.
Supports literacy skills through engaging narrative.

Only for a Little While
Gabriela Orozco Belt, 2023
Award winning
Magnolia Flower
Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant storytelling enchants and captivates young minds.
Illustrates resilience and courage through engaging narratives.
Fosters emotional growth and understanding in children.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading sessions.
