Books like Speak Up
Award winning
The Cool Bean
Jory John, 2019
33 pages
Why to read
Showcases importance of kindness and self-confidence.
Encourages empathy and friendship among peers.
Humorous approach resonates with young readers.
Supports emotional development through engaging storytelling.

The Cool Bean
Jory John, 2019
Award winning
Bye-Bye Bully: A Story about Finding Your Voice, Courage, Kindness and Empathy
Stacy C. Bauer, Eduardo Paj, 2023
39 pages
Why to read
Addresses bullying with empathy and understanding.
Encourages finding one's voice and courage.
Highlights the importance of kindness in interactions.
Supports emotional and social development.

Bye-Bye Bully: A Story about Finding Your Voice, Courage, Kindness and Empathy
Stacy C. Bauer, Eduardo Paj, 2023
Award winning
Ways to Welcome
Linda Ashman, 2020
40 pages
Why to read
Showcases diverse ways of expressing kindness and hospitality.
Encourages inclusivity and acceptance among young readers.
Enhances understanding of social skills and manners.
Supports emotional development through heartwarming stories.

Ways to Welcome
Linda Ashman, 2020
Award winning
Lou's Zoo and Winston Too: A Story About Kindness, Compassion, Acceptance, Fitting In with Others, and Anxiety
Joann M Dickinson, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Teaches kindness, compassion, and acceptance.
Addresses anxiety and fitting in.
Engaging, relatable characters for young readers.
Promotes empathy through fun storytelling.

Lou's Zoo and Winston Too: A Story About Kindness, Compassion, Acceptance, Fitting In with Others, and Anxiety
Joann M Dickinson, 2023
Award winning
We Are One: A Heartwarming Story about the Power of Love, Equity, and Unity
Dr. Tonnette Alcide, Hailey Peterson, 2023
44 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity with engaging, heartfelt narrative.
Teaches values of love, equity, and unity.
Encourages empathy and understanding in young readers.
Beautiful illustrations complement the powerful message.

We Are One: A Heartwarming Story about the Power of Love, Equity, and Unity
Dr. Tonnette Alcide, Hailey Peterson, 2023
Award winning
Anzu the Great Listener
Benson Shum, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Cultivates active listening and empathy in young readers.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual learning.
Supports language development and comprehension skills.
Encourages meaningful conversations between parents and children.

Anzu the Great Listener
Benson Shum, 2023
Award winning
Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope
Jodie Patterson, Charnelle Pinkney Barlow, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates individuality and acceptance.
Encourages understanding diverse identities and expressions.
Inspires courage and resilience in adversity.
Family bonding through meaningful discussions.

Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope
Jodie Patterson, Charnelle Pinkney Barlow, 2021
Award winning
Black Girls
Dominique Furukawa, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and empowerment of black girls.
Encourages self-love and confidence in young readers.
Beautiful illustrations enhance storytelling and engagement.
Supports emotional development and understanding.
