Books like Starla Jean Cracks the Case
Indie Kidd: Are We Having Fun Yet (Hmmm?)
Karen Mccombie, Lydia Monks, 2006
160 pages
Why to read
Explores friendship dynamics, fostering social skills development.
Encourages emotional intelligence through character interactions.
Cultivates resilience and adaptability in changing situations.
Supports literacy with engaging narrative style.

Indie Kidd: Are We Having Fun Yet (Hmmm?)
Karen Mccombie, Lydia Monks, 2006
Award winning
Vera Goes to the Dentist
Vera Rosenberry, 2002
32 pages
Why to read
Helps children overcome fear of dental visits.
Engaging, comforting storyline.
Encourages bravery and curiosity.
Stimulates discussion about health and hygiene.

Vera Goes to the Dentist
Vera Rosenberry, 2002
Award winning
Brontorina
James Howe, Randy Cecil, 2010
32 pages
Why to read
Encourages inclusion and following dreams.
Teaches resilience and self-acceptance.
Inspires imagination through endearing dinosaur protagonist.
Ideal for promoting empathy and understanding diversity.

Brontorina
James Howe, Randy Cecil, 2010
Award winning
BRAVE: A children’s book about overcoming nighttime fears, worries, or anxieties
Kathleen Davis, Rekha Salin, 2020
24 pages
Why to read
Addresses common childhood fears with sensitivity.
Encourages resilience and bravery in young readers.
Supports emotional growth through relatable storytelling.
Engaging narrative fosters shared reading experiences.

BRAVE: A children’s book about overcoming nighttime fears, worries, or anxieties
Kathleen Davis, Rekha Salin, 2020
Award winning
Sam Wu is Not Afraid of Ghosts
Katie Tsang, Kevin Tsang, Nathan Reed, 2018
205 pages
Why to read
Combats childhood fears with humor and bravery.
Encourages resilience and self-confidence in young readers.
Stimulates imagination through engaging adventures.
Supports emotional development and empathy.

Sam Wu is Not Afraid of Ghosts
Katie Tsang, Kevin Tsang, Nathan Reed, 2018
Award winning
The Day My Mom Came to Kindergarten
Maureen Fergus, Mike Lowery, 2013
32 pages
Why to read
Hilarious role-reversal tale, engaging for both kids and parents.
Highlights importance of rules and social behavior in school.
Encourages empathy by viewing situations from others' perspectives.
Perfect blend of humor and learning opportunities.

The Day My Mom Came to Kindergarten
Maureen Fergus, Mike Lowery, 2013
Award winning
The Real McCoys
Matthew Swanson, Robbi Behr, 2017
352 pages
Why to read
Engaging mystery captivates and enhances analytical skills.
Dynamic sibling duo fosters teamwork and empathy.
Illustrations complement text, aiding visual literacy development.
Encourages curiosity and active participation in storytelling.

The Real McCoys
Matthew Swanson, Robbi Behr, 2017
Award winning
Benny Beats His Shyness: Kids and Parents Overcoming Social Anxiety
Dr. Jonathan Kushnir, Ram Kushnir, Vidya Lalgudi Jaishankar, 2021
50 pages
Why to read
Addresses overcoming social anxiety with relatable situations.
Encourages empathy and understanding among peers.
Supports emotional development and self-confidence.
Ideal for shared reading, strengthening parent-child bonds.
