Books like The Minstrel in the Tower (Stepping Stone)
Award winning
The Ralph Mouse Collection (The Mouse and the Motorcycle / Runaway Ralph / Ralph S. Mouse)
Beverly Cleary, 2023
624 pages
Why to read
Captivating adventures foster imagination and creativity.
Features relatable, resourceful characters promoting resilience.
Encourages problem-solving and independence in children.
Ideal for shared reading, enhancing family bonds.

The Ralph Mouse Collection (The Mouse and the Motorcycle / Runaway Ralph / Ralph S. Mouse)
Beverly Cleary, 2023
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
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
The Enchanted Wood Collection: Three Exciting Stories in One
Enid Blyton, 2020
123 pages
Why to read
Rich, imaginative adventures enhance creative thinking.
Relatable characters foster emotional development.
Encourages problem-solving and teamwork.
Fun, engaging narrative boosts reading interest.

The Enchanted Wood Collection: Three Exciting Stories in One
Enid Blyton, 2020
Award winning
Jump at the Sun: The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston
Jacqueline Alcántara, Alicia D. Williams, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Inspiring biography of a prominent literary figure
Insight into African American history and culture
Introduction to the Harlem Renaissance
Encourages the importance of preserving cultural stories

Jump at the Sun: The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston
Jacqueline Alcántara, Alicia D. Williams, 2021
Award winning
Farmhouse
Sophie Blackall, 2022
48 pages
Why to read
Engaging rural setting fosters children's knowledge of farm life.
Vivid illustrations spark creativity and visual learning.
Simple language aids early reading skills.
Encourages empathy through animal and farmer interactions.

Farmhouse
Sophie Blackall, 2022
Award winning
An American Story
Kwame Alexander, 2023
56 pages
Why to read
Captures essential American historical moments.
Fosters pride and understanding of national identity.
Encourages curiosity about historical events.
Stimulates discussions on cultural heritage.

An American Story
Kwame Alexander, 2023
Award winning
Standing in the Need of Prayer: A Modern Retelling of the Classic Spiritual
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Modern retelling enhances connection to historical spiritual song.
Stunning illustrations complement the powerful narrative.
Fosters cultural awareness and historical understanding.
Encourages family discussions on faith and resilience.
