Books like Uptown
Award winning
All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant journey through the colorful streets of Havana.
Celebrates creativity and resourcefulness in overcoming challenges.
Rich cultural immersion that fosters global awareness.
Engaging narrative that builds relatability and empathy.

All the Way to Havana
Mike Curato, Margarita Engle, 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
The Year We Learned to Fly
Jacqueline Woodson, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Inspires resilience and creativity in challenging situations.
Stresses the importance of family and togetherness.
Enhances mindfulness and emotional intelligence.
Celebrates cultural diversity and heritage.

The Year We Learned to Fly
Jacqueline Woodson, 2022
Award winning
Spanish is the Language of My Family
Michael Genhart, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity through language and family ties.
Enhances multilingual development in early childhood learning.
Engaging narrative fosters emotional and social growth.
Encourages family bonding over shared heritage stories.

Spanish is the Language of My Family
Michael Genhart, 2023
Award winning
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Enhances understanding of African American history.
Strengthens empathy through powerful storytelling.
Encourages critical thinking and discussion.
Beautiful, evocative illustrations complement the narrative.

The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, 2021
Award winning
Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
Benjamin Dean, 2021
352 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of diversity and acceptance.
Encourages understanding of LGBTQ+ community.
Develops empathy through engaging storytelling.
Inspires adventure and family bonding.

Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
Benjamin Dean, 2021
Award winning
Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
272 pages
Why to read
Showcases resilience through engaging, relatable storytelling.
Highlights importance of friendship and teamwork.
Encourages understanding and managing personal fears.
Supports emotional and social development.

Stuntboy, In The Meantime
Jason Reynolds, 2021
Award winning
Under My Hijab
Hena Khan, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and understanding through vibrant storytelling.
Introduces cultural respect and awareness, essential for young minds.
Empowers identity exploration and self-expression.
Warm, colorful illustrations enhance engagement and retention.
