Books like What Is Given from the Heart
Award winning
Lu and the Swamp Ghost
James Carville, Patricia C. Mckissack, 2004
40 pages
Why to read
Engages children’s imagination with captivating visuals.
Encourages bravery and resilience through relatable characters.
Fosters empathy and understanding of different perspectives.
Promotes literacy and creative problem-solving skills.

Lu and the Swamp Ghost
James Carville, Patricia C. Mckissack, 2004
Award winning
A Million Fish...More or Less
Patricia C. Mckissack, 1992
32 pages
Why to read
Vibrant tale exploring numbers and culture.
Stimulates mathematical thinking and creativity.
Rich, engaging storytelling for young readers.
Enhances multicultural understanding and appreciation.

A Million Fish...More or Less
Patricia C. Mckissack, 1992
Award winning
Miami Gets It Straight (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))
Patricia C. Mckissack, 1999
96 pages
Why to read
Engages young readers with a fun, relatable storyline.
Encourages essential problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Features characters that mirror real-life diversity and challenges.
Supports language development and early literacy foundations.

Miami Gets It Straight (A Stepping Stone Book(TM))
Patricia C. Mckissack, 1999
Award winning
Goin' Someplace Special
Patricia C. Mckissack, 2001
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates resilience and courage in historical context.
Inspires understanding of racial integration and equality.
Encourages emotional growth and empathy development.
Strengthen child’s historical awareness and social values.

Goin' Someplace Special
Patricia C. Mckissack, 2001
Award winning
Messy Bessey (Revised Edition) (A Rookie Reader)
Patricia C. Mckissack, Dana Regan, Fredrick McKissack, 1987
31 pages
Why to read
Engages kids with fun, vibrant illustrations.
Teaches responsibility through relatable storytelling.
Encourages organizational skills in young readers.
Supports early literacy and language development.

Messy Bessey (Revised Edition) (A Rookie Reader)
Patricia C. Mckissack, Dana Regan, Fredrick McKissack, 1987
Award winning
Bugs (Rookie Readers)
Patricia C. Mckissack, Pat Mckissack, 1988
32 pages
Why to read
Introduces young readers to fascinating world of insects.
Simple, engaging language suitable for beginner readers.
Colorful illustrations enhance understanding and engagement.
Encourages curiosity about nature and science.

Bugs (Rookie Readers)
Patricia C. Mckissack, Pat Mckissack, 1988
Award winning
Me and the Boss: A Story About Mending and Love
Michelle Edwards, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Encourages understanding of relationships and emotional resilience.
Engaging narrative fosters empathy and compassion in readers.
Explores themes of healing and cooperation effectively.
Ideal for parent-child shared reading sessions.

Me and the Boss: A Story About Mending and Love
Michelle Edwards, 2022
Award winning
The Longest Strongest Thread
Inbal Leitner, 2020
29 pages
Why to read
Illustrates deep family connections across distances.
Enhances understanding of diverse cultural backgrounds.
Encourages emotional resilience and adaptability.
Stimulates discussions on family and love.
