Books like Willow's Smile
Award winning
Big Bear Was Not the Same
Joanna Rowland, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Addresses trauma recovery through a compassionate narrative.
Enhances understanding of emotional support and friendship.
Encourages open discussions about feelings and healing.
Supportive text for children facing similar challenges.
Big Bear Was Not the Same
Joanna Rowland, 2021
Award winning
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #11): From the Creator of Captain Underpants
Dav Pilkey, 2023
240 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled storyline fosters creativity and imagination.
Introduces teamwork, responsibility, and friendship themes.
Engaging graphics captivate and maintain children's interest.
Encourages reading confidence in young independent readers.
Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea: A Graphic Novel (Dog Man #11): From the Creator of Captain Underpants
Dav Pilkey, 2023
Award winning
The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative fostering emotional growth.
Teaches valuable lessons in resilience and friendship.
Boosts empathy with relatable, diverse characters.
Encourages dialogue on overcoming life's hurdles.
The Sour Grape
Jory John, 2022
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 Secret of the Hidden Realms
Linda Liu, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Enhances creativity through mystical, enchanting storylines.
Strengthens reading skills with engaging, complex narratives.
Fosters empathy by exploring diverse, dynamic characters.
Encourages exploration of friendship and trust.
The Secret of the Hidden Realms
Linda Liu, 2023
Award winning
Anzu the Great Kaiju
Benson Shum, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Unleashes creativity with captivating giant monster adventures.
Fosters emotional growth through Anzu's character development.
Encourages empathy and understanding between diverse creatures.
Ideal for boosting literacy and engagement in young readers.
Anzu the Great Kaiju
Benson Shum, 2022
Award winning
Gibberish
Young Vo, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity through playful, imaginative language.
Supports language development with engaging, quirky dialogues.
Encourages interactive reading sessions between parents and children.
Builds vocabulary with unique and amusing wordplay.
Gibberish
Young Vo, 2022
Stick and Stone: Best Friends Forever!
Beth Ferry, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates the power of friendship and resilience.
Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy in young readers.
Simple, engaging narrative perfect for early reading skills.
Encourages cooperation and kindness through story-based learning.
