Books like Wonder
Award winning
You Matter to Me
Doyin Richards, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and inclusivity through engaging storytelling.
Encourages empathy and the importance of relationships.
Supports social and emotional development in children.
Reassuring, affirming message that all kids matter.

You Matter to Me
Doyin Richards, 2022
Award winning
Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope
Jodie Patterson, Charnelle Pinkney Barlow, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates individuality and acceptance.
Encourages understanding diverse identities and expressions.
Inspires courage and resilience in adversity.
Family bonding through meaningful discussions.

Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope
Jodie Patterson, Charnelle Pinkney Barlow, 2021
Award winning
Bye-Bye Bully: A Story about Finding Your Voice, Courage, Kindness and Empathy
Stacy C. Bauer, Eduardo Paj, 2023
39 pages
Why to read
Addresses bullying with empathy and understanding.
Encourages finding one's voice and courage.
Highlights the importance of kindness in interactions.
Supports emotional and social development.

Bye-Bye Bully: A Story about Finding Your Voice, Courage, Kindness and Empathy
Stacy C. Bauer, Eduardo Paj, 2023
Award winning
Black Boy, Black Boy
Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and empowerment for young Black boys.
Nurtures self-identity and self-worth in children.
Inspires resilience and ambition through relatable storytelling.
Supports developmental growth in empathy and emotional intelligence.

Black Boy, Black Boy
Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, 2022
Award winning
Watercress
Andrea Wang, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and family bonds.
Enhances understanding of diversity and inclusion.
Encourages emotional growth through relatable storytelling.
Beautifully illustrated, captivating young readers.

Watercress
Andrea Wang, 2021
Award winning
Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle
Nina Lacour, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diverse family structures warmly and inclusively.
Enhances understanding of separation and reunion.
Encourages emotional expression and resilience.
Supports development of empathy and acceptance.

Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle
Nina Lacour, 2022
Award winning
Like Lava in My Veins
Derrick Barnes, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Explores emotional regulation through creative storytelling.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Supports development of coping strategies in children.
Engaging narrative that strengthens reading skills.

Like Lava in My Veins
Derrick Barnes, 2023
Award winning
Goodnight Racism
Ibram X. Kendi, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Fosters understanding and awareness of racial equality.
Encourages thoughtful discussions about diversity and inclusion.
Supports empathetic character development in young readers.
Empowers through positive, hopeful messaging.
