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Picture Book

Author: David Bowles
Illustrator : Erika Meza
Copyright Date: 2012
Awards: The Tomás Rivera Mexican American Children’s Book Award 2022
Summary: My Two Border Towns follows a boy and his father on a weekend trip to "The Other Side/El Otro Lado", mirroring their town across the Rio Grande. Their routine includes favorite spots, a meal, and a visit with family. This heartwarming tale, celebrates the bond between father and son, capturing the richness of life on the U.S.–Mexico border and the significance of community support.

Available in English and Spanish.
Instructional Application: Setting, characterization, symbolism; cross-curricular instruction to Spanish, Art, and Geography
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 5

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Spanish Version

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Picture Book

Author: Isabel Quintero
Illustrator : Zeke Peña
Copyright Date: 2019
Awards: The Tomás Rivera Mexican American Children’s Book Award 2020
Summary: This touching children's book celebrates the bond between a father and daughter. Set in a vibrant Hispanic community, the story follows Daisy on a thrilling motorcycle ride with her hardworking dad, exploring their neighborhood and the cherished moments they share. The illustrations beautifully capture the joy of family, culture, and the simple pleasures of life.

Available in English and Spanish.
Instructional Application: Literary elements, writing personal narratives, inferencing; cross-curricular instruction to Mathematics-, Diversity and Cultural Appreciation, and Mapping Skills
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 4

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Chapter Book

Author: Katherine Applegate
Illustrator : Patricia Castelao
Copyright Date: 2012
Awards: Newberry Medal 2013
Summary: The book chronicles Ivan, a gorilla at a mall, and his mission to protect a baby elephant named Ruby. Ivan's art exposes the mall's animal mistreatment, leading to public outcry, closure, and relocation to a zoo. The story resonates with themes of friendship, compassion, and the pursuit of freedom.
Instructional Application: Book discussions, character analysis, cross-curricular instruction to Science, Art, and Geography
Age group: Children in grades 3-7.
Rating: 5

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Chapter Book

Author: George Orwell
Illustrator : no illustrations
Copyright Date: 1945
Awards: Prometheus Hall of Fame Award 2011, Retro Hugo Award for Best Novella 1996
Summary: Animal Farm tells the story of farm animals overthrowing their human master to establish a more just society. Yet, their leaders, notably the greedy Napoleon, become corrupt, betraying their comrades and distorting the original ideals. It serves as a stark cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of unchecked power and the manipulation of good intentions.
Instructional Application: Analyzing characters, identifying themes, and comparing texts; cross-curricular instruction to History, Economics, and Science
Age group: Children in grades 9-12
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Deborah Chandra and Madeleine Comora
Illustrator : Brock Cole
Copyright Date: 2007
Awards:
Summary: George Washington's Teeth, written in verse, humorously explores the historical legend of President George Washington's dental woes. In this tale, based on Washington's letters, diaries, and historical records, readers discover the truth behind the lost teeth saga. Despite what mnay people think, Washington never had wooden teeth. Instead, he suffered from toothache throughout his life and had his rotten teeth extracted by a dentist. Through clever rhymes and charming drawings, the book takes readers on a journey through Washington's struggles with dental health, and the various remedies he tried shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of American history.
Instructional Application: text-structure of poetry, inferencing, main ideas and details; cross-curricular instruction to History, Health, and Science.
Age group: Children in grades 1-4.
Rating: 4

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Chapter Book

Author: James Patterson
Illustrator : Kwame Alexander
Copyright Date: 2020
Awards: 2022-2023 Texas Bluebonnet Award
Summary: The author offers a touching glimpse into the formative years of boxing legend Cassius Clay, later known as Muhammad Ali. The book is set against the backdrop of racially segregated 1950s Louisville. The novel traces Cassius's early struggles and triumphs as he discovers his love for boxing. It is a compelling narrative of resilience and determination.
Instructional Application: character analysis, summarization, text-to-self connections; cross-curricular instruction to Social Studies and History
Age group: Children in grades 4-6.
Rating: 5

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Chapter Book

Author: Dave Eggers
Illustrator : Shawn Harris
Copyright Date: 2023
Awards: Newberry Medal 2023
Summary: In The Eye and the Impossible, Johannes is a free-spirited dog who lives in a seaside city park and serves as an eye, observing the park's activities and reporting back to the ancient bison elders. With the help of friends including seagulls, raccoons, squirrels and pelicans, Johannes maintains his balance until trouble arises. With the arrival of more humans, including Trouble Travelers, and mysterious changes in the park, Johannes's worldview is challenged. This story of friendship, liberation, and new perspectives promises to appeal to readers of all ages.
Instructional Application: Making predictions, identifying themes, and making connections; cross-curricular instruction to Social Studies and Creative Writing
Age group: Children in grades 6-8.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Matt DeLaPeña
Illustrator : Christian Robinson
Copyright Date: 2018
Awards:
Summary: Carmela Full of Wishes follows a young girl, Carmela, and her dreams of a perfect birthday wish, along with her older brother as they journey through their migrant worker community. Through tender moments and unexpected discoveries, Carmela learns about love, family, and the power of hope. This beautiful picture book not only sheds light on the realities faced by migrant families but also teaches valuable lessons about resilience, family bonds, and the power of chasing one's dreams.

Available in English and Spanish.
Instructional Application: character traits, writing personal narratives, sequencing; cross-curricular instruction to Social Studies, Diversity and Cultural Appreciation, Mapping Skills, and Science
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Matt DeLaPeña
Illustrator : Loren Long
Copyright Date: 2018
Awards: #1 New York Times Bestseller
Summary: This book explores the feeling of love, showing how it's present in various aspects of life. This book explores the many ways love manifests itself, from the day we are born through childhood and beyond. The lyrical forms of narrative writing in this story provide soothing and inspiring texts.
Instructional Application: making connections, identifying theme, analyzing literary devices; cross-curricular instruction to Art and Character Education
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Kwame Alexander, Chris Colderly, and Marjory Wentworth
Illustrator : Euka Holmes
Copyright Date: 2017
Awards: 2018 Coretta Scott King Illustrator
Summary: This culturally rich anthology honors poets from around the world. This heartfelt collection continues the legacy of twenty celebrated poets, inviting readers to explore the beauty and diversity of poetry. The original poems that honor the art form, along with stunning mixed-media offer a wonderful exploration of poetry’s imagination.
Instructional Application: Analyzing poetry, making connections, poetry apprecaition, cross-curricular Mulituctural Appreciation and Art
Age group: Children in grades 3-7.
Rating: 4

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Chapter Book

Author: Emily Winfield Martin
Illustrator : Emily Winfield Martin
Copyright Date: 2017
Awards:
Summary: This is a enchanting retelling of the classic fairy tale. Set in a magical forest, it follows the adventures of two sisters, Snow and Rose, as they cross enchanting mysteries and encounter fantastical creatures. With rich storytelling the author crosses a tale of sisterhood, bravery, and the power of love.
Instructional Application: Inferencing, comparing and contrasting, symbolism; cross-curricular instruction to Science, Art, and Creative Writing
Age group: Children in grades 4-7
Rating: 5

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Chapter Book

Author: Markus Zusak
Illustrator :
Copyright Date: 2006
Awards: 2007 Michael L. Printz Award, Honor, 2007 Book Sense Book of the Year Award Winner, and 2006 National Jewish Book Award Winner
Summary: The Book Thief is a touching and gripping novel set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany. The story, told by Death, revolves around Liesel Meminger, a young girl who steals books and shares her stolen books with her neighbors, and the Jewish man who hides in the basement. This beautifully written book explores themes of love, loss, and the enduring human spirit. It emerges as a source of hope and resilience amidst the horrors of war.
Instructional Application: Point of view, making predictions, and identifying themes and symbols, cross-curricular instruction to History, Art, and Cultures
Age group: Children in grades 7-HS.
Rating: 5

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Chapter Book

Author: Lisa Fipps
Illustrator :
Copyright Date: 2023
Awards: A Printz Honor Winner 2023
Summary: Starfish delves into the life of Ellie, a young girl who has suffered from constant fat-shaming since childhood. This book sensitively explores themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and the power of friendship. The author tells a heartfelt story that encourages empathy and understanding while celebrating self-acceptance in a fat-phobic world.
Instructional Application: Analyzing Character development, identifying themes, symbolism, cross-curricular instruction to Health Education and Creative Writing
Age group: Children in grades 6-8.
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Mo Williams
Illustrator : Mo Williams
Copyright Date: 2010
Awards: 2011 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor
Summary: A delightful children's book that follows the adventures of Elephant and Piggie as they discover they are being read in a book. The book invites young readers to join in on the fun cleverly interacting with dialogue.
Instructional Application: High-frequency words , point of view, introduce literary devices; cross-curricular instruction to Drama, Art, and Social Studies
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Charlotte Watson Sherman
Illustrator : Akem
Copyright Date: 2021
Awards:
Summary: Brown Sugar Babe celebrates the beauty and strength of brown skin. Written in poetic prose, this book tells the story of a young girl embracing her natural beauty and discovering the power of self-acceptance.
Instructional Application: making connections, analyzing figurative language, identifying themes cross-curricular instruction to Character Education, Art, and Creative Writing
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Claire Tattersfield
Illustrator : Rob Sayegh Jr.
Copyright Date: 2023
Awards:
Summary: Cupig adores Valentine's Day, spreading love and joy to all. However, when a storm misdirects her arrows, she unintentionally causes romantic turmoil among classic pairs like Peanut Butter and Jelly. The book follows Cupig's quest to mend her mistakes and reunite these beloved couples. A heartwarming tale perfect for Valentine's Day.
Instructional Application: Making predictions, cause and effect, character traits, cross-curricular instruction to Creative Writing, Character Education, and Art
Age group: Children in grades PK-2.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Tracey Corderoy
Illustrator : Jorge Martin
Copyright Date: 2017
Awards:
Summary: Fairy Tale Pets is a imaginative picture book that introduces readers to a world where beloved fairy tale characters have pets with extraordinary abilities. As these enchanting animals embark on adventures of their own, they demonstrate the power of friendship, loyalty, and courage. This book offers a delightful twist on classic tales for young readers to enjoy.
Instructional Application: inferencing, compare and contrasting, and predicting; cross-curricular instruction to creative writing and Art

Age group: Children in grades PK-2.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Antoinette Portis
Illustrator : Antoinette Portis
Copyright Date: 2020
Awards: The Robert F. Sibert Honor Book 2020
Summary: A  young girl as she discovers the water’s presence in her surroundings. The book highlights the various forms and roles of water, from raindrops to rivers, to tears, and snowmen. Through exploration of nature, weather, home, and even within herself, the girl uncovers the active lifeblood of water, sparking excitement and interest in young readers.
Instructional Application: Main ideas, supporting details, and text connections; cross-curricular instruction to Science, Art, and Health
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Micha Archer
Illustrator : Micha Archer
Copyright Date: 2016
Awards: Ezra Jack Keats Book Award 2017
Summary: In Daniel Finds a Poem, Daniel sets out to understand the meaning of poetry, guided by the perspectives of his animal friends. As Daniel explores the various elements of nature, from morning dew to moonlight on the grass, he discovers that poetry is everywhere; you just have to look and listen. With its charming narrative and colorful illustrations, Daniel Finds a Poem inspires readers to find poetry in their own surroundings.
Instructional Application: Inferencing, identifying themes, analyzing illustrations; cross-curricular instruction to Science and Art
Age group: Children in grades K-3.
Rating: 4

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Chapter Book

Author: Jeanne DuPrau
Illustrator :
Copyright Date: 2004
Awards: An American Library Association Notable Children’s Book
A New York Public Library 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing Selection
A Kirkus Reviews Editors’ Choice
A Child Magazine Best Children’s Book
A Mark Twain Award Winner
A William Allen White Children’s Book Award Winner
Summary:
Instructional Application: Book discussions, character analysis, cross-curricular instruction to Science, Art, and Geography
Age group: Children in grades 3-7.
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Carlos Aponte
Illustrator : Carlos Aponte
Copyright Date: 2019
Awards: Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor Book Award 2020
Summary: Across the Bay by C. Aponte is a heartwarming tale that follows the journey of a young boy as he explores his hometown in Puerto Rico in search of his father. The colorful illustrations and storytelling captures the beauty of Puerto Rican landmarks, the diverse community, and the importance of friendship and family. Carlitos, the main character, encounters unexpected challenges and discovers the strength of the bond with his mama, abuela, and his cat, Coco.
Instructional Application: Setting, characterization, sequencing; cross-curricular instruction to Spanish, Social Studies, Diversity and Cultural Appreciation, Art, and Geography
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Meg Medina
Illustrator : Angela Dominguez
Copyright Date: 2017
Awards: Pura Belpré Author Award Honor Book (2016, Meg Medina), Pura Belpré Illustrator Award Honor Book (2016, Angela Dominguez), ALSC Notable Children's Book (2016)

Booklist Top 10 Multicultural Fiction for Youth: 2016.
Summary: Mango, Abuela, and Me is a heartwarming story that explores the bond between a young girl named Mia and her grandmother, Abuela. Abuela comes for a visit, but Mia doesn’t speak Spanish, and Abuela doesn’t speak English. Through the shared love of a parrot named Mango, Mia and Abuela overcome the language barrier between them, finding joy and connection in their multicultural family. This charming picture book celebrates diversity and teaches students about the power of love, communication, and the importance of family.
Instructional Application: Setting, characterization, inferencing; cross-curricular instruction to Spanish, Diversity and Cultural Appreciation
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Natasha Yim
Illustrator : Grace Zong
Copyright Date: 2015
Awards:
Summary: This book is a lovely retelling of the classic Goldilocks tale with a multicultural twist. Set in a Chinese household during the Lunar New Year, Goldy Luck stumbles upon the home of the Three Pandas while delivering a tray of turnip cakes. Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas, this picture book teaches lessons of friendship, forgiveness, and cultural appreciation.

Instructional Application: Sequencing, comparing and contrasting, making predictions; cross-curricular instruction to Diversity and Cultural Appreciation, Art, and Geography
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Alex T. Smith
Illustrator : Alex T. Smith
Copyright Date: 2016
Awards: UKLA Picture Book Award 2016
Summary: Little Red and the Very Hungry Lion is a clever retelling of the classic Little Red Riding Hood story set in the African Savanna. When Little Red ventures through the jungle to deliver a basket of buns to her aunt, she comes across a very hungry lion with a mischievous plan. This picture book presents a new angle on a cherished story, full of humor and suspense.
Instructional Application: Comparing and contrasting, characterization, identifying theme; cross-curricular instruction to Diversity and Cultural Appreciation, Art, and Geography
Age group: Children in grades PK-2
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Vashti Harrison
Illustrator : Vashti Harrison
Copyright Date: 2023
Awards: 2024 Caldecott Medal, a Coretta Scott King Book Award Author Honor, a Coretta Scott King Book Award Illustrator Honor, and a National Book Award Finalist
Summary: Big is a deeply moving tale about fitting in, standing out, and the beauty of joyful acceptance. It follows a child's journey to self-love. The authors highlight the power of words to both hurt and heal. Big explores the emotional complexities of being big in a world that values smallness, revealing how one can stand out and feel invisible at the same time.
Instructional Application: inferencing, identifying theme; cross-curricular instruction to Character Education, Art, and Creative Writing
Age group: Children in grades PK-5.
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Maribeth Boelts
Illustrator : Noah Z. Jones
Copyright Date: 2009
Awards: Young Hoosier Book Award (Indiana)2009
Summary: Those Shoes is a heartwarming story about empathy and the true meaning of generosity. The story tells the story of a boy, Jeremy, who longs for a pair of popular shoes, but can only buy them second-hand. Through his journey, Jeremy learns the importance of kindness and understanding, teaching readers valuable lessons about compassion and selflessness.
Instructional Application: character analysis, making inferences, identifying theme; cross-curricular instruction to Social Studeis, Basic Economics, and Character Education
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Dave Pilkey
Illustrator : Dave Pilkey
Copyright Date: 1999
Awards: Caldecott Medal Award 1999
Summary: The Paperboy is a charming picture book that follows a young paperboy and his faithful dog on their newspaper delivery route. In the tranquility of the early morning. Through vivid illustrations, the book depicts the boy's solitary journey as he delivers newspapers in the early hours of the morning. The author shares a glimpse of the boy’s determination and sense of responsibility of the paperboy, the bond between the boy and his canine companion, and the beauty of the early morning hours.
Instructional Application: making predictions, visualizing, sequencing; cross-curricular instruction to Mapping, Science, and Physical Education/Health
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Sonia Manzano
Illustrator : John J. Muth
Copyright Date: 2007
Awards:
Summary: No Dogs Allowed tells the story of Iris, who longs to join her friends at the park but is told that dogs aren't allowed. Despite car troubles and getting lost, Iris's family demonstrates resilience and creativity. Iris and her family began searching for a solution, eventually finding a way to enjoy the park with her beloved dog, Roscoe. This book celebrates friendship, determination, and tolerance.
Instructional Application: making predictions, making connections, summarizing; cross-curricular instruction to Science, Art, and Geography
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Jaqueline Woodson

Illustrator : Leo Espinosa
Copyright Date: 2022
Awards:
Summary: This book is an honest exploration of friendship and belonging. Set in Brooklyn, New York, the book follows two young friends as they deal with the challenges of growing up and discovering their place in the world. The author captures the joy, wonder, and complexity of childhood, reminding readers that the world is full of possibilities waiting to be explored.
Instructional Application: making inferences analyzing illustrations, identifying themes; cross-curricular instruction to Social Studies, P.E., and Creative Writing
Age group: Children in grades K-3.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Dee Romito
Illustrator : Laura Freeman
Copyright Date: 2018
Awards:
Summary: Pies from Nowhere recounts the inspiring true story of Georgia Gilmore during the Montgomery Bus Boycott. The book highlights Gilmore's ingenious contributions to the civil rights movement by baking and selling pies to fund the boycott. This story celebrates Gilmore's resilience and resourcefulness in sustaining the fight for justice.
Instructional Application: drawing inferences, identifying themes, making connections; cross-curricular instruction to History, Culinary Arts, and Cultures
Age group: Children in grades K-4
Rating: 5

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Doing Her Bit: A Story About the Woman's Land Army of America

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Doing Her Bit: A Story About the Woman's Land Army of America

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Picture Book

Author: Erin Hagar
Illustrator : Jen Hill
Copyright Date: 2016
Awards: The Amelia Bloomer Book List 2017
Summary: Doing Her Bit chronicles the untold story of the Woman's Land Army of America during World War I. This book reveals the important contributions made by women who worked in agriculture to support the war effort. The author highlights the integral role of the Woman's Land Army in strengthening the food supply chain and celebrates the resilience of American men and women during this crucial time in history.
Instructional Application: making inferences, text features, identifying themes; cross-curricular instruction to History and Science
Age group: Children in grades 1-4.
Rating: 4

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Picture Book

Author: Jess Keating
Illustrator : Marta Álvarez Miguéns
Copyright Date: 2017
Awards: The Amelia Bloomer Book List 2018
Summary: This is a true story of how Eugenie Clark became the ocean's most fearless scientist. It chronicles the remarkable journey of Eugenie Clark. From a childhood fascination with sea life to becoming a renowned marine biologist, Clark defied stereotypes and pursued her passion for studying sharks. This picture book celebrates her groundbreaking achievements and inspires young readers to follow their dreams.
Instructional Application: Inferencing, author's purpose, and text structure; cross-curricular instruction to Science, History, and Research Skills
Age group: Children in grades PK-3
Rating: 4

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The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos

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The Boy Who Loved Math: The Improbable Life of Paul Erdos

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Picture Book

Author: Deborah Heiligman
Illustrator : LeUyen Pham
Copyright Date: 2013
Awards: Orbis Pictus Honor 2013 and ALA Notable 2013
Summary: This story depicts the extraordinary life of mathematician Paul Erdos. From his early fascination with numbers to his groundbreaking contributions to mathematics, Erdos' story inspires curiosity and celebrates the joy of intellectual discovery. Through interesting storytelling and colorful illustrations, this picture book introduces young readers to Erdos' remarkable achievements and his unique approach to problem-solving.
Instructional Application: Inferencing; main idea and details, and cause and effect; cross-curricular instruction to Math and History
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Areli Morales
Illustrator : Luisa Uribe
Copyright Date: 2021
Awards: 2022 Jefferson Cup Award
Summary: Areli is a Dreamer: A True Story is an inspiring true tale that follows the journey of a young girl named Areli, a young immigrant who dreams of a better future in America.  Areli reunites with her family in New York where she faces the challenges of being an English language learner, but through determination, she succeeds in learning the language and becomes a part of her new country. Through emotional storytelling and colorful illustrations, students learn about resilience, perseverance, and the importance of standing up for what is right. This powerful picture book not only sheds light on the experiences of undocumented immigrants but also promotes empathy, compassion, and the belief in the power of dreams.
Instructional Application: Setting, characterization, sequencing; cross-curricular instruction to Spanish, Art, and Geography, Diversity and Cultural Appreciation
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 5

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Chapter Book

Author: Christopher Paul Curtis
Illustrator :
Copyright Date: 1997
Awards: Newberry Medal 2000 and The Coretta Scott King Award
Summary: This historical-fiction book follows the Watson family's journey from Flint, Michigan, to Birmingham, Alabama, during the Civil Rights Movement in 1963. Through the eyes Kenny, a ten-year-old, the novel explores themes of family, racism, and resilience. The story is set in the backdrop of racial tensions in the South during the 1960’s. The Watsons' trip leads to a powerful and moving lesson about love and understanding.
Instructional Application: theme, text-to-world connections, literary devices; cross-curricular instruction to History and Geography
Age group: Children in grades 3-7.
Rating: 5

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Picture Book

Author: Jory John
Illustrator : Pete Oswald
Copyright Date: 2017
Awards: White Read-Aloud Honor Recipient
Summary: The Bad Seed follows the journey of a misunderstood sunflower seed who believes he's irredeemably bad. As he navigates through life, he learns the power of self-reflection and the possibility of change. Through witty storytelling and expressive illustrations, this picture book explores themes of empathy, acceptance, and personal growth, captivating readers of all ages.
Instructional Application: character analysis, inferencing, identifying themes; cross-curricular instruction to Science and Character Education
Age group: Children in grades PK-3.
Rating: 5