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Author: Lynne Reid Banks

Illustrator:  Dave Henderson

Publisher: Doubleday Books for Young Readers

Date: 1991

Number of Pages: 144

Grade Level: 4 - 6

Artistic Media: Text

Genre: Fiction Fantasy, Adventure, Fairytale

Theme: Perseverance, Friendship, Adventure, Courage, Determination

Summary:  A young girl named Dakin sets out on an adventure to reach the farthest away mountain.The mountain is said to be dangerous and her parents laughed when she said she wanted to go. That didn't stop Dakin from going because she was determined to visit the mountain and she wanted to meet a gargoyle and marry a prince along the way. She encounters magical creatures such as trolls and ogres and she faces various challenges along her journey.

Personal Connection: I think going on a journey you know is going to be challenging but still overcoming all obstacles anyways is how I connect to this book.

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Author: Alan Gratz

Publisher: Starscape (an imprint of Tor Books)

Date: August 29, 2017

Number of Pages:  256.

Grade Level: 3-7.

Artistic Media: text

Genre: Children's Literature and Middle-grade Fiction.

Theme:  Stand up for what you believe is right and use your voice.

Summary: Amy Anne Ollinger is extremely upset when her favorite book gets banned and gets increasingly upset as she discovers even more books getting banned. To spite Ms. Spencer for banning certain books, she makes it her mission to read all of them. She also starts a banned books library in her locker where she gives the banned books to other students to read. She was too shy to speak up about the book banning at the first PTA meeting but towards the end she spoke up about it in the PTA meeting and got all the kids in the school to back her up. In the meeting she tries to prove a point by listing all the silly reasons books should be banned.

Personal Connection:  This book connects to the current book bans in Idaho. Historically, book banning has been used to try and control certain narratives by  controlling information, manipulating public opinion, and suppressing dissent.  The act of banning books can be seriously problematic for a multitude of reasons. Some of which include: Limitation on diversity of thought, limiting students' understanding of different cultures, historical events, and social issues and limiting authors' creative thought because they are afraid to write about controversial topics.

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Author: Cece Bell

Publisher: Amulet Books

Date: September 2, 2014

Number of Pages: 248

Grade Level: 3 - 7

Artistic Media: Graphic novel

Genre: Autobiography, graphic novel, memoir, fiction

Theme:  Finding strength in our differences and accepting one's uniqueness.

Summary: Cece Bell tells her childhood story about contacting meningitis and losing her hearing. The story shows her growing up with a hearing impairment and going to school with a hearing aid called a phonic ear. At times she wished she didn't have to wear it and she was scared people would make fun of her for how it looked. Cece was self conscious about making friends so  he uses her imagination to see herself as a superhero who she calls “El Deafo.” Her super power comes from the phonic ear which allows her to hear her teacher no matter how far away she is and also tune in on conversations others might miss.  Her classmates think it is also a superhero. Ultimately, she learns self acceptance and finds her true friends.

Personal Connection: Everyone has the desire to fit in and I found myself relating  to Cece wanting a sense of belonging. I think this book is great for students who have never met someone who is hard of hearing or deaf so they can gain a deeper understanding of what it may be like. I also think it is great for students who are hard of hearing or deaf because it gives them a story to relate to.

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Author: Roald Dahl

Publisher: Straus and Giroux

Date: 1982

Number of Pages: 208

Grade Level: 4-7

Genre: Children's literature, fantasy

Theme: Standing against wrong doings, friendship bravery and courage

Summary:  A little girl named Sophie meets a big friendly giant. She is scared at first because giants are known for eating children. This giant (the BFG) is kind and does not eat children. The two develop a unique friendship. Together they make a plan to stop all the other giants from eating children. The giant has the ability to capture dreams and deliver them to other people. So with his ability he sent a dream to the Queen of the giants eating children. The Queen wakes up terrified  and orders troops to follow the BFG and help capture all the giants.

Personal Connection: I found myself cheering on Sophie and the BFG as they go on their adventure to stop other giants from eating children. The book reminds us that no matter how big or small you are, you are capable of making a change.

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Author: J.K. Rowling

Publisher: Scholastic Corporation

Date of Publication: September 1, 1998

Number of Pages: 309

Grade Level: 6-12

Artistic Media: Print, E- book and audio book.

Genre: Fantasy

Theme: Friendship, Courage, Good vs. Evil, Identity, Acceptance

Summary: On Harry Potter's 11th birthday he finds out he is a wizard. Hagrid (who was a friend of Harry's parents before they died) goes to tell Harry that he is accepted into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Harry meets his two best friends Ron and Hermione at Hogwarts. During his first year at school he discovers the sorcerer's stone.(stone that grants immortality.) He finds out that Voldemort is plotting to steal the sorcerer's stone. Harry confronts Voldemort and he and his friends work together to prevent the stone from falling into Voldmorts hands.

Personal connection: Harry potter's journey of self-discovery, the importance of friendship, and the triumph of good over evil resonate with me and many others on a personal level. This is part of why the book had a lasting connection with me.

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Author: Shel Silverstein

Publisher: Harper & Row

Date: 1964

Number of Pages: 64 pages

Grade Level: Preschool - 3rd grade

Artistic Media: Illustrations and text

Genre: Children's literature

Theme: Generosity, selflessness, friendship, growing up

Summary: This book tells the story of a boy who plants a tree. The boy and the tree grow up together and develop a friendship. The tree gives and gives and gives everything the boy asks for until eventually the tree is left with nothing but a trunk for the boy to sit on.

Personal Connection: We grow and evolve as humans and with that means the relationships we have are dynamic and constantly changing. Sometime this means we can connect to the tree and being selfless in certain relationship dynamics. Conversely, we can relate to the boy who takes and takes without much regard of the other person in the relationship.

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Author: Jacqueline Woodson

Publisher: Nancy Paulsen Books

Date: Published in 2018

Number of Pages: 32 pages

Grade Level: Preschool - 3

Artistic Media: Illustrated picture book

Genre: Children's Literature

Theme: Embracing diversity, overcoming differences, and finding the courage to be yourself

Summary: This book shows the experiences of children who feel different or left out. The children then  discover the power of sharing their stories and connecting with others.

Personal Connection: This book resonates with not always fitting in but doing your best to accept yourself and understand others.

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Author and illustrator: Yuyi Morales

Publisher: Neal Porter Books, an imprint of Holiday House

Date: September 4, 2018

Number of Pages: 40 pages

Grade Level: Preschool - 3

Artistic Media: The book is illustrated using mixed media, including hand-drawn elements, painting, and digital techniques.

Genre: Children's picture book, Memoir

Theme: immigration, cultural identity, the power of libraries and books, hope, and resilience.

Summary: This book shares the journey of Morales and her son immigrating from Mexico to the United States. It talks about the difficulties navigating a new culture and language but also shows how Morales and her son had perseverance. One thing it emphasizes is the importance of books and libraries.

Personal Connection: One thing the book shows is that people make mistakes when navigating new situations. Personally,  I have made a ton of mistakes whilst navigating how to teach. I think making mistakes should be embraced because it shows resilience. This book shows that it is okay to make mistakes and that mistakes help promote growth.

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Author and illustrator: Maurice Sendak

Publisher: Harper & Row (now HarperCollins)

Date: 1963

Number of Pages: 48

Grade Level: Preschool - 3

Artistic Media: pen and ink, watercolor, and gouache.

Genre: Fantasy

Theme: Imagination, independence, home, frustration

Summary: Max gets sent to his room after misbehaving and during his time in his room he dresses in a wolf costume and lets his imagination take him to a mysterious island with creatures called "wild things." Max becomes king of the island and eventually gets homesick and returns back home where he finds his mom had forgave him.

Personal Connection: We often loose our imagination when we get older and this book reminded me of what its like to be a kid and how far your imagination can take you.

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Author and illustrator : Kevin Henkes

Publisher: Greenwillow Books

Date: 1991

Number of Pages: 32

Grade Level: Preschool - 3

Artistic Media: Watercolor and ink pictures.

Genre: Fiction

Theme: Acceptance of yourself, bullying, individuality, beauty in ones name and identity

Summary: Chrysanthemum doesn't have any issues with her name in fact she loves her name and its uniqueness. That is, until she goes to school. At school her classmates make fun of her name for being so long. She then meets Mrs. Twinkle who also has a long name. Mrs Twinkle helps restore Chrysanthemums confidence. She realizes that her name is special and she develops acceptance for her name.

Personal Connection: I connect to this book because it reminds me of when I experienced teasing for my name getting pronounced wrong.

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Author: Michael Driscoll

Illustrator: Meredith Hamilton

Publisher: Black Dog & Leventhal

Date: 2004

Number of pages: 93

Grade Level: 3-7

Artistic Media: Hand drawn and digital informational pictures. There are interactive elements that encourage learning such as a star finder, stickers, questions, pictures and vocabulary definitions.

Genre: Non fiction, Astronomy, Science

Theme: Curiosity and exploration

Summary: This is an engaging and informative book about stars, constellations, planets, and other celestial objects. It talks about what astronauts and scientists explore.

Personal Connection: This is a good book to encourage literacy across the science discipline.

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Author, illustrator and narrator: C. G. Esperanza.

Date: August 10, 2021

Publisher: Almeda Beynon for HarperAudio / Katherine Tegen Books.

Grade: k-5

Genre: Audiobook, fiction, children's book

Theme: Art is everywhere around you and it should be embraced.

# of pages: 40

Artistic Media: Neon Pictures and dancing text

Summary: Graffiti is often looked at through a bad lens. This book embraces graffiti and depicts the beauty and thrill of a big city decorated in graffiti.

Personal response: I love how the book has beautiful  pictures that show off  the atmosphere of a big city. Before listening to the book I thought of graffiti as something that was bad. I'm glad that this book puts graffiti in a positive light because it truly is special. I think it is important to see the beauty in grafitti and the art all around you.

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Author: Amy Novesky

Illustrator: David Diaz

Publisher: ‎Abrams Books for Young Readers

Date:  2015

Number of Pages: 32

Grade Level: 2-4

Artistic Media: Colorful Paintings

Genre: non fiction, narrative

Theme: Always believe in yourself

Summary: Frida moves from Mexico to San Francisco with her husband, Diego. They are both artists but Diego seems to be loving the city and people love his art work. Frida is a bit timid in the city and people find her art work just "okay.'' Finally Frida finds a liking for China town and begins painting again. Her artwork gets the recognition she always knew she deserved and was featured in the 6th annual exhibition of the San Francisco Society of Women Artists.

Personal Connection: It can be easy to accept when someone says you are just "okay" at something. But it takes real courage and confidence to know your worth and keep doing what you know you are great at until you get the recognition you deserve.

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There Was A Little Girl, She had A Little Curl 

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There Was A Little Girl, She had A Little Curl 

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Author: Harriet Ziefert

Illustrator: Elliot Kreloff

Publisher: Blue Apple Books

Date: 2006

Number of Pages: 30

Grade Level: k-3

Artistic Media: Drawings

Genre: Fiction, Children's Picture Book

Theme: Everyone has a good side and a bad side

Summary: Isabel decides she is going to be good one day and do everything right. She wakes up, doesn't turn the T.V on, takes the dog out, makes herself breakfast and doesn't complain when her mom says no to three of her shoe options. Suddenly Isabel finds herself putting makeup on and trying to do her hair. She has a hard time brushing her hair so she takes it upon herself to cut her own hair. She ends up cutting it really short and has to go get it professionally fixed.

Personal Connection: I have definitely tried to trim my own hair at home and it has gotten out of hand. Trying to make my hair even can turn into cutting it super short similar to what Isabel did.

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Author Kobi Yamada

Illustrator: Elise Hurst

Publisher: Compendium

Date: 2020

Number of Pages: 40

Grade Level: K-5

Artistic Media: Black ink illustrations

Genre: Fiction, Graphic novel

Theme: It is okay to fail and it takes time to succeed

Summary: A boy sees a sculptors work and is in awe. He thinks he can't create something as beautiful and chooses to just watch the sculptor. The sculptor teaches the boy the importance of failure and encourages him to try. The boy keeps sculpting and failed many times along the way. The Sculptor motivates the boy to keep trying despite feeling defeated. Eventually the boy becomes the the teacher

Personal Connection: Everyone can relate to failing at something despite wanting to be good at something. We all start off as beginners and we must get over the fear of failing in order to succeed. Pushing through difficulties and continuously practicing builds resilience and skill. Just like the boy in the story, he starts off as a beginner who fails and doesn't produce great sculptures but through all his trial and tribulations he becomes a great sculptor!

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Author: Eileen Spineli

Illustrator: Anne Wilsdorf

Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group

Date: 2008

Number of Pages: 32

Grade Level: 1-3

Artistic Media: Cartoon drawings

Genre: Fiction, Children's literature

Theme: The best writing is original and comes from the heart.

Summary: There is a writing contest for the best story and a little girl wants to win the prize! She goes about asking each and every one of her family members what they think a good story entails. They all say something different. Ultimately they all agree that writing must come from the heart and be from the authors own mind.

Personal Connection: I think we can all struggle to pick a topic to write about sometimes. I have asked my family members what to write about on numerous occasions just like the girl in the story. The book is a reminder that the best writing is derived from your own creativity and not asking for others opinions.

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Author:Eve Bunting

Illustrator: Ronald Himler

Publisher: Clarion Books

Date: 1991

Number of Pages: 32

Grade Level: Pre-2nd

Artistic Media: Realistic pictures by Ronald Himler

Genre: Fiction

Theme: No matter how hard your situation may be, it is important to encourage yourself, think positively and creatively, and always have hope.

Summary: The story takes readers through a little boy's experience with homelessness and living in an airport with his dad. The book gives us a super heavy and emotional yet realistic view of homelessness. As the story progresses the boy finds ways to cope with the situation such as finding comfort in his father's company and seeing a bird escape the airport as a sign that he will escape one day too.

Personal Connection: I think this book fosters empathy and understanding of homelessness. Children can see that the boy and his father dont hurt anybody and are trying to do their best to get an apartment.

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Title: All the Way to the Top: How One Girl's Fight for Americans with Disabilities Changed Everything

Author: Annette Bay Pimentel

Illustrator: Nabi H. Ali

Publisher: Sourcebooks Explore

Date of Publication: 2021

Number of Pages: 40

Grade Level: 1st-4th.

Artistic Media: The illustrations bring inclusivity into the art and media

Genre: children's non-fiction, biographical and historical

Theme: Advocating for disability rights and being determined to make a change no matter how young you are.

Summary: This book is a true story about a little girl who participated in the capitol crawl, advocating for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA.) Jennifer was courageous and determined to raise awareness of the impact on the rights of individuals with disabilities. Jennifer “just wanted to go” and thought her wheelchair would not slow her down but the way the world around her was built made it hard for her to have access to simple things because they weren't made accessable.

Personal Connection: This book reminds me of the importance of using our voice to make necessary changes. I don't have any direct experience with challenges due to a disability but this book sparked my interest in learning more about advocacy and the impact of individual actions on societal change.

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Author: Jeanette Winter

Publisher: BeachLaneBooks

Date of Publication: 2014

Number of Pages: 40

Grade Level: 1st-4th

Artistic Media: Distinctive art to complement the narrative.

Genre: Children's biographical fiction.

Theme: Not being afraid to speak up for what is right. Being brave and determined in the face of adversity.

Summary: This is a story about Iqbal, a young boy from Pakistan who escapes child labor and speaks up for children's rights.

Personal Connection: This book aligns with my values of fostering empathy and expanding awareness on important issues of social justice and human rights.

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Author: Troy Andrews

Illustrator: Bryan Collier

Date: 2015

Publisher: Harry N. Abrams

Genre: Nonfiction autobiography

Themes: Working hard and having strength makes dreams come true.

grade level: Pre-K - 3rd

# of pages: 40

artistic media: Mixed media illustrations

Type of the literature: multicultural

Summary: “Trombone Shorty” is the nickname of a boy who can't afford expensive musical instruments but discovers an old trombone. The trombone is bigger than him so his brother gave him the name “Trombone Shorty.” He wants to be a musician like his father and brother so he practices and makes a band with his neighborhood friends. He eventually gets noticed by a famous jazz musician and gets to perform on stage with him.

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Title: I Wanna Iguana

Author: Karen Kaufman Orloff

Illustrator: David Catrow

Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons

Date: 2004

Number of Pages: 32.

Grade Level: 1st - 3rd

Artistic Media: illustrations by David Catrow. Bright watercolor.

Genre: Children's fiction.

Theme: Being persuasive and having perserverance.

Summary: Alex writes persuasive letters to his mom trying to convince her to buy an iguana. Alex’s mom writes back and the readers get to see the dialogue between the two.

Personal Connection: This book reminds me of when I was little and I used to ask my mom for a red eyed tree frog year after year. I would tell her that I would take good care of it and that she wouldn't have to worry about cleaning the cage or feeding it. I would tell her how cool I thought red eyed tree frogs are and how happy I would be if I could get one. She would respond with “the cat will eat it” “you don't even know how to take care of a frog” or “you would be too scared to hold it.” I think all kids can relate to a time when they tried to convince their parents of something they want.

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Author: Tim Tingle

Publisher: Roadrunner Press

Date: 2013

Number of Pages: 144

Grade Level: 5th-9th

Artistic Media: print

Genre: Historical fiction

Theme: Story telling in the face of adversity has power

Summary: This book sets place during a pivotal point of Native American history.  Issac tells the story of how he became a ghost in the midst of the Trail of Tears. He and his tribe are forced to move to different land and Issac shape shifts into a panther when he fights to protect his family.

Personal Connection: I appreciate the author telling this story and being able to preserve culture and history in a meaningful and creative way. The hardships faced by many marginalized communities are often overlooked. This book serves as an important reminder of the resilience and strength of people who have gone through such hardships.

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Author: Judy Blume

Illustrator: Debbie Ohi

Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Date: 2014

Number of Pages: 64

Grade Level: 1-5

Artistic Media: black and white simple sketches

Genre: children's novel, fiction

Theme: Acceptance for ones appearance and the consequences of trying to change your appearance.

Summary:  Andrew wants freckles like the rest of his classmates. He asked his friend how she got freckles and she said she was just born with it. Andrew was not born with freckles so he sets off to buy a freckle juice recipe from Sharon. Sharon tricked Andrew an this is what made him realize he looked fine without the freckles.

Personal Connection: This reminds me of when I wanted to have pin straight hair like my friends did. The more I straightened my hair the more I realized I looked better with my natural hair!

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Miss Peregrines Home for Peculiar Children 

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Miss Peregrines Home for Peculiar Children 

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Author: Ransom Riggs

Illustrator: vintage photographs from various collectors

Publisher: Quirk Books

Date: 2011

Number of Pages: 352

Grade Level: 7-12

Artistic Media: vintage photographs throughout the story, which play a key role in the narrative and provide a visual aspect to the reading experience.

Genre: fiction/ fantasy

Theme: Identity and Self-Discovery, Acceptance of Differences:

Summary: Jacob Portman is a teenager who discovers a mysterious orphanage on an island off the coast of Wales. The orphanage is home to a group of peculiar children with extraordinary abilities, led by Miss Peregrine. Jacob embarks on a journey and learns about his own connection to the peculiar children.

Personal Connection: The novel's themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of embracing one's uniqueness made me feel comfort and inspiration and encouraged me to celebrate my own peculiarities and recognize my strengths.

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Author/illustrator: Raúl the Third

Title: ¡Vamos! Let's Go to the Market

Publisher: Versify

Date:  2019

# of pages: 48

Grade Level: K-3

Genre: Children's picture book, Graphic novel, Fiction

Theme: Exploring culture

Topic: A day in the life of little Lobo and his dog Bernabé exploring their local market.

Summary : Little Lobo and his dog Bernabé have a busy day ahead of them, going to the market and picking up packages to deliver to various places in their community. At the end of the day their last stop was at the local Lucha Libre place, where they meet Lobos favorite wrestler, El Toro. They also get to give him a ride home in his wagon.

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Author: Thanhha Lai

Publisher: HarperCollins

Date: 2011

Number of Pages: 272

Grade Level: 4-8

Genre: Historical fiction, Poetry

Theme: Family comes first. Immigration, Identity, Resilience, Cultural Adaptation

Summary: Ha, a ten-year-old girl, her mother and her brother are forced to flee Saigon during the Vietnam War. The poems reflect Ha's experiences, emotions, and reflections as she navigates moving to the U.S. She faces challenges of adapting to a new country, culture, and language.

Personal Connection: The book made me realize what my home means to me and how privilaged I am to have a sense of belonging and stability. In the book, it highlights the realities of being forced to leave your homeland and what it is like to have to completely uproot your life. To be an immigrant and to be a refugee takes a lot of work and it is hard to completely alter your life and take a risk not knowing what's going to be on the other side of a new country. I felt Ha’s frustration when she was trying to adjust to a totally new life.

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Author: Kirsten Hall

illustrator: Isabelle Arsenault

Publisher: Little Simon

Date: May 2018.

Grade level: K-3

Artistic Media: vibrant watercolor pictures

Genre: children's literature and fiction.

Theme: Celebrating nature, The hard work of bees and their importance.

Summary: This poem shares a day in the life of a honey bee. The bee goes to flowers, collects nectar and then returns to her hive to make honey. The book also highlights how bees may face challenges such as pesticides. It is a great informational book about how bees use pollen and nectar to make honey.

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Author:  Monique Duval

Illustrator: Roeqiya Fris

Publisher: Compendium

Date: 2020

Number of Pages: 64

Grade Level: 3-8

Artistic Media:  Colorful collection of vibrant illustrations

Genre: Spirituality, poetry, picture book

Theme: Trusting in a higher something that allows you to relax and feel confident in what the future has in store.

Summary: This is a poem about the journey of self love and believing in the unimaginable. It is quotes

Personal Connection: I can relate to women who pass love and wisdom down through generations. The bright yellow kitchen in the book is where the girl and her grandma cook and tell stories. This reminds me of all the times I was in my grandma's bright red kitchen while she cooked. She told stories to my family and I and that is where love and wisdom were passed on to everyone.

Academic connection:The book has a lot of similes and metaphors. It would be good to use as a mentor text when intoducing figures of speech to students.

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Author: Peggy Parish

Illustrator: Lynn Sweat

Publisher: HarperCollins

Date: 1982

Number of Pages: 64

Grade Level: 1-3

Artistic Media: drawings with watercolor

Genre: Children's Literature, fiction

Theme: Despite her literal interpretations, Amelia Bedelia approaches each task with a positive attitude.

Summary: Amelia Bedilia approaches instructions very literally, causing somewhat chaotic situations as she tries to help out around the house.

Personal Connection: I can relate to misunderstanding instructions and having unique learning experiences.

Academic Connection: This book can be used to discuss the importance of clear communication and as an introduction to idioms

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Author/Illustrator: Juana Martinez-Neal

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press

Date: 2019

Number of Pages: 48

Grade Level: K-4

Artistic Media: Bright and warm illustrations that complement the storytelling.

Genre: Children's Lit picture book.

Theme: Despite the diversity among Native American people, there are common threads that bind them together.

Summary: "Fry Bread" celebrates the diversity of Native American cultures through the lens of a single, shared food tradition - fry bread. In the book it explore things like the history, cultural significance, and community ties associated with fry bread

Personal connection: I think a lot of cultures have food that bring them together. I think reading this book and then discussing with students some of the foods their culture makes would be a good activity that is inclusive and welcoming of all cultures.

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Author: Scott Stuart

Publisher: Hardie Grant

Date: 2022

Number of Pages: 34

Grade Level: K-5

Artistic Media: Simple illustrations of earth and a bright colored space background

Genre: Children's Literature

Theme: Sometimes the worst moments in life lead you to the best outcomes

Summary: The book discusses how earth feels different from all the other planets and how earth finds it hard to make friends. However when something bad is about to happen to earth we see how in the face of adversity, earth gains something beautiful

Educational Connection: The book goes over the planets and solar system which connects it with science standards. Beyond explaining how the planets orbit each other the book connects to a story about earth feeling different and it tells the story of how earth finds friends.

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Author: Mo Willems

Publisher: Hyperion Books for Children

Date: June 14, 2011.

Number of Pages: 64

Grade Level: K-3

Artistic Media: The book is illustrated with colorful and expressive drawings, featuring the characters Elephant and Piggie.

Genre: children's fiction

Theme: The theme revolves around friendship, inclusivity, and problem-solving.

Summary: In "Can I Play Too?", Elephant and Piggie are playing catch when a new character, a snake named Snake, wants to join in. The challenge arises because Snake doesn't have arms for catching or throwing. The friends brainstorm and come up with a creative solution, highlighting the importance of including everyone in play.

Personal Connection: I think this book is great for teaching children that it not only important to make sure everyone is included but also possible with creative thinking.

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Author: Audrey Penn

Illustrators: Ruth E. Harper and Nancy M. Leak

Publisher: Child & Family Press

Date: 1993

Number of Pages: 32 pages.

Grade Level: K-4

Artistic Media: illustrated with colorful and expressive drawings.

Genre: Children's fiction and picture book.

Summary: "The Kissing Hand" tells the story of a young raccoon named Chester. Chester is anxious about going to school. His mother shares a special family tradition called the kissing hand to comfort him. His mom kisses his palm and tells him that he can keep the kiss with him all day, providing a sense of love and security, even when they are apart.

Theme: Reassurance that the love of family is always with you.

Academic connection: Sometimes children miss their parents at school or have separation anxiety. "The Kissing Hand" can be used as a tool to help children cope with transitions such as starting school or being separated from their parents

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Author: John Steptoe

Illustrator: John Steptoe

Publisher: Lothrop, Lee & Shepard Books

Publication Date: 1987

Number of Pages: 32

Grade Level: Prek- 3

Artistic Media: watercolor and ink.

Genre: Children's literature, folktale

Theme: Kindness and inner beauty are rewarded.

Summary: The story is a Zimbabwean folktale about two sisters, Nyasha and Manyara. Manyara is selfish and cruel, while Nyasha is kind and humble. When the king seeks a wife both sisters set out on the journey. They encounter various challenges, and their true characters are revealed. Nyasha's kindness and humility end up win the heart of the king.

Personal Connection: I relate to this book because the value of someones heart is more important than what they look like.

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Author: P.D. Eastman

Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers

Date: 1958

Number of Pages: 72

Grade Level: K-4s.

Artistic Media: The book is illustrated with colorful and engaging drawings.

Genre: Children's fiction

Theme: friendship and responsibility

Summary: "Sam and the Firefly" is a story about a serious owl named Sam and an adventurous firefly named Gus. Gus loves to play with his light and create mischief, leading Sam to join in on the fun. However, things take a turn, and Sam learns about the consequences of Gus's antics.

Personal Connection: This is a great book for children just learning to read. It teaches things like respect and helping others. My favorite part of this book is the illustrations

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All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys Soccer Team 

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All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys Soccer Team 

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Author: Christina Soontornvat

Publisher: Candlewick

Date: 2020

Number of Pages: 288

Grade Level: 3-7

Artistic Media: digital media prints

Genre: non fiction

Theme: Staying calm within the storm and perseverance

Summary:  The Wild Boars soccer team and their coach, become trapped deep inside a cave complex in Thailand. The book recounts events and details of the boys and their daring rescue, highlighting the bravery and dedication of the rescuers involved.

Personal Connection: I thought the book had great graphics and it contained lots of information about Thai culture, religion and some of the immigration issues in the region. For me I was shocked to hear how the coach kept a calm demeanor throughout the entirety of the rescue process. I admire how he had the boys from the soccer team meditate to keep them feeling calm and not afraid. I also thought the Author wrote about the rescue in a touching way. When the divers finally made it down the whole team was filled with gratitude and gave the divers a hug even though hugs are not the "norm" in Thailand.

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Glass Slipper Gold Sandel A worldwide Cinderella 

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Glass Slipper Gold Sandel A worldwide Cinderella 

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Author: Paul Fleischman

Illustrator: Julie Paschkis

Date: 2007

Publisher: Henry Holt Co.

Type of Literature: Folktales/fairy tale

Grade: Prek-4

Number of pages: 32

Artistic Media: The illustrations by Julie Paschkis are a traditional folklore style and capture the essence of the different cultures portrayed in the book.

Theme: Kindness and resilience will be rewarded

Plot Summary: This book showcases a Cinderella story but does so by telling the story  from different parts of the world. It highlights different cultural traditions and common themes found in traditional folktales.

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Author: Sarah Stewart

Illustrator: David Small

Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Date: 1997

Number of Pages: 40

Grade Level: 1-4

Artistic Media: Black and whit color illustrations that compliment the story

Genre: historical fiction

Theme: Bringing hope and resilience through gardening and nature.

Summary: Lydia Grace French leaves her home to go live with her uncle Jim until the city get better. Through a the letters she writes to her family, Lydia Grace shares her experiences living with uncle Jim. Despite the challenges she faces, Lydia Grace's positive attitude and determination have a positive impact on her surroundings.

Personal Connection: I find it inspiring how Lydia grace is able to find joy through gardening despite the ongoing difficulties.

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Author:  Roald Dahl

Illustrator: Quentin Blake

Publisher:  Penguin Young Group Readers

Date: 2007

Number of Pages: 146

Grade Level: 3-7

Artistic Media: Pen and Ink

Genre: Fantasy/Adventure

Theme: overcoming adversity and finding family in unexpected places

Summary: A little boy named James lives with his evil aunts. To escape his horrible living situation, he embarks journey inside a giant peach with a group of magically transformed insects. Together, they face obstacles and hardships all while discovering the true meaning of friendship and family.

Personal Connection: This book brings back fond memories of cozy evenings spent with my mom, listening to my mom's animated voice bringing Dahl's world to life. It reminds me of the joy and wonder of childhood and the comfort found in storytelling.

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The Gardener By Sarah Stewart

I love how Lydia Grace has such an uplifting spirit even though the Great Depression was taking place. She makes it her goal  to put a smile on her uncle Jim's face. The way she does it makes me smile and it reminds me of the little things kids do to make the adults in their life happy.

The book is set during the Great Depression, providing a historical context. Teachers can use it as a tool to discuss historical events, social conditions, and their impact on individuals.

I chose to have the timeline go from black and white to colorful, representing the change in mood. In the black and white portion Lydia Grace remains colorful because she has a positive happy spirit throughout the story.

The visual representation activity can be effective for comprehending the book. To make a visual representation you have to engage with the book on a deeper level and it can help students enhance their understanding of the plot, characters and themes.This activity also allows students to be creative through art and be able to interpret the story in their own unique ways.

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Author: Deborah Ellis

Publisher: Groundwood Books

Date: 2018

Number of Pages: 79

Grade Level: 5-9

Artistic Media: striking illustrations in a graphic novel formation

Genre: Historical Fiction/ graphic novel

Theme: Children surviving in times of conflict

Summary: The story shows how a little girl navigates living in Taliban ruled Afghanistan. Her father gets arrested for reading a book to her and educating her. She then has to disguise herself as boy to help provide for her family. She goes on a journey of working for bribing money so she can see her father in prison.

Personal connection: In the book they mentioned conquerors all they way up to the Soviet Union. Then they mentioned war was coming to Kabul. Even though it is not explicitly stated I wonder if this is referring to the Americans coming.

There was also another girl (Shauzia) dressed as a boy aside from Parvana. She said that if she ran away her father would drive out to kill her. She mentioned that she is a good ‘son” but her father is not a good father. I wonder more about the dynamic between Shauzia and her father and who her father is.

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Author: Kelly Yang

Illustrator: Maike Plenske

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

Date: 2023

Number of Pages: 320

Grade Level: 3-7

Artistic Media: traditional and digital media

Genre: fiction

Theme: family separation, immigration, resilience, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

Summary: This is a story about Lina Gao, is a 10-year-old girl from China. In the story she finally reunites with her parents in Los Angeles after spending years living with her grandmother. Lina faces challenges adapting to her new life in America, including language barriers and cultural differences.

Personal Connection: I found the story to be insightful and I gained even more empathy for the immigration experience.

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Author: Fran Pintadera

Illustrator: Ana Sender

Publisher: Kids Can Press

Date: 2022

Number of Pages: 34

Grade Level: pre-k to 2nd

Artistic Media: Painted images that portray different things people fear with use of color and details

Genre: Fiction

Theme: Everyone has fears. No matter what fears stand in the way always keep going.

Summary: Max asks his father if he has ever been afraid. His father explains that everyone is afraid sometimes and he goes into detail about different things that people are afraid of. The book shows different times when people feel afraid and explains that no matter what stands in the way always keep going.

Personal Connection: I think this is a good social and emotional book for children. It talks about a very common emotion, fear and lets readers know that its normal to feel scared and also important to keep going even when you are afraid. I think this is a good reminder not only for kids but adults too. Too often, we let fear get in the way of reaching our fullest potential.

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Author: Mandy Archer

Illustrator: Shane Crampton

Publisher: Rainstorm Publishing

Date: 2019

Number of Pages:  40

Grade Level: k-2

Artistic Media: Bright colored doodles

Genre: Fiction, Picture Book

Theme:  It is important to be a kid as long as you can and not always be told to act like an adult when you are only a kid.

Summary: Zoe and her mom have a whole day planned together. During the day Zoe comes across rules such as "no talking in the library, no walking in the grass at the park and no wet shoes at grandmas house." Zoe's mom explained that she must follow the rules at those places but she shows Zoe places where those rules don't apply and where Zoe can "stay wild."

Personal Connection: I think that Kids are constantly being told how to behave and to "act right." As a result their curiosity, wonder, imagination, loudness and playfulness is dulled from adults constantly telling them to act a certain way. Of course rules are important and we have to teach children how to grow up at some point but I think strategically allowing kids time to be kids is important and this book highlights that.

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Author: Michelle Markel

Illustrator: Melissa Sweet

Publisher: Blaxer + Blay

Date: 2014

Number of Pages: 32

Grade Level: 3-7

Artistic Media: Collages and watercolor mixed medi

Genre: Non fiction Biography

Theme: immigration and activism

Summary: Clara is an an immigrant working in a seamstress factory. The working conditions are poor and unfair. She wants to fight for the rights of workers so she starts a strike for all of the women seamstress workers.

Personal Connection: I found the pictures to compliment the story well. This book is very informational and highlights serious workers rights issues from the 1900s.

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Author: E.B White

Illustrator: Garth Williams

Publisher: Harper Collins

Date: 1952

Number of Pages: 192

Grade Level: 3-7

Artistic Media: black and white sketches

Genre: children's literature, fiction

Theme: Friendship, Loyalty, Making sacrifices

Summary: Wilbur the pig becomes friends with Charlotte the spider. When Wilbur finds out he is going to become dinner, Charlotte weaves messages into her webs and the messages praise Wilbur. Through Charlotte's kind actions, Wilbur learns what a true friend is.

Personal Connection: I think I connect to how it is difficult and sometimes scary to make new friends but it is rewarding in the end

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Author: Margery Williams Bianco

Illustrator: William Nicholson

Publisher: Doubleday & Company

Date: 1922

Number of Pages: 32

Grade Level: 1-3

Artistic Media: watercolor and pen and ink

Genre: fiction/fantasy

Theme: The transformative power of love and beauty in authenticity

Summary: This book tells the story of a stuffed rabbit. The rabbit has a desire to become real through the love of his owner, a young boy. Throughout the rabbits journey you learn about what it means to be truly alive

Personal Connection: Its message about the power of love and the beauty of being authentic resonates deeply with me, reminding me of the enduring bonds we form with cherished possessions and loved ones.

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Author:  Jane Yolan

Illustrator: Mark Teague

Publisher: Blue Sky Press

Date: 2000

Number of Pages: 40

Grade Level: prek-1

Artistic Media: Vibrant acrylic paintings and detailed pencil drawings.

Genre: Children's picture book

Theme: Learning good behavior and manners, emotions and empathy

Summary: The story depicts the dinosaurs' mischief and tantrums at bedtime, followed by examples of proper bedtime behavior.

Personal Connection: The book encourages good bedtime habits in a fun and lighthearted way and can help children understand the importance of following bedtime routines. Similar to bedtime routines, children can relate the importance of classroom routines to this book.

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Author: Gerald McDermott

Illustrator:Gerald McDermott

Publisher: Viking Press

Date: 1977

Number of Pages: 40

Grade Level: pre-k -2

Artistic Media: bold, graphic designs and colors

Genre: folklore or traditional literature

Theme: The journey to discovering your identity and the importance of being brave and persevering

Summary: This is a retelling of a traditional Pueblo Indian tale about a boy's quest to find his father, who is the Sun God. During his quest he faces various trials and tribulations before deeming himself worthy and succeeding in his mission.

Personal Connection: This book sparked my curiosity about indigenous cultures and their rich folklore.

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Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad 

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Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad 

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Author: Judith Viorst

Illustrator: Ray Cruz

Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Date: 1972

Number of Pages: 32

Grade Level: 4-6

Artistic Media: pen and ink

Genre: realistic fiction

Theme: everyone has bad days sometimes

Summary: Alexander wakes up one morning with gum in his hair and experiences a series of unfortunate events throughout the day. He feels like everything is going wrong until the end where he learns bad days happen to everyone.

Personal Connection: This is a favorite from my childhood. Its humorous and also relatable with the portrayal of a bad day. This book always brings a smile to my face and serves as a reminder that it's okay to have rough patches sometimes.

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Author: Paul B Janeczko

Illustrator: Melissa Sweet

Publisher: Candlewick

Date: 2014

Number of Pages: 48

Grade Level: 1-4

Artistic Media: Multimedia collages and watercolor painting

Genre: poetry

Theme: Nature and the seasons

Summary: This book has 36 different poems about each of the 4 seasons.

Personal Connection:  I think this is an awesome poetry book to introduce kids to poetry. The pictures and words go well together and brings the poems to life. Additionally it talks about seasons which could be tied to science standards.