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Full of Beans by Jennifer L. Holm (2018).
Awards:

Winner of the Scott O’Dell Award

Five Starred Reviews!

A New York Public Library Best Book for Kids, 2016

For reviews and additional information see:
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/246482/full-of-beans-by-jennifer-l-holm/ and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/0606409394

Book Description:
This book is about Beans living in Key West during the Great Depression (1934). With no money and no jobs, there's not much to do besides plan for the future. Beans has some good plans. The book encapsulates Depression history while including comedy.

Rationale:
I chose to include this book because it fills a weakness in the library for historical fiction. I think it would also be enjoyable to students with the fun nicknames, friend group, and humor.

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"Inspired by actual events, Holm's talent for writing historical fiction is on full display...Interesting family and small-town dynamics further enrich this fascinating account of a young boy's life in Florida's 'Recovery Key.'" - Booklist starred review

"Filled with humor, heart, and warmth; readers can only hope to hear more about the Curry clan." - Kirkus Review starred review

"Period details-like keeping Sears and Roebuck catalogues handy in outhouses, "marble mania," people with leprosy hidden by their families, and the Shirley Temple craze-make for entertaining and illuminating historical fiction."- Publishers Weekly starred review

"Multifaceted supporting characters-an intrepid group of friends (all with nicknames such as Pork Chop and Too Bad), a fussy baby brother, a pushy girl nemesis, a mean grandmother, a Key West resident afflicted with leprosy-are all seen through Bean's refreshingly honest eyes and create a novel as entertaining as the motion pictures he loves to see."- The Horn Book Magazine starred review

"Holm, who has family ties to Key West, captures this colorful slice of Depression history with her usual vivacious wit and colorful expressions..." - Shelf Awareness, starred review

Praise for Jennifer L. Holm:

"As a storyteller, Holm is superb."- School Library Journal

"Holm impressively wraps pathos with comedy."- Booklist

"Anyone interested in learning to write crowd-pleasing historical fiction for elementary school readers would be wise to study Holm's work."- Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Sweet, funny and superb."- Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

Get the latest updates from Jennifer L. Holm

And go from well-read to best read with book recs, deals and more in your inbox every week.

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Full of Beans by Jennifer L. Holm: 9780553510386 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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"Inspired by actual events, Holm's talent for writing historical fiction is on full display...Interesting family and small-town dynamics further enrich this fascinating account of a young boy's life in Florida's 'Recovery Key.'" - Booklist starred review "Filled with humor, heart, and warmth; readers can only hope to hear more about the Curry clan."

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The World Belonged to Us by Jacqueline Woodson and illustrated by Leo Espinosa (2022). [Recently published and so no awards to date, watch for these in early 2023].

The Kirkus Star

For reviews and additional information see:
https://jacquelinewoodson.com/product/the-world-belonged-to-us/ and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/0399545492

Book Description:
The World Belonged to Us is set in the 1970s in Brooklyn during the hot summer. The book is about the summertime in the city and how the children took over the streets to play together. They would yell, shout, play, eat ice cream, kick cans, play in the fire hydrant water, and so much more. Play would last all day until their moms would call them home for dinner. But they would have tomorrow and the next day to do it all over again.

Illustrations:
The illustrations and descriptions make the reader feel like they too are in the summer heat playing, shouting, and running around with their friends. A majority of the pages are double-page spreads filled with detailed images of children playing. The reader must stop to look at the illustrations and really absorb the story. The book also shows diversity in the children.

Rationale:
I included this book to fill a weakness in the library. There are very few historical fiction books so I thought this would be a good addition. It also shows diverse characters which would be good for the library.

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Picture Books | The World Belonged to Us | Jacqueline Woodson

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Ophie's Ghosts by Justina Ireland (2021).
Awards [recently published so awards are limited]:

A 2022 Scott O'Dell Award Winner

Goodreads Choice Award Nominee for Middle Grade & Children's (2021)

For reviews and additional information see:
https://www.authorjustinaireland.com/ophies-ghosts and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/0062915843

Book Description:
Ophie's Ghosts starts in Georgia in 1922. After her father dies and Ophie learns that she can now see ghosts, Ophie and her mother move to Pittsburgh to live with her aunt. To make more money, Ophie and her mother begin working at Daffodil Manor owned by the wealthy Caruther family. Daffodil Manor is filled with ghosts and Ophie befriends one, Clara. In an effort to help Clara move on, Ophie dives deeper into the family history and the spirits that haunt the manor.

Rationale:
I included this book on my list of recommendations because it fills a weakness in the historical fiction section of the library. I also included this book because I think it would meet student interests with the ghosts. It might be a little challenging for some students, but I think it would be accessible as a guided reading with you.

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The New York Times bestselling author of Dread Nation makes her middle grade debut with a sweeping tale of the ghosts of our past that won't stay buried, starring an unforgettable girl named Ophie.
Ophelia Harrison used to live in a small house in the Georgia countryside. But that was before the night in November 1922, and the cruel act that took her home and her father from her. Which was the same night that Ophie learned she can see ghosts.

Now Ophie and her mother are living in Pittsburgh with relatives they barely know. In the hopes of earning enough money to get their own place, Mama has gotten Ophie a job as a maid in the same old manor house where she works.

Daffodil Manor, like the wealthy Caruthers family who owns it, is haunted by memories and prejudices of the past-and, as Ophie discovers, ghosts as well. Ghosts who have their own loves and hatreds and desires, ghosts who have wronged others and ghosts who have themselves been wronged. And as Ophie forms a friendship with one spirit whose life ended suddenly and unjustly, she wonders if she might be able to help-even as she comes to realize that Daffodil Manor may hold more secrets than she bargained for.

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The New York Times bestselling author of Dread Nation makes her middle grade debut with a sweeping tale of the ghosts of our past that won't stay buried, starring an unforgettable girl named Ophie. Ophelia Harrison used to live in a small house in the Georgia countryside.

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All He Knew by Helen Frost (2020).
Awards:

A 2021 Scott O'Dell Award Winner

A Society of Midland Authors Winner in Children's Fiction

A Bank Street Best Book of the Year 2021

For reviews and additional information see:
https://www.helenfrost.net/books/novels-in-poems/all-he-knew/ and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/0374312990

Book Description:
This book is about Henry, a deaf boy, during World War II. When Henry goes to school, the school labels him as "unteachable". Henry is sent to Riverview where he continues to be mistreated. Luckily for Henry, Victor arrives to realize Henry is teachable and very smart. Through difficult times, there seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel.

Rationale:
I included this book to fill a weakness in the historical fiction section of the library, and to also include an inclusion themed book as those are lacking in the library as well. Although the book is at a higher level, it would be a great class read to discuss the topic of inclusion.

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Saturday by Oge Mora (2019).
Awards:

Caldecott Honor Book

Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Award

A Fall 2019 Kids' Indie Next List Selection

A NYPL Best Books of 2019

A SLJ Best Picture Books of 2019

Parents Magazine 30 Best Kids' Books of 2019

An Amazon Best Children's Book of 2019

A Kirkus Reviews Best Children's Book of 2019

A 2019 Horn Book Fanfare

A Publishers’ Weekly Best Book of 2019

A Chicago Public Library Best Book of 2018

For reviews and additional information see:
https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/0316431273 and http://www.ogemora.com/books

Book Description:
This book is about Ava and her mother doing things together on Saturdays. However, on this Saturday, everything goes wrong for the two. In the end, they make the best of it. A sweet story about spending time with the ones you love.

Illustrations:
The illustrations grab the reader's attention. Some pages are single page illustrations, while others have several small illustrations on one page. The illustrations tell the story so wonderfully. Young students do not even need the words to understand the tale.

Rationale:
I chose this book to meet the teacher's goals. This book has SEL connections and this book talks about making the best of things even when everything seems to be going wrong. I also chose this book because the characters are diverse and match the student population.

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Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes and illustrated by Gordon C. James (2017).
Awards:

A Newbery Honor Book

A Caldecott Honor Book

A Coretta Scott King Author Honor Book

A Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book

An Ezra Jack Keats New Writer Award Book

An Ezra Jack Keats New Illustrator Honor Book

A Society of Illustrators Gold Medal Book

For reviews and additional information see:
https://derrickdbarnes.com/books/ and
https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/1572842245

Book Description:
This book is about the barbershop and how boys feel before and after they get their haircut. The book emphasizes how good it feels to sit in the barbers chair and get their haircut, comparing it to royalty. The book talks about different hairstyles too. The words have a rhythm that make the story flow. It is a positive book about how good boys feel after going to the barbershop.

Illustrations:
The illustrations are very well done. The illustrations are single page or double page spreads. They are large and capture the boys' feelings. Students would enjoy looking at the details of the illustrations.

Rationale:
I included this book because I think it would be of student interest. There are many black boys in the class and I think it would be a positive book for them to see about going to the barbershop. The book also has SEL connections as it talks about the confidence and swagger young boys get from their new style. It could be connected to everyone when they get their haircut and how it makes us feel good!

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Blue: A History of the Color as Deep as the Sea and as Wide as the Sky

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Blue: A History of the Color as Deep as the Sea and as Wide as the Sky

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Blue: A History of the Color as Deep as the Sea and as Wide as the Sky by Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond and illustrated by Daniel Minter (2022).
Awards [recently published, be on the lookout in 2023]:

NAMED ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR BY NPR

NCTE Orbis Pictus Award Winner for Outstanding Nonfiction

For reviews and additional information see: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/606200/blue-by-nana-ekua-brew-hammond-illustrated-by-daniel-minter/ and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/1984894366

Book Description:
This nonfiction book explores the history of the color blue, it's cultural significance, and all the different meanings behind the color. It tells the history, and the mystery, of the color blue dating all the way back to 4500 BC. The color blue was hard to find centuries ago. It started from rocks, to snails, to indigo, and finally a chemical blue dye in 1905. In the end, the book touches on how the color blue can mean so many different things to so many different people.

Illustrations:
This nonfiction picture book relies heavily on illustrations and visual elements to enhance the book and grab the reader's attention. Although the meaning behind the book is strong, the visual elements take this book to the next level. The illustrations are magical and colorful which draws the reader's eye into the page and into the book. A majority of the illustrations are double page spreads with small illustrations within the larger one.

Rationale:
I chose to include this book to fill a weakness in the library as there are not as many informational/nonfiction books as fiction books.

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"Entrancing... A vibrant historical picture book that will leave readers curious about other colors." - Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Brew-Hammond's graceful prose and fluid organization, coupled with Minter's emotive illustrations, set synapses firing." - The Bulletin, starred review

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Blue by Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond: 9781984894366 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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"Entrancing... A vibrant historical picture book that will leave readers curious about other colors." - Publishers Weekly, starred review "Brew-Hammond's graceful prose and fluid organization, coupled with Minter's emotive illustrations, set synapses firing." - The Bulletin, starred review Get the latest updates from Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond And go from well-read to best read with book recs, deals and more in your inbox every week.

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This Promise of Change: One Girl's Story in the Fight for School Equality

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This Promise of Change: One Girl's Story in the Fight for School Equality

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This Promise of Change: One Girl's Story in the Fight for School Equality by Jo Ann Allen Boyce and Debbie Levy (2019).
Awards:

2019 Boston Globe–Horn Book Award Winner for Nonfiction

2020 Sibert Medal Honor Book

A NYPL Top Ten of 2019

A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year

For reviews and additional information see:
https://aalbc.com/books/bookinfo.php?isbn13=9781681198521 and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/1681198525

Book Description:
This nonfiction book is about Jo Ann Allen and 11 other African American students who integrated in 1956 at Clinton High School in Tennessee. It went well for them at first, but then people got angry and they wondered if they should just go back to their old school. Jo Ann ended up being the leader of the group and facing the heat from all over the nation.

Rationale:
I chose this book to fulfills several weaknesses in the library. There are not as many informational/nonfiction books as fiction books. It is also written in verse which fills a need for poetry. I chose this book because it also meets the diverse perspective need. The teacher would like more books with diversity, cultures, and relevant issues and although it tells a story from the 1950s, I think it meets those needs and can be connected to today. The book might be a bit challenging for some students, but it would be a great group read that could also teach them about poetry. This book covers a lot of bases.

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aalbc.com: African American Literature Book Club

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Hardcover Description:
Recipient of a Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Honor
Winner of the 2019 Boston Globe-Horn Book Award for Nonfiction
A NYPL Top Ten of 2019
A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year

In 1956, one year before federal troops escorted the Little Rock 9 into Central High School, fourteen year old Jo Ann Allen was one of twelve African-American students who broke the color barrier and integrated Clinton High School in Tennessee. At first things went smoothly for the Clinton 12, but then outside agitators interfered, pitting the townspeople against one another. Uneasiness turned into anger, and even the Clinton Twelve themselves wondered if the easier thing to do would be to go back to their old school. Jo Ann-clear-eyed, practical, tolerant, and popular among both black and white students-found herself called on as the spokesperson of the group. But what about just being a regular teen? This is the heartbreaking and relatable story of her four months thrust into the national spotlight and as a trailblazer in history. Based on original research and interviews and featuring backmatter with archival materials and notes from the authors on the co-writing process.
Books similiar to This Promise of Change: One Girl's Story in the Fight for School Equality may be found in the categories below:

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This Promise of Change: One Girl's Story in the Fight for School Equality by Jo Ann Allen Boyce and Debbie Levy

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Hardcover Description: Recipient of a Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Honor Winner of the 2019 Boston Globe-Horn Book Award for Nonfiction A NYPL Top Ten of 2019 A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year In 1956, one year before federal troops escorted the Little Rock 9 into Central High School, fourteen year old Jo Ann Allen was one of twelve African-American students who broke the color barrier and integrated Clinton High School in Tennessee.

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Lightfall: The Girl & The Galdurian (Lightfall #1) by Tim Probert (2020).
Awards:

Kirkus Best Books of 2020

Fall 2020 Indie Next List

Junior Library Guild Selection

American Library Association Best Graphic Novels 2021

For reviews and additional information see:
https://timprobert.com/books and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/0062990462

Book Description:
The main character, Bea, is the adopted granddaughter of the Pig Wizard living on the planet Irpa. One day, Bea goes out to collect things for one of grandpa’s potions when she meets Cad, a Galdurian. Cad needs help from the Pig Wizard and it is Cad’s lucky day when he runs into Bea who can take him to meet her grandpa, the Pig Wizard! But when they get home, grandpa is nowhere to be found. Bea and Cad set off on an adventure to find grandpa. Did I mention Bea is also the keeper of the Endless Flame that is being hunted down by those who want to send their planet into eternal darkness? Can Bea and Cad find grandpa and keep their planet’s light intact? Book one of this series is just the beginning of their intense adventure.

Illustrations:
Lightfall: The Girl & The Galdurian is a graphic novel. The illustrations are exquisite, adding so many details to the story. A majority of the pages have so few words. Some pages have no words at all. The illustrator uses a variety of page layouts including multiple pictures on one page, one picture on a page, or double page spreads. What really stuck out to me about the illustrations was the color choices. The illustrations matched the mood and events of the book so well. Black and grays to show the evil darkness and Bea’s worried thoughts. Red and dark colors during fights and battles. Brighter colors when Bea and Cad were happily walking on their adventures. Light is so important to the story and the Endless Flame light seemed warm and glowing.

Rationale:
I included this book to meet student interests. It is a graphic novel and science fiction which is very popular amongst the students. It is the first book in the series so the whole series could be perfect for your classroom.

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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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All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys' Soccer Team by Christina Soontornvat (2020)
Awards:

Winner of the 2021 Kirkus Prize for Young People's Literature

A 2021 Newbery Honor Book

A 2021 Robert F. Sibert Honor Book

A 2021 YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist

A 2021 Orbis Pictus Honor Book

For reviews and additional information see:
https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/1536209457 and https://soontornvat.com/books/all-thirteen/

Book Description:
This book tells the tale of the Wild Boars soccer team in Thailand in June in 2018. The twelve players and their coach went exploring in a cave and when they went to leave, rising water blocked their way out. The book tells of the rescue and how the world sat on the edge of their seats waiting for them to be saved.

Illustrations:
The book has many real photographs of the people, events, and places. I think these visuals enhance the story and make it more clear for readers. I think it is more engaging for the students to read what happened while also looking at pictures.

Rationale:
I included this book for a variety of reasons. I believe it meets student interests, but also fills a weakness of the library. It is an informational/nonfiction book and the library needs more of those. The book may be a bit challenging for some students, but the illustrations and visuals add to understanding. It also explores a culture and region students may not be familiar with.

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IT'S JUNE 23, 2018-a hot, cloudy day in northern Thailand. Twelve young players of the Wild Boars soccer team and their coach head into a local cave after practice. They plan to spend only an hour or two exploring, but outside, rain has begun pouring down, and when they turn to leave, rising floodwaters block their path out. The boys are trapped.

Before long, news of the missing team spreads, launching a seventeen-day rescue operation involving thousands of rescuers from around the globe. As the world sits vigil night after night, people begin to wonder: How long can a group of ordinary kids survive in complete darkness, with no food or clean water?

Luckily, the Wild Boars are a very extraordinary "ordinary" group.

Combining material from community interviews with in-depth science content and details about the region's culture and religion, All Thirteen paints two scenes of unflagging perseverance: Aboveground, a global rescue team of military personnel, engineers, medics, cave divers, and other volunteers races to find the trapped boys. Almost half a mile below, a similarly heroic effort is taking place in the quiet darkness as the Wild Boars focus on conserving their energy and oxygen, and-most importantly-keeping their hopes up. Both the boys and their rescuers will soon prove to the world that even in the face of impossible odds, the human spirit is an irrepressible force.

2021 Newbery Honor Book

Winner, 2021 Kirkus Prize for Young People's Literature

2021 Sibert Honor Book

YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction Finalist

National Council for the Teaching of English 2020 Orbis Pictus Honor Book

Bank Street College Flora Stieglitz Straus Book Award for Older Readers

SCBWI Golden Kite Award for Nonfiction for Older Readers

Named a Best Book of the Year by Kirkus Reviews, School Library Journal, The New York Public Library, BookPage, and Shelf Awareness

The recipient of SEVEN starred trade reviews from Kirkus Reviews, Booklist, School Library Journal, The Horn Book, Shelf Awareness, Publishers Weekly, and BookPage.

State reading list selection for Maine and Vermont

Spirit of Texas Book Award

Candlewick Press, 2020
ISBN-10: 1536209457
ISBN-13: 978-1536209457

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

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All Thirteen paints two scenes of unflagging perseverance, even in the face of impossible odds, the human spirit is an irrepressible force.

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Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera

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Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera

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Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera by Candace Fleming and illustrated by Eric Rohmann (2020).
Awards:

Robert F. Sibert Award (2021)

NCTE Orbis Pictus Honor Book (2021)

For reviews and additional information see:
https://www.candacefleming.com/books/bk_honeybee.html and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/082345116X

Book Description:
This nonfiction picture book explores the life cycle of a honeybee. The illustrations show the tiny honeybee emerging, working in the hive, and finally exploring outside and collecting nectar from flowers. The book emphasizes how quick the honeybees life is as it ends in under 40 days! It also mentions how all that work created only a tiny bit of honey. A wonderful connection to the protect the bees movement.

Illustrations:
The visuals of this nonfiction book really add to the readers enjoyment and understanding. The book goes through a sequence or timeline of the honeybees life and mentions how many days it has been throughout the book. There is a large build up to the honeybee being able to fly and there is a great double-gate fold when it finally happens that makes the reader pause and really take in the illustration.

Rationale:
I chose to include this book to fill a weakness in the library. I wanted to add good informational/nonfiction books as there are not as many as the fiction books. I also think this book has a good science connection and would be of student interest since it is about bees.

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William Still and His Freedom Stories: The Father of the Underground Railroad

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William Still and His Freedom Stories: The Father of the Underground Railroad

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William Still and His Freedom Stories: The Father of the Underground Railroad by Don Tate (2020).
Awards:

2021 Golden Kite Award Winner

Best of Picture Books —Kirkus Reviews, 2020

For reviews and additional information see:
https://www.peachtreebooks.com/book/william-still-and-his-freedom-stories/ and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/1561459356

Book Description:
This nonfiction book is about William Still and his life's work. His parents escaped from slavery, but tragically left behind two of his siblings. As a young man, William works for the Anti-Slavery Society in Pennsylvania. He planned rescues and helped freedom seekers who came to the north. One day, his long lost sibling comes in. This inspires William to write down and collect stories from all the other travelers he meets. He reunited families and assembled a record of history that we would otherwise not have!

Illustrations:
The illustrations are very well done. They capture the darkness and secretiveness of the Underground Railroad. The illustrations are both single page and double page spreads to make the reader pause and think about the words and pictures together.

Rationale:
I included this book because it fills a weakness and meets the teacher's goals. First, it is a nonfiction book and the library needs some more good nonfiction books as there are more fiction books. Second, this book covers a topic that is important to diverse groups making it meaningful literature.

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When Stars Are Scattered by Victoria Jamieson, Omar Mohamed, and illustrated by Iman Geddy (2020).
Awards:

2020 National Book Award Finalist

New York Times Bestseller

2021 Walter Award Winner

2021 Schneider Family Book Award Honor

New York Times Book Review Notable Children's Book

TIME Best Book of the Year

School Library Journal Best Book of 2020

Kirkus Best Children’s Book of 2020

NYPL Best Book for Kids

NPR's Book Concierge Pick

Jane Addams Children's Book Award Finalist

Charlotte Huck Award Honor Book

For reviews and additional information see:
https://www.nationalbook.org/books/when-stars-are-scattered/ and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/0525553908

Book Description:
Omar and his younger brother Hassan live in Dadaab, a refugee camp in Kenya. They fled from Somalia when Omar was only 4 years old. Omar and Hassan are living in the refugee camp hoping to find their mother again. Hassan is nonverbal and Omar takes care of him along with their neighbor Fatuma. Omar begins going to school and hopes one day they can leave the refugee camp and be chosen to go to America. After many years, they are chosen. It is a wonderful story about hope and never giving up. The author's note at the end is a beautiful wrap-up to the story.

Illustrations:
This graphic novel has wonderful illustrations. It has borders on some pages and none on others. The pages without borders allow the image to extend beyond the page and make that image feel more important. The text remains the same size, but important words are put in bold font to emphasize them. The end of the book also includes an afterword and real pictures of Omar and the characters to wrap-up the novel. This afterword is important to this book because it explains their purpose for writing this book, what happened to them, and shares that Omar and Hassan found their mother!

Rationale:
I included this book in my recommendations because it meets the teacher goals and fulfills some weakness of the library. First, it discusses what life was like for a refugee in a way that would allow students to build empathy and understanding. The topic of refugees is relevant and missing from the library. Secondly, it explores a culture and place in the world students are not familiar with allowing them to learn more about the world. Third, it shows Hassan who is a nonverbal person in the story. Finally, it is a graphic novel which is very popular amongst the students.

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Finalist, National Book Awards 2020 for Young People's Literature

ISBN 9780525553908
Dial Books for Young Readers / Penguin Random House

Omar Mohamed

Victoria Jamieson

From the publisher:
Omar and his younger brother, Hassan, have spent most of their lives in Dadaab, a refugee camp in Kenya. Life is hard there: never enough food, achingly dull, and without access to the medical care Omar knows his nonverbal brother needs. So when Omar has the opportunity to go to school, he knows it might be a chance to change their future . . . but it would also mean leaving his brother, the only family member he has left, every day.

Heartbreak, hope, and gentle humor exist together in this graphic novel about a childhood spent waiting, and a young man who is able to create a sense of family and home in the most difficult of settings. It is an intimate, important, unforgettable look at the day-to-day life of a refugee, as told to New York Times bestselling author and artist Victoria Jamieson by Omar Mohamed, the Somali man who lived the story.

Judges Citation

Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed's poignant When Stars Are Scattered follows Omar and his nonverbal younger brother, Hassan, as they grow up in the Kenyan refugee camp of Dadaab. Alongside depicting the day-to-day hardships and enduring traumas the boys face, the story powerfully portrays the deep love and compassion that sustains their community. Devastating, humorous, frustrating, and hopeful, this intimate and stunningly illustrated memoir expands our empathy for all those yearning for a new beginning.

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When Stars Are Scattered - National Book Foundation

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From the publisher: Omar and his younger brother, Hassan, have spent most of their lives in Dadaab, a refugee camp in Kenya. Life is hard there: never enough food, achingly dull, and without access to the medical care Omar knows his nonverbal brother needs.

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Temple Alley Summer by Sachiko Kashiwaba, translated by Avery Fischer Udagawa, and illustrated by Miho Satake (2021).
Awards:

Winner of the 2022 Mildred L. Batchelder Award

A July/August 2021 Kids’ Indie Next Pick

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection

Winner of a 2022 SCBWI Crystal Kite Award

Yonder: Restless Books for Young Readers

For reviews and additional information see:
https://restlessbooks.org/bookstore/temple-alley-summer and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/1632063034

Book Description:
Temple Alley Summer follows middle grade students through their summer as they discover a street name on an old map that sparks their curiosity. The main character, Kazu, encounters magical things, the living dead, and a mysterious temple history. Can Kazu help his new friend Akari? A short story within the book may just be the answer. This international book would be a wonderful read for students. A great story about friendship that gets you thinking about life itself.

Illustrations:
This book includes beautiful illustrations to add to the story and reader's enjoyment.

Rationale:
I included this graphic novel in my recommendations because it fulfills student interests. It might be a bit high for some students, but those reading above grade level would enjoy it. Those below can still enjoy the illustrations. I also included this book because it is an international text originally published in Japanese. This fills a weakness as there are not many international texts in the library.

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Praise for Temple Alley Summer

"This imaginative tale, enchantingly written and charmingly illustrated by veteran Japanese creators for young people, has a timeless feel. Its captivating blend of humor and mystery is undergirded with real substance that will provoke deeper contemplation. Udagawa's translation naturally and seamlessly renders the text completely accessible to non-Japanese readers. An instant classic filled with supernatural intrigue and real-world friendship."
-Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review, Best Middle Grade Fiction of 2021
"When an author and an illustrator with ties to books adapted into renowned Studio Ghibli masterpieces such as Howl's Moving Castle and Spirited Away join forces on a middle-grade fantasy adventure, you can count on it being something truly special.... Heartwarming with a supernatural touch, this beautifully captures the magic of childhood."
-Linda Sue Park, Newbery Medalist and New York Times bestselling author
"A humorous yet thoughtful mystery chock-full of the fantastical, this is a must-read for young fans of Studio Ghibli-an especially warranted comparison, as another book by Kashiwaba served as inspiration for Spirited Away. Lovingly translated into English from the original 2011 text, this version is completely accessible to an English-language audience while retaining a classic Japanese sensibility and storytelling style.... Highly recommended."
-Nanette McGuinness, Global Literature in Libraries Initiative -Leza Lowitz, author of Up from the Sea and Jet Black and the Ninja Wind
"A sweet ghost story, a mystery, an eerie and unsettling story-within-a-story: Finally, the work of the great Sachiko Kashiwaba, one of Japan's most revered children's authors, is available in English translation! I'm so pleased that young people who read in English can now enjoy Kashiwaba's Temple Alley Summer, and experience the pleasure and wonder of viewing the world from a less familiar angle."
-Daniel Hahn, award-winning translator and author
"Imbued with a delightfully old-fashioned atmosphere, Temple Alley Summer gives its readers a wonderful glimpse of Japanese culture and traditions. And while the inner story has its scary moments, the outer one does not. The two tales form a satisfying and surprisingly deep whole that addresses questions of life, death, meaning, and friendship, all wrapped up in a supernatural summertime mystery."
-Suzanne Kamata, author of Pop Flies, Robo-Pets, and Other Disasters
"Fans of Hayao Miyazaki will love Temple Alley Summer, which takes a series of supernatural turns as young Kazu seeks to discover the truth about a mysterious classmate and help her learn the end to an unfinished story. This beguiling tale-skillfully translated and charmingly illustrated-imparts haunting, hopeful lessons about second chances and what it means to fully embrace life."
-Suzanne Morgan, Politics and Prose (Washington, DC)
"What a thrilling discovery this book is. There are unexplained legends, ghosts, and plenty of twists and turns to keep those pages flying, but at its heart it's a story about a sensitive boy who wants to do the right thing, even when things get strange and his ordinary life is suddenly filled with the most unsettling mysteries. It's a story about friendship and about believing, and a thoroughly captivating read."
-Robin Stern, Books Inc. (Campbell, CA)
"Utterly enchanting! Part mystery, part ghost story, this magical tale has the makings of a classic."
-Cat Chapman, Oxford Exchange (Tampa, FL)
"[Kazu's] search for answers pushes him out of his comfort zone and has him face deep questions on death and morality. In this absorbing, multi-layered story, the past, the present and an unfinished fairy tale are all satisfyingly connected. Though not scary, the uncanniness of the situation lingers. This bewitching book makes me hope more of Sachiko Kashiwaba's works will be translated into English."
-Kira Wizner, Merritt Bookstore (Millbrook, NY)
"This middle-grade novel exemplifies the joys of reading children's books in translation: experiencing cultures other than one's own. Kids familiar with Japanese culture from Studio Ghibli films, though, will feel right at home in this contemporary ghost story. I hope the author's other works will be translated into English as well!"

"It's summer break! There's time for fun and friends, but Kazu has decided to investigate a paranormal occurrence tied to the history of his street, Temple Alley.... Complete with a story within a story, this summertime sleuth is mischievous and magical."

"I loved the ghost girl, Akari, and the genuine Kazu. This could be a read-aloud or a standalone book. One of my SUMMER PICKS!!!"

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By Sachiko Kashiwaba Illustrations by Miho Satake Translated from the Japanese by Avery Fischer Udagawa Winner of the 2022 Mildred L. Batchelder Award A July/August 2021 Kids' Indie Next Pick A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection Winner of a 2022 SCBWI Crystal Kite Award

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Love, Violet by Charlotte Sullivan Wild and illustrated by Charlene Chua (2021).
Awards:

A 2022 Lambda Literary Award Finalist for LGBTQ Children's/Middle Grades book

2023 NCTE Charlotte Huck Honor Book

For reviews and additional information see:
https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/0374313725 and https://charlotteswild.com/books/love-violet/

Book Description:
Love, Violet is about a young girl named Violet who has loving feelings for a girl in her class named Mira. Poor Violet is shy anytime she is around Mira, but Mira is the only kid in the class Violet really wants to go on adventures with. Valentine’s Day is coming up so Violet makes a beautiful card for Mira and writes “Love, Violet” on the inside. When Valentine’s Day comes, Violet goes back and forth on whether to give it to Mira because what if she doesn’t feel the same way. In the end, Violet decides Mira is the only girl who ever asks her to play and makes her happy so she will give her the special valentine. Sadly, it gets ruined on her way to give it to Mira, but Mira loves it anyways and even has a special gift for Violet.

Illustrations:
Love, Violet is a picture book. The illustrator does a great job of making the two girls stand out amongst the other children in the class. The colors the illustrator uses include a lot of pinks, purples, red, and yellow. I think those colors show the happiness and warmth of the story with a hint of love too. Some pages are double-page spreads to emphasize a pause in the story. The author often asks a question on those pages so the double-page spread gives the reader time to think. The illustrations also show the emotions of the characters well with their faces and body language on each page.

Rationale:
I included this book in my recommendations for a couple reasons. First, it is a LGBTQ-themed book which fills a need in the library. Second, it is a relevant topic and could be used for SEL which meets the teacher's goals. The characters are diverse as well.

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Planet Earth Is Blue by Nicole Panteleakos (2019).
Awards:

A New York Public Library Best Book of the Year

A 2022 Dolly Gray Award Winner for Chapter Book

For reviews and additional information see:
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/586118/planet-earth-is-blue-by-nicole-panteleakos/ and https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/0525646574

Book Description:
Planet Earth Is Blue is about twelve-year old Nova. Nova has autism and is nonverbal. Her older sister, Bridget, has always looked out for Nova and has taken care of her as they have moved from foster home to foster home. Now, Nova is in a brand new foster home and she is waiting for her sister to come back and for the launch of the space shuttle Challenger. Nova navigates a new family and a new school without Bridget. She makes friends on her own and her foster family sees her potential and all that she does know.

Planet Earth Is Blue fits into the historical fiction genre and has themes of inclusion. First, the book takes place in 1986 leading up to the launch of the Space Shuttle Challenger on January 28, 1986. While the book does not strictly focus on this specific historical event, it discusses the lives of ordinary people who live through the event. Nova loves space and dreams of traveling to outer space so it is fitting that they are tracking the countdown to the launch in the story, but it is not the main storyline. This makes it a historical fiction text. Planet Earth Is Blue is an inclusion-themed book as well. Nova has autism and is nonverbal, and at first it seems like Bridget was the only one who could understand her. But as the story goes on, Nova makes friends, her teacher sees her potential, and most importantly her foster family learns how to work with her to help her communicate.

Rationale:
I included this book for two reasons. First, it is a historical fiction text which fills a weakness in the library. Second, it is an inclusion-themed book which fills another weakness in the library. I am meeting the teacher's goal by including a book with diverse perspectives. It would be perfect for group guided reading where there could be connections to SEL learning and the themes of inclusion, sibling love, foster care, and space exploration.

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A New York Public Library Best Book of the Year

"Pantleakos masterfully blends character and plot in this gorgeous, hopeful story." - Booklist, Starred Review

"Bursting with worry, joy, empathy, humor, and even mischief, Nova is endearingly nuanced... Stellar." - Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

"An exceptional debut featuring a character everyone can root for." - School Library Journal, Starred Review

"Tender and illuminating, Planet Earth is Blue is a beautiful debut novel about the strength of a girl who knows exactly who she is, even when others can't see her." -Rebecca Stead, Newbery-winning author of When You Reach Me

"A powerful story about the extraordinary mind of a young girl with autism and the bond between sisters." -Ann M. Martin, Newbery Honor-winning author of A Corner of the Universe and the Baby-sitters Club books

"Nova is a character you will never forget, who will break your heart and put it back together again in a new way. She felt so real." -Gennifer Choldenko, author of the Newbery Honor Book Al Capone Does My Shirts and One-Third Nerd

"A remarkable, sensitively told debut with a joyfully positive portrayal of neurodifference. Nova and her indomitable spirit will remain with you long after you close the book." -Cindy Baldwin, author of Where the Watermelons Grow

"As close to perfect as a story can get. It speaks to heartbreak and joy, pain and resilience, tragedy and humanity (both big and small) in a unique and utterly engaging 'speechless' voice that transcends all boundaries." -Nora Raleigh Baskin, author of Anything but Typical and Nine, Ten: A September 11 Story

"Nova's story will wrap itself around your heart page after page after page. It's like reading a hug. A beautiful debut!" -Ellie Terry, author of Forget Me Not

Connecticut Nutmeg Children's Book Award NOMINEE 2021

Georgia Children's Book Award NOMINEE 2021

Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award NOMINEE 2021

Virginia Young Readers Program Award NOMINEE 2021

Florida Sunshine State Young Reader's Award SELECTION 2020

IBBY Honor List SELECTION 2021

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Planet Earth Is Blue by Nicole Panteleakos: 9780525646600 | PenguinRandomHouse.com: Books

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A New York Public Library Best Book of the Year "Pantleakos masterfully blends character and plot in this gorgeous, hopeful story." - Booklist, Starred Review "Bursting with worry, joy, empathy, humor, and even mischief, Nova is endearingly nuanced... Stellar." - Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review "An exceptional debut featuring a character everyone can root for."

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Dragons and Marshmallows (Zoey and Sassafras #1, Series)

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Dragons and Marshmallows (Zoey and Sassafras #1, Series)

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Dragon and Marshmallows (Zoey and Sassafras #1) by Asia Citro. Illustrated by Marion Lindsay. (2017).
Awards:

A NYPL Best Books for Kids 2017 Selection

A Mighty Girl Book of the Year 2017

Illinois Monarch Award Nominee 2018-2019

For reviews and additional information see:
https://barbarasbookstores.handseller.com/home/bookdetailsin/1943147094 and http://www.asiacitro.com/zoey-and-sassafras-series

Book Description:
Zoey is a young girl who loves playing and exploring with her cat, Sassafras. Quickly into the story, we learn that Zoey’s mom can see magical creatures and much to her mother’s surprise, Zoey can see them too. Her mother has been caring for the injured magical creatures in their barn for years. Zoey’s mom is a scientist and is going away for a conference, but she encourages Zoey to take care of any injured magical animals that may come to their barn for help. Soon, an injured baby dragon arrives at the barn and Zoey must use science, experiments, and research to help the creature.

Illustrations:
The illustrations add to the text. Although it is not a picture book, the illustrations add to the reader's understanding.

Rationale:
I included this science fiction book because I believe it would be a good series for the students to read independently. First, it shows diverse characters like Zoey. Secondly, it explores the scientific process and could peak student interest in science.

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With magical animals, science, mystery, and adventure -- the Zoey and Sassafras series has something for everyone! Easy-to-read language and illustrations on nearly every page make this series perfect for a wide range of ages.
A NYPL Best Books for Kids 2017 Selection
A Mighty Girl Book of the Year 2017
Illinois Monarch Award Nominee 2018-2019
Washington OTTER Award Nominee 2018-2019
Florida SSYRA Award Nominee 2018-2019
"Concepts are explained concisely and clearly, and a short glossary provides valuable vocabulary building. The slightly larger font makes the text inviting for emerging readers, and the illustrations blend perfectly into the story. Sassafras and the dragon prove to be able sidekicks in the vein of Disney characters...while this book is a natural fit for STEM collections, it deserves a place in all libraries serving young readers." -- School Library Journal

"...Citro gracefully balances her story's scientific and fantasy elements." -- Publishers Weekly

"...the imaginative premise and the incorporation of STEM elements make this an attractive and engaging choice." -- Booklist

DRAGONS AND MARSHMALLOWS

In the first book of this series, Zoey discovers a glowing photo and learns an amazing secret. Injured magical animals come to their backyard barn for help! When a sick baby dragon appears, it's up to Zoey and Sassafras to figure out what's wrong. Will they be able to help little Marshmallow before it's too late?

GUIDED READING LEVEL N

MONSTERS AND MOLD

In the second book of this series, a forest monster shows up looking for help with an embarrassing problem and Zoey is sure it will be a simple fix. But her first two tries at helping him fail and she has a sobbing monster on her hands! Will Zoey and Sassafras solve the problem in time for Gorp to go to the annual Monster Ball?

GUIDED READING LEVEL O

MERHORSES AND BUBBLES

In the third book of this series, Zoey and Sassafras head to the stream only to make a terrible discovery. Things get even more urgent when they learn that the magical creatures living in the stream are in danger! Can Zoey and Sassafras solve the mystery of the stream and save the Merhorses?

GUIDED READING LEVEL P

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With magical animals, science, mystery, and adventure -- the Zoey and Sassafras series has something for everyone! Easy-to-read language and illustrations on nearly every page make this series perfect for a wide range of ages.