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Author: Gertrude Chandler Warner

Illustrator: L. Kate Deal (original illustrations)

Publisher: Albert Whitman & Company

Publication Date: 1924

# of Pages: 192

Grade Level: 3rd - 5th grade

Genres: Mystery, Adventure, Children's literature

Themes: Family, Independence, Problem-solving, Resourcefulness

Summary: The Boxcar Children follows four siblings, Henry, Jessie, Violet, and Benny. They are orphans and run away to avoid being separated. They find an abandoned boxcar in the woods and turn it into their home, using their resourcefulness to survive. As they work together to solve problems, they uncover a mystery about a missing family fortune. The children learn that with love, teamwork, and determination, they can overcome obstacles and build a new life for themselves.

Connections: One of my favorite chapter books growing up. Students might be able to relate to being an orphan. The importance of sticking together during tough times. The story can inspire students to think creatively when facing difficulties.

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Author: David Shannon

Illustrator: David Shannon

Publisher: Scholastic Inc.

Date: September 1, 1998

# of Pages: 32

Grade Level: pre-K-1

Genres: Picture book, Children's literature, Fiction, Comedy

Theme: Behavior and Unconditional Love

Summary: This story follows a boy named David who doesn't have the best behavior. David breaks items, runs around naked, tracks mud onto the carpet, and other bad behavior. His mother always reacts with a "No, David!" At the end of the story, David is being hugged by his mom, conveying that despite his misbehavior, he is still loved.

Connections: This book has been engraved in my head since I was little, my parents read it to me because I was always getting in trouble with them.

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Author: Chelsea Clinton

Illustrator: Gianna Marino

Publisher: Philomel Books (an imprint of Penguin Random House)

Date: April 2, 2019

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: K-3

Genre: Nonfiction, Informational Picture Book

Theme: Endangered Species

Summary: This story highlights 12 endangered animals around the planet and teaches us about the challenges these animals face, such as habitat loss, climate change, and poaching.  This book also goes over how human activity impacts wildlife, encouraging readers to reflect on their role in protecting the planet.

Connections: I connected with the message of taking individual responsibility to protect animals and their habitats, which aligns with the importance of teaching environmental factors to children.

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Author: Stephen Mitchell

Illustrator: Tom Pohrt

Publisher: Candlewick Press

Date: 2003

# of Pages: 63

Grade Level: 3rd–7th

Genres: Children's Poetry, Fiction

Themes: Imagination and Creativity, Humor and Playfulness,

Fantasy and the Natural World

Summary: The Wishing Bone and Other Poems is a collection of playful, imaginative poems with humor, fantasy, and curiosity, brought to life with its amazing illustrations.

Connections: Book is a good intorucution to poetry

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Author: Anna Dewdney & Reed Duncan

Illustrator: JT Morrow

Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers

Date: August 27, 2019

# of Pages: 32

Grade Level: Pre-K-1

Genres: Picture book, Children's literature, Fiction

Themes: Responsibility, Cleanliness, Growing up

Summary: Llama Llama loves to play but doesn’t like to clean up his messes. When Mama Llama reminds him that keeping things tidy is important, he resists at first. However, he soon learns that cleaning up can be fun and helps him find his favorite toys more easily. In the end, Llama Llama realizes that being responsible makes life better for everyone.

Connections: Many kids hate cleaning up because it isn't fun just like Llama Llama. This story helps students understand that taking responsibility for their own messes is an important part of growing up.

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Author: Jesús Trejo

Illustrator: Eliza Kinkz

Publisher: Minerva (Astra Books for Young Readers)

Date: June 6, 2023

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: Preschool - 3rd grade

Genres: Picture book, Children's literature, Fiction

Themes: Responsibility, Resourcefulness, Father-Son Bond, Patience

Summary: A young boy named Jesús is excited to help his father, Papá, with work. Papá gives him a magical water jug, saying the workday ends when it's empty. Jesús shares the water with various animals along the way, thinking it will make the day go faster. But when the jug runs out, Jesús learns that the magic isn't real, and the day isn’t over yet, teaching him about patience and the value of hard work.

Connections: Students might relate to being excited about helping a parent. The idea that patience is required when completing tasks is something students can understand from their own experiences—whether it's waiting for a turn, finishing a homework assignment, or sticking with a project.

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Author: Vera Brosgol

Illustrator: Vera Brosgol

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press

Date: May 25, 2021

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: K-3rd

Genre: Picture book, Children's literature, Fiction

Theme: Memories, Change, Growing up, Holding onto the past

Summary: Memory Jars is about a girl named Freda who wants to keep her favorite things forever. After learning how to preserve blueberries, she starts collecting and storing everything she loves in jars, including happy moments. However, she realizes that holding onto everything doesn’t make her happy and that some things are meant to be enjoyed in the moment. In the end, Freda learns to cherish memories while still embracing change.

Connections: I struggle with letting go of memories. Growing up and looking back on my memories makes me sad because I'm not going to experience it again. I can relate to Freda’s desire to preserve things because I hold onto sentimental items, like notes from friends or small keepsakes.

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Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus 

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Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus 

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Author: Barbara Park

Illustrator: Denise Brunkus

Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers

Date: September 29, 1992

# of Pages: 96

Grade Level: 1st - 3rd grade

Genres: Children's literature, Humor, Realistic fiction

Themes: School, Friendship, Growing up, Overcoming fears

Summary: Junie B. is nervous about her first day of kindergarten, especially the bus ride. She worries about meeting new classmates and her teacher’s rules. Junie B. learns that school isn’t as scary as she thought and begins to adjust to her new environment. She discovers that new experiences can be fun and that it’s okay to feel nervous.

Connections: Students can relate to the feeling of nervousness about starting school or trying new things, such as riding the bus or meeting new classmates. Book shows that it's important to express your feelings.

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Author: Megan McDonald

Illustrator: Peter H. Reynolds

Publisher: Candlewick Press

Date: April 28, 2000

# of Pages: 160

Grade Level: 2nd - 4th grade

Genres: Children's literature, Humor, Realistic fiction

Themes: Emotions, Friendship, Self-expression, Family

Summary: Judy Moody starts the day in a bad mood, she is annoyed by her little brother, her friends, and even school. Throughout the day, Judy tries to turn her mood around using humor and creativity. By the end of the day, she learns that it’s okay to have bad days and that a positive attitude can sometimes make things better.

Connections: Students can relate to Judy’s feelings of frustration or having a bad day.

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Author: Thanhha Lai

Illustrator: none

Publisher: HarperCollins

Date: February 22, 2011

# of Pages: 262

Grade Level: 7th and up

Genres: historical fiction, poetry

Theme: War and Displacement, Family and Community

Summary: Hà lives in Vietnam with her family during the Vietnam War. When the war escalates, her family makes the decision to flee as refugees. They escape by boat and eventually settle in Alabama, where she struggles to adapt to a new culture, language, and way of life. She struggles with bullying at school, cultural misunderstandings, and homesickness. Through it all, she learns to hold onto her identity, connect with new people, and find hope despite the challenges of starting over in an unfamiliar place.

Connections: Refugee experiences, students can understand the importance of treating others with kindness and understanding the challenges immigrants and refugees face

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Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story

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Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story

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Author: Kevin Noble Maillard

Illustrator: Juana Martinez-Neal

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press

Publication Date: October 22, 2019

# of Pages: 48

Grade Level: Preschool – 3rd grade

Genre: Children's Literature, Realistic Fiction, Multicultural

Theme: Family, Tradition, Culture, Identity, History, Community

Topic: Native American heritage, food traditions, intergenerational connections

Summary: The story is about a family coming together to make fry bread, a food that holds deep cultural meaning. As the grandmother prepares the bread, the children and family members gather, creating a sense of warmth and connection. The book also touches on the struggles Native Americans have faced, explaining how fry bread became a symbol of survival. The story highlights the importance of family, culture, and identity.

Connections: many cultures have food traditions

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Author: Cece Bell

Illustrator: Cece Bell, David Lasky

Publisher: Amulet Books

Date: September 2, 2014

# of Pages: 248

Grade Level: 3-7

Genre: Graphic Novel, Memoir, Children's Literature, Autobiography

Themes: Identity, Acceptance, Friendship, Disability, Self-Empowerment

Summary: A young girl loses her hearing due to illness and has to navigate life with a hearing aid, not just any hearing aid- a big one she worse under her clothes. At first, she struggles with feeling different and just wants to fit in, but she soon realizes that her hearing aid gives her a "superpower", she can hear her teacher even when she’s out of the room. Cece tries to make freinds, there is a handful of awkward situations but overtime she gains confidnece and learns to embrace it.

Connections: Student may be able to relate to feeling diffrent from their peers.

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Author: Paul Fleischman

Illustrator: Julie Paschkis

Publisher: Henry Holt and Co.

Date: September 4, 2007.

# of pages: 32

Grade Level: K-3

Genre: Children's Literature, Fairy Tales, Folklore

Theme: Multiculturalism, Storytelling, Cultural Diversity, Kindness, Perseverance, and Transformation,

Summary: This story is a remake of the Cinderella story. Each part of the story draws from a different country's version of Cinderella, blending elements from places like Mexico, Korea, Iraq, and Vietnam.

Connections: The book connects to traditional fairy tales students may already know, such as Cinderella, allowing them to explore different versions of a familiar story.

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Author: Shirley Climo

Illustrator: Ruth Heller

Publisher: HarperCollins

Date: 1989

# of Pages: 32

Grade Level: 2nd - 5th grade

Genre: Fairy Tale, Historical Fiction

Theme: Kindness, destiny, perseverance, cultural diversity, rags-to-riches transformation

Summary: It is a retelling of the Cinderella tale through the story of Rhodopis, a Greek girl who is enslaved in Egypt. Despite being different from the other servant girls because of her fair skin and red hair, she remains kind and hardworking. One day, an eagle snatches her beautiful rose-red slipper and drops it in the lap of the Pharaoh. Believing it to be a sign from the gods, the Pharaoh searches for the slipper’s owner, ultimately choosing Rhodopis as his queen.

Connections: Students who have ever felt different or left out may relate to Rhodopis’ struggles with being treated unfairly. The story introduces elements of Ancient Egyptian culture.

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Author: Tomie dePaola

Illustrator: Tomie dePaola

Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers

Date: 2002

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: 1st - 4th grade

Genre: Fairy Tale, Folklore, Historical Fiction

Themes: Family, kindness, perseverance, cultural traditions, love

Summary: It is a Mexican retelling of the Cinderella story. After Adelita’s parents pass away, her cruel stepmother and stepsisters mistreat her. With the help of her kind nanny, Adelita secretly attends a fiesta where she meets Javier, a childhood friend who is now a wealthy young man. Instead of a lost slipper, Adelita leaves behind her rebozo (shawl), which helps Javier find her. Unlike traditional Cinderella stories, magic is not involved. Only love, kindness, and destiny bring Adelita and Javier together.

Connections: Students with strong relationships with grandparents or caregivers may connect with Adelita’s bond with Esperanza. Can make connections to the other Cinderella stories. This story introduces Mexican traditions, food, and language.

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Author: Sarah Stewart

Illustrator: David Small

Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux (an imprint of Macmillan Publishers)

Date: 1997

# of Pages: 32

Grade Level: age 5-8

Genres: Children’s Literature, Picture Book, Historical Fiction

Themes: Hope and Resilience, The Healing Power of Nature, Kindness and Connection, Family and Belonging, Selflessness

Summary: A young girl moves to the city during the Great Depression and creates a garden on her uncle’s rooftop. Her uncle owns a bakery in the city during the Great Depression.

She writes letters to her family back home, sharing her progress and the joy she finds in planting flowers and vegetables. Her garden not only grows physically, but it also helps her uncle begin to open up and connect with others. Through her dedication, Lydia Grace creates something more than just a garden—it becomes a symbol of hope, healing, and change for both herself and the people around her. By the end of the story, Lydia Grace's garden helps her uncle’s bakery become more successful, and it brings the community together. The final letter reveals how the garden has impacted everyone.

Connections: Create something beautiful out of a difficult situation. Many kids can relate to the idea of working hard to make a difference, whether it's in their school, home, or community.

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The Gardener

Description of my Work: I drew Lydia Grace and her uncle in the garden. I drew the garden because it symbolizes hard work, growth, hope, love, and patience.

Personal Response: The Gardener resonates with me because, much like gardening, personal growth requires care, patience, and persistence. I find it similar to the process of learning. I appreciate how the book emphasizes the idea of finding beauty and growth in the simplest things. It reminds me that even small, seemingly insignificant actions (like planting a seed) can lead to big changes over time.

Personal/academic Values: This story can be a valuable lesson in patience and resilience. It highlights how growth doesn’t always happen quickly but is a gradual process. The Gardener can be used to teach themes like cause and effect (how actions, like planting, lead to growth), the importance of nurturing and responsibility. It can also be used in lessons about symbolism and how authors use symbols to represent larger ideas.

Effectiveness of the Activity: The visual representation activity is effective for students because it provides a creative way to connect with abstract concepts like growth, patience, and nurturing. By drawing their own version of personal growth, students can better understand how these themes manifest in their lives.

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Author: Katherine Applegate

Illustrator: Patricia Castelao

Publisher: HarperCollins

Date: January 6, 2015

# of Pages: 366

Grade Level: 3-7

Genre: Historic Fiction

Theme: Friendship and Loyalty, , Freedom and Justice, Hope and Change, Compassion and Empathy,

Summary: The One and Only Ivan is about a gorilla named Ivan who has lived in a mall circus for years. He doesn’t really remember his life in the wild and spends his time watching TV, painting, and hanging out with his elephant friend, Stella, and a stray dog named Bob. When a baby elephant named Ruby arrives, Ivan realizes how unfair their lives are. He promises Stella that he’ll protect Ruby and tries to find a way to get them to a better place. The story is about friendship, hope, and standing up for what’s right.

Connections: Ivan fights for Ruby’s freedom, which can connect to students standing up for friends, siblings, or causes they care about.

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The One and Only Ivan

Description of Work: I drew Ivan’s transformation by creating a winding path that follows his life from the jungle to the shopping mall and finally to the zoo. I included key events like ivan’s early life in the jungle (symbolizing freedom and being captured and taken to the mall. I then included meeting Ruby and making a promise to Stella. I drew a piant brush because he was using his painting to communicate.

Personal Responses: His journey reminded me of how important it is to stand up for others, especially those who don’t have a voice. I was particularly moved by his relationship with Ruby because it showed how even in difficult situations, small acts of kindness can make a big impact. One part that made me think was when Ivan realized that humans might understand his paintings and use them to help him and Ruby. It made me wonder how often do we overlook the messages animals are trying to communicate?

Personal & Academic Values of the Book and Effectiveness of the Journey Map: This book is valuable both personally and academically because it teaches empathy, perseverance, and the power of advocacy. Ivan’s story can inspire students to recognize their own ability to create change, just as he did for Ruby. The journey map is an effective tool for students because it helps visually break down Ivan’s transformation over time.

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Author: Jerry Craft

Publisher: HarperCollins

Date: February 5, 2019

# of Pages: 256

Grade Level: 3-7

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Theme: Coming-Of-Age

Artistic Media: illustration

Summary: A 12-year-old who dreams of going to an art school but instead gets sent to a private school, Riverdale Academy. As one of the few Black students at the school, Jordan struggles to fit in while dealing with microaggressions, racism, and the challenge of balancing his home life in Washington Heights with his school environment.

Connections: Many students have experienced being new at a school and feeling out of place. Students who come from diverse backgrounds may relate to Jordan’s struggle to fit in at school while staying connected to his home culture.

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Author: Mo Willems

Publisher: Disney-Hyperion

Date: April 2003

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: 1

Genre: Fiction

Theme: Humor

Summary: A bus driver who has to leave so he asks the reader to not allow the Pigeon to drive the bus.

Connections: I loved this book growing up. A great book to get readers engaged because it asks for active participation.

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Author: Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel)

Illustrator: Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel)

Publisher: Random House

Date: 1999

# of Pages: 72 pages

Grade Level: Preschool to 1st Grade (Aimed at early readers)

Genre: Children's Picture Book, Beginner Reader, Rhyming Fiction

Theme: Playfulness, Family, Mischief, Physical Activity, Boundaries

Summary: e book is structured as a series of rhyming verses and illustrations, with each section depicting different scenarios in which the children engage in silly or mischievous behavior, such as hopping on Pop, running, and causing chaos. These playful actions are depicted in a humorous way, with exaggerated expressions and fun situations. The book’s easy-to-follow structure and repetitive rhyme make it a great tool for early readers while also teaching a light lesson about boundaries and respect.

Connections: I loved this book and it is a good introduction to phonics.

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Author: Marilyn Sadler

Illustrator: Roger Bollen

Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers

Date: January 12, 1982

Grade Level: 4-6

# of Pages: 32

Genre: Children's Picture Book, Early Reader

Theme: sibling relationships, teasing, and learning to appreciate each other

Summary: This story follows Hunny Bunny and her brother Funny Bunny. Funny Bunny teases his sister by playing pranks on her and being mischievous, and Hunny Bunny finds it annoying. Hunny Bunny begins to realize that having a brother can be a special and important part of life.

Connections: The story connects to common family experiences where younger siblings annoy older ones, yet strong bonds develop over time. Many readers, especially children with siblings, can relate to the love-hate relationship between Hunny Bunny and Funny Bunny. The story reflects real-life sibling interactions, where teasing can be frustrating but ultimately comes from a place of love.

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Author: Alan Gratz

Publisher: StarScape

Date: 8/29/2017

# of Pages: 256

Grade Level: 4-6

Genre: Fiction

Theme: Leadership

Summary: Fourth-grader Amy Anne is upset when her favorite book is banned from the school library. She secretly starts a locker library to share banned books with other students. As more books are challenged, Amy stands up for the right to read and speaks out against censorship.

Connection: Many can connect to being mad or upset when something you love (in this case a novel) is no longer available to you.

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The Magic School Bus And The Climate Challenge

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The Magic School Bus And The Climate Challenge

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Author: Joanna Cole

Illustrator: Bruce Degen

Publisher: Scholastic Press

Date: March 1, 2010

# of Pages: 40 pages

Grade Level: 2nd-5th

Genre: Children's Nonfiction, Science

Themes: Climate change and global warming

Summary: Ms. Frizzle and her class go on a field trip to learn about climate change. They explore what causes global warming, how it affects the environment, and what people can do to help.

Connections: Recycling

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Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams

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Game Changers: The Story of Venus and Serena Williams

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Author: Lesa Cline-Ransome

Illustrator: James E. Ransome

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (a Paula Wiseman Book)

Date: July 3, 2018

# of Pages: 48 pages

Grade Level: Grades K–3 (Ages 4–8)

Themes: Perseverance, Sisterhood, Sportsmanship

Genre: Children's Nonfiction Picture Book

Summary: It's a biography about the early lives and tennis careers of the Williams sisters, Venus and Serena. Growing up in Compton, California, the sisters faced challenges and obstacles but were determined to succeed. The book highlights their rise to fame in the world of tennis, their close bond as sisters, and their shared dream of becoming champions.

Connections: Sisterhood and Family Support, Sports and Perseverance

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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 Press

Date: October 13, 2020

# of Pages: 288 pages

Grade Level: 4th-7th

Genre: Nonfiction, Children's Literature

Theme: Perseverance, Hope and Resilience, Courage and Sacrifice

Summary: All Thirteen recounts the incredible true story of the 2018 cave rescue in Thailand, where twelve boys and their soccer coach were trapped in the Tham Luang cave for over two weeks by rising floodwaters. The book details the relentless efforts of local and international teams of divers, engineers, and other specialists who worked tirelessly to rescue them. It describes the tense days of the rescue mission, the cultural context of Thailand, and the emotional impact on the families and rescuers.

Connections: Real life heroes

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Author: Judy Blume

Publisher: Bradbury Press

Date: 1970

# of Pages: Approximately 149

Grade Level: 5th-8th

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Coming-of-Age

Themes: Puberty and growing up, religion and identity, family dynamics, Self-discovery

Summary: This book follows 11-year-old Margaret Simon as she navigates the challenges of adolescence. Recently moved to a new town, Margaret struggles with fitting in, choosing a religion, and understanding the changes in her body. She often speaks to God in private, asking questions and sharing her thoughts about life, family, and growing up.

Connections: Experiencing physical and emotional changes during puberty, moving to a new place and making new friends, Feeling confused or curious about religion or faith. Some students may have seen the movie.

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Author: Judy Blume

Illustrator: Roy Doty (for some editions)

Publisher: Dutton

Date: 1972

# of Pages: Around 120 pages

Grade Level: 3rd to 5th grade

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Humor

Themes: Sibling rivalry, family dynamics, growing up, responsibility, empathy

Short Summary:

The story follows nine-year-old Peter Hatcher as he deals with his mischievous little brother, Fudge. Fudge constantly causes trouble, whether it's throwing tantrums, ruining school projects, or eating weird things, and Peter often feels overshadowed by the attention Fudge gets. Through Peter's eyes, readers experience the everyday struggles and humor of having a younger sibling who seems to get away with everything.

Connections: Dealing with a younger sibling or feeling overlooked, Feeling frustrated by unfair situations at home

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Author: Judy Blume

Illustrator: Roy Doty (in some editions)

Publisher: E. P. Dutton

Date Published: 1980

Number of Pages: 178 pages

Grade Level: 3rd-5th

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Humor

Themes: Family changes, sibling relationships, growing up, friendship, adjusting to new environments

Summary: This story is a sequel to Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. Peter Hatcher is once again dealing with his wild younger brother, Fudge. This time, the family moves from New York City to Princeton, New Jersey, and things get even more chaotic when their new baby sister Tootsie is born. Peter has to adjust to a new school, make new friends, and survive Fudge’s latest troubles like trying to fly and deciding to marry his classmate.

Connections: Moving to a new home or school, having a new sibling, struggling to get along with siblings, dealing with big changes in their family or routine

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Author: Judy Blume

Illustrator: Roy Doty (in some editions)

Publisher: Dutton Children's Books

Date: 1990

# of Pages: 160

Grade Level: 3rd-5th

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Humor

Themes: Friendship, family vacations, jealousy, growing up, sibling rivalry, first crushes

Summary: Peters summer plans take a turn when he finds out that his family will be sharing a vacation house in Maine with Sheila Tubman, his least favorite person. As if that weren’t bad enough, Fudge is up to his usual mischief, and Peter finds himself dealing with surprise weddings, unexpected friendships, and the ups and downs of summer life with siblings and neighbors.

Connections: Going on family vacations, having a love-hate relationship with siblings or classmates

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Author: Judy Blume
Publisher: Bradbury Press
Date Published: 1981
# of Pages: 224 pages
Grade Level: 7th-10th

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Coming-of-Age, Young Adult
Themes: Grief and loss, identity, healing, trauma, friendship, change

Summary: This book tells the story of Davey Wexler, a teenager whose world is turned upside down after her father is shot and killed in a robbery. Struggling with grief, Davey moves with her mother and younger brother from Atlantic City to Los Alamos, New Mexico, to stay with relatives. She meets a mysterious boy named Wolf and begins to process her pain, confront her fears, and find her inner strength in the face of tragedy.

Connections: Coping with the loss of a loved one, moving to a new place and starting over, navigating emotions like grief, anger, or fear

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Author: Judy Blume
Publisher: Bradbury Press
Date: 1974
# of Pages: Around 160 pages (varies slightly by edition)
Grade Level: 4th-7th
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Themes: Bullying, peer pressure, empathy, self-identity, courage, friendship, consequences of actions

Short Summary: This story is about Jill Brenner, a fifth grader who joins in with her classmates in bullying a girl named Linda Fischer, who is teased for being overweight. The story shows how quickly power can shift in a group of friends and how easy it is to follow along with cruel behavior. Eventually, Jill finds herself on the receiving end of the bullying, and she begins to understand how painful and damaging it can be.

Connections: Experiencing or witnessing bullying at school, dealing with peer pressure, feeling left out

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Author: Judy Blume

Publisher: Bradbury Press

Date: 1975

# of Pages: 208 pages

Grade Level: 9th-12th

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Realistic Fiction, Romance

Themes: First love, sexual relationships, emotional maturity, growing up, choices and consequences, identity

Summary: This story follows Katherine and Michael, two high school seniors who fall in love and begin a romantic and sexual relationship. As they navigate the intensity of first love, they must also face the realities of growing up, graduation, and going their separate ways.

Connections: Experiencing a first serious relationship, navigating emotions and decisions about intimacy, and preparing for transitions like graduation

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Author: Judy Blume

Publisher: Delacorte Press

Date: 1998

# of Pages: 399 pages

Grade Level: Adult readers

Genre: Adult Fiction, Coming-of-Age, contemporary fiction

Themes: Friendship, identity, love, betrayal, class differences, personal growth, memory

Summary: Summer Sisters tells the story of Victoria "Vix" Leonard and Caitlin Somers, who become inseparable when Caitlin invites Vix to spend the summer on Martha’s Vineyard. The novel follows their friendship from adolescence into adulthood, highlighting the deep bond, the secrets, and the betrayals that shape their lives over the years. As Vix reflects on the intensity of their relationship, she must confront how it has influenced her identity, choices, and understanding of love.

Connections: I felt connected to this book because growing up and moving states for school have led me to grow apart from someone I was once really close with.

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Author: Maurice Sendak

Illustrator: Maurice Sendak

Publisher: Harper & Row

Date: 1963

# of Pages: 48

Grade Level: PreK–2nd grade

Genre: Fantasy, Picture Book

Themes: Imagination, emotions, family love

Summary: Max travels to a land of wild creatures after being sent to bed without supper, then realizes he wants to go home.

Connections: Acting out emotions, using imagination, needing comfort

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Author: Eric Carle

Illustrator: Eric Carle

Publisher: World Publishing Company

Date: 1969

# of Pages: 26

Grade Level: PreK–1st grade

Genre: Concept Book, Picture Book

Themes: Growth, change, counting, days of the week

Summary: A caterpillar eats through different foods each day before transforming into a butterfly.

Connections: Learning about nature, eating habits, daily routines

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Author: Matt de la Peña

Illustrator: Christian Robinson

Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers

Date: 2015

# of Pages: 32

Grade Level: K–3rd grade

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Picture Book

Themes: Gratitude, community, perspective, diversity

Summary: CJ and his Nana ride the bus across town, and Nana helps CJ appreciate the beauty in their everyday surroundings.

Connections: Riding public transport, spending time with grandparents

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Author: Janell Cannon

Illustrator: Janell Cannon

Publisher: Harcourt Brace

Date Published: 1993

# of Pages: 48

Grade Level: 1st–4th grade

Genre: Animal Fiction, Picture Book

Themes: Belonging, differences, friendship, identity

Summary: A young fruit bat named Stellaluna is separated from her mother and raised by birds, learning about difference and acceptance.

Connections: Feeling out of place, making friends who are different, learning where you belong

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Author: Isabel Quintero

Illustrator: Zeke Peña

Publisher: Kokila (an imprint of Penguin Random House)

Date Published: 2019

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: K–3rd grade

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Bilingual

Themes: Family bonds, community, change, memory

Summary: A young girl rides around her neighborhood with her father on his motorcycle, seeing their community through her eyes and heart.

Connections: Spending time with a parent, noticing community changes, pride in culture

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Author & Illustrator: Dr. Seuss

Publisher: Random House

Date: 1960

# of Pages: 62

Grade Level: PreK–2nd grade

Genre: Rhyming, Humor

Themes: Trying new things, persistence, surprise

Summary: Sam-I-Am encourages a grumpy character to try green eggs and ham anywhere, anytime until he finally gives in and enjoys it.

Connections: Picky eating, being convinced to try something new

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Author & Illustrator: Dr. Seuss

Publisher: Random House

Date Published: 1990

Pages: 56

Grade Level: 1st–5th grade

Genre: Inspirational, Rhyming

Themes: Growth, journey, resilience, possibility

Summary: A motivational journey through life’s ups and downs, encouraging readers to embrace their future with courage.

Connections: Graduations, transitions, and facing challenges

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Author & Illustrator: Dr. Seuss

Publisher: Random House

Date Published: 1971

# of Pages: 72

Grade Level: 1st–4th grade

Genre: Environmental, Rhyming

Themes: Conservation, greed, consequences, hope

Summary: The Lorax speaks for the trees as the greedy Oncela destroys the Truffula forest, until a single seed offers hope for regrowth.

Connections: Caring for nature, standing up for what's right, seeing environmental impacts

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Author & Illustrator: Mo Willems

Publisher: Hyperion Books for Children

Date Published: 2004

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: PreK–2nd grade

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Humor

Themes: Communication, problem-solving, parent-child relationships

Summary: Trixie loses her beloved stuffed animal at the laundromat and can’t yet talk to explain chaos ensues!

Connections: Losing a favorite toy, feeling frustrated when you can't express yourself

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Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten

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Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten

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Author: Joseph Slate

Illustrator: Ashley Wolff

Publisher: Dutton Children’s Books (Penguin Group)

Date: 1996

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: PreK–Kindergarten

Genre: Rhyming, School Story

Themes: School readiness, routines, classroom community, alphabet

Summary:

As Miss Bindergarten prepares her classroom, 26 animal students whose name starts with a different letter also prepare for their big first day of kindergarten. The story follows their preparations through rhyming, alphabet-based narration and cheerful illustrations.

Connections: I read this before my first day of kindergarten, excitement or nerves about starting school, morning routines

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Author: Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault

Illustrator: Lois Ehlert

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Date Published: 1989

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: PreK–1st grade

Genre: Alphabet, Rhyming

Themes: Letters, learning, playfulness

Summary: The lowercase letters of the alphabet race to the top of a coconut tree, but the tree can’t hold them all.

Connections: Learning letters, rhythm and rhyme, working together

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Author: Laura Numeroff

Illustrator: Felicia Bond

Publisher: HarperCollins

Date: 1985

# of Pages: 32

Grade Level: PreK–2nd grade

Genre: Circular Story, humor

Themes: Cause and effect, routines, playful thinking

Summary: Giving a mouse a cookie leads to a hilariously long chain of requests from the mouse.

Connections: Asking for more, cause and effect

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Author: Karma Wilson

Illustrator: Jane Chapman

Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books

Date: 2002

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: PreK–2nd grade

Genre: Animal Fiction, Rhyming

Themes: Friendship, sharing, hibernation

Summary: As Bear hibernates, his cave fills with animals who talk, snack, and play until Bear wakes up and wants to join.

Connections: Sleeping habits, feeling left out, friendship and warmth

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Author & Illustrator: Anna Dewdney

Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers

Date: 2005

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: PreK–1st grade

Genre: Rhyming, realistic Fiction

Themes: Bedtime fears, patience, parent child bond

Summary: Little Llama feels scared when Mama leaves him alone at bedtime, but she comes back with reassurance and love.

Connections: Being scared at night, wanting comfort, trusting parents

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Author: Jane Yolen

Illustrator: Mark Teague

Publisher: Blue Sky Press

Date: 2000

# of Pages: 40

Grade Level: PreK–1st grade

Genre: Humor, fantasy, rhyming

Themes: Bedtime routines, behavior, family love

Summary: This fun book shows how different dinosaur “children” act out at bedtime before calming down and saying goodnight properly.

Connections: Having bedtime routines, expressing emotions, learning manners