Illustrator: Sarah Davis

Publisher: Gecko Press

Date: 2016

Grade Level: Pre-K to 2nd Grade

Genre: Picture Book, Humor

Theme: Animals, Problem-solving, & Teamwork

Summary: This book follows the story of a group of children who go on a school trip to the wildlife/zoo with their teacher. The story follows a chaotic and humorous adventure where the children and the teacher set out to find a missing hippopotamus. Each child points out an animal with confidence until they find the elusive animal.

Personal Response: This story emphasizes teamwork, observation skills, and perseverance which I think is very beneficial for young learners. The book also encourages participation and critical thinking as children might guess along.

Curricular Connections: This book could be science-oriented if you explore the animals' habitats and characteristics, discussing the animals in the book.

Source: Work (Nanny)

Illustrator: Jill McElmurry

Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Date: 2008

Grade Level: Pre-K to 1st Grade

Genre: Pop-up Book, Rhyming

Theme: Friendship, Helping Others, Kindness, & Teamwork

Summary: Little Blue Truck tells the story of a friendly truck who happily greets everyone he meets on his journey through the countryside. In the first book, when a big, rude dump truck gets stuck in the mud, Little Blue and his animal friends come to the rescue. Through their teamwork, they help the dump truck out, showing that kindness and cooperation make a big difference.

Personal Response: This story teaches valuable lessons about the importance of friendship, kindness, and helping others. The rhythmic text and engaging illustrations make it a delightful read-aloud, and the message about working together is something young children can easily understand and apply in their own lives.

Curricular Connections: This book can be connected to social-emotional learning by discussing the importance of kindness and teamwork. It also offers opportunities to explore transportation and farm animals, making it versatile for a variety of classroom activities.

Source: Work (Nanny)

Illustrator: Tara King

Publisher: Chronicle Books

Date: 2000

Grade Level: 1st to 3rd Grade

Genre: Picture Book, Realistic Fiction

Theme: Friendship, Conflict Resolution, Empathy, & Understanding

Summary: Enemy Pie is the story of a young boy who is excited about his summer until he discovers he has an enemy, Jeremy Ross. The boy’s father offers to help by making Enemy Pie, but the catch is that the boy must spend an entire day with his enemy. As the day unfolds, the boy realizes that Jeremy isn’t so bad after all, and the two become friends.

Personal Response: I found this story to be a good tool for teaching children about the value of empathy and the importance of giving others a chance. The story cleverly shows how preconceived notions can change with time and interaction, making it a great read for promoting positive relationships among young students.

Curricular Connections: This book can be integrated into social-emotional learning by discussing friendship and conflict resolution. It can also be used in language arts to explore narrative structure and character development.

Source: Personal Collection

Publisher: Scholastic Press

Date: 2017

Grade Level: 4th to 7th Grade

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Theme: Identity, Second Chances, Bullying, & Personal Growth

Summary: Restart follows the story of Chase Ambrose, a boy who loses his memory after a fall from a roof. Before the accident, Chase was a bully who made life miserable for many of his classmates. With no recollection of his past behavior, he returns to school with a clean slate, only to discover that not everyone is willing to forget who he used to be. As Chase slowly uncovers the truth about his past self, he must decide who he wants to be going forward.

Personal Response: I really enjoy this story because it tackles the idea of identity very well. It made me reflect on how much of who we are is shaped by our actions and how people perceive us. The novel does a great job of showing that people can change, and it encourages readers to look beyond someone’s past to see their potential for growth.

Curricular Connections: This book can be integrated into discussions about bullying, peer relationships, and personal growth in social-emotional learning. It can also be used in language arts to analyze character development, point of view, and the impact of choices on one's identity. Additionally, it serves as a powerful tool to discuss themes of forgiveness, empathy, and second chances.

Source: Public Library

Summary: In this story, cows on a farm discover a typewriter and begin sending letters to the farmer with demands for better conditions. The farmer is initially perplexed but eventually finds a way to negotiate with the cows, leading to a humorous and collaborative resolution.

Personal Response: I found this book both entertaining and insightful. It cleverly demonstrates how communication and negotiation can lead to positive outcomes, making it a fun yet educational read for children.

Curricular Connections: This book can be integrated into language arts lessons about effective communication and negotiation skills. It can also be used in social studies to explore how conflicts can be resolved through dialogue and compromise.

Source: Public Library

Summary: This classic story follows Sal and her mother as they go blueberry picking. Sal encounters a bear cub, and in a humorous mix-up, the cub ends up with Sal’s mother while Sal ends up with the bear. The story highlights a delightful adventure and a joyful reunion.

Personal Response: I appreciate how this book combines a charming family outing with an adventurous twist. The story also subtly teaches about the natural world and the importance of family bonds.

Curricular Connections: This book is ideal for discussions about nature and family dynamics. It can also be used to explore narrative structure and character development in the classroom.

Source: Public Library

Summary: Tiny T. Rex, despite his tiny arms, is determined to give a hug to his friend. The story follows his creative and heartfelt attempts to overcome his physical limitations, showcasing his perseverance and the power of kindness.

Personal Response: This book is endearing and provides a fun twist on the struggle to show affection. Tiny T. Rex’s determination to overcome obstacles and express his love is both inspiring and relatable for young readers. It’s a perfect story for teaching perseverance and the value of friendship.

Curricular Connections: This book can be used to discuss themes of perseverance and friendship in social-emotional learning. It also lends itself to creative activities where children can think of ways to overcome challenges and express kindness.

Source: Work (nanny)

Summary: Edward Tulane is a porcelain rabbit who embarks on a transformative journey after being lost. Throughout his adventures, Edward experiences love, loss, and redemption, learning to care deeply for others and understanding the value of love and connection.

Personal Response: This book deeply moved me with its exploration of love and personal growth. Edward’s journey from a self-centered toy to a beloved companion reflects an arc of redemption and self-discovery. The story’s emotional depth and rich illustrations make it a powerful read for young audiences.

Curricular Connections: This novel can be used to explore themes of love, loss, and personal growth in language arts. It provides an opportunity to discuss character development and narrative structure, and can also be integrated into social-emotional learning to reflect on personal experiences and emotions.

Source: Personal Collection

Summary: Olivia is a picture book that follows the adventures of a young pig named Olivia. Full of energy and curiosity, Olivia has a bright personality and a penchant for getting into all sorts of situations. The book depicts her day-to-day life with her family, showcasing her creative ideas and unique approach to the world.

Personal Response: This book is a wonderful portrayal of individuality and creativity. Olivia’s adventurous spirit and inventive ideas make her an engaging character for young readers. The story highlights the importance of being true to oneself and exploring one's creativity, which can be very inspiring for children.

Curricular Connections: Olivia can be used in discussions about individuality and self-expression. Teachers can use the book to encourage students to explore their own creativity and share their unique ideas with others. The book also provides opportunities for discussions about family relationships and how different family members support one another.

Source: Library

Summary: Skippyjon Jones tells the story of a young Siamese cat named Skippyjon Jones who believes he is a Chihuahua. With a vivid imagination, Skippyjon embarks on adventurous escapades in his closet, which he imagines as a magical land. He becomes the fearless "El Skippito" and sets out to save the day in his imaginative world.

Personal Response: This book is an entertaining celebration of imagination and self-discovery however, I think it can be personalized more. Skippyjon's adventures and his imaginative transformation into "El Skippito" offer a humorous reading experience for the children.

Curricular Connections: Skippyjon Jones can be used to explore themes of imagination in the classroom. Teachers can use the book to inspire creative writing and storytelling activities, encouraging students to create their own imaginative characters and adventures.

Source: Personal Collection

Summary: In The Pout-Pout Fish in the Big-Big Dark, the beloved pout-pout fish finds himself in a challenging situation when he gets lost in a dark cave. As he navigates through the dark, he encounters various sea creatures who offer to help him find his way. With the support and encouragement of his friends, the pout-pout fish learns to confront his fear of the dark and discovers that there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Personal Response: This book is an engaging read that addresses the fear of the dark in a gentle and reassuring manner. The pout-pout fish's journey through the dark cave, along with the support from his friends, provides a comforting message about overcoming fears and the value of relying on friends. The rhythmic text and vibrant illustrations make the story enjoyable and accessible for young readers.

Curricular Connections: The Pout-Pout Fish in the Big-Big Dark can be used to help children discuss and manage their fears. Teachers can use the book to facilitate conversations about dealing with anxiety and the role of supportive friendships. The story also offers opportunities for creative activities, such as drawing or writing about personal fears and ways to overcome them, encouraging children to express their feelings and find solutions in a supportive environment.

Source: Library

Summary: James and the Giant Peach tells the story of a boy named James Henry Trotter, who, after the tragic loss of his parents, is forced to live with his two cruel aunts. His life takes a magical turn when he accidentally spills a bag of magical crystals near a barren peach tree, causing one peach to grow to an enormous size. James enters the giant peach and embarks on a thrilling adventure across the ocean with a group of anthropomorphic insect friends. Together, they face obstacles and dangers, all while learning about bravery, teamwork, and friendship.

Personal Response:
I loved this book because it is full of imaginative adventures and colorful characters. I also remember reading Roald Dohl books in third grade and I was always so intrigued for what was to happen next. The story is full of wonder, and it encourages readers to believe in the power of imagination and hope, even in tough times. It also highlights the importance of friendship and teamwork in overcoming life’s struggles!

Curricular Connections: It offers opportunities for creative writing assignments where students can imagine their own adventures or reflect on overcoming personal challenges.

Source: Public Library

Summary: Corduroy is the story of a teddy bear named Corduroy who lives in a department store. He longs for a home and someone to love him, but no one wants to buy him because of a missing button on his overalls. One night, Corduroy embarks on a search around the store to find his missing button, hoping it will make him more desirable. Even though he doesn’t find the button, a little girl named Lisa falls in love with him just the way he is and takes him home, giving Corduroy the sense of belonging and love he had always wanted.

Personal Response: I love this book because it captures the simple but powerful themes of belonging and being loved for who you are among little kids! Corduroy’s journey to fix himself speaks to the desire many of us feel to be “perfect” in order to be accepted, but Lisa’s unconditional love shows that it’s okay to be imperfect.

Curricular Connections: Corduroy fits well into social-emotional learning discussions about friendship, love, and acceptance. The story can also be linked to lessons on empathy and kindness, encouraging students to think about how they treat others.

Source: Public Library

Summary: This book tells the story of Wangari Maathai, an environmentalist and Nobel Peace Prize winner from Kenya. As she witnesses the devastating effects of deforestation in her homeland, Wangari starts a movement to replant trees across the country, leading to the Green Belt Movement. Through her passion and commitment, she helps restore the environment and empowers others to care for their land.

Personal Response: I appreciated how this book introduces young readers to environmental activism and showcases Wangari Maathai’s dedication to making a difference. It’s a beautiful story that emphasizes the power of one person to inspire change and the importance of caring for our planet.

Curricular Connections: This book is excellent for lessons on environmental science and social studies. It can also support discussions on global citizenship and perseverance.

Source: Class Reading

Summary: This picture book tells the true story of Wangari Maathai, who notices the forests in Kenya disappearing and decides to take action. She begins planting trees and encourages others to join her, despite facing challenges. Her efforts grow into a larger movement, eventually earning her international recognition and the Nobel Peace Prize.

Personal Response: I found this story to be a powerful example of how determination and a love for nature can lead to meaningful change. It’s an inspiring read for children about the importance of standing up for what they believe in.

Curricular Connections: This book can be used in environmental education and social studies to discuss real-life examples of activism.

Source: Class Reading

Summary: This graphic novel is based on the author’s own experiences growing up deaf. Cece struggles with feeling different from her peers and uses her hearing aid, the Phonic Ear, to navigate school and friendships. She imagines herself as “El Deafo,” a superhero with special powers. Throughout the story, Cece learns to embrace her uniqueness and finds true friendship.

Personal Response: I found El Deafo to be heartfelt and humorous. It provides a unique perspective on disability. The superhero theme is engaging for young readers, and it effectively teaches empathy and self-acceptance. The graphic novel format also makes it accessible and relatable for children.

Curricular Connections: This book can be used to discuss themes of inclusivity and diversity in a social-emotional learning context.

Source: Class Reading

Summary: In this picture book, a sheep discovers that it’s more than just a woolly follower. The story follows Sheep as they embrace their individuality, making friends along the way and having lots of fun. With witty illustrations, this book is a charming exploration of finding oneself.

Personal Response: Sheepish is a fun and entertaining book that encourages kids to embrace their quirks. The simple yet expressive illustrations add a lot to the humor and make it a fantastic read-aloud. I think it’s a great way to teach young children about individuality and friendship.

Curricular Connections: This book can be used for discussions on social-emotional learning, focusing on self-esteem and personal identity. It’s also great for storytime and can inspire creative activities in art and writing about character traits and individuality.

Source: Class Reading

Summary: This classic tale follows Dorothy, a young girl from Kansas, who is whisked away by a tornado to the magical land of Oz. Alongside her friends—the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion—she journeys to find the Wizard in hopes of returning home. Along the way, they each discover their inner strengths and learn valuable lessons about themselves.

Personal Response: I loved revisiting this timeless story. It’s full of adventure and memorable characters that continue to inspire readers of all ages. The themes of courage and friendship are beautifully woven throughout the story, making it a wonderful choice for young readers.

Curricular Connections: This book can support lessons on fantasy genres and narrative structure in English Language Arts. It also provides opportunities to explore character development and thematic analysis.

Source: Families Book

Summary: This African folktale tells the story of two sisters, Nyasha and Manyara, who are both beautiful but very different in character. When the king is seeking a wife, both sisters set out on a journey to meet him. Through various trials, Nyasha’s kindness and compassion shine, while Manyara’s selfishness leads to her downfall. The tale emphasizes the importance of inner beauty.

Personal Response: I found this book to be beautifully illustrated and rich in cultural heritage. It’s a wonderful story that highlights valuable lessons about character and kindness. I think it’s a perfect read for introducing students to world folktales and diverse cultures.

Curricular Connections: This book fits well into lessons on world literature and cultural studies. It can be used to discuss themes of morality and character, as well as to explore storytelling elements in folktales.

Source: Class Reading

Summary: In this installment of The 39 Clues series, siblings Amy and Dan Cahill continue their globe-trotting adventure, this time in China. They uncover secrets related to their family’s history and face challenges that test their bravery and resourcefulness. With puzzles to solve and danger around every corner, they must rely on each other to survive and advance in their quest.

Personal Response: This book is fast-paced and packed with action, which makes it an engaging read for young mystery enthusiasts. I enjoyed the historical and cultural details about China woven into the story. It keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Curricular Connections: This book can be used to explore geography and world cultures, as well as to discuss problem-solving and teamwork.

Source: Public Library

Summary: "Invisible" follows five very different middle school students who are grouped together for a community service project. Despite their initial differences and misunderstandings, they discover a shared mission to help someone in need. The story highlights themes of empathy, community, and the unique struggles faced by immigrant families in the U.S.

Personal Response: This book beautifully illustrates how shared goals and compassion can bridge cultural and social divides. I found the characters' journeys to be an honest and relatable portrayal of friendship and empathy in diverse communities. The graphic novel format makes it highly engaging for young readers being both in English and Spanish.

Curricular Connections: This book is an excellent choice for discussions around social justice, empathy, and cultural diversity.

Source: Personal Collection

Summary: "The Talk" centers on a young Black boy who begins to notice societal issues related to race and the different ways people are treated based on appearance. His parents lovingly guide him through difficult conversations about bias, discrimination, and identity, preparing him for the world.

Personal Response: This book is an impactful resource for discussing race and empathy with young students. I found the story sensitively introduces challenging topics in a way that’s accessible for children, emphasizing the importance of family support and open communication.

Curricular Connections: "The Talk" can be integrated into social-emotional learning units, especially around topics of identity and equity. It can also serve as a starting point for discussions on empathy, historical context of race relations, and family dynamics in social studies.

Source: Public Library

1. Last Stop on Market Street

Author: Matt de la Peña
Illustrator: Christian Robinson
Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers
Date: 2015
Grade Level: Kindergarten to 3rd Grade
Genre: Picture Book, Realistic Fiction
Theme: Empathy, Gratitude, Community
Summary: CJ and his grandmother ride the bus through the city, learning to appreciate the beauty in everyday life.
Personal Response: This story celebrates finding joy and meaning in the ordinary, complemented by vibrant illustrations.
Curricular Connections: Great for lessons on social-emotional learning, diversity, and community.
Source: Public Library

2. Dreamers

Author/Illustrator: Yuyi Morales
Publisher: Neal Porter Books
Date: 2018
Grade Level: 1st to 4th Grade
Genre: Picture Book, Memoir
Theme: Immigration, Dreams, Resilience
Summary: Yuyi Morales shares her journey as an immigrant, highlighting the power of books and libraries.
Personal Response: The story is moving and empowering, with stunning mixed-media illustrations.
Curricular Connections: Ideal for discussions about immigration and cultural identity in social studies.
Source: Public Library

3. The Day You Begin

Author: Jacqueline Woodson
Illustrator: Rafael López
Publisher: Nancy Paulsen Books
Date: 2018
Grade Level: Kindergarten to 3rd Grade
Genre: Picture Book, Realistic Fiction
Theme: Identity, Courage, Acceptance
Summary: This story explores how feeling different can be daunting, but opening up to others creates connections.
Personal Response: A beautiful and relatable book for young readers navigating new experiences.
Curricular Connections: Social-emotional learning and diversity discussions.
Source: Online Source