https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247 By Eva DiDonato. Arranged by theme, scroll down to see more! Many books have multiple themes (listed in the captions) but they're arranged by their most prominent. en-us 2022-04-28 02:44:06 UTC 2022-04-28 21:58:15 UTC hello@padlet.com evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161437710 A young Mexican American girl rides on the back of her father’s motorcycle and sees her city. She sees people working different jobs and giving different foods. Through this book the reader learns more about her culture. There are many words in Spanish that will help kids who speak Spanish feel more included in the classroom and teach Spanish to the kids who don’t speak it. There is so much love in this book for her family and community that it is heartwarming to read.

Quintero, I., & Peña Zeke. (2021). My Papi has a motorcycle. National Braille Press. ]]> 2022-04-28 02:51:07 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161437710 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161440327 Starring Mexican American Sofia, this book tells the story of a young girl who wants to turn a landfill into a park. She works with her local community to do so and keeps trying even through her struggles. This book will help kids know that they are capable of so much change. One person telling them no can’t stop them if they are doing something they care about. They will also learn that standing up for your family and your community is always a wonderful thing.

Beaty, A., & Roberts, D. (2019). Sofia Valdez, future prez. Abrams Books for Young Readers. ]]> 2022-04-28 02:53:27 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161440327 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161444478 In this classic from 1958, Momo can’t wait to use her new umbrella and is so excited when she can finally bring it to school. She learns how to be patient and be independent by keeping track of her belongings. The sound of the rain is written in a fun way. The story is heartwarming and ends on a sweet note with a grown up Momo. Children can learn that having independence and responsibilities doesn't have to be frightening, and these things can happen right when you’re ready for it. This book also shows a Japanese family and is a good representation for kids.

*Caldecott Award Winner*

Yashima, T. (1993). Umbrella. Frank Schaffer Publications. ]]> 2022-04-28 02:57:04 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161444478 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161451804 Hello, Universe tells the story of a boy who has trouble standing up for himself finding the courage to speak up. It follows a diverse group of kids who find friendship and unlikely connections. Each kid is proud to be themself and celebrates the things that make them different while also recognizing the struggles that they face everyday. Something special about this book is that it validates the feelings of kids and takes their emotions seriously.

Kelly, E. E., Abellera, A., & Ocampo, R. de. (2021). Hello, universe. Findaway World, LLC. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:02:52 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161451804 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161457020 Set during a time when the British are leaving India, Nisha writes to her late mom every night to tell her what is happening in her life. Her family is forced to move out of the new Pakistan and into the new India. Kids can learn about Indian culture as well as the history of this time period. Nisha struggles with speaking up for herself and learns to open up as the book goes along. It is wonderful to learn about this moment in history through Nisha’s thoughtful and introspective eye.

*Newberry Honor Book*

Hiranandani, V. (2019). The night diary. Thorndike Press. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:07:39 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161457020 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161462973 Set in a land of beautiful cacti, this book lets young readers know that they are loved and safe. It tells them to let others know when they are feeling hurt, because their feelings are okay. Reading these themes will help young children feel empowered to try new things and go into the unknown. The use of Spanish can help Spanish speaking students feel represented in their classroom. Themes of the immigration crisis are present, and this book could bring feelings of safety to students who are afraid of what may happen to them/their families.

Read Aloud by Author: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuvsrBaQdD0 

Morales, Y. (2021). Bright star. Holiday House. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:13:01 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161462973 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161470377 Hue Boy struggles to grow, and his mom has tried everything to help him grow but nothing has worked. When his dad comes home, he’s able to be himself and stop worrying about his size. He learns that he was longing for his dad rather than a change in height. Kids who struggle with their appearance might find comfort in this book, by learning that their own self love is stronger than any taunting they may receive. When Hue Boy found comfort and love, the mean things kids had said to him no longer affected his feelings of self worth.

Mitchell, R. P., & Binch, C. (1992). Hue boy. Frances Lincoln Children's Books. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:20:11 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161470377 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161477336 Cece is partially deaf and the children around her are judgmental and harsh. She starts to view her hearing aid as her superpower and becomes more assertive. She meets a new friend who accepts her for who she is and she becomes proud. Based on the story of the author, this graphic novel will uplift children with disabilities. This will be good for every kid to read because it shows us that our differences are what make us special.

*John Newberry Award Winner*

Horn Book Magazine interview with Author: https://www.hbook.com/story/cece-bell-el-deafo

Bell, C., & Lasky, D. (2014). El Deafo. Amulet Books. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:27:02 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161477336 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161482425 When Jordan comes to a new school, he quickly sees that it’s predominantly white and not very accepting of him (because he’s black). This book portrays the microaggressions that he faces and could lead to some insightful classroom discussions. Jordan is able to find friends who are kind and caring, as well as friends who can relate to his struggles. His isolation at school will be relatable to most kids, and the discrimination he faces could be validating for other black kids to read. This story is a graphic novel, and the drawings add so much life and meaning to the words.

*Coretta Scott King and Newberry Award Winner*

Craft, J., & Callahan, J. (2019). New kid. Harper, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:32:10 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161482425 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161485503 Lots of children’s books portray happy kids and picture perfect scenarios. This book gives children a space to connect with the unhappiness that Alexander feels. The most important thing about this book is the validation of Alexander’s feelings. Children learn to be empathetic while also knowing that their own feelings are okay. Sometimes we’re just having a bad day!

Read Aloud: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiwjzZWqnpg

Viorst, J. (n.d.). Alexander and the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day, by Judith Viorst. San Luis Coastal Unified School District. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:35:29 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161485503 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161494764 This is the story of a seed who has been dubbed “bad” and is proud of it, at first. Soon he learns that he wants to try doing the right thing, but sometimes still makes mistakes. This is a great way for children to learn that it’s never too late to start making good choices, no matter what box people have put you in. I appreciate the forgiving tone it has- because it’s not easy to make good choices all of the time. It’s wonderfully illustrated and very fun to read aloud. 

John, J., & Oswald, P. (2017). The bad seed. Harper, an imrpint of HarperCollins Publishers. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:44:26 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161494764 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161496054 The friends of this monkey notice that he might be feeling upset. But when they ask him about it, he gets more upset and responds in frustration. Kids will be able to relate to the bad feeling we can get when someone asks if we are upset but we aren’t ready to talk about it yet. Sometimes all we need is time, and this is something this book demonstrates perfectly. This book validates the feelings of kids while letting them know it’s okay to let others know when they’re upset.

Lang, S., & Lang, M. (2021). Grumpy monkey. Random House Studio. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:45:53 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161496054 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161498346 In this short and simple book, Gertie always follows what her best friend Gossie does. Soon she learns to do what she wants, and the friends accept their differences while remaining friends. This is a great book to teach kids that it’s okay to have differences and it’s okay to speak up for yourself. Young kids will enjoy the cute and lively illustrations.

Dunrea, O. (2015). Gossie & Gertie: Best friends, always together. Houghton Mifflin. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:48:26 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161498346 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161500524 Beautifully collaged and filled with emotions, this book explores a rat’s search for a home. He feels some jealousy for his friend’s lives, but he realizes they might not all be as good as they seem. It’s heartwarming when he finds a place that’s a good fit for him. This book gives a glimpse of what it’s like to live in a less than ideal home but still find a source of happiness. Mostly it is fun, colorful, and sweet. Great for kids that live with a guardian or another less traditional family style as this book is all about found family.

Child, L. (2016). That pesky rat. Orchard. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:51:02 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161500524 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161502261 This book points out the differences we have with each other and celebrates them. It shows children that our differences make the world a better place. This would pair nicely with a discussion of how our differences can affect the way we’re treated. The bright colors make it fun to read. This book can help children be proud of the things that make them different, and this could be a good conversation starter.

Read Aloud on Sesame Street channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hUrjb4SZnxg

Kates, B. (2017). We're different, we're the same. Random House Children's Books. ]]> 2022-04-28 03:53:10 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161502261 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161516726 Part of the classic series Elephant and Piggie, this story follows Piggie trying to cheer Elephant up by dressing up in fun costumes. Later we learn that Elephant felt better just by having his friend by his side. A cute tale about how uplifting it can be to simply be by your friend. Kids will love the silly faces and costumes in this book. The story line is simple but impactful and great to read.

Willems, M. (2007). My friend is sad: An elephant & piggie book. Hyperion Books for Children. ]]> 2022-04-28 04:10:16 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161516726 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161523733 A simple and beautifully illustrated story about a child exploring his gender expression. His family supports his exploration and gives him the tools he needs. It is a great way for kids to learn that they can express themselves how they want rather than how they feel they should. This book is a winner of the Stonewall book award because it provides a safe space for kids to find how they want to present themselves. Julián is a Mermaid could be an excellent conversation starter about how we feel we're told to dress/behave and how we actually want to.

*Stonewall Book Award*

Love, J. (2018). Julián is a mermaid. Candlewick Press. ]]> 2022-04-28 04:18:15 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161523733 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161531514 This story first shows the families of a zoo and their traditional relationships, then two male penguins who are in love. The two males find an egg, love it, and raise it as their own. Unapologetic showing two animals of the same gender in love is something that will hopefully be inspiring to young LGBTQ students. Additionally, this story could be important representation for adopted students. It is a sweet story that teaches children that love is love, and it could be a great conversation starter in the classroom and at home.

Richardson, J., Parnell, P., & Cole, H. (2015). And tango makes Three. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. ]]> 2022-04-28 04:27:10 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161531514 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161541848 A young boy has a small voice and is sometimes ignored by the people in his life. He soon finds a penguin and thinks he needs to return him to the South Pole. After doing this he realizes the penguin was lonely and looking for a friend. Once reunited, he learns that having a friend by your side is a wonderful thing. The way this story portrays a blooming friendship is simple yet heartwarming and will be remembered by kids.

Jeffers, O. (2018). Lost and found. Philomel Books. ]]> 2022-04-28 04:38:20 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161541848 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161550203 This wordless book chronicles a young boy finding a camera in the ocean. Through this he sees wondrous sights, like giant starfish, fish with gears, and an octopus family sitting on couches reading. He sees the many other children from across the world who have also found this camera. This book lets children take the lead and flip through at their own pace while creating their own meaning. It would be great to have peer discussions after viewing it to see what meanings each student found.

*Caldecott Award Winner/Illustrated by 3 time Caldecott winner*

Wiesner, D. (2006). Flotsam. Andersen Press Ltd. ]]> 2022-04-28 04:47:15 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161550203 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161557544 Not Quite Narwhal tells the story of a young unicorn that is being raised by narwhals in the ocean. One day he learns that he is in fact a unicorn. At first he struggles with deciding between worlds, but he soon learns he can have both. This story could provide comfort to children who are adopted, have to navigate multiple cultures, or any child who deals with navigating two worlds in their life. A wonderful thing about this story is how the unicorn is accepted by everyone in his life, and he is free to be who he is. Children can learn that even if they are different from other people in a community, they can still be accepted.

Sima, J. (2020). Not quite narwhal. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. ]]> 2022-04-28 04:54:57 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161557544 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161567700 Thunder Boy Jr. is a Native American boy named after his father. While he likes that name, he doesn't feel that it represents him. He especially doesn't want to be seen as "junior" or the small version of his father. This story shows a boy finding his identity while still being connected to his family. This book shows an Indigenous family living in the present day, something that is underrepresented in media and great for kids to see. The audience sees the young boy  understand that society doesn't view his name as normal while simultaneously loving his culture and not needing society to accept him, because he's proud of who he is.

Alexie, S., & Morales, Y. (2020). Thunder boy jr.. Findaway World, LLC. ]]> 2022-04-28 05:06:12 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161567700 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161576508 Alma doesn't understand why she has a long name at the beginning of this story, and then her dad explains each person she was named after. She learns that each person has a special story, and she becomes proud to carry their meaning and legacy. Kids who are named after many other people and have long names can see themselves represented in this book. Other kids can see the pride she takes in her family and carry that with them. The author's note is special and worth reading to the class, because Juana Martinez-Neal shares the story of her name. Children can talk about the meaning of their names and other special family stories.

*Caldecott Award Winner*

Martinez-Neal, A. (2018). Alma and how she got her name. Candlewick Press. ]]> 2022-04-28 05:14:47 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161576508 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161579370 Told through postcards sent to their owner, crayons decide they don’t want to color for Duncan anymore. Kids can laugh and enjoy the colorful drawings, and learn colors if they are young enough. Duncan is encouraged to be creative and think outside the box. Breaking social norms in a healthy way is an underlying theme here that is great to learn. The crayons also talk about the expectations that they have to fill everyday- something that many kids will relate to. 

Daywalt, D., & Jeffers, O. (2016). The day the Crayons quit. HaperCollins. ]]> 2022-04-28 05:17:53 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161579370 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161582736 Summer is a young black girl who knows she wants to be a meteorologist but lots of people tell her it’s not possible for her. Even though this is discouraging to hear, she stays brave and believes in herself. This can help kids know that the mean things people say aren’t true, and that each kid has the power to make choices for themself. The mother in the book is encouraging and helps Summer find her path. Summer is a younger sibling, so this book can help validate children who sometimes feel like they’ve been left behind in a big family. 


Shipp, B., & Boyer, R. (2017). The meteorologist in me. The Power of Love Books. ]]> 2022-04-28 05:21:21 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161582736 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161586880 The classic story of the princess and the pea is retold with words in Spanish and a new setting. The illustrations are gorgeous and a beautiful Peruvian community. This book will either teach kids words in Spanish or give them comfort in seeing their native language in the classroom. Would be a good way to teach children about other countries. The story is fun and has elements that will get children thinking about what it means to be a princess and life in Peru. 

*Pura Belpré Award Winner*

Elya, S. M., Martinez-Neal, J., & Andersen, H. C. (2017). La Princesa and the pea. G. P. Putnam's Sons. ]]> 2022-04-28 05:26:01 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161586880 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161599648 A delightfully fun book that has been loved by kids for years. This book tells the story of the 3 little pigs from the wolf's perspective, and it's up to the readers to see if they believe his side of the story. This retelling of a classic story will have kids laughing, and it's fun to read aloud. The illustrations are detailed and beautiful. This story could lead into a discussion on how perspective can change the telling of the story, or kids can enjoy the silliness, or they can do both!

Scieszka, J., & Smith, L. (2014). The true story of the 3 little pigs! Viking. ]]> 2022-04-28 05:39:06 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161599648 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161609489 This retelling of the 3 little pigs story takes place in outer space with silly names and colorful drawings. Kids will enjoy the lightheartedness and silly sounds the reader says. A lesson with this book could include other versions of this classic, and kids can compare and contrast.

Read Aloud with fun voices and sound effects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VX7oG1RwTs

McNamara, M., & Fearing, M. (2018). The three little aliens and the Big Bad Robot. Schwartz & Wade Books, an imprint of Random House Children's Books, a division of Penguin Random House LLC. ]]> 2022-04-28 05:48:30 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161609489 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161618907 This retelling of Little Red Riding Hood stars a young girl who is independent and capable. Little Red Hot can show young girls that they can do what they want to, stand up for themselves, and go on adventures. The addition of Little Red loving chili peppers and all things spicy makes this book a fun and refreshing read. Teachers can pair this with the classic story and children can discuss what they like about each version and the differences in Little Red's character.

Kimmel, E. A., Huliska-Beith, L., & Goonan, D. (2015). Little red hot. Scholastic. ]]> 2022-04-28 05:57:35 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161618907 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161626286 Chrysanthemum is the story of a girl who gets picked on because children don't like her not so normal name. This can give comfort to children who have uncommon names. Chrysanthemum feels special because her name is special, and children can share this feeling. This book has already been loved by children of multiple generations, and it will always touch the hearts of kids whose names haven't always been accepted by others. Henkes shows how powerful self love can be and how we can give strength to ourselves even when the world is against us.

Henkes, K. (1991). Chrysanthemum. Greenwillow Books. ]]> 2022-04-28 06:05:12 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161626286 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161642075 This book chronicles a young rat with a speech impediment that gets picked on by his peers. A bully comes into his school, and his speech impediment ends up saving the day! This heartfelt and loving story is one of the clearest examples of how to teach kids to celebrate differences. Rodney's difference is what makes him special and everyone can see that by the end of the book. Seeing his peers accept him for who he is is great to see. This book can lead to a conversation about what our differences are and how they bring value to our community. One of my favorites!

Lester, H., & Munsinger, L. (1999). Hooway for Wodney Wat. Walter Lorraine Books. ]]> 2022-04-28 06:18:13 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161642075 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161655729 A duck works on a farm but believes his job is tiring, so he decides to run for farmer. After learning that being a farmer is hard work, he moves on up to governor, and then president. He soon learns his limits and returns to his original community. The duck learns how helpful he can be on the farm and enjoys being back home. Kids learn that they can be gentle with themselves and learn what tasks they are ready for, while at the same time knowing that they are allowed to attempt what they want (and that failure is okay!). Written by the same people as the classic Click, Clack, Moo, this book will make kids excited to hear what comes next.

Read Aloud with Silly Voices: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xIe558h3SO8

Cronin, D. (2012). Duck for president. Little Simon. ]]> 2022-04-28 06:28:46 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161655729 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161667263 Scaredy Squirrel is someone who loves to stay in her comfort zone and away from any danger. When an adventure takes her by surprise, she's forced out of her comfort zone! Through this she learns that she can fly and she starts to make changes to her daily routine to help her try new things. She is gentle with herself, which is something I appreciate and something that I believe is important for kids to see. This book teaches kids that when you venture out of your comfort zone you can learn new things about yourself. Another important lesson in this book is that being scared doesn't mean you're not being brave.

Read Aloud with silly voices: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mYuWUs1roks

Watt Mélanie. (2014). Scaredy squirrel. Kids Can Press Ltd. ]]> 2022-04-28 06:38:23 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161667263 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161683857 Front Desk tells the story of Chinese American Mia Tang and her family, and their struggles running their hotel. Mia also witnesses the effects of racism both against her and the black people she knows. But underneath these struggles, Mia has so much resilience in her heart and uses it to fight for her community. Her ability to fight back will be inspiring to readers and her discussion of the prejudice that she sees in her everyday life is a great conversation starter in the classroom. This novel doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of poverty and racism, and it will be good for kids to read this with Mia's resilient lens.

Horn Book Review: https://www.hbook.com/story/review-front-desk

Yang, K. (2018). Front desk. Arthur A. Levine Books/Scholastic Inc. ]]> 2022-04-28 06:51:07 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2161683857 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163014389 This book portrays the power of love in the home, and how it can combat harmful messages from society. The main character grew up in a home full of love and support, which was stronger than the harm of racism and poverty that her family faced. Kids will enjoy the rhythm of the book and the bright illustrations. The CD is included in most versions of the book, so kids can sing along. The message in this book is simple and impactful.

Song version sung by the Author's acapella ensemble: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMRDhSU_Bko

Barnwell, Y. M., & James, S. S. (1999). No mirrors in my Nana's House. Harcourt Brace. ]]> 2022-04-28 17:07:24 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163014389 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163065113 This book tells the story of a young transgender boy. He learns that he doesn't fit in with the expectations of his assigned gender, and he tells his parents. This will be comforting for kids who are exploring their gender identity because it is supportive and loving. The illustrations are bright and colorful. This book is a comforting read for students who are part of the LGBTQ community or not, because it shows a family accepting their son for who he is.

Lopez, D. A. (2021). I am a Prince: An Inclusive Lgbtqia+ Children's Book. Independently Published. ]]> 2022-04-28 17:37:21 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163065113 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163089722 Arnie the doughnut is a beautifully illustrated book about a doughnut who stands up for his community of doughnuts who do nut want to be eaten (get it?). This story will inspire students to be brave and stand up for what they believe in. It will foster a sense of collectivism in your classroom environment. Arnie is an outspoken doughnut whose bravery is encouraging and important to see in the classroom. Kids will be able to see themselves in Arnie. 

Read Aloud with animated illustrations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6E67n1vZZjQ

Keller, L. (2016). Arnie the doughnut. Square Fish. ]]> 2022-04-28 17:52:23 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163089722 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163133240 This is the story of a bear who is scared of lots of things in the world. He starts to feel courageous once he has to save his friend, and he learns about himself in the process. This is the story of friends who help each other even when they're scared. He learns that it's okay to be scared and students can learn that that feeling is valid. The illustrations are cute, colorful, and immersive.

Read Aloud by Seth Myers with animated illustrations: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljIFmU1QRGY

Meyers, S., & Sayegh, R. (2022). I'm not scared, you're scared! Flamingo Books. ]]> 2022-04-28 18:19:04 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163133240 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163146484 A father and son are ostracized from a town for misusing magic and playing ukulele (respectively). The boy and the father use their talents to save their town, and they're accepted back in. This is a story of a town accepting people because of their differences. The feelings of isolation and subsequential acceptance will be comforting for readers who have experienced similar situations (minus the magic). An added bonus is the song throughout the book that students can sing along to.

Read Aloud with music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPZtuPyXRfw

Seeger, P. (1986). Abiyoyo. Alladdin Paperbacks. ]]> 2022-04-28 18:27:22 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163146484 evamdidonato https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163172761 This book tells the story of a young black girl in New York City who loves to hula hoop, but it gets in the way of a family responsibility! She ends up finding a creative solution and learning that members of her community also love to hula hoop. Seeing everyone gather together for a birthday celebration is heartwarming and fun for kids to see. When reading this book the audience becomes immersed in the hot summer setting, and it can encourage students to follow their passions too.

Read Aloud by Oprah: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=op9Bc7GWCuw

Godin, T. L., & Brantley-Newton, V. (2017). The hula hoopin' queen. Lee & Low Books Inc. ]]> 2022-04-28 18:43:11 UTC https://padlet.com/evamdidonato/tznj0csrl9r6w247/wish/2163172761