The following is a list of current high-quality diverse fiction and nonfiction suitable for preK and up. These recommendations are specifically tailored to meet the needs of the students and staff at Sorenson Early Childhood Center, but it is a great resource for anyone who works with youth! Click here to learn more about the project. If you would like to donate books to the cause, please check out the wish list.
Questions? Comments? Message me! —> zagera@uw.edu
FICTION
Ada Twist, Scientist
Andrea Beaty (2016)
Ada Twist is a very curious girl who shows perseverance by asking questions and performing experiments to find things out and understand the world.
Positive reviews from Kirkus, School Library Journal, Booklist
Alfie: The Turtle That Disappeared
Thyra Heder (2017)
Nia loves Alfie, her pet turtle. But he’s not very soft, he doesn’t do tricks, and he’s pretty quiet. Sometimes she forgets he’s even there! That is until the night before Nia’s seventh birthday, when Alfie disappears!
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive reviews from Publishers Weekly, Booklist, School Library Journal
All Around Us
Xelena Gonzalez (2017)
Finding circles everywhere, a grandfather and his granddaughter meditate on the cycles of life and nature.
ALSC Notable Children’s Book; 2018 Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor; 2018 Indian Youth Literature Award; Positive reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, School Libray Journal
Alma and How She Got Her Name
Juana Martinez-Neal (2018)
What’s in a name? For one little girl, her very long name tells the vibrant story of where she came from — and who she may one day be.
Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, Publishers Weekly
And Then Comes Summer
Tom Brenner (2017)
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A joyful, sun-drenched tribute to the anticipation and adventures of the warmest season of the year.
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal
At the Same Moment, Around the World
Clotilde Perrin (2014)
Discover Benedict drinking hot chocolate in Paris, France; Mitko chasing the school bus in Sofia, Bulgaria; and Khanh having a little nap in Hanoi, Vietnam!
Positive reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal
Be Kind
Pat Zietlow Miller (2018)
Explores what kindness is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference–or at least help a friend.
Starred review from Publishers Weekly; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Booklist, The New York Times
The Big Bed
Bunmi Laditan (2018)
A humorous picture book about a girl who doesn’t want to sleep in her little bed, so she presents her dad with his own bed―a camping cot!―in order to move herself into her parents’ big bed in his place.
#1 New York Times bestselling author; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Booklist
The Big Umbrella
Amy June Bates (2018)
Lush illustrations and simple, lyrical text subtly address themes of inclusion and tolerance.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Booklist
Bob, Not Bob!
Audrey Vernick & Liz Garton Scanlon (2017)
Little Louie is stuck in bed with a bad cold. All he wants is his mom to take care of him, but whenever he calls out for her, his stuffed-up nose summons slobbery dog Bob instead!
Starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Kirkus, The Horn Book, Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
The Book of Mistakes
Corinna Luyken (2017)
As an artist creatively incorporates her slipups into a drawing, readers see the ways in which ‘mistakes’ can provide inspiration and opportunity, and reveal that both the art and artist are works-in-progress.
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, The Horn Book
Brave
Stacy McAnulty (2017)
Superheroes seek adventure, never give up, and stay calm when others are
afraid. Superheroes are brave. But they aren’t the only ones.
Positive reviews from Kirkus, Booklist
Carmela Full of Wishes
Matt de la Peña (2018)
When Carmela wakes up on her birthday, her wish has already come true–she’s finally old enough to join her big brother as he does the family errands.
Set for release in October of 2018, this is the second collaboration between the author and illustrator of the Newbery Medal and Caldecott Honor-winning Last Stop on Market Street.
Daniel Finds a Poem
Micha Archer (2016)
What is poetry? Is it glistening morning dew? Spider thinks so. Is it crisp leaves crunching? That’s what Squirrel says. Could it be a cool pond, sun-warmed sand, or moonlight on the grass? Maybe poetry is all of these things, as it is something special for everyone—you just have to take the time to really look and listen.
Ezra Jack Keats Award; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Kirkus
Dear Dragon: A Pen Pal Tale
Josh Funk (2016)
As a school project, George and Blaise become pen pals, writing rhyming letters about their favorite things to do, unaware that one is human and the other a dragon.
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive review from School Library Journal
A Different Pond
Bao Phi (2017)
As a young boy, Bao Phi awoke early, hours before his father’s long workday began, to fish on the shores of a small pond in Minneapolis. Unlike many other anglers, Bao and his father fished for food, not recreation. Between hope-filled casts, Bao’s father told him about a different pond in their homeland of Vietnam.
2018 Caldecott Honor; Starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Booklist, Kirkus
The Diwali Gift
Shweta Chopra & Shuchi Mehta (2015)
When a mysterious package arrives for Diwali, three curious monkeys, Suno, Dekho, and Jaano, wonder what it could be and can hardly contain their excitement.
Positive reviews from Publishers Weekly, Hindu American Foundation
Dogasaurus Rex
Anna Staniszewski (2017)
Ben can’t wait to adopt the best dog in the world. On a trip to the shelter, he sees dogs of all kinds, but none of them are quite right. Then he finds Sadie.
Starred review from Publishers Weekly; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus
A Family is a Family is a Family
Sarah O’Leary (2016)
When a teacher asks the children in her class to think about what makes their families special, the answers are all different in many ways — but the same in the one way that matters most of all.
Starred reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal
Float
Daniel Miyares (2015)
Wordless picture book about a boy who loses his paper boat in the rain.
Starred reviews from School Library Journal, The Horn Book
Fort-Building Time
Megan Wagner-Lloyd (2017)
Winter, spring, summer, fall. Each season brings new materials to make the perfect fort. From leaves to snow, from mud to sand, there is a different fort throughout the year. As a group of friends explore and build through the seasons, they find that every fort they make is a perfect fort.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
Ganesha’s Sweet Tooth
Sanjay Patel (2015)
Ganesha‘s love of sweets leads to a broken tusk and the writing of the epic poem, the Mahabharata.
Positive reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, Kirkus, and Publishers Weekly
Green Pants
Kenneth Kraegel (2017)
Jameson only ever wears green pants. When he wears green pants, he can do anything. But if he wants to be in his cousin’s wedding, he’s going to have to wear a tuxedo, and that means black pants.
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter
Kenard Pak (2017)
In a simple, cheerful conversation with nature, two young children witness how the season changes from autumn to winter.
Starred review from The Horn Book; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Publishers Weekly
Grandma’s Purse
Vanessa Brantley-Newton (2018)
When Grandma Mimi comes to visit, she always brings warm hugs, sweet treats…and her purse. You never know what she’ll have in there–fancy jewelry, tokens from around the world, or something special just for her granddaughter.
Positive reviews from Kirkus, School Library Journal, The Horn Book
Hank’s Big Day: The Story of a Bug
Evan Kuhlman (2016)
Hank is a pill bug with a busy life—for a pill bug, that is. His daily routine involves nibbling a dead leaf, climbing up a long stick, avoiding a skateboarder, and playing pretend with his best friend, a human girl named Amelia, in her backyard. And when day is done, Hank likes nothing better than returning home to his cozy rock.
Starred reviews from Kirkus, Booklist, Publishers Weekly
Happy in Our Skin
Fran Manushkin (2018)
Is there anything more splendid than a baby’s skin? For families of all stripes comes a sweet celebration of what makes us unique—and what holds us together.
Starred review from Publishers Weekly; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Booklist
Harriet Gets Carried Away
Jessie Sima (2018)
Sweet and funny story about remembering where you belong, no matter how far you roam, or what you’re wearing when you get there.
Bestselling author; Starred review from Publishers Weekly; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
Here We Are
Oliver Jeffers (2017)
In this salutation from Earth, the chronicler gives a tour of the planet and introduces those who call it home.
#1 New York Times bestseller; TIME Best Book of the Year; NPR Best Book of 2017; Starred review from Publishers Weekly; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
Home
Carson Ellis (2015)
Home might be a house in the country, an apartment in the city, or even a shoe. Home may be on the road or the sea, in the realm of myth, or in the artist’s own studio. A meditation on the concept of home and a visual treat that invites many return visits.
Starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Booklist
Home in the Rain
Bob Graham (2017)
The rain is pouring down in buckets, and Francie and her mom are on their way home from Grandma’s.
Starred reviews from Kirkus, The Horn Book, Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
I Had a Favorite Hat
Boni Ashburn (2015)
The narrator of this charming picture book loves her summer hat, but as the seasons change, her hat isn’t always appropriate for every occasion. She must use her crafting skills to turn the hat into a work of art, perfect for every season and holiday.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
Inside Outside
Lizi Boyd (2013)
In this story without words, a boy and his dog play inside and outside of their home.
Starred reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal
Isaac and His Amazing Asperger Superpowers!
Melanie Walsh (2017)
Meet Isaac. He’s a superhero! He might look like everyone else, but he has a kind of autism called Asperger’s. Inside this book he’ll tell you all about what it’s like to have his Asperger superpowers.
Positive reviews from Kirkus, readers, professionals
Islandborn
Junot Diaz (2018)
Lola was just a baby when her family left the Island, so when she has to draw it for a school assignment, she asks her family, friends, and neighbors about their memories of her homeland. In the process, she comes up with a new way of understanding her own heritage.
Starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal, and Booklist
Jabari Jumps
Gaia Cornwall (2017)
Jabari is definitely ready to jump off the diving board. He’s finished his swimming lessons. He’s passed his swim test. It’s just… maybe he should do some stretches first…
Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books; Positive reviews from Kirkus, Booklist, The Horn Book
Julian Is a Mermaid
Jessica Love (2018)
A jubilant picture of self-love and a radiant celebration of individuality.
Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, and Publishers Weekly
Juna’s Jar
Jane Bahk (2015)
After her best friend, Hector, moves away, Juna’s brother Minho tries to make her feel better by finding things to put in her special kimchi jar, and each night, whatever is in the jar takes her on a magical journey in search of Hector.
2015 Asian/Pacific American Award for Picture Books; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, The New York Times
Just Because
Rebecca Elliott (2014)
A younger brother describes all the fun he has with the big sister he loves so much—just because, in this heartwarming picture book about being perfectly loved, no matter what.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus
La La La: A Story of Hope
Kate DiCamillo (2017)
With the simplest of narratives and the near absence of words, Kate DiCamillo conveys a lonely child’s yearning for someone who understands.
Starred review from Publishers Weekly; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
La Princesa and the Pea
Susan Middleton Elya (2017)
A rhyming twist on a classic fairy tale in which a queen places a pea under a young lady’s mattress to see if she is truly a princess.
2018 Pura Belpré Award for Illustration; Starred reviews from School Library Journal and School Library Connection; Positive reviews from Kirkus, Booklist
Lailah’s Lunchbox: A Ramadan Story
Reem Faruqi (2015)
Now that she is ten, Lailah is delighted that she can fast during the month of Ramadan like her family and her friends in Abu Dhabi, but finding a way to explain to her teacher and classmates in Atlanta is a challenge until she gets some good advice from the librarian, Mrs. Scrabble.
American Library Association Notable Book for Children 2016; International Literacy Association Choices Reading List; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
Last Stop on Market Street
Matt de la Peña (2015)
A young boy rides the bus across town with his grandmother and learns to appreciate the beauty in everyday things.
2016 Newbery Medal winner; 2016 Caldecott Honor; 2016 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor; Wall Street Journal Best Children’s Book of 2015; 2015 Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year
Let Me Finish!
Minh Lê (2016)
A young boy wants to read his favorite books without interruption, but the creatures around him keep spoiling the ending!
NPR Best Book of 2016; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, The Horn Book, Kirkus
The Library Book
Tom Chapin & Michael Mark (2017)
Using the lyrics to Tom Chapin and Michael Mark’s “The Library Song,” this picture book celebrates the magic of reading and of libraries.
Starred review from Booklist, Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Publishers Weekly
Lily’s Cat Mask
Julie Fortenberry (2017)
Armed with a vivid imagination and her trusty cat mask, Lily can take on anything–even a new school…
Starred review from School Library Journal, Positive reviews from Kirkus, Booklist
The Little Gardener
Emily Hughes (2015)
There was once a little gardener and his garden meant everything to him. He worked hard, very hard, but he was just too little (or at least he felt he was).
Starred review from Publishers Weekly; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus
Little Kunoichi the Ninja Girl
Sanae Ishida (2015)
Little Kunoichi, a young ninja in training, is frustrated. Inspired by tiny Chibi Samurai’s practice and skills, she works harder than ever–and makes a friend. Together, they show the power of perseverance, hard work, and cooperation when they wow the crowd at the Autumn Festival.
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly
Little Red Gliding Hood
Tara Lazar (2015)
A figure-skating enthusiast, Little Red has worn out her skates and must win a pairs competition to earn new ones. But who will be her partner?
Starred review from Booklist, Positive reviews from Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal, Kirkus
Little Red and the Very Hungry Lion
Alex T. Smith (2016)
In this version of Little Red Riding Hood, set on the African plains, Little Red realizes what the Very Hungry Lion is up to, and teaches him a lesson before generously sharing her donuts with him.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Publishers Weekly
Lizard From the Park
Mark Pett (2015)
When Leonard takes a shortcut through the park, he finds an egg and takes it home, where it hatches into a lizard (or so Leonard thinks). Leonard names his new pet Buster and takes him all around the city: on the subway, to the library, to a baseball game, and more.
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, School Library Connection
Lola Plants a Garden
Anna McQuinn (2017)
Book-loving Lola is inspired by a collection of garden poems that she reads with her mommy.
Starred review from School Library Journal, Postive review from Kirkus
Love
Matt de la Peña (2018)
Illustrations and easy-to-read text celebrate the bonds of love that connect us all.
Newbery Medal-winning author; #1 New York Times Bestseller; Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, The Horn Book
Love Is
Diane Adams (2017)
A girl finds a baby duckling, and discovers that love is taking care of something that needs you, and also knowing when to let it go.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, The Washington Post
Lovely
Jess Hong (2017)
Big, small, curly, straight, loud, quiet, smooth, wrinkly. Lovely explores a world of differences that all add up to the same thing: we are all lovely!
Positive reviews from Publishers Weekly, Kirkus
Lucia the Luchadora
Cynthia Leonor Garza (2017)
Lucía must decide if she can stay true to the ways of the luchadora and fight for what is right, even if it means breaking the sacred rule of never revealing the identity behind her mask. A story about courage and cultural legacy.
Starred reviews from School Library Journal and Kirkus; NPR Best Books of 2017; Kirkus Best Books of 2017
Mae Among the Stars
Roda Ahmed (2018)
Little Mae is a girl with big dreams, a supportive loving family, unbounded passion, and all the right stuff to dance among the stars. Against all odds, she will overcome any obstacle to become an astronaut one day.
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
Mary Had a Little Glam
Tammi Sauer (2016)
This little Mary has STYLE! In this fun take on Mother Goose, fashion-forward Mary helps some of childhood’s most beloved characters go glam.
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Shelf Awareness
Maybe Something Beautiful: How Art Transformed a Neighborhood
F. Isabel Campoy & Theresa Howell (2016)
Mira lives in a gray and hopeless urban community until a muralist arrives and, along with his paints and brushes, brings color, joy, and togetherness to Mira and her neighbors.
Kirkus Best of 2016; School Library Journal‘s Best of 2016; Starred review from Kirkus; Positive reviews from Publishers Weekly, Booklist
Monster Trouble!
Lane Frederickson (2015)
Nothing frightens Winifred Schnitzel—but she DOES need her sleep, and the neighborhood monsters WON’T let her be! Every night they sneak in, growling and belching and making a ruckus. Winifred constructs clever traps, but nothing stops these crafty creatures. What’s a girl to do?
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Kirkus
Most People
Michael Leannah (2017)
The world can be a scary place. Anxious adults want children to be aware of dangers, but shouldn’t kids be aware of kindness too?
Positive reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal, The New York Times
My Little Sister and Me
Maple Lam (2016)
It’s a big job when a big brother gets to take his little sister home from school for the very first time.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, Kirkus
My Pet Wants a Pet
Elise Broach (2018)
A charming picture book that cleverly captures a universal wish―to love and care for something―and shows that you’re never too little to share in that dream.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, Publishers Weekly, Kirkus
Normal Norman
Tara Lazar (2016)
A humorous look at the wackiness that makes us all special— and a gentle reminder that “normal” can’t ever be defined!
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, professionals
The Not So Quiet Library
Zachariah OHora (2016)
It’s Saturday, which means Oskar and Theodore get to go to the library with their dad! It means donuts for breakfast! And it means endless quiet hours lost in stories.
Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus; Positive reviews from Booklist, Publishers Weekly, The Horn Book
One Family
George Shannon (2015)
A family can be many things, in this story that introduces numbered groups from 1 to 10.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, The Horn Book
One Word From Sophia
Jim Averbeck (2015)
All Sophie wants for her birthday is a pet giraffe, but as she tries to convince different members of her rather complicated family to support her cause, each tells her she is using too many words until she finally hits on the perfect one.
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive review from School Library Journal
Pass it On
Sophy Henn (2017)
A much-needed picture book about spreading joy and smiles–filled with warmth, humor, a catchy refrain, and graphic childlike art.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
Rain!
Linda Ashman (2013)
The boy in his green frog hat splashes in puddles—“Hoppy, hoppy, hoppy!”—while the old man curses the “dang puddles.” Can the boy’s natural exuberance (and perhaps a cookie) cheer up the grouchy gentleman and turn the day around?
2014 Ezra Jack Keats award winner; Starred reviews from Kirkus; Positive reviews from Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal
Ramadan Moon
Na’ima B. Robert (2015)
Colorful illustrations and lyrical text describe the phases of the moon and activities during Ramadan.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
Ruby’s Chinese New Year
Vickie Lee (2017)
As Ruby travels to her grandmother’s house to bring her a gift for Chinese New Year, she is joined by all of the animals of the zodiac. Includes the legend of the Chinese horoscope and instructions for crafts.
Positive reviews from Kirkus, Booklist
Same, Same But Different
Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw (2011)
Pen pals Elliott and Kailash discover that even though they live in different countries–America and India–they both love to climb trees, own pets, and ride school buses.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, The Horn Book, Publishers Weekly
School’s First Day of School
Adam Rex (2016)
It’s the first day of school at Frederick Douglass Elementary and everyone’s just a little bit nervous, especially the school itself.
Starred reviews from Booklist, Publishers Weekly, Kirkus, School Library Journal
The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade
Justin Roberts (2014)
Sally McCabe is a very little girl, and nobody notices her, although she notices everything that goes on around her–but when she speaks out about the unkindness she sees, people start to pay attention.
Positive reviews from Booklist, Publishers Weeklysalam
Sonya’s Chickens
Phoebe Wahl (2015)
Sonya raises her three chickens from the time they are tiny chicks. She feeds them, shelters them and loves them. Everywhere Sonya goes, her chicks are peeping at her heels.
Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus
Sparkle Boy
Leslea Newman (2017)
A sweet, heartwarming story about acceptance, respect, and the freedom to be yourself in a world where any gender expression should be celebrated. Sparkly things are for everyone to enjoy!
Postive reviews from School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Common Sense Media
A Squiggly Story
Andrew Larson (2016)
A little boy discovers that all of us, including him, have what we need to write our own perfect story.
Starred review from Kirkus; Positive reviews from Booklist, School Library Journal
The Summer Nick Taught His Cats to Read
Curtis Manley (2016)
When Nick decides to teach his cats to read, Verne is very much interested, especially in books about mice and fish, but Stevenson wants nothing to do with the project–or does he?
Starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, School Library Journal; Positive reviews from Kirkus, Booklist
Teacup
Rebecca Young (2016)
A boy travels across the sea in a rowboat in search of a new home, making a journey that is long and difficult–but also filled with beauty and hope.
Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Booklist
This is Ella
Krista Ewert (2017)
In a simple, welcoming way, This is Ella teaches children about Down syndrome, inclusion, and friendship. The story is followed by information about Down syndrome, including helpful facts and explanations.
Positive reviews from readers and professionals; Written by a teacher and funded through a Kickstarter campaign
This is NOT a Valentine
Carter Higgins (2017)
A testament to handmade, wacky, bashful, honest love.
Positive reviews from Publishers Weekly, Kirkus, School Library Journal
A Unicorn Named Sparkle
Amy Young (2016)
A picture book about a little girl who desparately wants a beautiful unicorn as a pet, but winds up with a less than desirable one instead.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Publishers Weekly
We’re All Wonders
R.J. Palacio (2017)
Augie enjoys the company of his dog, Daisy, and using his imagination, but painfully endures the taunts of his peers because of his facial deformity.
Picture book debut from bestselling and award-winning author; Positive reader reviews; 2017 Goodreads Choice Award for Picture Books
When’s My Birthday?
Julie Fogliano (2017)
Children excitedly discuss the details of their upcoming birthdays.
School Library Journal Best Book of 2017; Horn Book Fanfare Best Book of 2017; Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of 2017; NPR Best Book of 2017; 2018 ALSC Notable Children’s Book
Where Oliver Fits
Cale Atkinson (2017)
Oliver has always dreamed about where he will fit. Will he be in the mane of a unicorn? The tentacle of a pirate squid? The helmet of an astronaut? When he finally goes in search of his perfect place, he finds that trying to fit in is a lot harder than he thought. But like any puzzle, a little trial and error leads to a solution, and Oliver figures out exactly where he belongs.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist
Why Am I Me?
Paige Britt (2017)
Beautiful celebration of our humanity and diversity invites readers of all ages to imagine a world where there is no you or me, only we.
Starred reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, The Horn Book, School Library Journal
Why Johnny Doesn’t Flap: NT is OK!
Clay Morton & Gail Morton (2015)
A picture book with a difference, Why Johnny Doesn’t Flap turns the tables on common depictions of neurological difference by drolly revealing how people who are not on the autistic spectrum are perceived by those who are. The autistic narrator’s bafflement at his neurotypical friend’s quirks shows that ‘normal’ is simply a matter of perspective.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, professionals, and readers
Windows
Julia Denos (2017)
Walking his dog at dusk, one boy catches glimpses of the lives around him in this lovely ode to autumn evenings, exploring your neighborhood, and coming home.
2017 Ezra Jack Keats Honor; Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, The Horn Book, and Kirkus
The Word Collector
Peter Hamilton Reynolds (2018)
Jerome enjoys collecting and using words that he hears, reads, or sees, and then decides to share his collection with others.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus; New York Times bestseller
Yo Soy Muslim: A Father’s Letter to His Daughter
Mark Gonzales
A lyrical celebration of multiculturalism as a parent shares with a child the value of their heritage and why it should be a source of pride, even when others disagree.
Starred review from Booklist; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Kirkus
You’re All Kinds of Wonderful
Nancy Tillman (2017)
Part of growing up is discovering―and embracing―what makes us unique. From different abilities to different personalities, we are all wonderfully made with our own bells and whistles.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly
NONFICTION
The Airport Book
Lisa Brown (2016)
An exploratory journey through the airport.
Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, The Horn Book
Cinderella (Once Upon a World)
Chloe Perkins (2016)
The classic story of Cinderella gets a fresh twist in this vibrant Mexican spin on the beloved fairy tale!
Positive professional and reader reviews
Cuauhtémoc: Shapes – Formas
Patty Rodriguez (2016)
Explore the city of Tenochtitlan along side Cuauhtémoc, the last Aztec emperor―where you’ll come across the circulo (circle) in the Aztec calendar, the triángulo (triangle) in the pyramid, the heart in the shield of an Aztec princess, and more! This bilingual book teaches shapes in English and Spanish.
Positive professional and reader reviews
Diwali
Lisa Amstutz (2017)
Explains how people prepare for and celebrate the holiday of Diwali.
Positive reader reviews
The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath
Julia Finley Mosca (2017)
As a girl coming of age during the Civil Rights Movement, Patricia Bath made it her mission to become a doctor. When obstacles like racism, poverty, and sexism threatened this goal, she persevered―brightening the world with a game-changing treatment for blindness!
Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Selection; NSTA Best STEM Books for K-12 Selection; A Mighty Girl Book of the Year
Festival of Colors
Surishtha Sehgal & Kabir Sehgal (2018)
Sibilings Chintoo and Mintoo collect flowers and press the petals into a fine powder as they prepare for Holi, the Indian springtime Festival of Colors.
Positive reviews from Kirkus, Booklist, School Library Journal
Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos
Monica Brown (2017)
Recounts Frida’s beloved pets—two monkeys, a parrot, three dogs, two turkeys, an eagle, a black cat, and a fawn—and playfully considers how Frida embodied many wonderful characteristics of each animal.
Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor 2018; ALA Notable Children’s Book 2018; New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Book of 2017; Smithsonian Top Ten Best Children’s Book of 2017
The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin
Julia Finley Mosca (2017)
When young Temple was diagnosed with autism, no one expected her to talk, let alone become one of the most powerful voices in modern science. Yet, the determined visual thinker did just that. Her unique mind allowed her to connect with animals in a special way, helping her invent groundbreaking improvements for farms around the globe!
USBBY Outstanding Books for Young People with Disabilities Award List Selection 2018; NSTA Best STEM Books for K-12 Selection; NSTA Outstanding Science Trade Books Selection; Dolly Gray Children’s Literature Award winner; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus, Booklist
Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns: A Muslim Book of Colors
Hena Khan (2015)
In simple rhyming text a young Muslim girl and her family guide the reader through the traditions and colors of Islam.
Postive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, and Kirkus
Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas
Natasha Yim (2014)
One Chinese New Year, her mother sends Goldy Luck to the pandas next door with a plate of turnip cakes, but the pandas are out and disaster follows. Includes a recipe for turnip cakes and an explanation of Chinese New Year.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, Kirkus
Holi Colors
Rina Singh (2018)
This Hindu celebration known as the festival of colors and the festival of love signifies the end of winter, the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil. A time to laugh, play, visit friends and get messy!
Starred review from Publishers Weekly; Positive review from School Library Journal
A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars
Seth Fishman (2017)
A look at the numbers that surround us, big and small, on earth and in outer space.
Starred review from The Horn Book; Positive reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, Booklist, School Library Journal
La Catrina: Emotions – Emociones
Patty Rodriguez (2017)
Inspired by one of the most recognized symbols of Dia De los Muertos, this bilingual book introduces little ones to emotional expressions and teaches them to recognize feelings like emocionado (excited), triste (sad), and confiado (confident).
Positive professional and reader reviews
Lost and Found Cat: The True Story of Kunkush’s Incredible Journey
Doug Kuntz & Amy Shrodes (2017)
Text and illustrations describe how a cat was reunited with its family after it was lost while its owners were traveling as refugees from Iraq to Greece.
Positive reader and professional reviews
Lucha Libre: Anatomy – Anatomia
Patty Rodriguez (2015)
Since its debut in 1863, the sport of Lucha Libre has earned the love and respect of millions of people around the world. Inspired by the colorful world of wrestling, this bilingual book will introduce children to body parts, and their first English and Spanish words with the help of super heroes with masks and capes!
Positive professional and reader reviews
Over and Under the Pond
Kate Messner (2017)
Over the pond, the water is a mirror, reflecting the sky. But under the pond is a hidden world of minnows darting, beavers diving, tadpoles growing. These and many other secrets are waiting to be discovered…
Starred reviews from Kirkus, Publisher’s Weekly
The Princess and the Pea (Once Upon a World)
Chloe Perkins (2016)
The classic story of “The Princess and the Pea” gets a fresh twist in this Russian spin on the beloved fairy tale!
Positive professional and reader reviews
Rapunzel (Once Upon a World)
Chloe Perkins (2017)
The classic story of Rapunzel gets a fresh twist in this vibrant Indian spin on the beloved fairy tale!
Positive professional and reader reviews
Rashad’s Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr
Lisa Bullard (2012)
Rashad shares how his family celebrates Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.
Positive reviews from The Horn Book, Booklist, Library Media Connection
Redwoods
Jason Chin (2015)
While reading a book about redwood trees on the subway, a young boy travels as he learns, all the way to the forests of California.
Starred reviews from Booklist, The Horn Book, Publishers Weekly; Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Kirkus
Salam Alaikum: A Message of Peace
Harris J (2017)
An illustrated song celebrating life and encouraging readers to spread peace on earth.
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, Publishers Weekly, Kirkus
Shaking Things Up: 14 Young Women Who Changed the World
by Susan Hood (2018)
A poetic and visual celebration of persistent women throughout history.
Starred review from Shelf Awareness; Positive reviews from Publishers Weekly, Booklist
Snow White (Once Upon a World)
Chloe Perkins (2016)
The classic story of Snow White gets a fresh twist in this vibrant Japanese spin on the beloved fairy tale!
Positive professional and reader reviews
This is How We Do It
Matt Lamothe (2017)
Tells the daily activities of seven children from around the world.
Booklist Editor’s Choice; Starred review from The Horn Book; Positive reviews from Kirkus, School Library Connection
This Little Trailblazer: A Girl Power Primer
Joan Holub (2017)
Learn all about influential women who changed history in this engaging and colorful board book perfect for trailblazers-in-training!
Positive reviews from School Library Journal, readers
Thunder Underground
Jane Yolen (2017)
In this collection of poems, noted children’s poet Jane Yolen takes readers on an expedition underground, exploring everything from animal burrows and human creations, like subways, near the surface—to ancient cities and fossils, lower down—to caves, magma, and Earth’s tectonic plates, deeper still below our feet.
Starred reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly
The Wheels on the Tuk Tuk
by Kabir Sehgal & Surishtha Sehgal (2016)
In this twist on the classic song “The Wheels on the Bus,” the wheels on the tuk tuk go round and round all over the city in India.
Positive reviews from The Horn Book, Booklist, and Library Media Connection
A Year Full of Stories: 52 Classic Stories from Around the World
Angela McAllister (2016)
This treasury of 52 stories collects together a rich resource of myths, fairy tales and legends from around the world, with a story for every week of the year.
Positive reviews from Kirkus, School Library Journal, Booklist
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Blurbs and cover art provided by publisher.
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