Social Emotional Booklist: Relationship Skills
Booklist Organized by SEL Concept
Relationship Skills
• Compassion & Empathy • Kindness • Cooperation & Community
• Forgiveness • Friendship
Compassion & Empathy
feeling for others
Carmela Full of Wishes by
An Instant New York Times Bestseller! In their first collaboration since the Newbery Medal- and Caldecott Honor-winning Last Stop on Market Street, Matt de la Peña and Christian Robinson deliver a poignant and timely new picture book that's sure to be an instant classic. 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. Together, they travel through their neighborhood, past the crowded bus stop, the fenced-off repair shop, and the panadería, until they arrive at the Laundromat, where Carmela finds a lone dandelion growing in the pavement. But before she can blow its white fluff away, her brother tells her she has to make a wish. If only she can think of just the right wish to make . . . With lyrical, stirring text and stunning, evocative artwork, Matt de la Peña and Christian Robinson have crafted a moving ode to family, to dreamers, and to finding hope in the most unexpected places.
ISBN: 9780399549045Publication Date: 2018-10-09
Clovis Keeps His Cool by
Clovis used to struggle with his temper, but ever since he took over his late grandmother's china shop, he's been learning how to manage it. He pours tea, listens to soothing music, and always keeps Granny's words in mind: "Grace, grace, nothing broken to replace." But when rivals from his football days come to heckle him at the shop, Clovis faces a big challenge that even Granny's words and deep breaths might not be enough for. Readers will fall in love with Clovis's gentle soul in this heartwarming and entertaining story about finding inner peace and second chances.
ISBN: 9781645672135Publication Date: 2021-08-17
Drawn Together by
When a young boy visits his grandfather, their lack of a common language leads to confusion, frustration, and silence. But as they sit down to draw together, something magical happens - with a shared love of art and storytelling, the two form a bond that goes beyond words.
ISBN: 1484767608Publication Date: 2018-06-05
How to Build a Hug by
Amy Guglielmo, Jacqueline Tourville, and Giselle Potter come together to tell the inspiring story of autism advocate Dr. Temple Grandin and her brilliant invention: the hug machine. As a young girl, Temple Grandin loved folding paper kites, making obstacle courses, and building lean-tos. But she really didn't like hugs. Temple wanted to be held--but to her, hugs felt like being stuffed inside the scratchiest sock in the world; like a tidal wave of dentist drills, sandpaper, and awful cologne, coming at her all at once. Would she ever get to enjoy the comfort of a hug? Then one day, Temple had an idea. If she couldn't receive a hug, she would make one...she would build a hug machine!
ISBN: 153441097XPublication Date: 2018-08-28
I'm Here by
I'm here. And you're there. And that's okay. But... maybe there will be a gentle wind that pulls us together. And then I'll be here and you'll be here, too. Pure, powerful and deceptively simple, bestselling author and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds reminds us that children--and the friendships they make--can take flight in unexpected ways.
ISBN: 1416996494Publication Date: 2011-08-16
Maddi's Fridge by
Winner of: 2014 Christopher Award, Books for Young People 2014 ILA Primary Fiction Award 2015 MLA Mitten Award Honor Human Rights in Children's Literature Honor With humor and warmth, this children's picture book raises awareness about poverty and hunger Best friends Sofia and Maddi live in the same neighborhood, go to the same school, and play in the same park, but while Sofia's fridge at home is full of nutritious food, the fridge at Maddi's house is empty. Sofia learns that Maddi's family doesn't have enough money to fill their fridge and promises Maddi she'll keep this discovery a secret. But because Sofia wants to help her friend, she's faced with a difficult decision: to keep her promise or tell her parents about Maddi's empty fridge. Filled with colorful artwork, this storybook addresses issues of poverty with honesty and sensitivity while instilling important lessons in friendship, empathy, trust, and helping others. A call to action section, with six effective ways for children to help fight hunger and information on antihunger groups, is also included.
ISBN: 9781936261291Publication Date: 2014-09-01
The Rabbit Listened by
A moving and universal picture book about empathy and kindness, sure to soothe heartaches big and small. When something sad happens, Taylor doesn't know where to turn. All the animals are sure they have the answer. The chicken wants to talk it out, but Taylor doesn't feel like chatting. The bear thinks Taylor should get angry, but that's not quite right either. One by one, the animals try to tell Taylor how to act, and one by one they fail to offer comfort. Then the rabbit arrives. All the rabbit does is listen . . . which is just what Taylor needs. With its spare, poignant text and irresistibly sweet illustration, The Rabbit Listened is about how to comfort and heal the people in your life, by taking the time to carefully, lovingly, gently listen.
ISBN: 9780735229358Publication Date: 2018-02-20
The Wall in the Middle of the Book by
A foolish knight is certain that his side of the wall is the safe side in this clever, amusingly meta picture book by the acclaimed creator of It's Only Stanley There's a wall in the middle of the book, and our hero--a young knight--is sure that the wall protects his side of the book from the dangers of the other side--like an angry tiger and giant rhino, and worst of all, an ogre who would gobble him up in a second! But our knight doesn't seem to notice the crocodile and growing sea of water that are emerging on his side. When he's almost over his head and calling for help, who will come to his rescue? An individual who isn't as dangerous as the knight thought--from a side of the book that might just have some positive things to offer after all!
ISBN: 9780525555452Publication Date: 2018-10-02
We're All Wonders by
The unforgettable bestseller Wonder, soon to be a major motion picture, has inspired a nationwide movement to Choose Kind. Now parents and educators can introduce the importance of choosing kind to younger readers with this gorgeous picture book, featuring Auggie and Daisy on an original adventure, written and illustrated by R. J. Palacio. Over 5 million people have fallen in love with Wonder and have joined the movement to Choose Kind. Now younger readers can meet Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face, and his beloved dog, Daisy. Countless fans have asked R. J. Palacio to write a book for younger readers. With We're All Wonders, she makes her picture-book debut as both author and artist, with a spare, powerful text and striking, richly imagined illustrations. Palacio shows readers what it's like to live in Auggie's world--a world in which he feels like any other kid, but he's not always seen that way. We're All Wonders may be Auggie's story, but it taps into every child's longing to belong, and to be seen for who they truly are. It's the perfect way for families and educators to talk about empathy and kindness with young children. Praise for Wonder: A #1 New York Times Bestseller A USA Today Top 100 Bestseller An Indie Bestseller A Time Magazine 100 Best Young Adult Books of All Time Selection A Washington Post Best Kids' Book A Parents Magazine Top 10 Book of the Year A New York Times Book Review Notable Book An NPR Outstanding Backseat Book Club Pick An Entertainment Weekly 10 Great Kids' Books Selection A Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year A Booklist Editors' Choice An E. B. White Read Aloud Award Winner An ALA Notable Book A Bank Street Best Book of the Year An IRA-CBC Teachers' Choice A New York Public Library 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing Selection A Christopher Award Winner "A beautiful, funny and sometimes sob-making story of quiet transformation." --The Wall Street Journal "A crackling page-turner filled with characters you can't help but root for." --Entertainment Weekly "Rich and memorable." --The New York Times Book Review "Wonder is the best kids' book of the year." --Slate.com "A glorious exploration of the nature of friendship, tenacity, fear, and most importantly, kindness." --The Huffington Post "Endearing, enduring Auggie and his family and friends will find a place in the hearts of readers and prompt reflection on how we treat others." --The Washington Post
ISBN: 1524766496Publication Date: 2017-03-28
Why? by
"[Adam] Rex delivers a storytime home run--hilarious, heartfelt, instructive, and interactive." --Booklist, starred review A sweet and appealing tale for anyone familiar with the universal tendency of young children to always ask WHY? When supervillain Doctor X-Ray swoops in threatening to vanquish an innocent crowd, the only one brave enough not to run away is a little girl, who asks him simply, "Why?" He is taken aback--but he answers. She keeps asking. And he keeps answering--until a surprising truth is uncovered, and the villain is thwarted. * A laugh-out-loud take on the small-and-determined-beats-big-loud-bully story, simple questions lead to profound answers in a quest that proves the ultimate power of curiosity * Monochromatic illustrations with pops of color fill the pages and bring a uniquely captivating element to the storyline * Adam Rex is an illustrator and author of books such as Nothing Rhymes with Orangeand Chu's Day. He lives in Tucson, Arizona * Claire Keane is the illustrator of Love Is and is known for her development art for the movies Tangled and Frozen. She lives in Venice Beach, California Fans of Nothing Rhymes with Orange, Love Is, and Grown-Ups Never Do That will also enjoy the relatable and heartwarming tale found in Why? * Great family and classroom read-aloud book * Books for kids ages 5-8 * Books for kindergarten students
ISBN: 1452168636Publication Date: 2019-10-01
Forgiveness
excusing an action that caused offense, harm, or injury
Accident! by
When a clumsy armadillo named Lola knocks over a glass pitcher, she sets off a silly chain of events, encountering chaos wherever she goes. But accidents happen--just ask the stoat snarled in spaghetti, the airborne sheep, and the bull who has broken a whole shop's worth of china. In the tradition of beloved books like The Dot andBeautiful Oops, this charming, hilarious debut from author-illustrator Andrea Tsurumi shows that mistakes don't have to be the end of the world.
ISBN: 0544944801Publication Date: 2017-10-03
Eat Pete by
From the creator of Goodnight Goon, a laugh-out-loud friendship story that perfectly captures the high and low moments of a typical playdate! Pete couldn't be more thrilled when a monster shows up in his bedroom. Now Pete has someone to play with! And the hungry monster couldn't be more thrilled to be there, either. Now he can . . . Eat Pete! But Pete has other ideas. And they are all good fun and quite distracting-things like playing cars and pirates. Well, we all know the course of playing together nicely never did run smoothly. So how much longer will the monster have to wait before he can . . . Eat Pete?
ISBN: 1524738808Publication Date: 2018-08-14
Even Superheroes Make Mistakes by
"A highly appealing read. . . . Children will readily gravitate to this book." --School Library Journal What do young superheroes do when they've blundered and bungled? They don't get mad; they get SMART! This fun follow-up to Even Superheroes Have Bad Days teaches kids another humorous lesson in overcoming adversity. Even superheroes sometimes slip up and err. And when that happens, do they say, "It's not FAIR?" or give up in despair? NO! "Ashamed Superheroes who goofed up somehow . . . First STOP . . . then CONSIDER what's best to do now." Whether they've nabbed the wrong guy by mistake or bashed into a planet while zooming through space, all superheroes 'fess up their mess-up, get on with their day, and keep on saving the world in the most super way!
ISBN: 9781454927037Publication Date: 2018-10-02
Llama Destroys the World by
Meet Llama, the next great picture-book megastar, who has most definitely driven a bus and who loves tacos way more than you. He also loves cake, and that's where our story begins. On Monday, Llama discovers a pile of cake, which he promptly eats. On Tuesday, Llama squeezes into his dancing pants, which he promptly rips. The force of therip creates a black hole (naturally). By Friday, Llama will (indirectly) destroy the world. In their debut picture book, author/illustrator team Jonathan Stutzman and Heather Fox introduce young readers to the comical, the studious, the oblivious Llama, a picture-book hero for the ages. So grab some cake and your dancing pants and prepare forLlama Destroys the World... because THE TIME FOR LLAMA IS NIGH!
ISBN: 9781250303172Publication Date: 2019-05-07
Nanette's Baguette by
Today is the day Nanette gets to get the baguette! Is she set? YOU BET! Mo Willems' hilarious new picture book, Nanette's Baguette, follows our plucky heroine on her first big solo trip to the bakery. But . . . will Nanette get the baguette from baker Juliette? Or will Nanette soon be beset with regret? Set in a meticulously handcrafted-paper-modeled French village, the uniquely vibrant laugh-out-loud world of Nanette's Baguette may be Mo's best creation yet. Get set to krack into an irresistible tale you won't soon forget!
ISBN: 9781484722862Publication Date: 2016-10-25
The Squirrels Who Squabbled by
Two greedy squirrels go on a wild pinecone chase in this hilarious follow-up to The Lion Inside and The Koala Who Could!"It's mine!" shouted Cyril."No, mine!" hollered Bruce."You don't stand a chance!Give up! It's no use!""I'm HUNGRY!" cried Cyril."This cone is NOT yours!""Stay back!" shouted Bruce."This cone's for MY stores!"Greedy squirrels Cyril and Bruce both have their sights on a very special prize: the last pinecone of the season. Uh-oh! The race is on!A laugh-out-loud tale about friendship and sharing by the bestselling duo behind The Lion Inside and The Koala Who Could, Rachel Bright and Jim Field!
ISBN: 1338538039Publication Date: 2019-09-17
Kindness
considerate or helpful behavior
The Day You Begin by
There will be times when you walk into a room and no one there is quite like you. There are many reasons to feel different. Maybe it's how you look, talk, or where you're from; maybe it's what you eat, or something just as random. It's not easy to take those first steps into a place where nobody really knows you yet, but somehow you do it. Jacqueline Woodson's lyrical text and Rafael Lopez's dazzling art reminds us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes-and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. And that sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway.
ISBN: 0399246533Publication Date: 2018-08-28
Each Kindness by
Jacqueline Woodson is the 2018-2019 National Ambassador for Young People's Literature WINNER OF A CORETTA SCOTT KING HONOR AND THE JANE ADDAMS PEACE AWARD! Each kindness makes the world a little better This unforgettable book is written and illustrated by the award-winning team that created The Other Side and the Caldecott Honor winner Coming On Home Soon. With its powerful anti-bullying message and striking art, it will resonate with readers long after they've put it down. Chloe and her friends won't play with the new girl, Maya. Every time Maya tries to join Chloe and her friends, they reject her. Eventually Maya stops coming to school. When Chloe's teacher gives a lesson about how even small acts of kindness can change the world, Chloe is stung by the lost opportunity for friendship, and thinks about how much better it could have been if she'd shown a little kindness toward Maya.
ISBN: 9780399246524Publication Date: 2012-10-02
The Invisible Boy by
Meet Brian, the invisible boy. Nobody ever seems to notice him or think to include him in their group, game, or birthday party . . . until, that is, a new kid comes to class. When Justin, the new boy, arrives, Brian is the first to make him feel welcome. And when Brian and Justin team up to work on a class project together, Brian finds a way to shine. From esteemed author and speaker Trudy Ludwig and acclaimed illustrator Patrice Barton, this gentle story shows how small acts of kindness can help children feel included and allow them to flourish. Any parent, teacher, or counselor looking for material that sensitively addresses the needs of quieter children will find The Invisible Boya valuable and important resource. Includes backmatter with discussion questions and resources for further reading.
ISBN: 1582464502Publication Date: 2013-10-08
I Walk with Vanessa: a Story about a Simple Act of Kindness by
Inspired by real events and told only in pictures, this is an empowering picture book from a New York Timesbestselling husband-and-wife team about one girl who inspires a community to stand up to bullying. This simple yet powerful picture book tells the story of an elementary school girl named Vanessa who is bullied and a fellow student who witnesses the act and is at first unsure of how to help. I Walk with Vanessa explores the feelings of helplessness and anger that arise in the wake of seeing a classmate treated badly, and shows how a single act of kindness can lead to an entire community joining in to help. With themes of acceptance, kindness, and strength in numbers, this timeless and profound feel-good story will resonate with readers young and old.
ISBN: 9781524769550Publication Date: 2018-04-24
A Sick Day for Amos McGee by
THE BEST SICK DAY EVER and the animals in the zoo feature in this striking picture book debut. Friends come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. In Amos McGee's case, all sorts of species, too! Every day he spends a little bit of time with each of his friends at the zoo, running races with the tortoise, keeping the shy penguin company, and even reading bedtime stories to the owl. But when Amos is too sick to make it to the zoo, his animal friends decide it's time they returned the favor. A Sick Day for Amos McGeeby Philip C. Stead and Erin E. Stead is a 2011 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year and the winner of the 2011 Caldecott Medal. This title has Common Core connections.
ISBN: 9781596434028Publication Date: 2010-05-25
The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade by
Grammy-nominated children's musician Justin Roberts, together with vibrant artwork from award-winning illustrator Christian Robinson, will have readers cheering for young Sally McCabe. Hardly anyone noticed young Sally McCabe. She was the smallest girl in the smallest grade. But Sally notices everything-from the twenty-seven keys on the janitor's ring to the bullying happening on the playground. One day, Sally has had enough and decides to make herself heard. And when she takes a chance and stands up to the bullies, she finds that one small girl can make a big difference. Grammy-nominated children's musician Justin Roberts, together with vibrant artwork from award-winning illustrator Christian Robinson, will have readers cheering for young Sally McCabe.
ISBN: 9780399257438Publication Date: 2014-09-04
Stick and Stone by
When Stick rescues Stone from a prickly situation with a Pinecone, the pair becomes fast friends. But when Stick gets stuck, can Stone return the favor? Author Beth Ferry makes a memorable debut with a warm, rhyming text that includes a subtle anti-bullying message even the youngest reader will understand. New York Times bestselling illustrator Tom Lichtenheld imbues Stick and Stone with energy, emotion, and personality to spare. In this funny story about kindness and friendship, Stick and Stone join George and Martha, Frog and Toad, and Elephant and Piggie, as some of the best friend duos in children's literature.
ISBN: 9780544032569Publication Date: 2015-04-07
Tomorrow I'll Be Kind by
In a follow-up to Tomorrow I'll Be Brave, award-winning illustrator Jessica Hische brings to life another series of inspirational words and scenes with her lovely hand-lettering and adorable illustrations. This uplifting and positive book encourages kids to promise that tomorrow, they will be grateful, helpful, and kind. Tomorrow I'll be everything I strive to be each day And even when it's difficult I'll work to find a way. Immerse yourself in the beautifully hand-lettered words of widsom, hope, and positivity alongside adorable illustrations of love and caring. This book is a reminder to all readers, young and old, that the smallest kind gesture can make the biggest difference in the world--we just have to remember to be kind to one another. Praise for Tomorrow I'll Be Kind "As an introduction to personality characteristics, beneficial behaviors, and social-emotional skills, this is a solid choice, and fans of the previous volume are likely to embrace this one as well. 'I'll dream of all the good that comes / when we all just do our best,' the text explains--a sentiment that's hard to rebut. Gently encourages empathy, compassion, and consideration." -- Kirkus Reviews "A welcome call to tenderness." -- PW Reviews Praise for Tomorrow I'll Be Brave "Jessica Hische, one of the great designers and typographers, now shows herself equally adept at creating gorgeous and immersive images for young readers. This is a joyous burst of color."--Dave Eggers, author of Her Right Foot
ISBN: 9781524787042Publication Date: 2020-01-14
We Don't Eat Our Classmates! by
It's the first day of school for Penelope Rex, and she can't wait to meet her classmates. But it's hard to make human friends when they're so darn delicious! That is, until Penelope gets a taste of her own medicine and finds she may not be at the top of the food chain after all...
ISBN: 9781368003551Publication Date: 2018-06-19
Wolf in the Snow by
Winner of the 2018 Caldecott Medal A girl is lost in a snowstorm. A wolf cub is lost, too. How will they find their way home? Paintings rich with feeling tell this satisfying story of friendship and trust. Here is a book set on a wintry night that will spark imaginations and warm hearts, from Matthew Cordell, author ofTrouble GumandAnother Brother.
ISBN: 9781250076366Publication Date: 2017-01-03
Friendship
close attachment based on affection and shared experiences
Come Home Already! by
From the creators of Goodnight Already! and I Love You Already!, the third hysterical picture book about Duck and Bear, unlikely pals. An excited Duck wants to hang out with Bear. But Bear's gone fishing for a whole week and is happy to finally get a second alone. What will Duck do while Bear is gone? How will he survive without his best pal?! A Bank Street College of Education Best Children's Books of the Year
ISBN: 9780062370976Publication Date: 2017-12-05
Danbi Leads the School Parade by
Meet Danbi, the new girl at school! Danbi is thrilled to start her new school in America. But a bit nervous too, for when she walks into the classroom, everything goes quiet. Everyone stares. Danbi wants to join in the dances and the games, but she doesn't know the rules and just can't get anything right. Luckily, she isn't one to give up. With a spark of imagination, she makes up a new game and leads her classmates on a parade to remember! Danbi Leads the School Parade introduces readers to an irresistible new character. In this first story, she learns to navigate her two cultures and realizes that when you open your world to others, their world opens up to you.
ISBN: 0451478894Publication Date: 2020-07-07
Dude! by
Aaron Reynolds, the author ofNerdy BerdyandCreepy Carrots! teams up with Dan Santat, the Caldecott-winning illustrator behindThe Adventures of Beekle: The Unimaginary Friendto create the hilarious, gnarly summer adventure picture book,Dude! Dude! You have to read this book. It's totally about this platypus and this beaver who are friends. They want to go surfing but dude, there's this shark who's in the ocean, too. But don't worry. This shark approaches and you'll never guess what happens. Kirkus Reviewsnamed this one of their "BEST PICTURE BOOKS OF 2018" for a good laugh!
ISBN: 9781626726031Publication Date: 2018-04-24
Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away by
The 2020 Jumpstart Read for the Record Selection (2.24 million readers) * An American Library Association Notable Children's Book * A Publisher's Weekly Best Children's Book of the Year * A Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of the Year * A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year From Newbery Medalist and New York Times best-selling author Meg Medina comes the bittersweet story of two girls who will always be each other's número uno, even though one is moving away. A big truck with its mouth wide open is parked at the curb, ready to gobble up Evelyn's mirror with the stickers around the edge . . . and the sofa that we bounce on to get to the moon. Evelyn Del Rey is Daniela's best friend. They do everything together and even live in twin apartments across the street from each other: Daniela with her mami and hamster, and Evelyn with her mami, papi, and cat. But not after today--not after Evelyn moves away. Until then, the girls play amid the moving boxes until it's time to say goodbye, making promises to keep in touch, because they know that their friendship will always be special. The tenderness of Meg Medina's beautifully written story about friendship and change is balanced by Sonia Sánchez's colorful and vibrant depictions of the girls' urban neighborhood.
ISBN: 9781536207040Publication Date: 2020-09-08
Giraffe Problems by
Penguins aren't the only animals with problems. . . . A second hilarious collaboration from picture-book superstars Lane Smith and Jory John! Can you guess what's making this giraffe self-conscious? Could it be . . . HIS ENORMOUS NECK?? Yes, it's exactly that--how on earth did you figure it out? Edward the giraffe can't understand why his neck is as long and bendy and, well, ridiculous as it is. No other animal has a neck this absurd. He's tried disguising it, dressing it up, strategically hiding it behind bushes--honestly, anything you can think of, he's tried. Just when Edward has exhausted his neck-hiding options and is about to throw in the towel, a turtle swoops in (well, ambles in, very slowly) and helps him understand that his neck has a purpose, and looks excellent in a bow tie.
ISBN: 9781524772048Publication Date: 2018-09-25
Lubna and Pebble by
**TIME magazine "10 Best YA and Children's Books of 2019" selection** **New York Public Library's Best Books for Kids 2019 selection** **Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best Books 2019 selection** In an unforgettable story that subtly addresses the refugee crisis, a young girl must decide if friendship means giving up the one item that brings her comfort during a time of utter uncertainty. Lubna's best friend is a pebble. Pebble always listens to her stories. Pebble always smiles when she feels scared. But when a lost little boy arrives in the World of Tents, Lubna realizes that he needs Pebble even more than she does. This emotionally stirring and stunningly illustrated picture book explores one girl's powerful act of friendship in the midst of an unknown situation.
ISBN: 9780525554165Publication Date: 2019-03-05
Meesha Makes Friends by
From the creator of Ruby Finds a Worry, the perfect picture book for helping children navigate social situations and connect with peers. Meesha loves making things, but she finds it hard to make friends. She doesn't know quite what to do, what to say, or when to say it, and she struggles with responding to social cues. But one day, she discovers that she has a special talent that will help her navigate challenging social situations and make friends. A warm and affectionate story about the joys and difficulties of building and maintaining friendships and relating to others, Meesha Makes Friends helps young readers find their place in the world. The Big Bright Feelings picture book series provides kid-friendly entry points into emotional intelligence topics -- from being true to yourself to dealing with worries, managing anger, and making friends. These topics can be difficult to talk about. But these books act as sensitive and reassuring springboards for conversations about mental and emotional health, positive self-image, building self-confidence, and managing feelings. Read all the books in the Big Bright Feelings series! Ruby Finds a Worry Perfectly Norman Ravi's Roar Meesha Makes Friends Tilda Tries Again
ISBN: 9781547605194Publication Date: 2021-02-02
My Best Friend by
An NPR Best Book of the Year! New York Times bestselling author Julie Fogliano and Caldecott Honor winner Jillian Tamaki come together to tell a delightful story of first friendship. she is my best friend i think i never had a best friend so i'm not sure but i think she is a really good best friend because when we were drawing she drew me and i drew her. What is a best friend, if not someone who laughs with you the whole entire day, especially when you pretend to be a pickle? This pitch-perfect picture book is a sweetly earnest, visually stunning celebration of the magic of friendship.
ISBN: 1534427228Publication Date: 2020-03-03
Nothing in Common by
★"Heartwarming, imaginative and beautifully illustrated, Nothing in Common is the story of how a shared experience can bring two people together through thoughtfulness, observation and compassion." -Shelf Awareness, starred review A tender and timely story of compassion and finding common ground with others, perfect for fans of I Walk With Vanessa and Thank You, Omu! Two neighbors both love to watch the old man and his dog from their windows, but they never wave to each other. After all, they have nothing in common. But everything changes when they are the only ones who notice that one day is different--there is the old man, but where is the dog? In this lyrical picture book, two strangers learn about the many ways the world connects us--even if the only thing we have in common is how much we care about someone else. Filled with whimsy and warmth, Nothing In Common is a tender friendship story that reminds us to always lead with compassion.
ISBN: 9780544774780Publication Date: 2020-09-15
Swashby and the Sea by
★ "An exceptionally satisfying picture book." --Booklist, STARRED review ★ "This readaloud is sweetly told as Swashby overcomes his bitter habits to welcome new, friendly, and energetic people into his quiet life." --The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, STARRED review From New York Times best-selling author Beth Ferry and Caldecott Honor winner Juana Martinez-Neal comes a sweet-and-salty friendship story perfect for pirate-lovers learning new ways to communicate while at a distance.This hilarious picture book will keep emerging readers laughing, and the message-related mishaps in the story create an opportunity for spelling and sounding out new words while learning from home! Captain Swashby loves the sea, his oldest friend. And he loves his life by the sea just as it is: salty and sandy and serene. One day, much to Swashby's chagrin, a young girl and her granny commandeer the empty house next door. All Swashby wants is for his new neighbors to GO AWAY and take their ruckus with them. When Swashby begins to leave notes in the sand for his noisy neighbors, however, the beach interferes with the messages that are getting across. Could it be that the captain's oldest friend, the sea, knows what Swashby needs even better than he knows himself?
ISBN: 0544707370Publication Date: 2020-05-05
Two by
Two is best friends with One. Whenever they'd get the chance, they'd dance! She'd sing and snap. He'd tappity-tap. What a pair they made! At the end of each day, they'd always say, "ONE, TWO, I'll count on you, 'til the end, we'll be best friends." Until Three jumps in between them . . . Suddenly One only wants to play with Three. "ONE, THREE, odds we'll be!" they chant. Two feels left out. But what can she do? Another character-building counting book by award-winning author Kathryn Otoshi,Two is a powerful story of friendship, loss, letting go, and self-discovery.
ISBN: 9780972394666Publication Date: 2014-09-23
You and Me by
You and Me is a loving tribute to how fate brought together two best friends forever. An adorable cat muses about the what-ifs in life: What if he had slept late that one special morning? What if he'd missed his train on that fateful day? Then he might never have met his favorite person in the world, and his entire life would be different! Two friends delight in the incredible power of serendipity in this charming tale. Illustrated by the bestselling Peter H. Reynolds, You and Me is the ultimate gift for the closest of friends on Valentine's Day or any day of the year.
ISBN: 1419711970Publication Date: 2015-01-06
Cooperation & Community
working together for a common purpose
Crab Cake by
Kirkus Best Book / Publishers Weekly Best Book ★ "Readers come away with the idea that nourishing and supporting one another is the only way to change the world."-Kirkus, STARRED review ★ " [A] wholly original and moving affirmation of one crab's power to bring a community together."-Publishers Weekly, STARRED review Crab follows his heart in the wake of a disaster and discovers that everyone' talents have value when applied with generosity. Feed your craving for a hilarious, heart-warming story with Crab Cake. Humorous, intricate illustrations are perfect to engage readers aged 3-7 while teaching gentle lessons of civic engagement and rallying together as a community. Under the sea, fish do what fish do: Seahorse hides, Pufferfish puffs up, Parrotfish crunches coral, and Crab . . . bakes cakes? Scallop swims, Dolphin blows bubbles, and . . . Crab bakes cakes. And so life goes on, until one night when everything changes with asplash! In the face of total disaster, can Crab's small, brave act help the community come together and carry on?
ISBN: 9780544959002Publication Date: 2019-02-05
The Crayon Box That Talked by
Yellow hates Red, so does Green, and no one likes Orange! Can these crayons quit arguing and learn to cooperate? Shane DeRolf's deceptively simple poem celebrates the creation of harmony through diversity. In combination with Michael Letzig's vibrant illustrations, young readers will understand that when we all work together, the results are much more colorful and interesting.
ISBN: 0679886117Publication Date: 1997-10-21
The Curious Garden by
This New York Times bestselling modern classic explores the perennial topic of environmentalism in an urban world, from the creator of The Wild Robot and Mr. Tiger Goes Wild One boy's quest for a greener world... one garden at a time. While out exploring one day, a little boy named Liam discovers a struggling garden and decides to take care of it. As time passes, the garden spreads throughout the dark, gray city, transforming it into a lush, green world. This is an enchanting tale with environmental themes and breathtaking illustrations that become more vibrant as the garden blooms. Red-headed Liam can also be spotted on every page, adding a clever seek-and-find element to this captivating picture book.
ISBN: 9780316015479Publication Date: 2009-04-01
Every Little Letter by
For fans of The Word Collector and Be Kind comes a story of words, walls, and widening your world, by New York Times bestselling author Deborah Underwood Small h has always lived with the other H's in a city surrounded by walls that keep them safe. At least, that's what the big H's say. But one day, a hole in the wall reveals someone new on the other side. When little h and little i meet, they make a small word with big meaning- "hi!" The other H's find out, though. They fill the hole. But it won't be enough to keep these little letters apart--or twenty-four of their newest friends. Every Little Letter shows how even the smallest among us can make a big impact, and how a single act of friendship can inspire whole communities to come together. How do you tear down walls? With words, at first. Then brick by brick.
ISBN: 9780525554028Publication Date: 2020-08-04
Going Places by
A go-cart contest inspires imagination to take flight in this picture book for creators of all ages, with art from New York Times bestselling illustrator Peter H. Reynolds. It's time for this year's Going Places contest! Finally. Time to build a go-cart, race it--and win. Each kid grabs an identical kit, and scrambles to build. Everyone but Maya. She sure doesn't seem to be in a hurry...and that sure doesn't look like anybody else's go-cart! But who said it had to be a go-cart? And who said there's only one way to cross the finish line? This sublime celebration of creative spirit and thinking outside the box--both figuratively and literally--is ideal for early learners, recent grads, and everyone in between.
ISBN: 1442466081Publication Date: 2014-03-18
Hey, Wall by
"Verde's unique style and simple yet increasingly important messages of peace, mindfulness, and community make her stories a must-share...A must-purchase." --School Library Journal (starred review) "Walls do not just create barriers and divide spaces. They can be canvases for artmaking; opportunities to shape a community." --The Horn Book "This story of urban renewal sends a welcome double message by Verde: neighbors and neighborhoods are more than the way they look, and ordinary people can band together to transform big things." --Publishers Weekly A boy takes on a community art project in order to make his neighborhood more beautiful in this empowering and inspiring picture book by Susan Verde, stunningly illustrated by award-winning artist John Parra. One creative boy. One bare, abandoned wall. One BIG idea. There is a wall in Ángel's neighborhood. Around it, the community bustles with life: music, dancing, laughing. Not the wall. It is bleak. One boy decides to change that. But he can't do it alone. Told in elegant verse by Susan Verde and vibrantly illustrated by John Parra, this inspiring picture book celebrates the power of art to tell a story and bring a community together.
ISBN: 9781481453134Publication Date: 2018-09-04
Hurricane by
A gorgeously-illustrated picture book about the power of community from Caldecott-Honoree John Rocco That night the wind roars and rumbles, like the sound of a thousand waves pounding the shoreline. A young boy's favorite place in the world is the old, splintery neighborhood dock. At this dock the boy can swim, fish, or watch minnows dart between the rocks. But a hurricane is coming...and its violent winds and rain carry with it anything that can float. Caldecott Honoree John Rocco shows the power of community and the beauty of rebuilding after adversity in this dramatically illustrated follow-up to Blizzard and Blackout.
ISBN: 9780759554931Publication Date: 2021-09-28
Islandborn by
From New York Times bestseller and Pulitzer Prize winner Junot Díaz comes a debut picture book about the magic of memory and the infinite power of the imagination. A 2019 Pura Belpré Honor Book for Illustration Every kid in Lola's school was from somewhere else. Hers was a school of faraway places. So when Lola's teacher asks the students to draw a picture of where their families immigrated from, all the kids are excited. Except Lola. She can't remember The Island--she left when she was just a baby. But with the help of her family and friends, and their memories--joyous, fantastical, heartbreaking, and frightening--Lola's imagination takes her on an extraordinary journey back to The Island. As she draws closer to the heart of her family's story, Lola comes to understand the truth of her abuela's words: "Just because you don't remember a place doesn't mean it's not in you." Gloriously illustrated and lyrically written, Islandborn is a celebration of creativity, diversity, and our imagination's boundless ability to connect us--to our families, to our past and to ourselves.
ISBN: 0735229864Publication Date: 2018-03-13
Keeping the City Going by
Caldecott Award winner Brian Floca gives a heartfelt thank you to the essential workers who keep their cities going during COVID-19 quarantine in this tenderly illustrated picture book. We are here at home now, watching the world through our windows. Outside we see the city we know, but not as we've seen it before. The once hustling and bustling streets are empty. Well, almost empty. Around the city there are still people, some, out and about. These are the people keeping us safe. Keeping us healthy. Keeping our mail and our food delivered. Keeping our grocery stores stocked. Keeping the whole city going. Brian Floca speaks for us all in this stirring homage to all the essential workers who keep the essentials operating so the rest of us can do our part by sheltering in place during the COVID-19 pandemic.
ISBN: 9781534493773Publication Date: 2021-04-27
The Lost Package by
A Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Children's Book of 2021 From author Richard Ho and illustrator Jessica Lanan, the heartwarming story of a package that gets lost, then found, and an in-depth behind-the-scenes look at what happens at the post office. Like other packages, this one began as an empty box. It was packed with great care, sealed tight, and given a personal touch. Like other packages, it left the post office with hope. But unlike most packages, before it got to its destination... it got lost. Follow one package that loses its way and discover a friendship tale that proves distance can't always keep us apart.
ISBN: 9781250231352Publication Date: 2021-03-02
Our Little Kitchen by
A lively celebration of food and community from Caldecott Honoree Jillian Tamaki Tie on your apron! Roll up your sleeves! Pans are out, oven is hot, the kitchen's all ready! Where do we start? In this lively, rousing picture book from Caldecott Honoree Jillian Tamaki, a crew of resourceful neighbors comes together to prepare a meal for their community. With a garden full of produce, a joyfully chaotic kitchen, and a friendly meal shared at the table, Our Little Kitchenis a celebration of full bellies and looking out for one another. Bonus materials include a recipe and an author's note about the volunteering experience that inspired the book.
ISBN: 9781419746550Publication Date: 2020-09-22
Outside, Inside by
From Caldecott honoree LeUyen Pham, Outside, Inside is a moving picture book that captures the unforgettable moment during the pandemic when people all over the world came together. It celebrates the essential workers, frontline workers, and communities that worked with each other to protect our loved ones. Something strange happened on an unremarkable day just before the season changed. Everybody who was outside . . . . . . went inside. Outside, it was quieter, wilder, and different. Inside, we laughed, we cried, and we grew. We remembered to protect the ones we love and love the ones who protect us. While the world changed outside, we became stronger on the inside and believed that someday soon spring would come again.
ISBN: 9781250798350Publication Date: 2021-01-05
The Squirrels Who Squabbled by
Two greedy squirrels go on a wild pinecone chase in this hilarious follow-up to The Lion Inside and The Koala Who Could!"It's mine!" shouted Cyril."No, mine!" hollered Bruce."You don't stand a chance!Give up! It's no use!""I'm HUNGRY!" cried Cyril."This cone is NOT yours!""Stay back!" shouted Bruce."This cone's for MY stores!"Greedy squirrels Cyril and Bruce both have their sights on a very special prize: the last pinecone of the season. Uh-oh! The race is on!A laugh-out-loud tale about friendship and sharing by the bestselling duo behind The Lion Inside and The Koala Who Could, Rachel Bright and Jim Field!
ISBN: 9781338538038Publication Date: 2019-09-17
Stand up! Speak Up! by
From a #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator, and the creator of The Pink Hat, comes a timely picture book about a young girl's mission to inspire others to help the planet. The meaningful message of climate change activism is perfect for Earth Day and every day! Celebrate young climate change activists in this charming story about an empowered girl who shows up, listens up, and ultimately, speaks up to inspire her community to take action against climate change. After attending a climate march, a young activist is motivated to make an effort and do her part to help the planet... by organizing volunteers to work to make green changes in their community, from cleaning a lake, to planting trees, to making composting bins, to hosting a clothing swap and more! Here is an uplifting picture book that is an important reminder that no change is too small--and no person is too young--to make a difference. With simple text and lively illustrations, Andrew Joyner has given young children a timely story about activism, community, and hope.
ISBN: 9780593301593Publication Date: 2020-10-06
We Are Water Protectors by
Winner of the 2021 Caldecott Medal #1 New York Times Bestseller Inspired by the many Indigenous-led movements across North America,We Are Water Protectors issues an urgent rallying cry to safeguard the Earth's water from harm and corruption--a bold and lyrical picture book written by Carole Lindstrom and vibrantly illustrated by Michaela Goade. Water is the first medicine. It affects and connects us all . . . When a black snake threatens to destroy the Earth And poison her people's water, one young water protector Takes a stand to defend Earth's most sacred resource.
ISBN: 9781250203557Publication Date: 2020-03-17
When Pencil Met Eraser by
Does a pencil really need an eraser? Not according to Pencil. Everything Pencil draws is already perfect--no erasing needed. But Eraser has some different ideas. Cue a battle of the wills where Pencil soon discovers that what it puts on the page gets even better when Eraser takes some away. This hilarious and clever picture book lets Eraser show Pencil--and the rest of us--how to try new things, see the sky through the trees, and form an inseparable friendship with someone who might at first seem like your worst enemy. In the spirit of The Day the Crayons Quit, When Pencil Met Eraser enlivens something we all use every day with engaging art, adorable characters, and a clever ending. The result? A funny, effective message about friendship and creativity.
ISBN: 9781250309396Publication Date: 2019-05-28
