20 titles that you might consider adding to your classroom library.
A Little More Beautiful: The Story of a Garden by Sarah Mackenzie
Your readers may be encouraged to leave the world a little more beautiful, too, after reading this lovely book.
Bug on the Rug by Sophia Gholz
This is rollicking, rhyming fun, and a perfect read-aloud for grades K and 1.
Abdul's Story by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
I have witnessed smart, creative children with dysgraphia experience the same struggle, and really appreciated the message in this book.
A Walk in the Woods by Nikki Grimes
A boy takes a walk that brings him closer to the father whose loss he is grieving. It is beautiful on so many levels.
Cape by Kevin Johnson
A touching, moving, beautiful, and honest look at grief.
Feathers Together by Caron Levis
This is based on a true story about two storks, but themes of love, separation, and conservation will resonate with the readers in your life.
Gibberish by Young Vo
A brilliant portrayal of what it must feel like to move to a new place where you don't speak the language.
Girls on Wheels by Srividhya Venkat
Grit, determination, and friendship abound in this story of three girls learning to skateboard (inspired by the skateboarding revolution in India).
The Great Zapfino by Mac Barnett
A fun story with illustrations by Marla Frazee that are worth gazing at over and over.
I Forgive Alex: A Simple Story About Understanding by Kerascoët
A simple yet powerful wordless book that tackles apologies, forgiveness, compassion, and understanding from multiple perspectives.
I'm Sorry by Michael Ian Black
The fourth book in this series is delightful and important.
Just One Flake by Travis Jonker
A perfect winter story that many students will relate to.
Just SNOW Already! by Howard McWilliam
Students will have so much fun studying the illustrations for all the secondary stories taking place.
Lou by Breanna Carzoo
Original, clever, and sure to be read over and over by our younger students.
Maple & Rosemary by Alison James
A lot of people compare it to The Giving Tree. I like it even better.
Miss Hazeltine's Home for Shy and Fearful Cats by Alicia Potter
You don't have to be a cat lover to appreciate this gem. It's a quirky and wonderful look at what it means to be brave.
My Name Is Not Ed Tug by Amy Nielander
I am in a highly diverse district with some very tricky names. I love that we will want to honor each one with the help of this book.
The Noise Inside Boys: A Story About Big Feelings by Pete Oswald
If social emotional learning is a focus where you are, then this might be a title worth adding.
When Things Aren't Going Right, Go Left by Marc Colagiovanni
Another title that may be helpful when you are focused on social emotional learning. What might happen if we are able to leave our frustrations, fears, doubts, and worries behind?
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes
Dignity, empowerment. Make sure you read the author's note. And I loved this part: "It's how your mother looks at you before she calls you beautiful. Flowers are beautiful. Sunrises are beautiful. Being viewed in your mother's eyes as someone that matters—now that's beautiful."
If it would be helpful to know the level of a title you are considering for your classroom, there are websites and apps available. Ask your librarian or reading specialist what they like or check out Lexile and Scholastic.
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By Lori Sabo
Teacher
