Book Guide:

September, 2024

Books for the Heart and Mind:

Exploring Kindness and Resilience

Books have a remarkable way of guiding us through social-emotional themes like kindness, mental health, trauma, and self-resilience. This list of recommendations is designed to help parents, teachers, and children explore these important topics with stories that offer comfort, insight, and inspiration. Dive into these powerful narratives that not only entertain but also encourage empathy, growth, and healing together.

Picture Books

Big by Vashti Harrison

"Big" explores the transformative impact of language on self-perception through the story of a young girl whose positive identity as a "big girl" shifts into a burden as she grows up. Initially celebrated for her maturity, she experiences a pivotal event that alters her self-image, reflecting on how societal expectations can impose restrictive definitions on personal growth and innocence. The book delves into the power of words and the challenges of navigating societal pressures while trying to find space for authentic self-development.

Nobody Hugs a Cactus by Carter Goodrich

“Nobody Hugs a Cactus” is a charming picture book about a prickly cactus named Hank who lives alone and prefers it that way. Despite his gruff exterior and aversion to social interactions, Hank's life begins to change when he starts to appreciate the value of friendship and connection. The story explores themes of loneliness, the importance of reaching out to others, and the transformative power of kindness.

What Do You Do With a Chance? by Kobi Yamada

“What Do You Do With a Chance?” by Kobi Yamada is an inspiring picture book that follows a young child who encounters opportunities and hesitates to take them. As the story unfolds, the child learns to embrace chances with courage and curiosity, discovering that seizing these moments can lead to personal growth and remarkable experiences. The book's central theme is about overcoming fear and seizing opportunities to unlock one's potential.

Hey, Little Ant by Hannah & Phillip Hoose and Illustrated by Debbie Tilley

“Hey, Little Ant” by Hannah and Phillip Hoose, illustrated by Debbie Tilley, presents a thought-provoking dialogue between a young boy and an ant he encounters. The story explores themes of empathy and moral decision-making as the boy considers whether to squish the ant or let it go, reflecting on the impact of his actions from the ant's perspective. The central theme encourages readers to think about the consequences of their choices and show compassion towards all living beings.

Graphic Novels

Bug Boys By Laura Knetzger 

“Bug Boys” by Laura Knetzger follows the adventurous Bug Boys, who journeyed beyond their familiar world to explore new horizons. As they venture into the unknown, they encounter new experiences and challenges that help them grow and learn about themselves. The story's theme centers on the excitement and growth that come from stepping outside one’s comfort zone and embracing the unknown with curiosity and bravery.

Frizzy by Claribel Ortega 

“Frizzy” by Claribel Ortega is a graphic novel that follows a young girl named Frizzy who struggles with embracing her natural, curly hair amidst societal pressure to conform to beauty standards. As Frizzy navigates her self-acceptance journey, she learns the importance of being true to oneself and finding confidence in her unique identity. The story’s theme revolves around self-love, individuality, and challenging societal norms.

Just Roll With It by Veronica Agarwal and Lee Durfey-Lavoie

“Just Roll With It” by Veronica Agarwal and Lee Durfey-Lavoie is a graphic novel that follows the adventures of a young girl named Maggie who navigates life with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) while trying to balance her passions and friendships. Through her journey, Maggie learns to manage her condition and finds support in her community, emphasizing the importance of resilience and understanding. The theme of the story revolves around overcoming personal challenges with perseverance and the power of empathy and support from others.

A First Time For Everything by Dan Santat

  • “A First Time” for Everything by Dan Santat is a heartwarming graphic novel that follows a young boy’s journey through many of his “first” experiences. The story beautifully captures the emotions and challenges of feeling invisible and finding the courage to try new things, from stepping out of one's comfort zone to facing fears. The theme centers on embracing new experiences with courage and optimism, highlighting how these firsts can lead to personal growth and discovery.

  • Grades 7-8

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Middle Grade Novels

The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl by Stacy McAnulty

In Stacy McAnulty's "The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl," Lucy Callahan's life transforms after being struck by lightning, which gifts her with extraordinary math skills and an obsession with numbers. As she starts middle school, readers follow her through the relatable ups and downs of fitting in, forming new friendships, and embracing neurodivergence. This engaging story offers a heartfelt exploration of navigating these challenges with humor and insight.

Restart by Gordon Korman

“Restart” by Gordon Korman tells the story of Chase Ambrose, a middle schooler who suffers from amnesia after a fall and must rebuild his life and relationships from scratch. As Chase reconnects with his former friends and reevaluates his past behavior, he grapples with themes of redemption and personal transformation. The story explores the power of second chances and the ability to change one’s path and make amends for past mistakes. 

The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise by Dan Gemeinhart

​​In Dan Gemeinhart’s “The Remarkable Journey of Coyote Sunrise,” readers join a father-daughter duo, Coyote and Rodeo, as they traverse the country in their old, renovated school bus. They are on a healing journey following a tragic accident. When Coyote discovers that the park where her buried treasure box—a link to her past—is being demolished, she embarks on a secret mission to retrieve it. Along the way, they encounter a diverse group of travelers, each facing their own challenges. This emotionally resonant novel explores themes of empathy, grief, and determination and features compelling characters that readers of all ages will deeply connect with.

The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay 

  • In "Stars Beneath Our Feet," Lolly grapples with grief and anger after losing his brother in a gang-related shooting. Teetering on the edge—of adolescence, grief, and violence, he finds comfort in constructing elaborate LEGO designs. Barclay sensitively explores Lolly's healing process, emphasizing how creativity and community play crucial roles in overcoming mental health struggles. 

  • Grade 7 and above

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