by Jyoti Rajan Gopal, illustrated by Sonia Sánchez; Candlewick Press, 2024.
“One sweet song for heart and soul; one sweet song to make us whole.” Here’s a counting tale told in lilting rhyme that mirrors the soothing storyline. A diverse neighborhood comes together through music that gradually grows and gently falls. The notes played help overcome loneliness, lift hearts, and connect young and old.
by Frank Murphy and Alice Lee, illustrated by Kayla Harren; Sleeping Bear Press, 2023.
The latest in the …Like series of picture books, A Family Like Ours celebrates the diversity found in families while reflecting on the commonalities. As the refrain that grows through the book reflects, “We are braver together, we are better together, we are made to be together. We are safe together; we are stronger together.”
by Deborah Kerbel, illustrated Isaac Liang; Kids Can Press, 2023.
Wordless picture book Next Door highlights the joy in appreciating simple pleasures and the value in finding positive ways to overcome differences and connect with others.
by Toni Buzzeo; Holiday House, 2023.
Set in the mountains of eastern Kentucky in the 1930s, this Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection explores the onset of efforts to spread electrification to rural America. This novel not only sheds light on the importance of electricity, but through story expertly drawn, it exemplifies the importance of having convictions grounded in facts while also respecting others’ beliefs, and the value in seeking to understand both sides of an issue when forming an opinion or landing on a belief.
by Kelly J. Baptist; Crown, 2023.
Eb & Flow (Ebony and De’Kari) don’t have much use for one another and the enmity grows when Eb mars Flow’s beloved sneakers. The antagonism escalates to a cafeteria altercation resulting in a ten-day suspension that ultimately leads both characters to a clearer understanding of themselves and each other.
by Norene Paulson, illustrated by Maria Mola; Beaming Books, 2023.
On a trip to the thrift store, Nila finds the perfect puffy coat. She wants it, and she buys it—even though her coat from last year still fits. What happens next is the crux of Nila’s Perfect Coat, an accessible story that provides entry into a discussion of needs and wants, and helping others through difficult times.