by Anne Sibley O’Brien, illustrated by Hanna Cha; Charlesbridge, 2021.
Gather up and Circle Round this vibrant and joyful picture book celebrating inclusion, kindness, friendship, similarities and differences, numbers, shapes, and more–all with merely 38 words!
by Norene Paulson, illustrated by Camila Carrossine; Albert Whitman, 2021.
When her school plans a Silly Hair Day, Bea, a strong and confident girl with alopecia (an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss) navigates her feelings and manages to increase awareness of the ways in which actions and activities can unintentionally present barriers to inclusion. This gentle, affirming story is a recommended read-aloud that offers an excellent opening for discussion and can help set the stage for a welcoming classroom environment.
Story concept by JonArno Lawson, illustrated by Qin Leng; Candlewick Press, 2021.
Those who experience this wordless picture book will cheer for the little girl who exhibits determination, optimism, and joy as her rundown home and gradually her neighborhood transform into a thriving community as a result of kindness, care, connection, and acceptance.
by Kathleen Blasi, illustrated by Petronela Dostalova; Yeehoo Press, 2021.
Young listeners will connect with Milo as he embarks on an adventure with meteors. How he manages to engage his “second-in-command” (Mom) is sure to strike a chord with children who have had to wait while a parent finished a task before getting to the real (fun) mission at hand.
by Nancy Bo Flood, illustrated by Julianna Swaney; Atheneum, 2020.
In the uplifting I Will Dance, readers meet ten year-old Eva who hasn’t the strength to move, but holds fast to a wish and a will to dance. How that dream becomes reality through her determination supported by the caring actions of others, makes for a truly inspirational “teachable moment.”
by Linda Sue Park, illustrated by Debbie Ridpath Ohi; Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers; 2020.
Years in the making, the eagerly-anticipated Gurple and Preen picture book began with Debbie Ridpath Ohi’s blog, which features broken-crayon art and has grown to enjoy immense popularity. I’m pleased to celebrate the launch of Gurple and Preen, a collaborative effort between Debbie and Newbery Award and New York Times bestselling author Linda Sue Park, with an interview featuring both creators and plenty of ideas for sharing this picture book adventure with children!