Peer pressure can be especially tricky in the lunch room. How best to feel better after your meal has been mocked? Sometimes confoming seems like the best way; it's easier. And then someone else, and someone else does the same. What was once an eclectic table that proudly represented a collection of cultures is covered in sandwiches. A relatable celebration of heritage and learning from others.

A unique story that appropriately chronicles a young girl's journey from Holocaust survivor to restorer of memories. After traveling the world, Yaffa Eliach was able to collect 1000 photographs of the Holocaust victims from her childhood village that now hang in the US Holocaust Memorial Museum. These photographs cover walls three stories high in a space called "Tower of Life." This is moving and ...

Instead of losing hope and giving in to oppressive mindsets of Nazism, Christo ran from Bulgaria and pursued dreams of hope and creative expressions of freedom. Intensely imaginative, Christo allowed memories of demeaning governments to inform and fuel an expansive way of thinking and giving. He would create dramatic, larger-than-life art installations so the world could experience, even for brief ...

The Caldecott Honor-winning true story of Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, who in the midst of the Syrian Civil War courageously offered safe haven to Aleppo's abandoned cats. Aleppo's city center no longer echoes with the rich, exciting sounds of copper-pot pounding and traditional sword sharpening. His neighborhood is empty--except for the many cats left behind. Alaa loves Aleppo, but when war comes his ...

Gorgeous illustrations and charming text equally tell this story of courage and bravery, large and confident traits for a little owl who is neither. But knight school arms Owl with skills that put him in good stead when an imposing character tests his mettle one night while Owl's on duty. An absolute delight.

A perfect introduction to causes and effects in a most humorous way. Dog is full of energy and ideas, so when one request is granted, he gets an idea for another, which of course leads to another. Sparse text enable processing of humorous actions and anticipating what Dog might do next. A perfect read aloud.

Strong character and perspective lead readers to the heart of this story. A young boy follows his older sister obediently, but the reader understands his thoughts as they intersperse the text -- self-doubt and low confidence. Althought he walks in his sister's shadow, he challenges himself to overcome a few obstacles and act in ways usually reserved by those older and wiser. This is a unnique, mea ...

True events at the US border become the basis for this thoughtfully told narrative. Readers grow in understand with the young protagonist who doesn't fully comprehend the situation, yet the kindness of a stranger speaks clearer than all else. So much so that young Naomi learns the beauty of kindness and wears it herself. A poignant telling of a border crossing that is no longer open.

This autobiographical retelling leads readers through a dubtle maze of emotions and gradual understandings as parents endeavor to help Kalia understand the bigness of the world is not contained within fenced walls. Courage, hope, and optimism underlie a heavy theme of captivity and diminishment.

A tender rendering of how a grandchild learns to value the life and experiences her grandmothers share with her, though they differ widely. Cross-cultural expectations may vary in practice, but so many aspects of life they share in common and young Nina adapts quickly. A strong comparison book with a similarly strong theme of love woven throughout.

Zulay enjoys her friendships, but the challenge of having to learn to walk with a cane seems insurmountable. However, she has dreams of running a race, and it may take courage and hard work to face her greatest challenge yet. The unique challenges blindness present are shown in a thoughtful, age-appropriate way that resounds with help and hope.

A gentle story that begins with a miserable brother and sister longing for their lost dog. They decide a game of hide and seek might be the best distraction, until Poppy cannot find Cy. As fear creeps in, a familiar canine friend comforts all. A simple, beautifully illustrated tale.

When Mr. Tiger becomes disillusioned by his current circumstances, he strikes out and soon discovers freedom and a greater sense of himself. But pleasure is sometimes fleeting when it comes at the expense of lost community. So, Mr. Tiger sets out again. Little did he know his bold decision had inspired others. Heartwarming and humorous.

What does it take to think a little more broadly, a little different from an ordinary pattern of thinking? Especially when it comes to community? Gentle, cute characters deliver a powerful message when perspectives are challenged and changing beliefs embolden meaningful action.

What does it take for us to understand that deep sorrow, regret, and brokenness are consequences of entitlement? This coming of age illustrated story pits bravery and courage against bullying and entitlement. And when truth comes to light, regret is a powerful teacher. Gently told with powerful impact that may challenge unjust patterns of behavior.

How will you know what's possible if you don't try? This is a story for anyone who has ever felt like a beginner, or had doubts, or worried they weren't good enough. It's a story for those who have experienced the pain of trying something new and not having it turn out as they had hoped. Written by New York Times best-selling author Kobi Yamada, this captivating book celebrates the way failure is ...

Generosity of spirit colors conquers all else in dire times. Moral beauty abounds in Mama's thinking as she selflessly transforms a gift for those less fortunate that costs far more than money. Her son, feeling a similar generosity but limited by understanding, blossoms by following in his mother's footsteps. Heartwarming, soul-searching, restoring.

A migrating swallow and a migrant girl cross paths while looking for a place to call home. A bird so small that it fits in your hand flies halfway around the world looking for a place to nest, while a young girl from northern Africa flees halfway around the world looking for safety. This is the story of Bird. This is the story of Leila. This is the story of a chance encounter and a long journey ho ...