Shape hearts and inspire action with these read-aloud picks for elementary kids. Perfect for sparking meaningful conversations, whether you're starting a book club at home, reading together as a class, or simply looking to connect over a great story.
Books can help children become more empathetic to those who may be different from them and answer questions they may have about those with disabilities. Children who themselves have disabilities may find themselves represented in this evolving book list.
Don't let tired stereotypes and holiday greed overshadow your family’s Thanksgiving. Explore this growing list of picture books with your children, and take time to deepen your holiday experience.
Learn from stories of music, one picture book or podcast episode at a time.
From heartwarming tales of kind hearts to difficult stories that highlight real roles dads take in our lives, each book offers a unique glimpse into the special bond between dads and their kids. Ideal for shared reading time, these books will not only entertain but also inspire and strengthen familial connections. Perfect for showing appreciation for the dads in your life, these selections promise to make this Father's Day memorable.
Research tells us that children who understand emotions and feelings are more likely to act kindly toward others. Encourage this by reading these amazing picture books and completing the unique workbooks listed below.
When I See Red by Britta Teckentrup
Beautiful, abstract illustrations and words evoke the feeling of moving through anger back into calm. A great reminder that the big emotions taking us can feel so big but don’t last forever.
The Feelings Book by Todd Parr
These simple, colorful illustrations of basic emotions will have your child exploring nuanced feelings through mimicry.
Glad Monster, Sad Monster: A Book About Feelings by Ed Emberly
Let Ed Emberly's brightly illustrated monsters help your young child explore strong emotions. You'll enjoy the cut-out masks that allow your child to "try on" different emotions.
I Can Handle It! by Laurie Wright
Kids have BIG feelings, and some kids struggle with even bigger feelings that can lead to anxiety and depression. Sebastien will help kids handle their every day struggles with realistic and sometimes funny suggestions on how to solve life’s problems.
In My heart: A Book of Feelings by Jo Witek
This book is the perfect introduction to a the big feelings we all experience. It is beautiful, lively, and fun to read aloud again and again.
My Many Colored Days by Dr. Seuss
This book describes the moods of our days in true Dr. Seuss fashion – silly, simple and imaginative.
Munchy and Jumpy Tales by Noah Teitelbaum
This book is a unique tool to help kids recognize the importance of paying attention, taking deep breathes, and doing their best to recognize their own emotions. Written by the director of EmpoweringEducation.org, this one-of-a-kind book is designed to be read-aloud and discussed. In fact, discussion questions and prompts are sprinkled throughout the four stories in this volume. Young readers will love following Munchy and Jumpy on their “double days,” or mindful repeats of days gone bad.
Today I Feel Silly: And Other Moods that Make My Day by Jamie Lee Curtis
Like Dr. Seuss's My Many Colored Days, this story is as enjoyable to read as it is emotionally enlightening.
There Are No Animals in This Book (Only Feelings) by Chani Sanchez
Remarkable contemporary artwork is paired with charming, highly-re-readable language to create a one-of-a-kind gem of a book.
Understanding Myself: A Kid's Guide to Intense Emotions and Strong Feelings by Mary C. Lamia
The stories, quizzes, and fact boxes in this book help older kids understand and develop coping skills for strong emotions.
Crabby Pants by Julie Gassman
This hilarious story will have young readers laughing out loud even as they discover how shallow, fleeting, and silly crabbiness can be.
Curious George (assorted titles) by Margret and H. A. Ray
George's adventures inevitably lead to a bit of trouble. These classic stories provide the perfect opportunity to discuss why adults sometimes get angry - often because we worry about the safety of our children when they break important rules.
The Grumpy Goat by Brett Helquist
Grumpy Goat has a difficult time making friends at the new farm. But his somehow, he learns to stop and smell the flowers.
Harriet, You'll Drive Me Wild by Mem Fox
Children and parents alike will recognize themselves is Mem Fox's classic story. The well-meaning but accident-prone child. The parent straining to be remain calm. The all-too-human boiling point. And the loving conclusion that provides an elegant reminder: even when family members are angry or embarrassed or sorry, we still love each other.
Sometimes I'm a Bombaloo by Rachel Vail
Let's be honest, tantrums sometimes happen. This book offers smart, funny insight into what happens when one child becomes – as she puts it – a bombaloo.
What to Do When Your Temper Flares: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Anger by Dawn Heubner
This creative workbook teaches children and their parents practical tools for managing, redirecting, and diffusing strong feelings of anger.
Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts
Have you ever longed for the latest trend? Have you ever been told they are too expensive. This story will help families discuss the difference between want and need. Plus this powerful story of friendship and family is sure to inspire compassion.
Percy and Tum Tum: A Tale of Two Dogs by Jen Hill
When the new dog moves to town, launches new trends, and enchants the neighborhood, Percy can't help but feel jealous. The colorful illustrations and clever humor are sure to make this story a family classic.
Red Cat, Blue Cat by Jenni Desmond
This vibrant, funny, simple story gently teaches the trouble caused by jealousy and the joys of self-acceptance and friendship.
Yertle the Turtle and Other Stories by Dr. Seuss
The second story in this classic collection features Gertrude McFuzz, of Seussical the Musical fame. Gertrude desperately wants a glamorous tail, bigger even than La-La Lee Lou. Though she goes through great lengths to enhance her own tail, in the end she comes to appreciate her own.
The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld
This lovely book helps young readers think about where they can turn when they are feeling sad, and what they can do when they have a sad friend or family member.
A Flicker of Hope by Julia Cook
This creative story from the best-selling author of My Mouth is a Volcano!, reminds children that dark clouds can be temporary and asking for help is always okay. We all have times when we need to borrow a little hope from someone else.
Lilly's Purple Plastic Purse by Keven Henkes
The clever author of Chrysanthemum and other childhood classics gives children a dose of calming perspective: "Today was a hard day. Tomorrow will be better."
Little Mouse's Big Book of Fears by Emily Gravett
Using humor, multi-media design, and grandiose language, this little book does an elegant job of encouraging young readers to face their fears through storytelling and journaling.
"The Old Woman Who Was Not Afraid" from Grandmother Stories: Wise Woman Stories from Around the World by Burleigh Muten
The story, tucked inside a beautiful anthology of "wise woman" fairy tales, gives children a mantra: "I will not be afraid. I will think of something." Though her tale is somewhat frightening, her bravery and self-reliance will inspire readers of every age.
The Rhino Who Swallowed a Storm by LaVar Burton and Susan Schaefer Bernardo
This tale within a tale helps children - especially children who have experienced a traumatic storm or loss - cope with big fears. The rhyming verse and engaging illustrations draws readers right into rhinos world, where a storm has upended his home. The description of the Rhino's inner turmoil after "swallowing the storm" is recognizable to every child who has experienced fear and worry. In the end, focusing on the helpers and on hope helps the rhino release his storm.
Ruby Finds a Worry by Tom Percival
Join Ruby as she watches her small, nagging worry grow into a big, hulking worry monster. How do you get rid of a worry? This book will help even the youngest readers learn the answer.
Pilar’s Worries by Victoria Sanchez
Pilar loves to dance. But the prospect of upcoming tryouts fills her with fear. Thankfully, she’s learned some helpful coping strategies that help her stand up to her worries and put her ballet skills on full display.
Small Things by Mel Tregonning
This powerful graphic picture book helps us all recognize and overcome the little everyday worries that can sap our energy and rob us of happiness. When a young boy is overcome by his inner demons, he beings to do poorly in school, lashes out at his family, and feels utterly alone. Discussion opportunities arise naturally throughout the story, especially as the boy discovers that people everywhere cope with various worries, and that help is never far away.
The Scariest Thing of All by by Debi Gliori
Little Pip the rabbit keeps a list of the things he's afraid of, and that list is unbelievably long. When he gets lost in the woods, Pip must confront the scariest thing of all, and he finds an inner fierceness he never knew he had.
What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid's Guide to Overcoming Anxiety by Dawn Hueber.
Techniques, examples and activities to get kids thinking about how to handle their worrying.
Wemberly Worried by Kevin Henkes
The clever author of Chrysanthemum and other childhood classics brings his talent to the challenging issue of childhood anxiety over the first days of school.
Wilma Jean the Worry Machine by Juila Cook
This humorous book offers practical tools for helping children understand the source of anxiety and how to cope with it.
An Angel for Solomon Singer by Cynthia Rylant
Lonely Solomon wanders into "The Westway Cafe - Where All Your Dreams Come True" and finds himself sharing his wishes, along with his orders, with the waitress - Angel.
The Invisible Boy by Tracy Ludwig
This charming story will inspire every reader who has ever felt invisible (hint: that's everyone at some time or another!).
The Gardener by Sarah Stewart
Moving to a new city can be a lonely experience, but Lydia hasn't come alone. She's packed a suitcase full of garden seeds and enough grit to make the best of a tough transition.
The Old Woman Who Named Things by Cynthia Rylant
She names her car, her house, her big, comfy chair, but she will not name the shy, brown puppy that visits her front gate each day. This beautiful tale gives us insight into how lonely aging friends and family members might feel, and it just might inspire your family to reach out to a senior in your life.
The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton
This story about a sweet country cottage consumed by the big city is surprisingly good at conveying loneliness and nostalgia. This is a heart-warming classic you won't want to miss.
After the Fall: How Humpty Dumpty Got Back Up Again by Dan Santat
This charming story will captivate your whole family, even as it soothes anxieties and reminds us all that we have the ability to overcome whatever obstacles we face.
The Curious Garden by Peter Brown
This incredible, modern fable features a young hero named Liam who is just curious and adventurous enough to change the world.
Catching the Moon: The Story of a Young Girl’s Baseball Dream by Crystal Hubbard
Get inspired by the true story of Marcenia Lyle, an African American girl who grew up to become "Toni Stone," the first woman to play for a professional baseball team.
Flight School by Lita Judge
A young penguin believes he has "the soul of an eagle," but he's having trouble getting off the ground. His plucky perseverance, and a little help make his dreams a reality.
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
What does it take to overcome your fear, take the leap toward your goal? Jabari’s sweet story encourages young readers to dig deep for their courage. And parents will love the gentle example of patience and encouragement offered by Jabari’s father.
Growing up with a Bucket Full of Happiness: Three Rules for a Happier Life by Carol McCloud
From the brilliant author of Have You Filled a Bucket Today, this book takes the bucket-filling concept one step further. Did you know your bucket has a lid? And you can use your lid to protect yourself from bucket dippers, to preserve your reservoir of good thoughts and feelings, and to nurture your own resilience?
The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires
Have you ever set out to make something magnificent? Have you ever had a vision, but wondered how to make it a reality? Have you ever been so frustrated by a project that - vision or no vision - you decided to quit right then and there? This charming book may help you look at your project from a whole new angle.
Papa's Mechanical Fish by Candice Flemming
An avid but imperfect inventor is in search of a great idea. Who could have guessed that a family fishing trip and his inquisitive daughter would give him just the inspiration he needs.
Why is it helpful to recognize and talk about our feelings?
How can talking about feelings help us be more understanding of others?
Can you tell about a time when you’ve felt surprised, happy, angry, nervous, etc.?
Make a list of the emotions each family member experienced throughout the day, along with the events that accompanied them. Discuss what you have learned from your list.
How do you think you would feel if [a character's experience or a classmate's experience] happened to you?
What helps you calm down when you are experiencing strong emotions? Put together a "calm down box" by filling a shoe box with a few things that make you feel better (a special book, a small stuffed animal, your favorite figurine etc).
Disclaimer: Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.
Serious or sudden illness can be a scary issue to deal with at any age. Yet caring for and reaching out to those who are sick is an essential lesson in compassion, even for very young children. Whether you are caring for a loved one or volunteering to provide comfort, this collection of picture books will help your whole family get started.
Whether they are playful or introspective, poems offers a unique perspective on the world around us. Challenge kids - and yourself - to discover poetry that speaks to you. Then share it with others in magic mail designed to spread cheer and comfort.
What is poetry?
After reading a book of poetry, which poem was your favorite? Why?
Which poem did you find confusing? Let's see if we can make sense of it together.
Look for a poem that evokes a strong emotion in your child. Notice together how simple words in a relatively short poem can have such a strong impact.
Together find a poem you would enjoy sharing with someone who could use some comfort. Create a greeting card featuring this poem and share it.
Dictionary for a Better World: Poems, Quotes, and Anecdotes from A to Z by Irene Latham and Charles Waters
This collection of poetry overflows with opportunities to launch big-hearted conversations. Beginning with Acceptance and Ally and moving through the alphabet to conclude with Xenial and Zest, each entry in this unique dictionary features a poem, a short note on the poetic device used, a relevant quote, a thoughtful anecdote from one of the authors, and an invitation to TRY IT - or put each idea to work in your family’s life. This book is one to savor!
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: The Poetry of Mister Rogers by Fred Rogers and Luke Flowers
This compilation features 75 songs from the beloved television re-envisioned as poetry. Heart-warming and hilarious, these poems are imbued with the kind, earnest essence that we love so well.
A Light in the Attic and essentially everything written by Shel Silverstein
Nothing else compares to the always silly, sometimes icky, and often deeper-than-they-appear poems by the incomparable Shel Silverstein.
All the Wild Wonders by Wendy Cooling
This collection of poetry features poets all around the world. It's designed to help students think critically about issues facing the environment and to encourage them to work toward a brighter future.
A Poke in the I, A Kick in the Head, and A Foot in the Mouth, all by Paul B. Jeneczko
All three of these books explore poetry in unique ways. Even better, they subtlety call attention to important social issues or big-hearted ideas that are sure to spark creative conversations with your family.
Feathers by Eileen Spinelli
This collection is as lyrical and charming as its subject matter. Explore the bird world with creative, funny, and beautiful poems that just might inspire your to burst into song!
Food Fight: Poets Join the Fight Against Hunger with Poems to Favorite Food edited and illustrated by Michael J. Rosen
Thirty-three children’s poets contribute to the fight against hunger by penning poems about food. Read odes to pies, pizzas, and matzo ball soup.
If Not for the Cat by Jack Prelutsky
This haiku collection is one part calming meditation, one part poetic gymnastics. This is a family favorite for our blogger!
Joyful Noise: Poems for Two Voices by Joel Fleishman and Eric Beddows
This award-winning collection is especially fun with a proud new reader. Celebrate the boisterous cacophony of the natural world through poetry together.
Lend a Hand: Poems About Giving by John Frank
So much good is captured in the pages of this book. Kind acts of children are captured in the thoughtful, observant way only poetry can accomplish.
Mirror, Mirror: A Book of Reverso Poems by Marilyn Singer
Fairy tale scenes are re-imagined from two perspectives with a unique technique that you'll have to read to believe.
Old Elm Speaks: Tree Poems by Kristine O'Connell George
This inspiring collection of tree poems is one part meditation and one part playful exploration of our stately neighbors.
Peace is an Offering by Annette LeBox
A group of neighborhood kids discover peace in the beautiful world around them. This poetic book will open your eyes to the world around you.
The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein
Yes, Silverstein is such a giant in children's poetry, he deserves at least two shout outs. This classic tale doubles as a poem, perfect for igniting big conversations about selflessness versus selfishness, feelings, phases of life, and what makes us feel content.
The Tree that Time Built: A Celebration of Nature, Science, and Imagination (A Poetry Speaks Experience) by Linda Winston, Mary Ann Hoberman, and Barbara Fortin.
This anthology of nature inspired poems is sure to inspire and engage your child with the outdoors in unexpected ways.
Winter Bees & Other Poems of the Cold by Joyce Sidman
Take a poetic romp through the snow as you discover how creatures cope with the cold. This sweet celebration of nature is sure to inspire future environmentalists.
Disclaimer: Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.
Add heart to this spooky holiday! What child doesn't love the imaginative aspects of Halloween, a celebration of candy and costumes? Of course, this holiday lends itself to some difficult conversations, when young children observe costumes, advertisements, and television previews that may be beyond their emotional readiness. Some are just downright yucky. These books will help your child navigate this tricky season.
Bibliophiles - or book worms - of every age will be delighted by these creative stories. They explore reading as a superpower, reading as magic, and reading as a grand adventure. Then use our discussion questions to make the most of story time.
What is a bibliophile?
What do you love most about reading?
Can you name a favorite book or two? A favorite character or two?
How could you persuade someone who doesn't love to read to try your favorite book?
Do you like to visit the public library?
Do you think it's important to make books available, for free, to everyone? Why or why not
A Velocity of Being: Letters to a Young Reader edited by Maria Papova and Claudia Bedrick
Perfect for book lovers ages 10 and up, this collection of deliciously inspiring essays features writers from Neil Gaiman and Jane Goodall to Rebecca Solnit and Regina Specktor.
For everyone who has ever fallen in love with a book, this is a gift-worthy treasure.
Lyric McKerrigan, Secret Librarian by Jacob Sager Weinstein and Vera Brosgol
This super fun comic-book-style adventure is sure to captivate every reader. This secret librarian is on a pun-filled mission to stop evil Dr. Glockenspiel from destroying the world’s books.
The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth, and Harlem’s Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson
The story of the origins of Harlem’s National Memorial African Bookstore, a cultural epicenter for activists and black culture, is sure to captivate your young book lover.
The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore by William Joyce
This whimsical, reality-bending book is full of food for thought. It even inspired an Academy Award-winning short film.
I Will Not Read This Book by Cece Meng
By the end of this hilarious read-aloud, even reluctant readers — like the boy in the story — will be happy snuggle in for story time.
Aunt Chip and the Great Triple Creek Dam Affair by Patricia Polacco
If you are looking for an adventure story celebrating books and reading, this is the one. Master story-teller Palocco introduces us to Aunt Chip and her quest to unplug a generation of tech-crazy kids in a tale that will stick with readers long after the last page.
A Quiet Place by Douglas Wood
This beautiful book empowers children to discover the quiet places that feed their spirits, including the many adventures that await between the covers of a good book.
Library Lil by Suzanne Williams
Can a librarian take on a motorcycle gang to protect her precious books? Find out in this exceptional tall tale!
The Right Word: Roget and His Thesaurus by Jen Bryant and Melissa Sweet
For every shy child who delights in books and new words, the true story Peter Mark Roget and the world’s first thesaurus is sure to be inspiring.
Disclaimer: Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.
With so many news stories about immigration making headlines, your children may be asking questions about the families and children facing these difficult situations.
It can be hard to know what to say.
While it's important to protect our kids from traumatizing images and information, we can approach our children’s questions in a way that encourages empathy for those who are struggling. These children's books will help you build understanding and encourage compassion.
Don’t forget to check out our collection of chapter books about immigrants and refugees for even more stories to broaden your perspective.
Download this incredible (and free) tool to talk about immigration, including books, videos, and conversation starters for elementary, middle school, and high school kids.
What would it be like to be forced to leave home suddenly? What would you pack if you had just a little time? What would you miss?
What could help make a refugee feel more comfortable and less scared in their new home?
With older children, explain what "refugee" means -- someone who is forced to flee their home because they fear they will lose their lives or freedom if they stay.
Together, imagine arriving in a new country without knowing the language or customs. Help your child "walk in the shoes" of a refugee child by asking:
What would it be like to have to leave home suddenly?
What would you pack if you had just a little time? (Many refugees leave their homes with little warning and cannot even bring basic necessities.)
What would you miss?
How would you feel?
What could help make a refugee feel more comfortable and less scared in their new home?
Always reassure children that they are safe, and focus on positive ways to make a difference rather than on despair.
Light for All by Margarita Engle
Simple but powerful text and illustrations introduce children to the concept of immigration and the symbolism of the Statue of Liberty. Ages 5 - 10.
A Different Pond by Bao Phi
This beautiful story illuminates the struggle working class immigrants face while trying to make ends meet for their families. The fishing trip at the heart of this story is described in beautiful detail, both the universally recognizable moments of childhood, like grimacing at the slimy feeling of your freshly caught fish, and the unique worries and triumphs of this father and his son.
Brothers in Hope: The Story of the Lost Boys of Sudan by Mary Williams
Based on true events, this touching tale follows orphaned boys walking from their war-ravaged village to a refugee camp. Ages 7 and up.
Calling the Water Drum by LaTisha Redding
After losing his parents in a tragic attempt to reach the United States from Haiti, Henri has retreated within himself. His uncle and a neighbor help Henri connect with his past by connecting to the beat of his own drum.
The Color of Home by Mary Hoffman
The story of a recent immigrant from Somalia and his first day in an American school. The amazing watercolors help tell of this little boy's fears and hopes. Ages 4 and up.
Dia’s Story Cloth: The Hmong People’s Journey of Freedom by Dia Cha
The story cloth, Southeast Asian folk art, provides a beautiful backdrop for this sweet story. Ages 6 to 11.
Dreamers by Yuyi Morales
The author shares her own immigration story in this beautifully illustrated book. Gently told and lyrical, this story focuses on the intangible things immigrants carry with them, hope and strength, resilience, and powerful stories.
Four Feet, Two Sandals by Karen Lynn Williams
Two girls in a Pakistani refugee camp decide to share a pair of sandals given to them by a relief worker. A simple story of friendship. Ages 6 and up.
Global Conflict (Children in Our World) by Louise Spilsbury ad Hanane Kai
When international conflicts saturate the headlines, children may have complicated questions. This well-crafted book is designed to help you answer questions about global conflict in a straightforward way.
Hear My Voice: The Testimonies of Children Detained at the Southern Border of the United States compiled by Warren Binford for Project Amplify
This is not an easy book to read, but it is richly drawn by many contributing illustrators and gives voice to real children living through an experience that we all should be working to change. Reflection tools at the back of the book will help readers ages 8 and up and their families reflect and take action.
How many days to America? A Thanksgiving Story by Eve Bunting
A family is forced to flee their Caribbean island and set sail for America in a small fishing boat. They arrive on Thanksgiving Day, having experienced fears and hardships very similar to those faced by those who celebrated the first Thanksgiving. This is a very moving story sure to open a conversation about compassion and courage. Ages 4 to 7.
Joseph's Big Ride by Terry Farish
Follow Joseph, a new refugee, on his mission to learn to ride a bike. Ages 4 to 7.
The Journey by Francesca Sanna
Explore the impossible decisions people must make when leaving their homes behind. Ages 3-7.
Leaving Vietnam: The Journey of Tuan Ngo, a Boat Boy by Sarah S. Kilborne
Join Tuan Ngo and his father as they escape Vietnam by boat, spend time in a refugee camp and ultimately arrive in the United States. Ages 6 and up.
Mama’s Nightingale: A Story of Immigration and Separation by Edwidge Danticat
Mama records bedtime stories for Saya to help her cope while Mama is in an immigration detention center. Ages 5 and up.
Me + Tree by Alexandria Giardina and Anna & Elna Balbusso
A lonely girl finds comfort in a stump. She knows it has a story to tell and shares her story of being forced from her home. An inspiring story of hope and connection with nature.
My Diary from Here to There by Amada Irma Perez
Join author Amada Irma Perez as she journals about her experience leaving Mexico with her family to live in the United States. Children will be able to put themselves in her shoes as she wonders what awaits her.
My Name is Sangoel by Karen Williams
Join this Sudanese refugee on as he attempts to find belonging in the new, noisy world of the United States. Ages 6 to 10.
My Two Border Towns by David Bowles Illustrated by Erika Meza
This story follows a boy and his father, living at the Southern U.S. border who travel across the border to a town that he feels mirrors his hometown. The dad and son’s kindness awakens an appreciation for the humanity of those waiting at the border.
Oskar and the Eight Blessings by Tanya Simon
Set in 1938, Oskar is a Jewish immigrant new to the U.S. Follow him as he walks through New York City experiencing small acts of kindness, making him feel welcome in his new home. Ages 4 to 8.
Stepping stones. A Refugee Family's Journey by Margaret Ruurs
This story about the Syrian refugee crisis began when Rurrs, a Canadian children's author, encountered the breathtaking stone art of Syrian artist Nizar Bdr. This dual language book is warm and beautiful in spite of its harsh subject matter. Ages 4 and up.
Teacup by Rebecca Young
The beautiful allegory is sure to become a family treasure, and it will speak to the difficult journeys that we all must face. Ages 4 to 8.
The Journey That Saved Curious George: The True Wartime Escape of Margret and H.A. Rey by Louise Borden
This remarkable story is perfect for literature buffs of any age. Ages 7 and up.
The Lotus Seed by Sherry Garland
A simple but eloquent story of a young Vietnamese girl who brings a lotus seed with her to America as a way to remember her homeland. Ages 6-9.
Watercress by Andrea Wang
This beautiful new book will encourage conversation about the long-term impacts hunger and poverty can leave on a family. Kids will recognize the narrator’s embarrassment when her parents stop along the road and insist the whole family help gather watercress. When she discovers the significance of watercress to her parents’ personal stories and their Chinese heritage, readers will join her in wanting to build new memories out of the old.
We at Doing Good Together are committed to expanding this list over time, and look forward to hearing your recommendations in the comments.
Or check out these projects to inspire your next act of kindness.
Making time and space to read together is the simplest, most effective way to nurture compassion.
A good book invites you to see the world from another point of view, which is key to strengthening your whole family's empathy muscles. You can deepen this impact by asking a question or two after each story. If you follow your children's lead and encourage them to think deeply - at every age - about the world in your story, a beautiful thing will happen.
You'll find almost any book will start a big-hearted, empathy-building conversation.
Some days, this may lead to a super-silly “what if” conversation. Other days, you may find yourself answering big questions about hunger or hurt or loneliness.
Encourage this reflection. Follow their lead. And enjoy these thoughtful, mindful family moments.
“Make it a habit to ask a question or two after every story time. If you follow your child’s lead and encourage them to think deeply - at every age - about the world in your story, a beautiful thing will happen. You’ll find almost any book will start a big-hearted, empathy-building conversation. ”
Discover creative ways to welcome reading into your family’s everyday life here.
Did you enjoy this book? Why or why not?
What challenge was the main character facing? How would you have reacted in that situation?
How did the main character(s) feel at key moments throughout the book? How would you have felt at each of those moments?
What do you think about how the main character faced the main conflict? What else could he or she have done?
Imagine how this story might be different if it were set in a different culture or time?
Do you know anyone in real life who reminds you of a character in this story? Who and in what way?
What would you change about this story if you were the author? Let's take a moment to imagine that story.
Does this story remind you of any other stories you've read? How are they the same? Which story did you enjoy more? Why?
The creative collection of well-known quotations, as interpreted by ever-groovy Pete the Cat, is delightful for every reader.
Ages 4 and up.
Disclaimer: Doing Good Together™ is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
The recommendations we offer are based solely on our mission to empower parents to raise children who care and contribute.
