Welcome back to Bookstr’s Three to Read Jr. series! In this edition, we will be taking a look at three remarkable young readers’ books that celebrate being ourselves and what makes us different. Each of these books caters to separate age ranges, starting with early readers, then elementary readers, and finally middle grade readers. With these selections, children of all ages can find a book perfect for them, allowing them to feel better represented. No child should ever feel left out because of who they are or where they live, so let us take a look at these spectacular featured stories!
EARLY READERS
We Share This Neighborhood: A Community Book by Dan Saks, Illustrated by Brooke Smart
SYNOPSIS:
Sharing the vital role of neighborhood communities in children’s lives, this heartfelt story will resonate with young readers as they learn to appreciate their surroundings and the people involved. Understanding the notions of empathy, compassion, and collective responsibility, Dan Saks introduces scenarios set in four different kinds of communities children grow up in, including suburban, urban, rural, and manufactured homes.
WHY:
This picture book is the perfect fit for teaching young readers about the different lives we live and what it means to be a part of a neighborhood community. Through the portrayal of different neighborhoods and lifestyles, children can explore the unique yet equally valuable experiences of others. As they move through the pages, they’ll celebrate the power of empathy, kindness, and togetherness, showing that no matter where we live, we all share the ability to support and care for one another!
ELEMENTARY READERS
We Can!: Make a Difference by Alexandra Strick, Illustrated by Steve Antony
SYNOPSIS:
This story will touch the hearts of many, as it was created by real children who sent messages of hope and encouraging suggestions to help make our world a better place! Can we all come together to make our world greener and kinder? Yes, we can! As you read through this adorable story with beautiful illustrations, you’ll join 15 children as they prepare to deliver a spectacular We Can! Festival. Filled with joy, activities, and kindness, Strick and Antony’s book wonderfully portrays the power of community and making a difference.
WHY:
This delightful read shares a powerful portrayal of community and the impact that young voices have in shaping our world. At a time when the world may feel divided, this book offers a refreshing perspective from real children, expressing unity, kindness, and environmental responsibility. The vibrant illustrations and uplifting messages make this an engaging read for elementary readers and all who are looking for a story that celebrates our uniqueness and encourages positive changes!
MIDDLE GRADE READERS
A Day at the Beach by Gary D. Schmidt and Ron Koertge
SYNOPSIS:
Following a diverse cast of young individuals whose lives intersect in unexpected and hilarious ways over a summer day, Schmidt and Koertge bring an insightful tale of tween conflicts and connections. The beach is a place full of life, where kids are everywhere and numerous chances occur to make new friends! Some parents relax, lost in a summer novel or taking a nap, while babies cry and girls laugh with their friends. As kites fly through the air, some kids dive into the waves, while others build sand castles on shore. Regardless of how you prefer to spend the sunny day, the beach is the perfect place to celebrate everything that happens in the present moment, without any thought of what will happen tomorrow or next week. Why can’t every day be spent at the beach?
WHY:
No matter how you live your life or what you have going on, everyone is at the beach for the same reason: to relax and have fun! Told by a group of kids spending a thrilling day at the beach, this hilarious middle grade novel teaches young readers the importance of family, friendship, and belonging. The beach is a safe space for children of all backgrounds to come together and coexist. As the story celebrates diversity in a joyful and relatable way, it reminds young readers that our differences make life more exciting and that we can all find belonging no matter how we choose to spend time.
That’s it for this week’s Three to Read Jr.! We hope you’ll join us in future installments to see more of our recommendations for young bookworms.
To read our other Three to Read articles, click here!
Browse these books and more reads handpicked by the Bookstr team on our Three to Read bookshelf on Bookshop!
