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I Can Help

2021

by Reem Faruqi and Mikela Prevost

"When Ms. Underwood asks if anyone wants to help Kyle, Zahra always volunteers. She loves spending time with Kyle—he’s creative and generous, and he makes the funniest jokes at lunch. But when Zahra’s other classmates start teasing her for helping him, she starts making choices she regrets. I Can Help is a gentle, sensitive portrayal of reaching out, facing peer pressure, and learning from past mistakes. With thoughtful storytelling and poignant illustrations, this book will open discussions about choosing kindness in the classroom and beyond." -- publisher

Any Child Cross Group

Calvin

2021

by JR Ford, Vanessa Ford and Kayla Harren

"In this joyful and impactful picture book, a transgender boy prepares for the first day of school and introduces himself to his family and friends for the first time. Calvin has always been a boy, even if the world sees him as a girl. He knows who he is in his heart and in his mind but he hasn't yet told his family. Finally, he can wait no longer: "I'm not a girl," he tells his family. "I'm a boy--a boy in my heart and in my brain." Quick to support him, his loving family takes Calvin shopping for the swim trunks he's always wanted and back-to-school clothes and a new haircut that helps him look and feel like the boy he's always known himself to be. As the first day of school approaches, he's nervous and the "what-ifs" gather up inside him. But as his friends and teachers rally around him and he tells them his name, all his "what-ifs" begin to melt away. Inspired by the authors' own transgender child and accompanied by warm and triumphant illustrations, this authentic and personal text promotes kindness and empathy, offering a poignant and inclusive back-to-school message: all should feel safe, respected, and welcomed." -- publisher

Any Child

Lila Lou’s Little Library

2021

by Nikki Bergstresser and Sejung Kim

"Lila Lou loves to read, morning, noon and night. Books are everywhere in her house. Lila Lou has so many books, she makes forts out of them! But when her mom decides that Lila Lou has one too many books, will Lila Lou be forced to get rid of her cherished books? Find out how Lila Lou uses her creativity and activism to save her books and inspires a community. The best book for teaching the power of activism and perseverance. Lila Lou’s Little Library by Nikki Bergstresser carries key concepts of sharing, creativity and community supported by the many advocates of positive parenting solutions. It'll sit comfortably on your shelf alongside other books that focus on overcoming obstacles and creating community, like the work of Dan Santat (After the Fall) and Kristen Bell and Benjamin Hart (The World Needs More Purple People) This book comes with a free Reader’s Guide for children. The guide is available for free download from the publisher website. Lesson plans, activities and discussion questions to allow parents, teachers and caregivers to explore the topic further and deepen comprehension." -- publisher

Any Child

My Dog Romeo

2021

by Ziggy Marley and Ag Jatkowska

"Ziggy Marley's ode to his four-legged friend Romeo becomes a picture book that is sure to touch the hearts of dog lovers everywhere. "My Dog Romeo"--a single on More Family Time, the follow-up children's album to the GRAMMY Award-winning Family Time--is a playful and endearing tribute to Ziggy Marley's beloved pet dog Romeo. Opening with Romeo's barking, Marley sings of his great love and friendship with his four-legged friend. Now, with beautiful illustrations by Ag Jatkowska--illustrator of Marley's debut picture book, I Love You Too--My Dog Romeo becomes a vibrant picture book that follows a child and a dog throughout their days, sharing their love of music and play. The perfect accompaniment to Marley's charming children's album, My Dog Romeo is sure to be a hit among young, old, and, of course, our furry friends." -- publisher

Any Child

Libby Loves Science

2020

by Kimberly Derting and Joelle Murray

"Meet Libby! In this STEM-themed picture book from the creators of Cece Loves Science, Libby and her friends are put in charge of the science booth at their school fair. Features a glossary and four experiments to try at home. Libby loves science! In the companion to Cece Loves Science and Cece Loves Science and Adventure, Libby and her friends are put in charge of the science booth at the school fair. There’s only one problem. No one is visiting their booth! Does everyone think science is boring? Libby and her friends use teamwork, creativity, and just a bit of chemistry to turn things around and prove that science is for everyone. Libby Loves Science is perfect for aspiring scientists, classroom read-alouds, and fans of Andrea Beaty’s Ada Twist, Scientist." -- publisher

Any Child Cross Group

The Old Boat

by Jarrett Pumphrey and Jerome Pumphrey

"The creators of The Old Truck set sail with an old boat and an evocative, intricately crafted exploration of home and family. Off a small island, an old boat sets sail and a young boy finds home. Together, boy and boat ride the shifting tides, catching wants and wishes until fate calls for a sea change. Brothers and collaborators Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey’s newest picture book is a masterfully crafted celebration of the natural world and tribute to the families we make and the homes that we nurture." -- publisher

Any Child

Bird Boy

2021

by Matthew Burgess and Shahrzad Maydani

"Take flight in this heartwarming story about a boy who learns to be true to himself at school while following his love of nature. Nico was new, and nervous about going to school. Everyone knew what to do and where to go, but Nico felt a little lost. So, he did what he loved to do: Watched the insects Sat in the grass And most importantly... befriended the birds. Before he knew it, Nico was known as BIRD BOY. But Nico didn't mind. Soon, he made one friend, then two, as the other kids learned to appreciate Nico for who he was. Before long, Nico learned he could be completely, delighfully, himself. This dreamy story will encourage all readers to express who they are unapologetically." -- publisher

Any Child

Keesha’s Bright Idea

2008

by Eleanor May and Amy Wummer

"The popular Social Studies Connects series links history, geography, civics and economics to kids’ daily lives. Featuring stories with diverse characters who face situations young readers can relate to, these books support reading and social studies skills including researching, inferring, comparing, and communication. An activity to stimulate curiosity about the world is included in each book! Uh-oh. Eddie's little sister gets a "bright idea" just days before the Battle of the Bands. Now Eddie has to write a new song, practice with his band, and help Keesha save energy all at the same time. Can he do it? (Social Studies Topic: Environment/Saving Energy)" -- publisher

Any Child

Lola Sleeps Over

2021

by Anna McQuinn and Rosalind Beardshaw

"In the latest Lola Reads book, Lola has a new adventure with her cousin Hani: her very first sleepover! Lola has been to her cousin Hani's house many times, but she's never spent the night until now. With a well-stocked suitcase in tow, she and Daddy head to Hani's house. The two girls play, build, dress up, and try new things together before settling in for the night. After French toast breakfast the next morning, Daddy picks Lola up. It was the best sleepover ever. Maybe next time, Hani can stay at Lola's house! A reassuring read for children preparing for their own sleepover adventures." -- publisher

Any Child

Playdate

2019

by Maryann Macdonald and Rahele Jomepour Bell

"A picture book with minimal text and maximum impact, as portrayed through both the well-chosen words and the fun-filled, evocative illustrations. A perfect playdate, to read again and again. A picture book with minimal text and maximum impact, as portrayed through both the well-chosen words and the fun-filled, evocative illustrations." -- publisher

Any Child