Each spring the South Carolina Association of School Librarians announces lists of the best books for grades K-12.
There are four lists total, each consisting of 20 books that are recommended for picture books, children’s books, junior books, and young adult books. Personally, I love when the lists are announced because I get a jumpstart on reading as many as I can. Since I’ve pretty much always worked in libraries, it’s also professionally helpful because these lists contain titles we can recommend to parents when they are struggling to find books their kids want to read.
Today, I’ll be sharing the five children’s book titles I’m most excited to read. These books are great for 3rd through 5th grades or anyone who loves reading elementary chapter books.
When Stars Are Scattered
by Victoria Jamieson & Omar Mohamed
I’m a sucker for a good graphic novel, especially one for kids. Jamieson has written several that I love including Roller Girl, so when I saw this title, I knew it had to be one I got my hands on. Heartbreak and hope coexist in this inspiring story of a boy who will go to any length to help his younger brother. The story that Jamieson tells is based on actual events in Mohamed’s life, which make this story even more special.
Song for a Whale
by Lynne Kelly
This book tells the story of a deaf girl who bonds with a whale who can’t be heard by those like him. She is the only deaf person at her school, so she often feels like she’s not listened to and she wants to find a way to make her new whale friend heard. This seems like an inspiring story that will breathe a little bit of hope and light into the reader.
More to the Story
by Hena Khan
This book has the makings of a classic children’s book. A sister story based on Little Women mixed with school journalism and a new friendship, makes this one a must read. Truly there is nothing better than a sweet elementary family story, and I can’t wait to curl up with this one on a rainy, spring afternoon.
Lety Out Loud
by Angela Cervantes
When Lety agrees to a competition with a fellow volunteer at the animal shelter, she’s nervous about anyone finding out. She wants to adopt her favorite dog at the shelter, but she also wants to win the competition. This title seems like a sweet, light read, perfect for any animal lover.
Strange Birds: A Field Guide to Ruffling Feathers
by Celia Perez
A misfit group of girls create their own troop to combat some outdated traditions inside the local Girl Scouts. They aren’t friends at all, but through their shared mission they realize how much they needed each other all along. This book sounds like the perfect combination of challenging and feel good, which is exactly my type of book.
What new books are you excited to read with your children this year?
