FROM SARAH:

Patricia Polacco’s heartfelt tribute to the teacher who helped her overcome dyslexia eminds us of the life-changing power of a good teacher and the courage it takes to keep going when something feels impossible.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Patricia Polacco is now one of America's most loved children's book creators, but once upon a time, she was a little girl named Trisha. Trisha could paint and draw beautifully, but when she looked at words on a page, all she could see was jumble. It took a very special teacher to recognize what was happening. The classic (and true!) story of a dyslexic girl and the teacher who would not let her fail.

FROM SARAH:

This inspiring true story shows how a love of reading can change the world. I love how it highlights the power of perseverance—reminding us that the stories we read shape the way we see history and ourselves.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Carter G. Woodson was born to two formerly enslaved people ten years after the end of the Civil War. Though his father could not read, he believed in being an informed citizen. So Carter read the newspaper to him every day. When he was still a teenager, Carter went to work in the coal mines.

FROM SARAH:

This picture book biography of Malala Yousafzai captures her courage and unwavering belief in the power of education. Deeply inspiring with lovely illustrations.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

The inspiring true story of Malala Yousafzai, human rights activist and the youngest ever winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, from debut author/illustrator Lina Maslo.

FROM SARAH:

Omu's delicious stew brings everyone in the story together in this award-winning picture book. I enjoy it any time of year, especially on a soup-making kind of day.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

Everyone in the neighborhood dreams of a taste of Omu's delicious stew! One by one, they follow their noses toward the scrumptious scent. And one by one, Omu offers a portion of her meal. Soon the pot is empty. Has she been so generous that she has nothing left for herself?

FROM SARAH:

Frederick Douglass’s journey from slavery to freedom is brought to life in this compelling picture book. I especially love how it highlights the transformative power of reading and writing—how words, quite literally, set him free.

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

This picture book biography chronicles the youth of Frederick Douglass, one of the most prominent African American figures in American history. Douglass spent his life advocating for the equality of all, and it was through reading that he was able to stand up for himself and others. Award-winning husband-wife team Lesa Cline-Ransome and James E. Ransome present a moving and captivating look at the young life of the inspirational man who said, “I would unite with anybody to do right and with nobody to do wrong.”

FROM SARAH:

Hudson Talbott’s personal story of learning to read slowly—and at his own pace—offers such a powerful message: that words are a journey, not a race. I love this book!

FROM THE PUBLISHER:

When Hudson Talbott was a little boy, he loved drawing, and it came naturally to him. But reading? No way! Fortunately, his love of stories wouldn't let him give up. Learning to accept the fact that everyone does things in their own unique way freed him up and ultimately helped Hudson thrive and become the fabulous storyteller he is today.