Kids Book Index
Vashti Harrison
A young Black girl grows up with a big laugh, heart, and dreams. At first, being called “big” feels positive, but the word changes as people begin commenting on her body in hurtful and cruel ways. She comes to feel judged and unseen, then moves toward self-love and acceptance. The story explores the impact of language about body size and the girl’s changing view of herself.
This book appears on 4 reading lists across 2 editions from 4 organizations.
The Indestructible Tom Crean: Heroic Explorer of the AntarcticJennifer ThermesThis biography follows Tom Crean’s Antarctic expeditions in the early twentieth century. After joining the Royal Navy as a teenager, he sailed on the Discovery, whose crew spent two years trapped in ice. On Captain Scott’s Terra Nova expedition, Crean walked alone for help after an injured companion was sent back from the trek toward the pole. He later joined Shackleton’s Endurance expedition and traveled by small boat through severe seas before crossing glacial terrain to reach a whaling station.Nine to TwelveOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
Tomfoolery!: Randolph Caldecott and the Rambunctious Coming-of-Age of Children’s BooksMichelle MarkelThis picture-book biography traces Randolph Caldecott’s path from a childhood shaped by illness to work as a banker and, eventually, an artist. It follows an artist who pursued his own direction and challenged convention while helping shape lively picture books for children. Pen-and-watercolor illustrations incorporate Caldecott’s art alongside original scenes, including his interest in animals and action.Five to NineOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
In Every LifeMarla FrazeeThis reflective picture book considers experiences found across human lives, including love, loss, hope, joy, wonder, and mystery. Its words and wordless vignettes offer reasons for gratitude while showing different lives people live. The book was inspired by a call-and-response form of a Jewish baby-naming blessing, using that structure to hold both difficult and joyful parts of life together.All readersLexile Text Measure AD200LATOS Book Level 1.8On the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details