Kids Book Index
Leigh Bardugo, illustrated by John Picacio
On Día de Muertos, Cala is grieving her grandfather’s death when she encounters a magical parade and mysterious riders. Her journey brings her from sadness toward accepting that death is part of life. Family memories, love, and courage shape this picture-book story, whose illustrations move from a monochrome emotional landscape into bright jewel tones.
This book appears on 3 reading lists across 2 editions from 3 organizations.
Harriet Tubman, Force of Nature: A Biography in PoemsCaroline Brewer, illustrated by Caroline BrewerThirty rhythmic poems and mixed-media collage tell of Harriet Tubman’s life. The book presents her as a person born enslaved in Dorchester County, Maryland, who became a freedom fighter, Union Army spy, and nurse. It also explores her leadership, spirituality, and connection to the natural world, including her use of stars and woods to find her way. Back matter accompanies the biographical poems and collages.Nine to TwelveOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
Gabby Torres Gets a Billion Followers: A Graphic NovelAngela DominguezFourth-grader Gabby wants to create a social-media profile for her club, despite her parents’ warnings about being online. When someone leaves a cruel comment on one of the posts, Gabby becomes consumed with figuring out who the anonymous commenter might be. Her effort to promote the club turns into a struggle with online cruelty and the consequences of trying to handle the problem on her own.Grades 3–5Lexile Text Measure 490LATOS Book Level 3.5On the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details
The Jade BraceletHà Dinh, illustrated by Yong Ling KangTien has recently arrived as an immigrant and wears a plain jade bracelet her mother gave her in remembrance of her grandmother. At school, she feels embarrassed when other girls display new, sparkly bracelets, and she tries to conceal hers. Although she wants to blend in with her classmates, Tien remembers her grandmother’s love and chooses to wear the jade bracelet with pride. The bracelet connects her with Vietnamese family traditions and heritage.Five to NineOn the same reading list for the same age or grade groupView book details