• What are Words, Really? by Alexi Lubomirski. District-wide, PK-12th Grade.

This book is a gentle reminder that words have power--the power to hurt or to heal, to make someone feel small or feel tall.  Reminds readers of the purpose and power of words and encourages children to choose them well--and use them wisely--to spread kindness, joy, and love.

• The Word Collector by Peter H. Reynolds. PK-4th Grade.

Jerome enjoys collecting and using words that he hears, reads, or sees, and then decides to share his collection with others. 

• Booked by Kwame Alexander. 5-8th Grade.

Nick is a wordsmith, thanks to his linguistics-professor father, but he would rather be shining on the soccer field. He's blindsided when his parents separate; things worsen at school, too, as he and best friend Coby are targeted by bullies. With engaging formatting, this novel in verse offers sports action combined with spot-on portrayals of middle-school life. 

• The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo. 7-12th Grade.

Xiomara pours her innermost self into poems and dreams of competing in poetry slams, a passion she's certain her conservative Dominican parents will never accept.  The free verse format gives Xiomara's coming-of-age story an undeniable pull, its emotionally charged bluntness reflecting her determination and strength.