Written By: Jacqueline Woodson
Illustrated By: Rafael Lopez
Synopsis: "The Day You Begin" tells a short story told in poetry form explaining it is okay to act, play, or feel different. This book wants to help young readers find the courage to be strong and find their voice to know where they fit in. This picture book can help young elementary school readers prepare for the first day of school. Looking forward to what will happen whether it is the next day, next week, next month, or next year, will help children prepare of what to expect.
Resources:
https://socialjusticebooks.org/the-day-you-begin/
https://childrenslibrarylady.com/the-day-you-begin-by-jacqueline-woodson/
https://thekidshouldseethis.com/post/the-day-you-begin-read-by-author-jacqueline-woodson
Written By: Jacqueline Woods
Illustrated By: Rafael Lopez
Synopsis: "The Year We Learned To Fly" tells the story of a brother and sister listening to their grandmother about how to take a trip outside their minds. Learning something new everyday helps you become more open-minded to explore more about yourself. "The Year I Learned To Fly" is a meaning that you have accomplished a goal and you are ready for the real test. Elementary School Readers will love reading this book to give them a message on how practice makes perfect and continuing to work hard for a goal, each time you will get more successful.
Resources:
https://www.pushkin.fm/episode/jacqueline-woodson-the-year-we-learned-to-fly/
https://www.onlypicturebooks.com/2022/01/17/educational-activities-the-year-we-learned-to-fly/
https://theclassroombookshelf.com/2022/03/14/the-year-we-learned-to-fly-teaching-ideas-for-the-highly-anticipated-companion-to-the-day-you-begin/
Written By: Jacqueline Woodson
"Before The Ever After" is a poem memoir story that explains about a boy named ZJ who tells stories about his heroic father. ZJ's father is a beloved football star and a loving father, until one day ZJ gets some news about how his father is sick with a head injury. This story would be perfect for Father's Day to explain how a father sacrificed himself for his children to give them a better life. Middle Graders would enjoy this book to explore the bonds between a parent and a child.
Resources:
https://theclassroombookshelf.com/2021/03/01/remembering-and-healing-with-before-the-ever-after/
https://www.michigandaily.com/arts/changing-realities-in-jacqueline-woodsons-before-the-ever-after/
https://www.npr.org/2020/09/10/911175550/jacqueline-woodson-wants-kids-to-know-the-beauty-and-the-danger-of-football
Written By: Grace Byers
Illustrated By: Keturah A. Bobo
"I Am Enough" speaks the mind of telling readers to respect others and yourself. We are all here on this Earth to serve a purpose. This picture speaks the mind of diversity to tell everyone we are all equal. No one is perfect or better, we all make mistakes, which is why we say "I Am Enough".
Resources:
https://journals.library.ualberta.ca/deakinreview/index.php/deakinreview/article/view/29442
https://www.enovgh.com/i-am-enough-meaning/
Written By: Amanda Gorman
Illustrated By: Loren Long
Amanda Gorman's "Change Sings" tells the story of an African-American girl who wants to make a change in the world by singing a lyrical song. This picture book teaches us on how to respect our community and others. Anyone can make a difference if they put their mind to it. Elementary School Readers will learn who they by reading this book and to give important lessons on not giving up on yourself.
Resources:
https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/634480/change-sings/
https://www.penguinrandomhouseaudio.com/book/634480/change-sings/