By Victoria Jamieson and Omar Mohamed- This book holds a special place in my heart because it was the first graphic novel that I read about refugees living in a refugee camp. This book gives you an inside look into the true story of a refugee living in a refugee camp in Kenya; starvation, family love, education, and cultural differences are a few of the many themes explored in this graphic novel.

 

GRADE LEVEL: MIDDLE SCHOOL






 

By Veera Hiranandani-

This book is such a detailed, heart-break but heart-warming story that details the life of a Syrian refugee on the run. This book gave me such an insight into the harsh and deadly reality that the power of religion has on society. It truly shows Americans how blessed we are to live in a country that allows religious freedom. This book will hit your heart in all places and push you to take action.

 

GRADE LEVEL: Middle SCHOOL









 

 

This is one of my favorite books in Spanish, besides Los Tres Cerditos (The Three Little Pigs).  This story is HILARIOUS in both English and Spanish and will have both you and your students in laughter. I took part in a shared reading experience with a child that is a native Spanish speaker and she and I created such a strong connection over this book, so it has a special place in my heart. In my opinion, some books are funnier in Spanish than English.

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GRADE LEVEL- (K-2) Lower Elementary

By Natalie Babbit

I read this book as a pre-teen and it found such a special place in my heart. I remember reading it in 6th grade and was enchanted by the concept of fantasy mixed with reality.  It was filled with mystery, love, and hardships. It makes you ask yourself "what is eternal life and would I want it". The story line is beautiful and makes you want to never stop reading.

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(HIGHSCHOOL)

by David Weisner-  Ever since I read this book, I fell in love with the concept of wordless picture books. Regardless of your age or reading level, you are able to create your own story in your mind. Your story may be different from someone else's but similar to say the least. The images and concept of this story are beautiful and will leave you wanting to explore more. Moreover, because it is a wordless picture book, the images are phenomenal and are filled with such life and color. (When I was younger, I had a camera similar to the one that was used in the story. I had an hobby of collecting old things such as typewriters, phones, and cameras.)

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GRADE LEVEL: ALL

by Sara Varon- This is one of the most interesting stories that I have got the chance to explore. This is a thick book that one would not assume is wordless; without words a BIG story is told. It amazes me how Sara Varon is able to create stories using such little words. Even her story New Shoes is amazing!

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One might assume that this book is for a younger audience. It is, but I think it can be enjoyed by all ages. There is no text-- therefore no text compexity--therefore it is not confined to a specific reading level or age. 

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Moreover, I love how Sara Varon uses facial expression, the passage of time, and a 'dream' state to tell the Robot's story.

GRADE LEVEL: ALL

by Aaron Blabey-

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WOW! This book is honestly amazing and it will be a staple in my classroom library. This book focuses on identity and finding out who you are! the Bad Guys turn into the Good Guys. I love the concept of this book, the textual features, graphic features, and the language that is used throughout this book. It is an amazing book to activate background knowledge and to get students involved. 

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GRADE LEVEL: 2-5