A nonfiction picture book, The Blue Whale draws children into the life and world of this enormous whale by situating facts within a familiar context that is fun and engaging.
2016-2017 Gallery Award
Reading Level: 5.3
Published by Enchanted Lion Books
Copyright May 26, 2015
ISBN# 978-1592701650 (HB)
In early 20th century Cuba, drumming was something for only boys and men. This book tells of Millo Castro Zaldarriaga, a girl so enamored of the drums that she even managed to change her own father’s mind, getting lessons and becoming the first well-known female drummer in Cuba, and the one to open the way for all girls after her to have the chance.
2016-2017 Gallery Award
Reading Level: 4.2
Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Copyright March 31, 2015
ISBN# 978-0544102293 (HB)
CJ and his nana have a Sunday morning routine. After church they walk to the bus stop, board the bus, and take a ride. The book follows them on their bus ride one Sunday. CJ wishes he didn’t have to go. He’s envious of his friends who have cars, and who get to go home after church. But every time he complains, his nana points out all the good parts of their day and the blessings they enjoy.
2016-2017 Gallery Award
Reading Level: 3.3
Published by Penguin
Copyright January 8, 2015
ISBN# 978-0399257742 (HB)
Amid the hustle and bustle of the big city, the big crowds and bigger buildings, Little Elliot leads a quiet life. In spite of the challenges he faces, Elliot finds many wonderful things to enjoy―like cupcakes! And when his problems seem insurmountable, Elliot discovers something even sweeter―a friend.
2016-2017 Gallery Award
Reading Level: 2.1
Published by Henry Holt
Copyright August 26, 2014
ISBN# 978-0805098259 (HB)
Mahalia Jackson went down in history as the Queen of Gospel. This picture book biography follows her life starting in childhood. It highlights her struggles, victories and career as a singer over several decades. She never gave up or let others put her down due to the color of her skin. She paved the way for many other people of color to follow in her successful footsteps.
2016-2017 Gallery Award
Reading Level: 4.0
Published by Harper
Copyright January 27, 2015
ISBN# 978-0060879440 (HB)
Part of the delightful ‘Monster Needs’ rhyming picture book series about a young boy and his friendly, blue-furred monster, this title is about politics and moral causes. Czajak weaves an encouraging and fun tale that will teach children about the voting process and the importance of making their voice heard.
2016-2017 Gallery Award
Reading Level: 3.1
Published by Mighty Media Kids
Copyright September 16, 2015
ISBN# 978-1938063633 (HB)
Based on the Yiddish folk song “I Had a Little Overcoat,” this splendid tale chronicles four generations through the a grandfather’s coat, which becomes a jacket, then a vest and so on.
2016-2017 Gallery Award
Reading Level: 4.1
Published by Scholastic
Copyright October 21, 2014
ISBN# 978-0439925457 (HB)
In this first of a charming series about a little mouse and her forest friends, Sophie Mouse must convince her classmates—and herself—that a new student is nothing to fear.
2016-2017 Gallery Award
Reading Level: 3.4
Published by Simon & Schuster
Copyright January 20, 2015
ISBN# 978-1481428323 (HB)
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