Kids from many different levels of schools are graduating. Some move on from kindergarten, some from middle school, and some from college. The books listed below have life lessons that all ages can benefit from. All books are picture books unless otherwise indicated.
When You Dream Big!, by Peter H. Reynolds, is another uplifting book by this celebrated and visionary author. The question posed by a teacher is: What do you want to be when you grow up? Some students know exactly what they desire to become, while others have no idea. The strong message conveyed is to become a better person, one who is kind and good.
The Astronaut’s Guide to Leaving the Planet, by Terry Virts, is the perfect book for kids ages seven through adult who aspire to space travel. This 167-page book, written by a former NASA astronaut, explains in simple terms how to prepare for space travel, become an astronaut candidate, and what it’s like to live and work in space.
Outside In and the Inside Out: A Story About Arnold Lobel, by Emmy Kastner, is a beautifully illustrated book that profiles the famous creator of Frog and Toad. Lobel’s talent surpassed many with his uncanny ability of observation. He was also an avid reader, artist, and storyteller. Put together, these abilities helped create the classic Frog and Toad stories. Kastner’s art, made with acrylic gouache, pencil, and ink, is a perfect fit.
Little O Wanted to Know: A Fable About Finding Your True Self, by Rhea Sarason and brightly illustrated using ink and watercolor by Barroux, is a small-sized book about a little letter searching to find her true identity. Little o suddenly decides to roll out of line and begins to question why everything was always the same. Her journey becomes one of enlightenment and self-discovery.
Talking Books: Audiobook Inventor Dr. Robert B. Irwin and a New Way to Read, by Jenny Lacika and digitally illustrated by Ashanti Fortson, showcases how Dr. Irwin invented a new way for stories to be shared. When he was five, an illness caused him to lose his eyesight. He learned about the world through sound and, through determination and effort, helped pioneer audiobooks, revolutionizing reading for many people. This book is an inspiring story of perseverance.
Woody’s Words: Woodrow Wilson Rawls and Where the Red Fern Grows, by Lisa Rogers and gorgeously illustrated in watercolor by Susan Reagan, gives background on the author of the classic Where the Red Fern Grows. When Rawls was young, his mother read The Call of the Wild to him, changing his life and motivating him to become an avid reader and writer. His love of nature, growing up in rural Oklahoma, and his determination to write helped shape his beloved novel.
Everything But Typical: Influential Neurodivergent People Who Have Shaped the World, by Margaux Weston, is a nonfiction book celebrating successful people who struggled with the challenges that came with their unique brains. Daniel Radcliffe, for example, lives with dyspraxia, a neurological condition that affects physical coordination. He found success in acting and did not let this challenge stop him. The twenty-three people highlighted in the book overcame difficulties and achieved remarkable success. This book is truly inspirational.
Louisa Learns to Write: Louisa May Alcott Creates Little Women, by Kate Hannigan and illustrated with paint, pencils, and digital enhancements by Sophia Moore, offers insight into the life of the famous author and how her family shaped her into a writer. Louisa grew up in the 1800s with three sisters and a family that meant everything to her. Her love of reading and writing, along with her family’s close bond, helped inspire the timeless classic Little Women.
Dream Big (Clifford the Big Red Dog), based on the series by Norman Bridwell, written by Meredith Rusu and brightly illustrated by Jo Anne Davies, exemplifies how hard work and the support of loved ones can help dreams come true. Clifford and his best friend, Emily Elizabeth, show that by setting goals and dreaming big, anything is possible. This simple yet powerful book is inspiring for readers of all ages.
