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TRANSCRIPT
Children’s Bibliography
The Children’s Bibliography supports the topics in the text. It focuses on topics that relate directly to
children with disabilities and their families. The first section supports the topics covered by Part I of
the book. These children’s books focus on different types of families, family relationships, cultural
diversity, and challenges that are faced by the children you will teach. The remainder of the chil-
dren’s bibliography supports Part II of the book and is arranged in the same order as the chapters.
Like the disabilities themselves, some topics overlap so scan several areas to find potential books.
The age range of each book is given in parentheses. The final section of the Children’s Bibliography is
devoted to Educational Resources that will help you find good sources for additional books.
Please check in several places to find books that are relevant to your teaching needs, as well as
check on the web. More general books and books written before the early 1990s are on the web.
There are some topics that have an extensive selection of children’s books. Additional books for the-
se topics are also on the web.
Table CB–1w identifies the categories of books, the order in which they appear to make finding them
easier, and the number of books annotated.
Table CB–1: Books about children with special needs and their families
FAMILIES AND CHILDREN AND CULTURE 109
Families and Children and their Culture 15
Latino Families and Children 20
African American Families and Children 9
Asian and Pacific Islander Families and Children 27
American Indian and Alaska Native Families and Children 14
Anglo-European American Families and Children 5
Jewish Families 6
Families and Children from other Cultures 5
Biracial and Intercultural Families and Children 13
DIFFERENT TYPES OF FAMILIES AND THEIR CHILDREN 53
Families Who Separate and Divorce 11
Families who are Separated 4
Remarried Families 5
Foster and Adoptive Families 11
Gay and Lesbian Families 4
Parents with Disabilities and Special Health Care Needs 7
Siblings with Disabilities and Special Health Care Needs 4
Grandparents and Relatives with Disabilities and Special Health Care Needs 7
FAMILIES WHO FACE CHALLENGES 18
Poverty 8
Disasters 4
Abuse and Neglect 3
Drugs and Alcohol 2
Relocation 1
INFANTS AND TODDLERS AT RISK 8
CHILDREN WITH SPECIFIC LEARNING DISABILITIES 5
CHILDREN WITH SOCIAL, EMOTIONAL, AND BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS 32
Making Friends 3
Fears and Anxiety 21
Anger 5
Tattle Tales, Teasing, and Bullying 3
CHILDREN WITH ATTENTION-DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER 13
CHILDREN WITH COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 9
CHILDREN WHO ARE ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS 21
CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS 7
CHILDREN WITH INTELLECTUAL DELAYS AND DISABILITIES 11
CHILDREN WHO ARE GIFTED AND TALENTED 15
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL HEALTH CARE NEEDS 48
Allergies and Asthma 16
AIDS 5
Cancer 4
Diabetes 4
Overweight and Obesity 2
Doctors and Hospitalization 6
Death and Dying/Grief 11
CHILDREN WITH ORTHOPEDIC AND NEUROLOGICAL IMPAIRMENTS 16
Orthopedic Impairments 7
Cerebral Palsy 4
Epilepsy 4
Physical Differences 1
CHILDREN WITH HEARING IMPAIRMENTS 5
CHILDREN WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENTS 14
Families and Children and Their Culture
Ajmera, M., & Ivanko, J. D. ( 2001). Come out and play. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
(3–6) Great photographs and simple text depict children around the globe at play.
Ajmera, M., & Ivanko, J. D. ( 2000). To be a kid. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
(4–7) Simple text, beautiful photographs of what it is like to be a kid around the world.
Available in Spanish as Ser Nino.
Ajmera, M., & Ivanko, J. D. ( 2001). Back to School. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
(3–6) Part of It’s a Kids World series, it shows photographs of children from 37 countries and
the similarities and difference in their classrooms around the world.
Ajmera, M., & Ivanko, J. D. ( 2004). Be my neighbor Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
(5–8) Shows photographs of children around the world living, sharing, and caring about
neighbors. Available in Spanish as Ser vencinos.
Ajmera, M., Regan, M. and the Global Fund for children. (2000). Let the games begin. Watertown,
MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
(5–8) Shows 24 different sports played around the world and the children who play them.
Text discusses competition, friendship, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Ajmera, M., & Ivanko, J. D. ( 2004). To be an artist. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
(5–8) Describes the many ways children celebrate the arts (music, painting, dance) around
the world.
Ajmera, M., & Kinkade, S. (2010). Our grandparents: A global album. Watertown, MA: Charles-
bridge Publishing.
(3–8) Focuses on intergenerational relationships between children and grandparents around
the globe.
Garcia, M. (1997). Adventures of Connie and Diego/Las aventuras de Connie y Diego. San Francisco,
CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Rainbow-colored twins are tired of being teased because their skin is multicolored.
They leave the Land of Plenty and journey through the forest to visit the homes of many an-
imals. A wise tiger convinces them they are human beings and have a home outside the for-
est. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Kincade, S. (2006). My Family. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
(3–8) A photo-essay that shows loving families across the world having fun together with on-
ly the name of the country in which they live as the text.
Konrad, M. S. (2010). I like to play. Plattsburg, NY: Tundra Books.
(3–6) Photographs show the way children play around the world.
Konrad, M. S. (2010). Grand. Plattsburg, NY: Tundra Books.
(3–6) A loving visual essay about grandparents and their grandchildren in many countries
and in a variety of circumstances.
Kuklin, S. (2006). Families. New York: Hyperion Books for Children
(4–8) Fifteen children tell about their families and the bonds that connect them.
Lyengar, M. M. (2009). Tan to tamarind. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) A poetry collection that helps children discover that regardless of skin tone, every
shade is beautiful.
Simon, N. (2003). All families are special. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(5–8) Many examples of contemporary families are represented including blended, interna-
tional, extended and lesbian.
Smith, Jr., C. R. (2003). I am America. New York: Cartwheel.
(3–8) Vibrant photographs of the many faces of children in America today.
Latino Families and Children
Ada, A. F. (2010). Let me help!/¡Quiero ayudar! San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(4–8) Perico, a little parrot, tries to help his family prepare for the Cinco de Mayo holiday.
Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Alarcón, F. X. (2005). Angels ride bikes: And other fall poems/Los ángeles andan en bicicleta: Y otros
poemas de otoňo. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Experience autumn in Los Angeles where the earth dances and bananas are baseball
gloves. The poet pays tribute to his mother and the values she taught him. Bilingual in Eng-
lish and Spanish.
Alarcón, F. X. (2008). Animal poems of the Iguazú/Animalario del Iguazú. San Francisco, CA: Chil-
dren’s Book Press.
(6–8) These poems are the voices of the animals in the Iguazú National Park that is part of
Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. It includes a thundering waterfall and green rainforests. Bi-
lingual in English and Spanish.
Altman, L. J. (1995). Amelia’s road. New York: Lee & Low Books
(4–8) A gentle portrayal of the lives of migrant children where time is recorded by crops not
dates. Teachers rarely learn Amelia’s name because she comes and goes so quickly. She
longs for a place to stay were she belongs.
Anzaldúa, G. (1997). Friends from the other side/Amigos del otro lado. San Francisco, CA: Children’s
Book Press.
(6–8) Prietilta becomes friends with a young boy who crossed the Rio Grande into Texas in
search of a new life. She defends him against neighborhood kids who tease him, but what
about the border patrol? Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Blanco, A. (1998). Angel’s kite La estrella de Angel. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Angel, a young kite maker, creates a kite that shows the town including the missing
church bell. After an exciting chase and a lonely night Angel brings the bell back. Bilingual in
English and Spanish.
Bunton, M. C. (2011 ). The little maestro. Tamarac, FL: Llumina Kids.
(4–8) The little maestro is a boy who was born in the rainforest and is determined to save it
from destruction. He brings harmony to the plants and animals and music to the forest. The
information in the book is scientifically accurate.
Cumpiano, I. (2008) Quinito, day and night/Quinito, dia y noche. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book
Press.
(4–8) Quinito is just right: neither fast or slow, sunny or rainy, light or dark, short or tall,
messy or neat in a great book of opposites. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Dole, M. L. (2003). Drum, Chavi, drum/¡Toca, Chavi, toca. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Chavi lives in a Cuban-American neighborhood which does not support girls playing
drums. When she is not selected to play her congas in Miami’s Calle Ocho festival, she does
something about it. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Dominguez, K. K. (2002). The perfect piñata/La piñata perfecta. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) A book about Marisa’s sixth birthday, her butterfly piñata, her unwillingness to break it
on her birthday, and her mother’s solution. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Garza, C. L. (2005). Family pictures: 15th anniversary edition. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book
Press.
(4–8) A classic in the field of Latino children’s literature since its original release in 1990.
Day-to-day experiences are told through art and narrative about different aspects of tradi-
tional Mexican American culture. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Gonzalez, M. C. (2009). I know the river loves me/Yo sé que el río me ama. San Francisco, CA: Chil-
dren’s Book Press.
(4–8) Maya listens to the river that has so much to teach us. It teaches powerful lessons
about the environment and children. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Helmer, D. S. (2003). The cat who came for tacos. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) When Flynn, a stray cat, is welcomed into the house Señora Rosa and Señor Tomás
must explain some house rules about eating. Flynn also has ideas about how cats and people
can live together.
Jimenez, F. (2000). The Christmas gift/El regalo de navidad. New York: Houghton Mifflin.
(4–8) The author shares a poignant Christmas memory and shows how a child draws
strength from family bonds. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Laínez, R. C. (2010). From North to South/Del Norte al Sur. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) José visits his mother in Mexico after she is deported for not having the proper pa-
pers. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Levy, J. (2007). Celebrate! It’s Cinco de Mayo ¡Celebremos! ¡Es el Cinco de Mayo! Morton Grove, IL:
Albert Whitman.
(3–8) A very simple history of the holiday is interspersed with the story of a young boy cele-
brating Cinco de Mayo with his family. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Levy, J. (2007). I remember abuelito /Yo recuerdo a abuelito: A day of the dead story / Un cuento del
dia de los muertos. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) In this book a young girl prepares to honor those who have died and she remembers
her uncle and is excited for his spirit to visit. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Marin, G. R. ( 2009). My papa Diego and me: Memories of my father and his art/ Mi papa Diego y
yo: Recuerdos de mi padre y su arte. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) The author, daughter of famous artist Diego Rivera, talks about her childhood growing
up in Mexico and her father who created images of the working people and children. The
artwork in the book is by Diego Rivera. Bilingual English and Spanish.
Paul, A. W. (2004). Mañana iguana. New York: Holiday House.
(3–8) Iguana is planning a fiesta but his friends want to come but not help. A clever update
of Little Red Hen with a sprinkling of Spanish words.
Sacre, A. (2003). The barking mouse. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) A Cuban tale of the Ratón family going for a picnic, teasing a cat, and running back to
the protection of Mama.
African American Families and Children
Barasch, L. (2009). First come the zebra. New York: Lee and Low Books
(4–8) The story of two young Kenyan boys, one Masai and one Kikuyu, who overcome tradi-
tional rivalries as they rescue a straying toddler. They take a step toward peace when they
decide to trade veggies for milk and introduce their families.
Battle-Lavert, G. (2004). The barber’s cutting edge. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Mr. Bigelow’s barbershop is the place to talk, read, and even get a little help with
homework. He knows all the vocabulary words and serves as a friend and role model.
Forman, R. (2007). Young cornrows callin out the moon. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(4–8) A poetic testament to celebrate city summer memories and African American culture
and community.
Hasking, F. (1997). Things I like about grandma. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Francine and her grandmother go to church, visit friends, and do errands around town.
Everyone knows Grandma because she is a beloved active member of the community.
Igus, T. (2005). I see the rhythm. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) This book takes a musical journey through time back to the roots of black music in Afri-
ca and continuing to contemporary hip hop. The lyrical poems capture the feel for the style
of music and the musicians who gave it life.
Nelson, K. (2005). He’s got the whole world in his hands. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers.
(3–8) The well-known spiritual shows the interconnectedness of people, community, and na-
ture portrayed through an African American family in its home.
Nikola-Lisa, W. (1994). Bein’ with you this way. New York: Lee & Low Books.
(3–6) An African American girl gathers a diverse group of friends and they discover that their
similarities are more important than their differences. They celebrate friendship and coop-
eration.
Riggio, A. (1997). Secret signs: Along the underground railroad. Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mills.
(3–8) An intriguing, suspenseful story about a young boy with a hearing impairment who car-
ries a message to the next safe house when his mother is detained.
Saint James, S. (1997). The gifts of Kwanzaa. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) This simple text (with pronunciation guide) helps young children learn about the sev-
en-day African American celebration.
Asian and Pacific Islander Families and Children
Balouch, K. (2006). Mystery bottle. New York: Hyperion Books for Children.
(3–8) A boy receives a package from his grandfather in Iran. The bottle contains a gust of
wind that takes him from Brooklyn into the arms of his grandfather and makes the Persian
culture come to life.
Bunting, E. (2009). So far from the sea. (Reprint ed.) London, Sandpiper. Co.UK.
(4–8) Nine-year-old Laura recounts her family’s 1972 visit to a former War Relocation Camp
in eastern California where 30 years earlier her Japanese father and his parents were in-
terned. On the day the soldiers arrived to transport them to the camp her father wore his
cub scout uniform. Her grandfather, a fisherman, died there. As they visit his grave for the
last time Laura leaves the scarf from the uniform and whispers “It was wrong”.
Cheng, A. (2003). Goldfish and chrysanthemums. New York: Lee and Low Books
(3–8) Nancy’s NiNi (grandmother) is sad because her childhood home is being torn down in
China. She remembers the fish pond and Nancy comes up with an idea to keep her memo-
ries alive.
Cheng, A. (2010). Only one year. New York: Lee and Low Books
(4–8) Sharon’s two year old brother DiDi is being taken to China to spend a year with their
grandparents. At first it is difficult but as the year passes she thinks of him less. When he
returns it is as if a stranger entered her life. The children sort out their relationship.
Cheng, A. (2003). Grandfather counts. New York: Lee and Low
(4-8) Gong Gong comes from China to live with Helen’s family. She is excited but worried
because he speaks only Chinese and she speaks only English. One day as she is watching the
train Gong Gong joins her and he starts counting the train cars in Chinese and teaches Helen
the words. She reciprocates and teaches him the English. Soon each is learning more and
more words.
Choi, Y. (2006). Behind the mask. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
(4–8) Kimin says he will be his grandfather (a Korean mask dancer) for Halloween. He finds a
link to his grandfather behind the mask.
Krishnaswami, U. (2003). Chachaji’s cup. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Neel loves listening to his great uncle Chachaji’s tales of Hindu gods and demons. A
cup holds the story of the 1947 partition of India and Pakistan which splits a country and a
family apart.
Krishnaswami, U. (2005). Closet ghosts. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Anu has a new school and a new house far away from her best friend. But worst of all
there are ghosts in her closet. With laughter Anu expels the ghosts and overcomes her fear.
Lee, H. V. (2000). In the snow. New York: Henry Holt.
(4–8) A mother and son practice writing Chinese characters in the snow. (Shows the charac-
ters for 10 simple words.)
Lee, H. V. (2005). In the leaves. New York: Henry Holt.
(4–8) Xiao Ming can’t wait to show his friends the Chinese characters he has learned. He
helps them discover one of the oldest picture languages in the world.
Lee-Tai, A. (2006). A place where sunflowers grow. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Mari and her family are interned in the Utah desert with thousands of other Japanese
Americans during World War II. A kindly art teacher, a new friend, and the support of her
parents provide glimmers of hope. The book is a testament to hope and how it can survive
alongside injustice.
Lin, G. (2001). Dim sum for everyone. New York: Knopf.
(3–8) Children experience the joy of eating dim sum, a tasty tradition.
Lo, G. (2005). Mahjong all day long. New York: Walker Books for Young Readers.
(4–8) JieJie and DiDi see their parents playing mahjong all the time as the family has fun to-
gether.
Look, L. (2001). Henry’s first moon birthday. New York: Atheneum.
(4–8) Jenny’s brother is one month old and the family is celebrating his first moon birthday.
Look, L. (2006). Uncle Peter’s amazing Chinese wedding. New York: Atheneum.
(4–8) Jenny’s favorite uncle is getting married in a traditional Chinese wedding. She is un-
happy because she will not be his number one girl any more.
Malaspina, A. (2010). Yasmin’s hammer. New York: Lee and Low Books.
(6–8) Yasmin and her sister ride to work in her father’s rattling rickshaw in noisy streets in
Bangladesh. Yasmin wants to learn to read. She wants to go to school but her family needs
the money she makes breaking bricks to keep the rice bag full. She develops a secret plan
that will help make her dream a reality.
Marx, T. (2010). Kindergarten day USA and China. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
(4-6) This flip-me-over book shows kindergarten children in Schenectady, New York and Be-
jing, China as they learn and play.
Noguchi, R. & Jenks, D. (2001). Flowers from Mariko. New York: Lee and Low Books.
(4–8) Mariko’s family has been freed from a Japanese-American internment camp but they
cannot start up their gardening business because they do not have a truck. Mariko has an
idea that brings flowers and happiness back.
Park, L. S. (2005). Bee-bim bop! New York: Clarion Books.
(4–8) Bee-bim bop is a traditional Korean dish of rice topped and mixed with meat and vege-
tables. The story is about a hungry child helping her mother make the dish and the family
eating it (recipe included).
Robles, A. R. (2003). Lakas and the Manilatown fish. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) A story in which an all-American boy, Lakas, of Filipino descent, amuses Filipino elders
with a romp with a very unusual fish from Manilatown all the way to the San Francisco bay.
Bilingual in English and Tagalog.
Robles, A. R. (2006). Lakas and the Makibaka hotel. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Lakas meets a group of new friends who face a crisis: the hotel where they live is
about to be torn down. Soon Lakas, Tick A Boom, Firefoot, and Fernando, the Karaoke King
make music that reverberates through the neighborhood and turns into a celebration of ac-
tivism, spirit, and song. Bilingual in English and Tagalog.
Sheth, K. (2007). My Dadima wears a sari. Atlanta, GA: Peachtree Press.
(4–8) Rupa’s grandmother wears a beautiful sari and shares the wonderful things that saris
can do. The book also provides a view of Indian culture and traditions.
Tran, T. (2003). Going home, coming home. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Ami Chi is going to Vietnam with her parents who left during the war. She is confused
about going back to a place she has never been. With the help of a new friend she finds this
strange place beginning to feel familiar. Bilingual in English and Vietnamese.
Tucker, K. (2003). The seven Chinese sisters. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) Seven Chinese sisters lived together and each had a special talent. When the seventh
sister is snatched by a hungry dragon, her sisters use their talents to save her.
Uegaki, C. (2003). Suki’s kimono. Tonawanda, NY: Kids Can Press.
(6–8) Suki’s favorite possession is her Japanese kimono and she decides she is going to wear
it to school on the first day no matter what anyone says.
Wells, R. (2001). Yoko’s paper cranes. New York: Hyperion Books for Children.
(3–8) Yoko learns about Japanese cranes from her Obaasan (grandmother). When she
doesn’t have money for a present she sends her folded paper cranes.
Xiong, B. (2001) Nine-in-one, Grr! Grr! San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(4–8) In this Hmong tale a tiger named Tiger returns from the god Shao who told her that as
long as she remembers his words nine-in-one she will have nine baby tigers every year. Bird,
worried that that many tigers would eat all the birds, tricked Tiger into thinking the song was
one-in nine and helped restore the balance of nature.
American Indian and Alaska Native Families and Children
Andrews, J. (2003). Very last first time. Toronto, Ontario, Canada: Groundwood Books.
(6–8) This book discusses the daily routine for Inuits of Northern Canada, as told through a
young girl and her mother who belong to the Inuit nation.
Bunting, E. (2002). Cheyenne again. London, Sandpiper.co.uk.
(4–8) The poignant story of a 10 year old Cheyenne boy, Young Bull, who is forced to attend
the off-reservation indian school so he can become part of the white world. He is homesick,
the school is harsh and he rebels. However, he learns that he can be Cheyenne again in his
art and memories.
Erdrich, L. (2002). Bears make rock soup. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) A collection of stories honoring Native American traditions pays homage to the people,
animals, forests and rivers that have lived in harmony on the plains.
Moroney, L., & Ata, T. (2006). Baby rattlesnake. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) A Pawnee tale of a baby rattlesnake who wants a rattle and then misuses it. He learns
an important lesson and his forgiving family gives him big hugs. Available in English only or
bilingual in English and Spanish.
Bouchard, D. (2003). The song within my heart. Vancouver, BC: Raincoast Books.
(6–8) Sapp’s paintings, which show a young First Nations boy preparing for his first powwow
with the help of his Nokum (grandmother), depict life on the reservation in Saskatchewan.
Bruchac, J. (2003). How chipmunk got his stripes. London: Puffin.
(3–8) A Native American tale: Brown Squirrel challenges Prideful Bear to keep the sun from
rising. When the sun does rise, and Brown Squirrel teases Bear, Bear threatens to eat Brown
Squirrel, and his claw marks transformed Brown Squirrel into a Chipmunk.
Krasilovsky, P. (2003). Benny’s flag. Boulder, CO: Roberts Rinehart.
(3–8) Benny was an Aleut Indian boy living in Alaska before it became a state. His teacher
asks everyone in his class to create a design for the flag, and Benny’s design wins.
Lind, M. (2003). The bluebonnet girl. New York: Henry Holt.
(6–8) Lind presents a colorful retelling of the Comanche legend that explains why bluebon-
nets grow in Texas.
Littlechild, G. (2003). This land is my land. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Using his own observations and paintings, the author writes about the history of the
Plains Cree Nation, the largest nation in Canada.
McCain, B. (2001). Grandmother’s dreamcatcher. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) A sensitive story about Kimmy who stays with her Chippewa grandmother and learns
to make a dreamcatcher.
Orona-Ramirez, K. (2006). Kiki’s journey. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Kiki calls Los Angeles home. Although born on the Taos Pueblo reservation her parents
moved when she was just a baby. On a trip back to the reservation she feels like a tourist at
a place that should feel like home.
Santiago, C (2002). Home to medicine mountain. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Two young brother are separated from their families and sent to a government run
harsh residential school in the 1930s. They were not allowed to speak their Indian language
and were made to unlearn Indian ways. Inspired by their grandmother’s stories the two
boys found their way home and received a triumphant welcome.
Van Camp, R. (1997). A man called Raven. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Chris and Tody find a raven in the garage and try to trap and hurt it. A mysterious
man appears who teaches them the story of the raven.
Williams, S. (2003). The Cherokee. Barrington, IL: Heinemann Library.
(6–8) Giving great detail to the culture of the Cherokee Indians, this book gives young read-
ers insight into Native American culture.
Anglo-European American Families and Children
Bunting, E. (2001). Dandelions. London, Sandpiper.
(4–8) The story of a pioneer father who moves his pregnant wife and daughters to Nebraska
in the 1800s. They plant dandelions on the roof of their sod house to try to lift their moth-
er’s depression and to make the prairie come to life.
Kane, T. (2001). Fairy Houses. Lee, NH: Light-Beams Publishing.
(3–8) Kristen’s family spends a week on a small island off the coast of Maine. Kristen learns
about nature and, of course, fairies.
McClintock, B. (2006). Adele and Simon. New York: Frances Foster Books; Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
(4–8) Adele picks up her brother Simon and makes him promise not to lose things as they
tour 20th-century Paris.
Rylant, C. (2002). When I was young in the mountains. (20th anniversary ed.) New York: Cahners
Business Information, Inc.
(4-8) A remembrance of the simple pleasures of country living, like splashing in the swim-
ming hole, sharing time with the family, taking baths in the kitchen and grandfather coming
home in the evening covered with coal dust.
Shelby, A. (1995). Homeplace. New York: Scholastic Inc.
(4–8) A multigenerational pictorial history and story about a family in the house that great-
great- great- great- grandpa built.
Jewish Families
Glaser, L. (2001). The borrowed Hanukkah latkes. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) As more people call to say they are coming to eat, Rachel’s mother has to borrow ingredi-
ents from their neighbor and talks her into joining them.
Glaser, L. (2004). Mrs. Greenberg’s messy Hanukkah. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) Mrs. Greenberg’s tidy kitchen becomes a mess as she and Rachel make latkes. Rachel
is afraid she has ruined a friendship, but Mrs. Greenberg thinks it is a wonderful mess.
Herman, C. (2010). First rain. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) Abby and her parents have moved to Israel but Abby misses her grandma. In the let-
ters and emails they exchange Abby tells her grandmother about her new experiences. After
the long dry summer the first rain comes and with it something even more wonderful.
Kimmelman, L. (2000). The runaway latkes. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) A Jewish version of The gingerbread man has latkes rolling around town to avoid being
eaten.
Marx, T. (2010). Sharing our homeland: Palestinian and Jewish children at summer peace camp.
New York: Lee and Low Books.
(4–8) Alya, a Palestinian Israeli girl, and Yuval, a Jewish Israeli boy, live a short distance from
each other in Israel yet they have totally separate lives. When they meet at peace camp
each begins to understand what their shared homeland means to the other.
Rosenthal, B. R. (2006). It’s not worth making a tzimmes over. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) A warm celebration get an extra kick when Sara accidentally adds extra yeast to the
challah and the dough grows and starts to take over the neighborhood. A Yiddish glossary is
appended as well as a recipe for challah.
Other Cultures
Brown, T. (2006). Salaam: A Muslim American boy’s story. New York: Henry Holt.
(4–8) Inram, a young Muslim American boy, likes to do what boys his age do. The book pro-
vides information about the Muslim faith.
Islam, H. (2009). An Eid for everyone. Bloomington, IN: AuthorHouse
(4–8) An informative book about the Islamic holiday Eid-ul-Fitr. The Muslim children in the
story vividly describe their Eid experiences with their families.
Khan, H. (2008). Night of the moon: A Muslim holiday story. San Francisco, CA: Chronicle Books.
(4–8) Yasmeen, a seven-year-old Pakistani American girl celebrates Ramadan. Her mother
explains the Islamic calendar and Yasmeen shares with her class the details of her holiday.
The book focuses on the celebratory aspects of the holiday rather than the religious ones.
Kimmel, E. A. (1999). The bird’s gift: A Ukrainian Easter story. New York: Holiday House.
(4–8) Villagers take a flock of golden birds to a nearly frozen pond and are rewarded with
beautiful eggs the next spring.
Zucker, J. (2004), Fasting and dates: A Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr story (Festival Time). Hauppauge,
NY: Barron’s Educational Series.
(4–8) A simple and delightful introduction to the Islamic festivals of Ramadan and Eid-ul-fitr.
Biracial and Multicultural Families and Children
Ada, A. F. (2002). I love Saturdays y Domingos. New York: Athenaeum.
(5–8) On Saturdays a little girl visits Grandma and Grandpa, who come from a European-
American background, and on Sundays—los domingos—she visits Abuelito y Abuelita, who
are Mexican American; all love their granddaughter.
Adoff, A. (2002). Black is Brown is Tan. New York: HarperCollins Children’s Books.
(4–8) With a brown-skinned mama and a white-skinned daddy their two children are the
beautiful colors of both.
Haugaard, K. (2006). The day the dragon danced. Auburn, CA: Shen’s Books.
(4–8) Sugar and her Grandma go to the Chinese New Year’s Day parade and her quick think-
ing saves the day. She watches her neighbors and even her African American daddy emerges
from under the dragon.
Hall, B. E. (2004). Henry and the kite dragon. New York: Philomel/Penguin Young Readers Group.
(4–8) Henry loves to visit the kite maker in Chinatown. But when the boys from little Italy
throw rocks and destroy the kites Henry and his friends decide to do something.
Iyengar, M. (2007). Romina’s Rangoli. Auburn, CA: Shen’s Books
(4–8) Romina’s class is learning about immigration and she must come up with a project that
represents her culture: Her father is from India and her mother is from Mexico. She blends
art forms that are just like her.
Michelson, R. (2006). Across the alley. New York: Penguin.
(4–8) Abe and Willie live across the alley. Willie is black and Abe is Jewish. During the day
they don’t talk, but at night they are best friends.
Hopkins, L. B. (2010). Amazing faces. New York: Lee and Low Books.
(4–8) Our faces mirror our emotions. Sixteen poems are brought to life by the diverse and
detailed faces that reflect the experiences and lives of a diverse society.
Igus, T. (2001). Two Mrs. Gibsons. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Toyomi Igus pays tribute to the two most important women in her life. Her Japanese
mother and her African American grandmother. Her grandmother with the big hands and
big hugs lets her with her Sunday-go-to-meetin’ hats and writes Japanese and lets her wear
her kimono.
Scanlon, L. G. (2009). All the world. San Diego, CA: Beach Lane Books.
(4–8) Lyrical rhyming couplets speak in celebration of the world and humankind as the story
follows a multicultural family through a busy day at the beach, a farmer’s market, a cozy
cafe, and through sun, wind and a storm until it is night.
Shin, S. Y. (2004). Cooper’s lesson. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Cooper is tired of being half and half. One moment in Mr. Lee’s store he realizes that
life is never simple whether you talk about it in English or Korean. Bilingual in English and Ko-
rean.
Thompson, H. (2007). The Wakame gatherers. Auburn, CA: Shen’s Books.
(4–8) Nanami has two grandmothers: Baachan, who lives with her family in Japan, and Gram,
who lives in Maine. When Gram visits Japan for the first time, Baachan takes her and Nanami
on a trip to the seaside to gather Wakame. Nanami translates for the grandmothers as they
talk about how each uses seaweed.
Wahl, J. (2004). Candy Shop Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge.
(4–8) While shopping Daniel and his aunt find the Taiwanese owner of the Candy Shop in
tears because someone has written hateful words in front of the store. Daniel gets a bucket
and scrubs the words away.
Wing, N. (1996). Jalapeño bagels. New York: Athenaeum Books for Young Readers.
(4–8) For international day Pablo wants to bring something that reflects both his Jewish and
Mexican culture.
Different Types of Families and Their Children
Families Who Separate and Divorce
Adams, E. K. (2003). On the day his daddy left. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) Danny writes down a question asking if it is his fault when his dad leaves. All the adults
reassure him with a big “NO.”
Levins, S. (2005). Was it the chocolate pudding? A story for little kids about divorce. Washington,
DC: Magination Press.
(2-8) From the perspective of a young boy living with his brother and a single father the book
talks about the issues related to divorce including the fact that it was not his fault.
Masurel, C. (2001). Two homes. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press.
(6–8) Young Alex’s parents are divorced, and he spends time with each of them. He has two
rooms, two favorite chairs, two sets of friends, two of everything. He loves both of them no
matter where he is, and they love him, no matter where they are.
Pickhardt, C. (1998). The case of the scary divorce. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(6–8) Professor “Skye” assists a 10-year-old boy in understanding the many issues of life, in-
cluding divorce.
Pristine, J. (1996). Mom and dad break up. St. Paul, MN: Redleaf Press.
(3–8) A boy deals with his feelings and the reality of his parents’ separation.
Ransom, J. (2000). I don’t want to talk about it. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) When a child’s parents announce that they want to divorce, she wants to scream and
shout, but with the help of her parents, she realizes that their love for her will remain the
same.
Rogers, F. (1996). Let’s talk about it: Divorce. New York: G. P. Putnam.
(3–6) Through pictures and easy reading, Mr. Rogers talks about divorce and the concerns of
children. This book can provide the impetus for helpful talk and careful listening.
Schindel, J. (1995). Dear daddy. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) Jesse’s father lives across the country from him, but his letters bring them closer.
Spelman, C. (1998). Mama and daddy bear’s divorce. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–6) Dinah Bear feels sad and scared when her parents say they are getting divorced.
Van Leeuwen, J. (1996). Blue sky, butterfly. New York: Dial.
(6–8) After the separation, Twig’s mother sits and does nothing. Twig, an 11-year-old, as-
sumes responsibility for the family. Her grandmother arrives and gradually the family begins
to rebuild.
Families who are Separated
Lindsay, J. W. (1991). Do I have a daddy? A story about a single-parent child. Buena Park, CA: Morn-
ing Glory Press.
(4–8) Erik’s friends ask him where his father is. His mother explains that he was not ready to
get married.
McElory, L. T. (2005). Love, Lizzie: Letters to a military mom. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8). Lizzie’s mom is in the military overseas and she misses her. She doesn’t know exactly
where her mom is but they wish on the same star.
Pappas, D. (2001). Mom, dad, come back soon. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–7) Tyler’s mom and dad go away and he stays at Cindy’s house. She is his best friend but
sometimes he misses his mom and dad. With some help from everyone he gets over his
feeling and experiences some pride and joy at his new grown-up experience.
Pelton, M. (2004). When dad’s at sea. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) Emily’s dad is in the military and he is gone for months at a time. She makes a paper
chain to count down the days of his trip.
Remarried Families
Best, C., & Palmisciano, D. (1996). Getting used to Harry. New York: Orchard Books.
(6–8) Cynthia is left home when her mother and new stepfather Harry go on their honey-
moon. When they return, Harry is home all the time. Cynthia wants Harry to go home, but
remembers—he is home.
Casley, J. (1995). Priscilla twice. New York: Greenwillow Books.
(6–8) Priscilla has two of everything, but what she really wants is a family. This is a heart-
warming and funny story as Priscilla realizes there’s more than one kind of family and what
makes a family is love.
Cook, J. T. (1995). Room for stepdaddy. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) The more Joey’s stepfather tries to connect with him, the more he misses his dad. Af-
ter seeing the positive relationship between his mom, dad, and stepfather, Joey realizes that
there’s room for them all.
Levins, S. (2009) Do you sing twinkle? A story about remarriage and new family. Washington, DC:
Magination Press.
(4–8) Told from a boy’s point of view, it addresses issues relating to remarriage and joint-
custody.
Sherman, C. (1996). Eli and the swampman. New York: HarperCollins.
(6–8) Eli leaves the home of his mother and stepfather to visit his father in Alaska. As he
travels through an old swamp, he develops a brief relationship with the swampman who
helps him understand that two fathers are better than none.
Foster and Adoptive Families
Bunting, E. (2000). Train to somewhere. London, Sandpiper.
(6–8) Mariana is left in New York city as a child. She rode one of the orphan trains that went
from New York city orphanages to the west where the children were expected to be adopt-
ed. Of her 13 companions Marianne is the last one left. Although she hopes to be reunited
with her own mother she is adopted by an elderly couple in Somewhere, Iowa. A sobering
yet uplifting story.
Coste, M. (2006). Finding Joy. Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mill Press.
(3–8) An upbeat but realistic international adopting story showing the heartbreak of those
giving up a child in China and the joy of those receiving her.
Gilman, J. L. (2008). Murphy’s three homes: A story for children in foster care. Washington, DC: Mag-
ination Press.
(3–8)Murphy is a cheerful, happy puppy who loves to play. However, after passing through
two different homes and an animal shelter, he is anxious and sad. He finally finds a home
where he is lived and becomes playful again. This book also has notes for adults and should
be previewed first.
Lears, L. (2005). Megan’s birthday tree. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) Megan is adopted but she keeps in touch with her birth mother who decorates a tree
on her birthday and sends her a picture. Her mother writes that she is getting married and
moving and Megan worries that she will forget her without the tree.
Levy, J. (2004). Finding the right spot: When kids can’t live with their parents. Washington, DC: Mag-
ination Press.
(6–8) A story for children who, regardless of the circumstances, can’t live with their parents.
It is a story of resilience and loyalty, sadness and anger as well as hope and love.
Lin, G. (2007). The red thread: An adoption fairy tale. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) A king and queen who should be full of joy feel a strange pain that worsens each day. A
peddler reveals a red thread pulling at their hearts that they must follow.
Nemiroff, M., & Annunziata, J. (2003). All about adoption: How families are made and how kids feel
about it. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) This book explores the what, how, and why of adoption and the many feelings kids ex-
perience as they grow up. It has an extensive section for adults.
Peacock, C. A. (2000). Mommy far, mommy near. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) Elizabeth feels a range of emotions when she learns that she has one mommy in China
and one in America. They make up the “Adopt-me” game.
Thomas, P. (2003). My new family: A first look at adoption. Hauppauge, NY: Barrons Educational Se-
ries, Inc.
(3–8) Children are sometimes upset by discovering that they have been adopted. This book
helps them understand more about adoptive parents—and how lucky their parents are to
have them.
Wilgocki, J., & Wright, M. K. (2001). Maybe days: A book for children in foster care. Washington,
DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) Maybe days addresses the questions children in foster care ask such as: Will I live with
my parents again? Will I stay with my foster parents forever? The answer to almost all of the
children’s concerns is “maybe.”
Young, E. (2006). My Mei Mei. New York: New York: Philomel.
(4–8) Antonia wanted a little sister, Mei Mei, to call her own. When they fly to China to get
her, she is not all like Antonia imagined her.
Gay and Lesbian Families
Elwin, R., & Paulse, M. (1990). Asha’s mums. Toronto: Women’s Press.
(3–8) When Asha brings in a form signed by two mothers, the teacher is confused until Asha
and her mothers explain.
Heron, H., & Maran, M. (1991). How would you feel if your dad was gay? New York: Alyson.
(6–8) Jasmine faces problems with her classmates because she has three dads: her stepfa-
ther, her natural father, and his lover.
González, R. (2005). Antonio’s card/La tarjeta de Antonio. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Antonio wants to make a great mother’s day card for his mother and her partner
Leslie. His classmates make fun of Leslie and he must choose whether – or how- to show his
love for his family. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Newman, L. (1991). Heather has two mommies. Los Angeles: Alyson Publications.
(3–6) Three-year-old Heather sees nothing unusual about having two mommies. When she
joins a playgroup and discovers “daddies,” her confusion is dispelled by a caring adult and
other children who describe their families.
Parents with Disabilities or Special Health Care Needs
Andrews, B. (2002). Why are you so sad? Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) A child’s book about parental depression. This book defines depression and explains to
the child how the parent feels, as well as exploring how the child feels about her parent’s
depression.
Campbell, B. M. (2005). Sometimes my mommy gets angry. London: Puffin Books.
(4–8) Annie’s mother is mentally ill. She may be happy in the morning but shouting in the af-
ternoon. Annie knows to call her grandmother when this happens. The author’s depiction is
realistic yet sensitive and provides children with coping strategies.
Cervellini-Calfo, C. (2008). When Mommy loses her hair: It means the medicine is working. Charles-
ton, SC: BookSurge Publishing.
(4–8) Four year old Tony overhears his parents talking about his Mommy’s cancer. With the
help of his parents Tony learns about steps in treating cancer and how a child can help.
Frahm, A. (2001). Tickles Tabitha’s Cancer-tankerous Mommy. Apex, NC: Nutcracker Publishing.
(4–8) Tabitha’s family uses candor and comic reality to acknowledge some of the problems,
including moodiness, that they face. Mommy wears a wig but her smile doesn’t look the
way it should and she doesn’t want to play tickle Tabitha.
Holloway, A. (2006). The bipolar bear family: When a parent has bipolar disorder. Bloomington, IN:
AuthorHouse.
(4–8) A young bear cub struggles to understand his mother’s behavior and what role he
might have played in her Bipolar diagnosis.
Maciachian, P. (1992). Mama one, mama two. New York: Trumpet.
(6–8) When mama one becomes severely depressed, Maudie goes to a foster parent until
her mother gets well.
Sherkin-Langer, D. S. (1995). When mommy is sick. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) A girl shares her feelings and fears about her mother’s frequent hospitalizations.
Siblings with Disabilities
Dwight, L. (2005). Brothers and sisters. New York: Bright Star Books
(3–8) Siblings tell stories about their brother or sister who has a disability. A bit stiff but all
want to laugh, play, and be loved.
Gifaldi, D. (2001). Ben, king of the river. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) Ben was born with a developmental disability. Chad hopes he won’t ruin the camping
trip because Ben does not like new things. He loves the water and is surprised when he in-
troduces Ben to others.
Shapiro, O. (2009). Autism and me: Sibling stories. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(7–8) Children talk about what it is like to live with a sibling with autism. They provide other
children with advice on what to do.
Stuve-Bodeen, S. (1998). We’ll paint the octopus red. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(3–8) Emma anxiously awaits the birth of her new brother. When the baby is born with
Down syndrome, Emma is disappointed and worried. With her dad’s help, Emma realizes
that she and her brother will be able to share their experiences.
Grandparents and Relatives with Disabilities and Special Health Care Needs
Bunting, E. (1994). Sunshine home. New York: Clarion.
(6–8) Timmie’s grandmother is in a nursing home recovering from a broken hip. At first eve-
ryone in the family seems happy, then Timmie helps them express their feelings of sadness.
Butler, D. H. (2007). My Grandpa had a stroke. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) A sad, compassionate story about a grandfather who had a stroke. It takes children
through the first hospitalization, to rehabilitation and then to some of the permanent
changes that take place in people and relationships.
Cruise, R. (2006). Little mama forgets. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
(4–8) Lucy’s grandmother is losing her memory but she still remembers stories from Mexico
and how to give hugs and kisses.
Gerdner, L., & Langford, S. (2008). Grandfather’s story cloth. Auburn, CA: Shen’s Books.
(5–8) Chersheng’s grandfather begins to forget things and he feel sad and helpless when he
learns his grandfather has Alzheimer’s disease. Then his mother gives him a story cloth
stitched by his grandfather in the Hmong tradition. Through the story cloth his grandfather’s
memories of Laos come alive.
Sakai, K. (1997). Sachiko means happiness. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Sachiko is a name shared by a young girl and her beloved Japanese grandmother. Over
the years her grandmother’s behavior has changed as she developed Alzheimer’s. As the
story unfolds the little girl’s feelings move from irritation to compassion.
Scacco, L. (2005) Always my grandpa: A story for children about Alzheimer’s disease. Washington,
DC: Magination Press.
(6–8) A gentle story about a grandfather who has Alzheimer’s disease. It shows him getting
gradually worse, forgetting more things and its effects on the family. After a summer of
staying at his beach house he comes home with Daniel and his mother.
Schnurbush, N. (2006). Striped shirts and flowered pants: A story about Alzheimer’s disease for
young children. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) Libby learns how Alzheimer’s will affect her grandmother and how she can handle her
feelings about it.
Books About Families Who Face Challenges
Poverty
Borton, L. (1997). Junk pile. New York: Philomel Books.
(3–6) Jamie, an Appalachian child, doesn’t notice her poverty. Others notice but accept her
because of her ingenuity and imagination.
Dooley, M. Sister (2009). The little school of hope. Tamarac, FL: Llumina Kids.
(4–8) The true heartwarming story of a young migrant girl, Esperanza, and the school that
brought her hope.
Bunting, E. (1993). Fly away home. London, Sandpiper.
(5–8) A young boy tells the story of how he and his dad live in the airport because it is better
than the streets. This is a serious story but grim. It concludes on a believable note of hope.
Gunning, M. (2004). A shelter in our car. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Zettie and her Mama left Jamaica for an uncertain life in the U.S. Mama’s love and
support give Zettie confidence that the will overcome the challenges.
McCully, E. A. (2001). Four hungry kittens. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers.
(3–6) A wordless picture book where children can help solve a dilemma faced by some hun-
gry little kittens.
Butterworth, O. (1993). A visit to the big house. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.
(4–8) Along with her mother and younger brother, Rose visits her dad in prison.
Guthrie, D., & Hockerman, D. (1997). A rose for Abby. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press.
(6–8) A great story about a young girl who is tired of seeing homeless people and starts a
soup kitchen.
Williams, L. E. (2010). The can man. New York: Lee and Low
(4–8) Tim’s family cannot afford to buy him the skateboard he wants for his birthday. He
hears the can man collecting empty cans and gets an idea. Tim has almost reached his goal
when a few chance encounters with the can man change everything.
Disasters
Bunting, E. (1995). Smoky night. Cedar Falls, L.A: Perfection Learning.
(4–8) This is a story about cats and people who couldn’t get along until the smoky and fear-
ful night of the Los Angeles riots brings them together.
Bunting, E. (2005). Gleam and glow. London, Sandpiper.con.uk
(4–8) This true story is based on the experiences of a Bosnian family who is forced to flee
their country during a recent civil war. One refugee leaves behind a pair of goldfish. When
the children and their mother flee they put the fish in a pond. After staying in a refugee
camp, the family returns home to find their home devastated but the pond is filled with
shimmering fish.
Calhoun, M. (1997). Flood. New York: Morrow.
(3–8) This picture book describes a young girl’s experiences preparing for and dealing with a
flood. The book is based on a 1993 flood in the Midwest.
Shuman, C. (2003). Jenny is scared! When sad things happen in the world. Washington, DC: Magina-
tion Press.
(4–8) Jenny and Sam are scared. Their parents are watching TV news and forgot to get
them lunch. Jenny’s piano lesson is cancelled. She and Sam know something is wrong and
want Mom and Dad to help. In a global world children fear terrorism, war and other violent
events even when they don’t happen directly to them.
Abuse and Neglect
Girard, L. (1995). My body is private. Seattle, WA: Bay Press.
(6–8) The book discusses what is appropriate and inappropriate touching between adults
and children using simple language. It also gives suggestions about what a child can do if he
or she has been inappropriately touched.
Holmes, M. M. (2000). A terrible thing happened: A story for children who have witnessed violence
or trauma. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) Sherman saw the most terrible thing happen. He tried to forget it but it bothered him.
He had bad dreams and was nervous. Finally he found someone who helped him talk about
what he had seen and he began to feel better.
Riggs, S. (2007). Not in room 204. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) Regina is doing well but is very quiet in school and at home. As her teacher reads
about inappropriate touching, Regina wonders if she should tell.
Drugs and Alcohol
Vigna, J. (1990). I wish daddy didn’t drink so much. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) A story about a father’s alcoholism.
Vigna, J. (1990). My big sister takes drugs. New York: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) A story about an older sibling’s involvement with drugs and alcohol.
Relocation
Martin, T., & Martin, W. (2006). Big Ernie’s new home: A story for children who are moving. Wash-
ington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) Young children experience moving on a sensory level and this book helps children
identify with the different sights and sounds they might encounter. It also provides infor-
mation for adults.
Infants and Toddlers At-Risk
Global Fund for Children (2010). American babies. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
(birth–3) This book shows photographs of 17 babies representing the diversity of the country
as they play and discover their world.
Global Fund for Children (2008). Global babies/Bebes del mundo. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge
Publishing.
(birth–3) This book contains great photos of babies from 17 cultures around the globe de-
picting differences in clothing, daily life, and traditions and similarities in the joy of love, car-
ing, and nurturing. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Hathon, E. (1994). Let’s go to the doctor. New York: Grosset & Dunlap.
(birth–3) A small board book about a toddler going to the doctor to get an inoculation.
Pitzer, M. W. (2004). I can, can you? Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(birth–3) A delightful board book full of babies and toddlers with Down syndrome having
fun.
Ronay. L. (2009). Kids like me…Learn colors. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(birth–3) Children can learn primary colors as each page features a child with Down syn-
drome wearing clothing and playing with an object of that color. Bilingual in English and
Spanish.
Ronay. L. (2009). Kids like me…Learn ABCs. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House; Boardbook edition.
(birth–5) Children can learn the ABCs as each page features one letter, a color photograph a
child or children playing with holding, eating or wearing the items beginning with the appro-
priate letter. A graphic boarder presents upper and lower case letters and words. Most of
the smiling children have Down syndrome.
Williams, V. B. (1990). “More, more, more,” said the baby. New York: Greenwillow Books.
(birth–6) This book contains short stories about three multiethnic babies who want atten-
tion. A mother, father, and grandmother lovingly respond.
Gentieu, P. (2000). Baby! Talk! Crown Books for Young Readers.
(birth–3) This book shows multicultural babies, clad only in colorful diapers doing what ba-
bies love to do.
Children With Specific Learning Disabilities
Ball-Dannenberg, S. (2009). I have dyslexia. What does that mean? Charleston, SC: BookSurge Pub-
lishing.
(6–8) Delaney, an eight year old girl, was diagnosed with dyslexia and wants to know what it
means, how to tell her friends and how it will affect her life. See dyslexia through her eyes.
Gehret, J. (2009). The don’t give up kid: And learning disabilities (The Coping Series). Fairport, NY:
Verbal Images Press.
(6–8) Alex is a creative boy who finds first grade challenging. When he is diagnosed with
dyslexia he is placed in a smaller class with other children with learning disabilities. Alex
learns differently and once he has needed accommodations he can learn. The book includes
discussion starters for adults.
Hodge, D. (2007). Lily and the mixed-up letters. Plattsburg, NY: Tundra Books
(4–8) Lily loved kindergarten but by second grade school was no longer fun. The letters
danced on the page. Grace becomes Lily’s reading buddy. Lily must read a page aloud on
Parent Day. At first she freezes but then reads it and realizes she can do it.
Moore-Mallinos, J. (2007). It’s called dyslexia (Live and Learn series) Hauppauge, NY: Barron’s Edu-
cational Series.
(4–8) Although a little girl knows the alphabet, when she tries to remember which way the
letters go she gets them mixed up. With the help of her teacher and others she is beginning
to learn to read and write and she has discovered a hidden talent.
Robb, D. B. (2004). The alphabet war: A story about dyslexia. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman &
Company.
(4–8) Adam started kindergarten and confused letters with tails. Other children were learn-
ing to read but Adam wasn’t. By second grade he was so frustrated he got into trouble. At
last he got help and actually found himself reading a book.
Children With Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Disorders
Making Friends
Hahn, M. (1996). Following my own footsteps. New York: Clarion.
(6–8) Gordy, a troublemaker, and his family move in with his grandparents after his abusive
father is arrested. An inspiring story of a grandmother’s love.
Hess, D. (1994). Wilson sat alone. New York: Simon & Schuster.
(3–8) Wilson is shy and lonely until a new girl comes to school. She pretends to be a monster
and roars. Wilson roars back and becomes accepted into a new group.
Weiner, M. B., Neimark, J. (2009). I Want Your Moo: A Story for Children About Self-Esteem. Wash-
ington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) A great read aloud book that focuses on self-acceptance and building self-esteem.
Fears and Anxiety
Annuziata, J. & Nemiroff, M. (2009). Sometimes I’m scared. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) This book provides children with strategies to deal with common fears.
Bennett, H. (2007). It hurts when I poop! A story for children who are scared to use the potty. Wash-
ington, DC: Magination Press.
(2–6) Ryan is afraid to use the potty because he thinks it will hurt when he poops. Dr. Gold
tells Ryan about how food affects his poop and what will make it easier or harder. The book
also contains a “poop program.”
Brown, M. (1994). Arthur’s first sleepover. Boston: Little, Brown & Company.
(3–8) This is a good book for children who may be preparing for their first overnight stay.
Enright, R. D. (2004). Rising above the storm clouds: What it’s like to forgive. Washington, DC: Magi-
nation Press.
(4–8) When his children, arrive home fighting and tattling, father leads them on a imaginary
journey to forgive and be forgiven.
Galvin, M. (2007). Clouds and clocks: A story for children who soil (2nd ed.) . Washington, DC: Magi-
nation Press.
(4–8) Soiling or encopresis can have physical and/or emotional roots. Andy gets help for his
soiling and children discover that they are not the only ones with this problem.
Goldblatt, R. (2004). The boy who didn’t want to be sad. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) There was a boy who was sad but he didn’t want to be. So he made a plan to get rid of
everything that made him sad and learned a big lesson in happiness.
Henkes, K. (1996). Sheila Rae, the brave. New York: Greenwillow Books.
(3–8) Sheila Rae is not afraid of anything. Her little sister on the other hand is not quite so
brave. One day when caught in a bind, her little sister helps her out and proves that she is
not a “scaredy cat” after all.
Hamm, D. J. (1991). Laney’s Lost Momma. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–6) Laney loses herself in a store and when her mother finds her she sweeps her up and
holds her close.
Huebner, D. (2005). What to do when you worry too much: A kid’s guide to overcoming anxiety.
Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(6–8) Generalized anxiety can debilitate young children. Metaphors and humorous illustra-
tions make difficult concepts easier to understand.
Huebner, D. (2006). What to do when you grumble too much: A kid’s guide to overcoming negativi-
ty. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(6–8) Metaphors and illustration help kids see life’s challenges in a new positive way.
Huebner, D. (2007). What to do when your brain gets stuck: A kid’s guide to overcoming OCD.
Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(6–8) In obsessive compulsive disorder children’s brains get clogged with thoughts that
bother them and make it hard for them to feel safe and sure of themselves. This book helps
them get their thoughts uncluttered.
Huebner, D. (2008). What to do when bad habits take hold: A kid’s guide to overcoming nail biting
and more. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(6–8) This book focuses on bad habits that are difficult to break such as nail biting, thumb
sucking, hair twirling, shirt chewing, scab picking, and more.
Huebner, D. (2008). What to do when you dread your bed: A kid’s guide to overcoming problems
with sleep. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(6–8) Bedtime is difficult for many kids. Children who need an extra hug, extra drink, extra
trip to the bathroom or listen for noises may be helped by this book
Maier, I. (2004). When Fuzzy was afraid of losing his mother. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) Fuzzy, a sheep, scraped his knee and searched for his mother. He finally finds her but
is afraid to let her out of his sight. His mother has some ideas to help him cope and he can
eventually play with his friends and not be near her.
Maier, I. (2004). When Lizzy was afraid of trying new things. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) Lizzy, a sheep, is shy and afraid of failing or making mistakes so she refuses to try new
things. Her brother Fuzzy adds a new stone to her rock pile every time she tries something
new. She is excited when her rock pile grows and realizes how much fun she is having.
Maier, I. (2005). When Fuzzy was afraid of big and loud things. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) Fluffy, a little sheep is afraid of loud noises such as thunder and lightening and big
farm animals that make big noises. Fuzzy’s father gradually desensitizes him and gently en-
courages and reassures him.
Mills, J. C., & Crowley, R. J. (2005). Sammy the elephant and Mr. Camel: A story to help children
overcome bedwetting (2nd ed.) . Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) Sammy has problems staying dry. With gentle encouragement from Mr. Camel he de-
velops the skills he need to overcome his problems with wetting. Includes notes to adults.
Slate, J. (2001). Miss Bindergarten gets ready for kindergarten. New York: Puffin Books.
(3–6) The book shows 26 animals (one for each letter of the alphabet) getting ready for kin-
dergarten. The book talks about their fears and expectations for the first day of school.
Wells, R. (1995). Edward unready for school. New York: Dial Books for Young Readers.
(3–6) Edward, a timid bear, resists going to nursery school. He has separation problems and
is unhappy, vulnerable, and fearful. This book allows children to identify with emotions, and
parents and educators to acknowledge that some children are not ready for particular expe-
riences.
Wells, R. (1996). Edward’s overwhelming overnight. New York: Dial Books.
(3–6) Describes a new experience for young children—sleeping over at a friend’s house.
Wing, N. (2001). The night before kindergarten. New York: Grosset & Dunlap.
(3–6) As kindergarten begins, children address their fears and excitement.
Anger
Agassi, M. (2000) Hands are not for hitting. Minneapolis, MN: Free Spirit Publishing.
(3–8) The refrain that “hands are not for hitting” is accompanied by numerous better uses
for them, such as waving, helping, drawing, and making music.
Bang, M. (1999). When Sophie gets angry—really, really, angry. New York: Scholastic Trade.
(3–8) A book about sharing and dealing with strong emotions.
Ditta-Donahue, G. (2003). Josh’s smiley faces: A story about anger. Washington, DC: Magination
Press.
(3–6) When Josh gets angry he throws things and hits. With the help of a chart and smiley
faces Josh begins to use words when he is angry.
Huebner, D. (2007). What to do when your temper flares: A kid’s guide to overcoming problems
with anger. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(6–8) Some children have tempers like fire that start with a spark and quickly flare out of
control. This book is for children who get too hot too fast.
Wagenbach, D. (2009). The Grouchies. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) A rhyming book that shows children how to get rid of a grumpy mood.
Tattle tales, Teasing, and Bullying
Levins, S. (2010). Eli’s Lie-O-Meter: A story about telling the truth. Washington, DC: Magination
Press.
(3–8) Eli learns about the consequences of telling fibs and the value of telling the truth.
Lonczak, H. (2006). Mookey the monkey gets over being teased. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) Mookey is a hairless monkey who gets teased. His family loves him but his classmates
make fun of him. He finally gets some wise advice about how to handle the teasing. It in-
cludes advice for adults about how to handle teasing.
Ransom, J. F. (2005). Don’t squeal unless it’s a big deal: A tale of tattletales. Washington, DC: Magi-
nation Press.
(4–8) A class of piglets squeal on each other. A thoughtful teacher explains the difference
between kid-sized problems and those that need adult consultation. It includes advice for
adults on handling tattling.
Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Carpenter, P., & Ford, M. (2000). Sparky’s excellent misadventures. My ADD journal, by me (Sparky).
Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) A lovable and funny boy keeps track of his days with ADD and how he manages all of
his “wiggles” and “giggles.”
Corman, C. L., & Trevino, E. (2009). Eukee the jumpy jumpy elephant. Plantation, FL: Specialty
Press/A.D.D Warehouse.
(4–8) Eukee has trouble getting along with friends and family because of his hyperactivity
and lack of self-control. He finally finds the help he needs . This book helps children under-
stand more about ADD.
Galvin, M. (2001). Otto learns about his medicine: A story about medicine for children with ADHD.
Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) Otto, a young car, visits a special engine mechanic and receives an engine treatment to
help him run at the right speed. Otto’s experience reflects a multiple treatment approach to
ADHD.
Janover, C. (1997). Zipper, the kid with ADHD. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(6–8) Zipper is bright, but his impulsive behavior gets him into trouble at school and at
home. He earns a drum set by becoming more organized and learning to control his actions.
Kraus, J. (2006). Annie’s plan: Taking charge of schoolwork and homework. Washington, DC: Magi-
nation Press.
(6–8) Annie is smart, she loves to read but she is disorganized and forgets what she needs to
do. With the help of parents, teachers and a guidance counselor Annie learns new skills that
help her. Includes notes for adults.
Kraus, J. (2004). Cory stories: A kid’s book about living with ADHD. Washington, DC: Magination
Press.
(6–8) Through short stories and vignettes Cory describes what it is like to have ADHD, how it
affects his relationships with others, and how he copes with it.
Moss, D. (2006). Shelly the hyperactive turtle. (2nd ed.) Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(3–8) Shelly has been updated to reflect current practices. The story follows Shelly through
some bumpy times at school, on the bus, and with other kids.
Nadeau, K. G., & Dixon, E. B. (2004). Learning to slow down and pay attention: A book for kids about
ADHD (3rd ed.) Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(6–8) A child-centered book that provides information to parents and children about ADHD.
It has cartoons and activities as well as text.
Neminoff, M. A. (1998). Help is on the way: A child’s book about ADD. Washington, DC: Magination
Press.
(4–8) A picture book for children with ADD. Provides a positive message while acknowledg-
ing the problems these children confront and the types of help that are available.
Offill, J., & Carpenter, N. (2007). 17 things I’m not allowed to do any more. New York: Schwartz and
Wade Books.
(6–8) A young girl lists 17 things she cannot do anymore such as walking home from school
backward or setting Joey Whipple on fire.
Roegiers, M. (2010). Take the time: Mindfulness for kids. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) This book encourages children to slow down and increase their self-awareness. At the
end of a challenging day it may calm children and help them feel better.
Weiner, E. (2000). Taking A.D.D. to School: A story about attention deficit disorder (Special Kids in
Schools Series). Plainview, NY: JayJo Books.
(4–8) Ben is having trouble in school and his teacher is always telling him to pay attention.
He is diagnosed with ADD. The book is written from his perspective. The book offers tips for
adults.
Zimmett, D. (2001). Eddie Enough! Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(4–8) Eddie is always in a hurry. He thinks, moves, and speaks quickly and sometimes it gets
him into trouble. After a diagnosis of ADHD and the support of his doctor, parents, teachers
and medication he becomes Eddie just right.
Children With Communication Disorders
Bryant, J. E. (2004). Taking speech disorders to school (Special Kids in School Series). Plainville, NJ:
JayJo Books.
(4–8) Michael’s inability to make himself understood is helped by speech therapy. The story
helps children understand the causes of speech disorder
Cook, J. (2006). My mouth is a volcano. Chattanooga, TN: National Center for Youth Issues.
(4–8) Louis erupts and interrupts others. The book provides children with an entertaining
way to listen and wait for their turn to speak.
Docampo, V., & de Lestrade, A. (2010). Phileas’s fortune: A story about self-expression. Washington,
DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) A book about the significance of sincerity and character behind the spoken word.
Hubble, A. (2008). Henry the stuttering hero (Barnyard Bible Basics) Mustang, OK: Tate Publishing.
(4–8) Henry chicken comes from a long line of crowing champions and would like to be like
his dad and grandfather. Dire things are happenings at the farm and Henry is the only one
who can see them. Henry has a delightful adventure, learns a big lesson, and becomes a he-
ro.
Knapp, A. (2008). Stuttering Stan takes a stand. Cincinnati, OH: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital.
(4–8) Stanley is a squirrel who stutters. He has encountered teasing and bullying because of
this. He learns that friendship, understanding, and self-respect are important for everyone.
Lears, L. (2000). Ben has something to say: A story about stuttering. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whit-
man.
(3–8) To help a neglected dog he meets in a junkyard, Ben, who stutters, confronts his fears.
Additional information about stuttering is included.
Lester, H. (1999). Hooway for Wodney Wat. Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books.
(3–8) His classmates tease Rodney because he can’t say his name but he drives away the
class bully.
Lester, H. (1997). Listen Buddy. Houghton Mifflin/Walter Lorraine Books.
(3–8) A silly tale about a bunny who just can’t seem to listen—until he takes a wrong turn,
and meets up with the “Scruffy Varmint”.
Rahaman, V. (1997). Read for me, Mama. Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mills.
(3–8) A young boy is unhappy because his mother never has time to read to him. She is dis-
tressed because she is illiterate.
Children Who Are English Language Learners
Aliki. (1998). Marianthe’s story: Painted words and spoken memories. New York: Greenwillow
Books.
(4–8) There are two stories combined in this one book. The first story, Painted words, shows
Mari starting school knowing no one and unable to speak English. She struggles until she
realizes she can tell her story through art. In the second book, Spoken memories, she tells
her class about her early years in the old country (possibly Greece).
Arguenta, J. (2001). A movie in my pillow/Una pelicula en mi almohada: Poems/Poemas San Francis-
co, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) Jorgito has come to live in San Francisco, but through his poetry he remembers El Sal-
vador and his confusion and delight in his new home in San Francisco. He sees this world
through his inner world and dreams. The author provides notes to explain unfamiliar terms.
Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Arguenta, J. (2003). Xochitl and the flowers/Xochitl, la niña de las flores. San Francisco, CA: Children’s
Book Press.
(6–8) Xochitl and her family, arriving in San Francisco from El Salvador, create a beautiful
plant nursery in place of the garbage heap behind their apartment, and celebrate with their
friends and neighbors. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Bunting, E. (1999). A picnic in October. New York: Voyager Books: an imprint of Harcourt Children’s
Books.
(4–8) Tony thinks it’s dumb to go all the way to Liberty Island for a birthday picnic. But that’s
before he understands what the Statue of Liberty means to Grandma.
Choi, Y. (2001). The name jar. New York: Alfred A. Knopf.
(6–8) Having just moved from Korea, Unhei hopes the children will like her. She tells the
class she will choose a name by the following week.
Cohn, D. (2002). Si Se Puede! Yes we can!: Janitor strike in L.A. El Paso, TX: Cinco Puntos Press.
(4–8) Carlitos, a Mexican immigrant child whose widowed mother cleans offices tells Carlitos
she is helping to organize a janitors’ strike. Carlitos gets support at school and he joins the
march with a sign “I love my Mama. She is a janitor!” Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Cumpiano, I. (2005). Quinito’s neighborhood/El vecindario de Quinito. San Francisco, CA: Children’s
Book Press.
(3–6) Quinito goes on a neighborhood journey and discovers various jobs as well as friends
and family members who hold them. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
English, K. (2000). Speak English for us, Marisol! Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) Marisol speaks for all of her family who cannot speak English.
Jimenez, F (1998). The Butterfly/La Mariposa. New York: Houghton Mifflin.
(6–8) Because he only speaks Spanish, Francisco has trouble when he begins first grade. His
fascination with a caterpillar helps him begin to fit in. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Kim, J. U. (2003). Sumi’s first day of school ever. New York: Viking Juvenile.
(4–8) Sumi, is starting school in America and is worried because she cannot speak English. At
first she thinks school is scary and the children are mean. During the day she learns that
school is not so lonely.
Leventhal, D. (1998). What is your language? New York: Puffin Books.
(3–6) A boy travels the world asking each person he encounters, “What is your language?”
Many languages are represented including Spanish, German, and Arabic.
Levine, E. (1995). I hate English! New York: Scholastic Paperbacks.
(4–8) Mei Mei, a bright articulate immigrant from Hong Kong has problems adjusting to New
York City, the American culture and English. Humor helps as Mei Mei struggles to learn Eng-
lish and adjust to a new culture without losing her identity.
McCunn, R, L. (1998). Pie-biter. Auburn, CA: Shen’s Books.
(6–8) A young Chinese immigrant, after working on the Continental Railroad, turns his hand
to making pies. It is trilingual in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
Miller, E. I. (2003). Just like home/Como en mi tierra. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) A young girl shares the story of arriving in the United States and how her experiences
are just like home, or not like home, until she feels at home. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Pak, S. (2002). A place to grow. New York: Arthur A. Levine Books.
(4–8) A South Korean father explains to his daughter that families are like seeds and need a
place to grow and flourish.
Park, F., & Park, G. (2005). The have a good day café. New York: Lee & Low.
(4–8) Having arrived recently from Korea, Mike’s family sets up a food cart. When competi-
tion arrives Mike decides they should serve Korean food at the Have A Good Day Café cart.
Perez, A. I. (2002). My diary for here to there/Mi diario de aqui hasta alla. San Francisco, CA: Chil-
dren’s Book Press.
(6–8) Amada tell the story of her family’s move from Mexico to Los Angeles. She confides
her hopes and dreams in her diary. (Includes a teacher’s guide.) Bilingual in English and
Spanish.
Recorvits, H. (2003). My name is Yoon. New York: Frances Foster Books.
(4–8) Yoon’s name means Shining Wisdom and looks happy in Korean but in English it looks
like lines and circles that stand alone, which is how she feels as she tries out different names
at her new school.
Williams. L. E. (2006). The best winds. Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mill Press.
(6–8) Jinho gets involved in kite making to please his Korean grandfather who still follows
the old ways. He gets caught up in the excitement of the craft when the best winds ap-
proach.
Wong, J. S. (2000). The trip back home. New York: Harcourt.
(4–8) A young girl and her mother visit extended family in Korea and discover that even
when family members speak different languages there is much to share.
Yang, B. (2004). Hannah is my name. Cambridge, MA: Candlewick Press.
(6–8) Hannah’s family has emigrated from Taiwan to San Francisco to make America their
home. The book talks about the very real struggle with documentation as they wait and
hope for the arrival of their green card.
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Aitman, A. J. (2008). Waiting for Benjamin: A story about autism. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) Benjamin doesn’t do things the way his brother Alexander thinks he should. He stares
at the wall and does not want to play. His friends think he is “wacko.” He is diagnosed with
autism and Alexander works though his feelings.
Ellis, M. (2005). Keisha’s Doors/Las Puertas de Keisha, An autism story, Book 1. Austin, TX: Speech
Kids Texas Press.
(3–8) Keisha’s older sister can’t understand why she will not play with her. She is diagnosed
with autism and a therapist helps them understand what autism means. Bilingual in English
and Spanish.
Ellis, M. (2005).¿Tacos anyone?/ Alguien quiere tacos? An autism story, Book 2. Austin, TX: Speech
Kids Texas Press.
(3–8) This is a very simple to read, yet factually accurate, story of Michael, a four year old
boy with autism, and his older brother. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Lears, L. (2003). Ian’s Walk: A Story About Autism. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman & Company.
(6–8) Three children walk, tie a shoe, and feed the ducks. As Tara and Julie take Ian on a walk
to the park, Julie describes how Ian acts differently from most people.
Luchsinger, D. F. (2007). Playing by the rules. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(3–8) When her Aunt Tilda come to take care of them she unknowingly breaks some of
Josh’s rules. Jody, his big sister, helps her understand more about autism.
Peralta, S. (2002). All about my brother. Shawnee Mission, KS: Autism Asperger Publishing Co.
(3–8) Sarah, the young author of this book draws a portrait of her day-to-day life with her
brother, who has autism, and her family’s love and acceptance of him.
Shally, C. (2007). Since we’re friends: An autism picture book. Centerton, AR: Awaken Specialty Press.
(3–8) This book is about two boys: one has autism, the other does not. The story of their re-
lationship provides examples of how to make such a friendship work.
Children with Intellectual Delays and Disabilities
Bunnett, R. (2006). Friends at school. Long Island, NY: Star Bright Books.
(3–6) A light, informal book featuring children of different abilities working and playing in an
inclusive school setting.
Bouwkamp, J. A. (2006). Hi, I’m Ben… And I’ve got a secret! (2nd ed. ) Rochester Hills, MI: Band of An-
gels.
(3–6) This straightforward simple children’s book tells the story of Ben, his likes and dislikes,
what he does, and his secret. He has Down syndrome.
Byrd. L. M. (2003). The treasure on gold street/El Tesoro en la d’calle oro: A neighborhood story. El
Paso, TX: Cinco Puntos Press.
(4–8) One of Hannah’s best friends, Isabel, is an adult with an intellectual disability. Hannah
doesn’t know or mind because she is a wonderful playmate. Bilingual in English and Spanish
Dwight, L. (1998). We can do it. Long Island, NY: Star Bright Books.
(4–8) This upbeat book contains a series of photo essays that profile a multiracial group of
young boys and girls with disabilities playing, going to school, and having fun.
Girnis, M. (2000). ABC for you and me. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) Full-color photographs of multicultural children, most with Down syndrome, to illus-
trate the ABCs.
Glatzer, J. (2000). Taking Down syndrome to school (Special Kids in Schools Series). Plainview, NY:
JayJo Books.
(4–8) A grade school child has Down syndrome. The book looks at what it means and how
he manages. The book offers tips for adults.
Pitzer, M. (2008). My up and down and all around book. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(3–5) This colorful boardbook is designed to help children learn prepositions. It is illustrated
with photographs of children with Down syndrome as they engage in fun activities that show
children in and out, up and down, before and after, in front of and behind and many other
situations.
Shriver, Maria. (2001). What’s wrong with Timmy? Boston: Little Brown Children’s Books.
(6–8) A young girl named Kate sees Timmy on the playground. Timmy has an intellectual dis-
ability and Kate wonders a lot about him. Eventually the two children become friends.
Stuve-Bodeen, S. (2005). The best worst brother. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(4–8) Emma’s almost 3-year-old bother Isaac spits out food and knocks down blocks. His
slow pace is maddening but he is learning to sign. Isaac has Down syndrome.
Wojahn, R. H. (2006). Evan Early. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(4–8) Natalie is eager for her new brother but Evan was born too early and his first home is
in the hospital NICU. It is a scary place to visit. Natalie is hurt and angry over the way her
parents are preoccupied with Evan but agrees that big sisters can help a lot.
Woloson, E. (2003). My friend Isabelle. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(2–6) Isabelle and Charlie both like to draw, dance, read and play at the park. They are
friends but also different. Isabelle has Down syndrome, Charlie doesn’t.
Children who are Gifted and Talented
Cronin, D. (2000). Click, clack, moo: Cows that type. New York: Atheneum.
(4–8) When the cows find an old typewriter they use it to harass Farmer Brown to improve
their working conditions and when he refuses they go on strike. It is cold and they want elec-
tric blankets. Duck is the mediator. This humorous tale will have children cheering for the
clever animals that politely stand up for their rights.
Cronin, D. (2000). Giggle, giggle, quack. New York: Atheneum.
(4–8) Farmer Brown takes a vacation and leaves his brother Bob to mind the farm. Seeing an
opportunity, Duck finds a pencil and paper and leaves Bob a note that the animals expect
pizza on Tuesday night with the hens preferring anchovies. Bob complies without realizing
the source of this note.
Cronin, D. (2004). Duck for president. New York: Aatheneum.
(4–8) In this third story of the farm animals who stand up for their rights, duck gets tired of
doing his chores and holds an election to replace Farmer Brown. He quickly realizes that
running a farm is hard work so he decides to become governor, then president. He comes
back to the farm to write his autobiography on a computer, trashing the typewriter from
Click clack moo.
Cronin, D. (2008). Thump, quack, moo: A whacky adventure. New York: Atheneum.
(4–8) Farmer Brown plans s Statue of Liberty maze for the annual Corn Maze Festival and en-
lists his reluctant farm animals. Although compliant during the day at night they sneak out
with night-vision goggles, glow in the darks rulers and hedge clippers to make a design of
their own. When Farmer Brown and the smug Duck take a hot air balloon ride to see the
maze the farmer’s reaction is priceless.
Fern, E. (1991). Pepito’s story. New York: Yarrow Press.
(3–8) A young boy, who likes to dance, overcomes his friends’ teasing.
Gauch, P. (1992). Bravo, Tanya. New York: Putnam.
(3–8) Young Tanya encounters difficulties when she begins taking ballet lessons.
Hoff, S. (1994). Duncan the dancing duck. New York: Clarion Books.
(3–6) Duncan dances his way to celebrity status but eventually misses home and goes back
to his pond.
Hru, D. (1993). Joshua’s Masai mask. New York: Lee & Low.
(3–8) Joshua gains self-esteem playing the kalimba, an African musical instrument, in his
school’s talent show.
Johnson, A. (1993). The girl who wore snakes. New York: Orchard Books.
(6–8) An African American girl loves snakes and wears them wherever she goes. She defends
her rights and finds an aunt who shares her passion.
Lester, H. (1996). Three cheers for Tacky. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.
(3–8) Tacky, a penguin, is different but ends up stealing the show because of his special abili-
ties.
Ludwig, T. (2009). Too Perfect. New York: Tricycle Press.
(4–8) Maisie thinks Kayla is perfect, but is she happy? The book sets the stage for talking
about being yourself and working to your potential as opposed to perfection.
Rand, G. (2002). Little Flower. New York: Henry Holt.
(4–8) Little Flower is a very smart pig. She has learned lots of tricks, but one of them is really
special: she can play dead! When Miss Pearl falls and hurts herself nobody hears her calls for
help. Little Flower uses her trick to get help for Miss Pearl and becomes a hero.
Rockwell, N. (1994). Willie was different. Stockbridge, MA: Berkshire House Publishers.
(4–8) Willie, a wood thrush, discovers his genius at composing beautiful variations of his na-
tive song.
Shannon, M. (1993). Elvira. New York: Ticknor & Fields.
(3–8) Elvira, a dragon, is different and doesn’t want to do dragon-like things. She would ra-
ther make daisy chains. She eventually discovers she can be accepted for being herself.
Spinelli, E. (1993). Boy, can he dance! New York: Macmillan.
(6–8) Tony’s father wants him to become a chef, but for Tony dancing is his world.
Children with Special Health Care Needs
Allergies and Asthma
Carter, S. M., & Carter, A. R. (1999). I’m tougher than asthma! Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman &
Company.
(4–8) Siri leads an active life that is sometimes interrupted by her asthma. She explains to
readers about her first attack and how it feels like a great big animal is sitting on her chest.
She also talks about how to treat attacks when they occur. This book combinations basic in-
formation and a personal story.
Clowes, G. (2008). One of the gang: Nurturing the souls of children with food allergies. Blooming-
ton, IN: AuthorHouse.
(4–8) Families of children with food allergies must be vigilant about their child’s eating. Yet
food is part of many celebrations and a necessity for everyday life. This book highlights the
emotional side of food allergies.
Ellis, M., & Loehr, J. (2008). Busy bees: A sensory defensiveness story. Austin, TX: Speech Kids Texas
Press.
(3–8) A young girl talks about how input from her senses can make her upset and how, by
working with an occupational therapist, she is overcoming her sensory dysfunction (hyper-
sensitive to food textures).
Golding, T. (2009). Abby’s asthma and the big race. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman & Company.
(4–8) Abby has long legs but is short of breath. Although she is fast she sometimes stops be-
cause she wheezes. She exercises everyday with her Dad, does breathing exercises and
takes her medicine. Abby wins the big race beating a classmate who teases her.
Harrison, T. (1998). Aaron’s awful allergies. Buffalo, NY: Kids Can Press.
(3–6) Aaron loves animals but is allergic to them. He is unhappy until his mother gives him a
surprise.
Kroll, V. (2005). Brianna breathes easy: A story about asthma. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) Brianna, an African American girl, gets the lead in her school’s play. She has a cough,
which is ultimately diagnosed as asthma. She learns about the disease, how to manage it,
and her triggers.
Kruszka, B. J. (2004). Eating gluten-free with Emily. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(3–6) Emily has celiac disease and she talks about what food she can and cannot eat and
how she copes with restaurants and birthday parties.
London, J. (1997). The lion who has asthma. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–8) In his imagination, asthmatic Sean becomes a variety of animals to suit different situa-
tions. When using a nebulizer, Sean imagines he is a jet pilot.
Matthies, J. (2009). Peter, the knight with asthma. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman & Company.
(4–8) Peter plays at being a knight but before he can slay the dragon he is continually inter-
rupted by coughing fits. The doctor diagnoses Peter with asthma and Peter grows stronger
and can fight the dragon more effectively. Includes some information for adults.
Mitchell, B. (1998). Taking asthma to school (Special Kids in Schools), 2nd ed. Plainview, NY: Jayjo
Books
(4–8) This book helps children and adults discuss asthma and points out that regular kids
sometimes have asthma. It includes tips for adults.
Moore-Mallinos, J. (2007). I have asthma (Let’s Talk About it Books). Hauppauge, NY: Barron’s Educa-
tion Series.
(4–8) This book covers the basics of asthma as a chronic condition and how it can be con-
trolled. It encourages children to explore their feelings about situations that might puzzle
them. It provides additional information for adults. It is also available in Spanish.
Recob, A. (2009). The bugabees: Friends with food allergies. Minneapolis, MN: Beaver’s Pond Press.
(4–8) A book about eight friends and their food allergies. It reminds children that the joy of
friendship is far more important than any food. It looks at the main foods that account for
allergic reactions: peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, milk, soy, eggs, and wheat. There is ad-
ditional information for adults.
Schrand, T. (2006). A day at the playground with food allergies. Tamarac, FL: Llumina Kids.
(4–8) Playing and sharing is part of growing up but children with food allergies need to learn
that even when they meet new friends there are some things they shouldn’t share.
Smith, N. S. (1999). Allie the allergic elephant: A children’s story of peanut allergies. Colorado
Springs, CO: Jungle Communication Incorporated.
(3–8) Allie helps children learn about peanut allergies, and how important it is not to share
food with your friends, just in case they are allergic.
Smith, N. S. (2006). Chad the allergic chipmunk: A children’s story of nut allergies. Bel Air, CA: Allergic
Child Publishing Group.
(4–8) This book helps educate children and adults about tree nut allergies and how to recog-
nize allergic reactions.
Smith, N. S. (2009). Cody the allergic cow: A children’s story of milk allergies. 2nd ed. Bel Air, CA: Al-
lergic Child Publishing Group.
(4 – 8) Cody enlightens children and adults about milk allergy and shows that children with
milk allergies can have fun even if they can’t drink milk.
AIDS
Forbes, A. (2003). Heroes against AIDS. (The AIDS Awareness Library). New York: Powerkids Press.
(3–8) Providing information about AIDS in a developmentally appropriate way, the author
includes words from such people as Magic Johnson, who speaks about the strength needed
in dealing with AIDS.
Forbes, A. (2003). Kids with AIDS. (The AIDS Awareness Library). New York: Powerkids Press.
(3–8) The author gears this book toward educating young children that AIDS cannot be
transmitted just by touching someone, and discusses how people live with this virus in eve-
ryday situations.
Forbes, A. (2003). Where did AIDS come from? (The AIDS Awareness Library). New York: Powerkids
Press.
(3–8) Discussing the seriousness of AIDS, the author makes the point of letting young read-
ers know that people with AIDS have feelings and need love and support like everyone else.
Merrifield, M. (1998). Come sit by me. Markham, Ontario: Fitzhenry and Whiteside.
(4–8) Karen’s friend has AIDS. When her parents find that the other children won’t play with
him they help organize a meeting to deal with the fears of the children and the adults.
Verniero, J. C. (1998). You can call me Willy: A story for children about AIDS. Washington, DC: Magi-
nation Press.
(4–8) Willy is 8 years old and she love to play baseball. Sometimes people try to exclude her
because they fear her disease. The story focuses on her strength and courage as she copes
with the symptoms and side effects of her treatment.
Cancer
Allen, L. (2009) Riley Socks. Tamarac, FL: Llumina Kids.
(4–8) This is the true story of Riley Allen’s victorious battle with cancer. It is an uplifting
easy-to-read rhyming book. After a lengthy operation Riley finds she has special socks. The
socks aid her recovery and Riley kicks cancer right between the eyes.
Chamberlain, S. (1990). My ABC book of cancer. New York: Synergistic Press.
(3–8) An A-B-C description of cancer.
Krisher, T. (1992). Kathy’s hats: A story of hope. New York: Westcott.
(3–8) When Kathy undergoes chemotherapy for cancer, she finds a new reason to wear her
hats.
Richmond, C. (1996). Chemo Girl: Saving the world one treatment at a time. Sudbury, MA: Jones &
Bartlett Publishers.
(4–8) Chemo girl is a fictional superhero developed by a 12 year old girl to cope with her
chemotherapy treatments.
Diabetes
Ganz-Schmitt, S. (2007). Even superheros get diabetes. Indianapolis, IN: Dog Ear Publishing.
(4–8) Kevin loves superheros. Getting diabetes did not fit into his world of superheros until
a doctor helped Kevin uncover his super powers to help other kids with diabetes.
Gosselin, K. (2004). Taking diabetes to school (Special Kids in Schools Series, No 1) Plainview, NY:
JayJo Books.
(4–8) A grade school child tells his classmates about diabetes and how he manages it. The
book offers tips for adults.
Messinger, R. & Messinger, L. (2004). Why me? Why did I have to get diabetes? Lake Hiawatha, NJ:
Little Mai Press.
(4–8) This book shows diabetes from a child’s perspective and deals with the guilt and other
emotions that may accompany chronic illnesses. It helps children define themselves by who
they are and what they do, not by their illness.
Pirner, C. (1994). Even little kids get diabetes. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(3–6) A young patient relates her hospital stay, explains how she must have injections every
day (and will eventually give them to herself), and states her frustration at never being able
to eat sweets, even at a birthday party.
Overweight and Obesity
Durant, A. (2006). Burger boy. New York: Houghton Mifflin
(3–8) Benny only eats Bigga Burgers and balloons into a burger. Being a burger has some
downfalls as hungry people want to eat him. A funny story in which Benny eats a variety of
fruits and vegetables to get back in shape.
Isaacsen-Bright, (2009). I like lots. Tamarac, FL: Llumina Kids.
(4–8) A young boy likes junk food and lots of it. When he goes to the doctor he finds that he
is gaining weight – way too much weight. It isn’t easy but he follows the three rules: eat
better food, exercise and play more, and stick to it.
Doctors and Hospitalization
Bennett, H. (2008). Harry goes to the hospital: A story for children about what it’s like to be in the
hospital. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) A reassuring story of Harry getting a stomach flu. He gets so sick his mother and father
have to take him to the hospital. He copes with the new environment with the loving sup-
port of his parents.
Bennett, H. (2006). Lions aren’t scared of shots: A story for children about visiting the doctor. Wash-
ington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) Molly is worried about her appointment with the doctor. This book takes children
though a standard check-up in a relaxed fun way.
Bourgeois, P. (2000). Franklin goes to the hospital. New York: Scholastic Paperbacks.
(4–8) Franklin, a turtle whose shell has cracked, has to be brave when he goes to the hospi-
tal.
Cousins, L. (2009). Maisy goes to the hospital: A Maisy first experience book. Cambridge, MA: Can-
dlewick.
(4–8) Maisy bounces too high on her trampoline and breaks her leg. Maisy’s friend Charley
goes to the hospital with her. At the hospital she has an X-ray and then a cast. She has to
stay overnight and is scared but a friendly patient helps her.
Hatkoff, C. (2004). Good-bye tonsils. New York: Puffin.
(3–8) Juliana has so many sore throats that the doctor decides to take her tonsils out. She
talks to a friend who has had several operations about the process. The details of the pro-
cess are given. She leaves the hospital and is able to eat ice cream. Includes a note for
adults.
Mayer, M. (2005). Little Critter: My trip to the hospital. New York: HarperFestival.
(4–8) Little Critter breaks his leg during a soccer game and has to go to the hospital. He
rides in an ambulance, gets an x-ray and his first cast.
Death and Dying/Grief
Bohlmeijer, A. (1996). Something very sorry. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.
(6–8) A tragic car accident kills Rosemyn’s mother and leaves other family members with se-
rious injuries. Rosemyn’s inner turmoil and emotions are shared.
Johnston, T. (2002). That summer. San Diego, CA: Harcourt.
(6–8) Two brothers begin a summer like others they had before, until Joey becomes termi-
nally ill, and both boys discover that he is dying. This book is particularly geared toward chil-
dren dealing with loss in their life.
Old, W. (1995). Stacy had a little sister. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) When Stacy’s baby sister dies of SIDS she has many fears and questions. Her parents,
although sad, are reassuring and loving.
Kaplow, J. & Pincus, D. (2007). Samantha Jane’s Missing Smile: A Story About Coping With the Loss of
a Parent. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(4–8) Samantha Jane’s father died. A friendly neighbor and her mother help her talk about
her sadness.
Miles, B. (2006). Imagine a rainbow: A child’s guide for soothing pain. Washington, DC: Magination
Press.
(4–8) This book helps children imagine scenes that are soothing or uplifting in order to man-
age pain. It explains the techniques of guided imagery and deep breathing and how to help
children use them.
Mills, J. (2003). Little tree: A story for children with serious medical illness. (2nd ed.) Washington, DC:
Magination Press.
(4–8) A fictional story that provides hope and inspiration for children who are seriously ill. It
also provides guidance for relaxation exercises adults can use with children.
Mills, J. (1993). Gentle willow. Washington, DC: Magination Press.
(3–6) Little Tree and her friend Amanda the squirrel help address feelings of disbelief, anger,
and sadness, along with love, as they discuss issues geared toward children who may not
survive their illness, or for children who know friends like these.
Spelman, C. (1996). After Charlotte’s mom died. Morton Grove: IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) This book features a 6-year-old dealing with the recent death of her mother. Charlotte
feels angry with mom, estranged from her grieving and preoccupied dad, and afraid that
she, or her father, may also die. Dad arranges for her to talk with a therapist, who helps her
to acknowledge these feelings and develop a more positive outlook toward the future.
Stickney, D. (2009). Water bugs and dragonflies: Explaining death to young children. Berea, OH: Pil-
grim Press.
(4–8) This book uses the concept of metamorphosis to explain death.
Thomas, P. (2001). I miss you: A first look at death. Hauppauge, NY: Barron’s Educational Series.
(4–8) Written by a psychotherapist this book address death as part of life in a sensitive way.
It talks about the kinds of feelings people have and what they might do.
Willner-Pardo, G. (1996). Hunting grandma’s treasures. New York: Clarion.
(6–8) Seven grandchildren try to enjoy a family vacation, but it is not the same since their
grandmother died. They discover that she has left one last treasure.
Children with Orthopedic and Neurological Impairments
Orthopedic Impairments
Ellis, M., & Loehr, J. (2008). Sitting on letters: A story about low muscle tone. Austin, TX: Speech Kids
Texas Press.
(3–8) A young girl with low muscle tone learns from her uncle, an occupational therapist,
how sitting positions affect how she works and plays. The positions remind her of letters of
the alphabet.
Hererra, J. F. (2004). Featherless/Desplumado. San Francisco, CA: Children’s Book Press.
(6–8) At Tomasito’s new school everyone wants to know why he uses a wheelchair and what
spina bifida is. Papi gives him a new pet bird to make him smile. The bird is featherless. To-
gether they learn there is more than one way to fly. Bilingual in English and Spanish.
Meyers, C. (1999). Rolling along with Goldilocks and the three bears. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine
House.
(3–8) The beginning starts with the traditional story of the three bears but in this story baby
bear uses a wheelchair, goes to physical therapy and makes friends with Goldilocks.
Senisi, E. (2002). All kinds of friends, even green. Bethesda, MD: Woodbine House.
(6–8) Moses teacher asks the class to write a story about a special friend. Moses, who uses a
wheelchair, writes about Zaki, his babysitter’s toeless iguana. Moses realizes that even
though people are different they are still special.
Shirley, D. (2008). Best friend on wheels. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) A teacher asks a student to show a new girl around the school. She is surprised that
the girl is in a wheelchair but discovers they both collect rocks.
Thomas, P. (2002). Don’t call me special: A first look at disability. Hauppauge, NY: Barrons Educa-
tional Series, Inc.
(3–8) This picture book explores questions and concerns about physical disabilities in a sim-
ple and reassuring way. Children find out about individual disabilities and special equipment.
Willis, J. (2001) Susan laughs. London: Red Fox Picture Books.
(3–8) Susan laughs, she sings, she rides, she swings. She gets angry, she gets sad, she is good,
she is bad. In fact, Susan is no different from any other child. It is not until the last page that
the reader realizes that Susan is in a wheelchair.
Cerebral Palsy
Anderson, M. E. (2000). Taking cerebral palsy to school (Special Kids in Schools Series) Plainview, NY:
JayJo Books.
(4–8) A grade school child tells his classmates about cerebral palsy and how he manages it.
The book offers tips for adults.
Debear, K. (2001). Be quiet Marina. Long Island, NY: Star Bright Books.
(3–6) This photographic book is about Marina and Moira, both 3 years old. Marina screams
and is very noisy. Moira likes quiet, and Marina’s noise scares her away. One has cerebral
palsy the other Down syndrome. They learn to play together and become friends.
Heelan, J. R. (2000). Rolling along: The story of Taylor and his wheelchair. Atlanta, GA: Peachtree
Publishers.
(6–8) This book provides glimpses into the life of a boy with cerebral palsy. Taylor describes
his cerebral palsy, what he does at home, at school, in physical therapy, and his desire for
independence. He likes his wheelchair as it enables him to go faster and not tire as quickly.
Lears, L. (2005). Nathan’s wish: A story about cerebral palsy. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) Nathan struggles with cerebral palsy. As he helps an owl named Firefly, he helps him-
self as well.
Epilepsy
Gosselin, K. ( 2001). Taking seizure disorders to school: A story about epilepsy. (2nd ed.) Plainview,
NY: JayJo Books.
(4–8) With an upbeat style this book explains seizures in a way that is understandable to
young children.
Lears, L. (2002). Becky the brave. A story about epilepsy. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8) While Becky’s family and teacher know about her condition with epilepsy, she is afraid
to tell her classmates out of fear that they will laugh at her and tease her.
Rocheford, D. M. (2009) Mommy, I feel funny! A child’s experience with epilepsy. Deadwood, OR:
Green Swing, A Wyatt-MacKenzie Imprint.
(4–8) Nel is a little girl whose funny feeling turns out to be epilepsy. The story tells about
her first seizure and subsequent diagnosis. It discusses the fears and emotions Nel and her
family feel and Nel’s decisions to refuse to let epilepsy interfere with her life.
Zelenka, Y. (2008). Let’s learn with Teddy about epilepsy. Leonia, NJ: Medicus Press.
(4–8) Teddy has his first seizure when he is playing with his friend Rachael. He visits the
doctor’s office, has medical tests, and starts a treatment plan. The message is that he is not
any different than he was before his seizure.
Physical Differences
Mitchel, R. (1999). Hue boy.London: Penguin Books, Limited (UK).
(6–8) A boy is so slow in growing that he worries he will be small forever.
Children with Hearing Impairments
Fain, K. (1993). Handsigns. San Francisco, CA: Chronicle Books.
(birth–6) A classic ABC book that contains no words, but provides an alphabet letter, a clear
sign, and a picture of an animal that begins with that letter of the alphabet.
Lakin, P. (1994). Dad and me in the morning. Morton Grove, IL: Albert Whitman.
(6–8). A young boy wakes to a special alarm clock, puts in his hearing aids, dresses, and
wakes his dad to see the sunrise.
Millman, I. (1998). Moses sees a play. New York: Farrar, Straus & Giroux.
(3–8) Moses class of hearing impaired children is joined by a group of hearing children from
another school and see Cinderella by the Little Theatre of the Deaf. Moses meets Manuel, a
new immigrant who does not yet speak English. The two boys develop a rapport, and they
communicate through gestures.
Okimoto, J. (1995). A place for Grace. Seattle, WA: Sasquatch Books.
(3–8) Grace is disappointed that her size keeps her from becoming a Seeing Eye dog, but
through hard work and persistence, she finds that she has strengths that allow her to help
those with hearing impairments.
Schneider, E. E. (2004). Taking hearing impairment to school (Special Kids in School Series). Plainville,
NJ: JayJo Books.
(4–8) As Jacob’s story unfolds children learn about hearing aids, sign language, interpreters
and speech therapy.
Children with Visual Impairments
Calvert, P. (2008). Princess Peepers. Terrytown, NY: Marshall Cavendish Corp.
(3–8) Princess Peepers has a fabulous eyeglasses collection and loves to wear them until she
enters the Royal Academy where she is made fun of. She quits wearing them and has many
misadventures until she again wears the glasses.
Day, S. (2008). Luna and the big blur: A story for children who wear glasses, Rev. Ed. Washington,
DC: Magination Press.
(3–8) Luna is nearsighted. She hates her name and her glasses. But finally she realizes that
she sees better with them.
Dooley, V. (2002). I need glasses: My visit to the optometrist. New York: Mondo Publishing.
(3–8) The book does a good job of explaining what happens during an eye examination and
the names of some of the equipment used.
Fisher, R. (2009). Randy Kazandy, where are your glasses? Rancho Santa Margarita, CA: Whim Pub-
lishing.
(3–8) Randy does not like his glasses and tries to lose them. His mother has funny and inter-
esting ways to find them,
Headley, J. C. (2007). The patch. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge Publishing.
(3–8) A lovely and surprising story about a worried five-year-old girl who has to wear a patch
over one eye and how her brother helps her cope.
Hoban, T. (1996). Just look. New York: Greenwillow Books.
(3–8) This picture book provides a visual mystery as children attempt to identify a photo-
graph through a small hole in each page.
Faustino, L. R. (2001). The hickory chair. Arthur A. Levine Books.
(3–8) Louis loves his grandmother and even though he can’t see her because he has been
blind since birth, he feels her. When she is gone, his love for her helps him through.
Kostechi-Shaw, J. S. (2008). My travelin’ eye. New York: Henry Holt, and Co.
(3–8) Jenny Sue’s eyes are not the same as other people’s eyes. Her right eye looks in one di-
rection, while her left eye sometimes wanders. Jenny Sue has a lazy eye she has to wear a
patch. Her mother makes the patch interesting by using brightly colored material. Although
it makes her different, it also helps her see the world in a special way. She graduates from
the patch to glasses and her mother makes these fun too.
LeSieg, T. (2001), The eye book (Bright & Early Board Books ™ New York: Random House Books for
Young Readers.
(2–8) A Dr. Seuss book with a simple rhyming text about eyes and what they see.
Moon, N. (1994). Lucy’s picture. New York: Dial Books.
(3–6) Lucy makes a collage that her grandfather, who is blind, and he enjoys it through
touch.
Rebver, D., & Dugas, T. (2002). Magenta gets glasses. (Blues Clues #10). New York: Simon and
Schuster.
(2–4) Magenta is nervous about going to the eye doctor. She wonders what an eye exam
will be like and about getting glasses.
Stair, K. S. (2004). Glasses, glasses: Oh what do I see? Santa Ana, CA: Seven Locks Press.
(3–8) A lively story about eye examinations and the difference that glasses can make in a
child’s life. The author includes information for adults.
Thomas, C. (2006). I need glasses. (Rookie Readers). San Francisco, CA: Children’s Press.
(3–8) A story about a girl who needs glasses and what they help her do. When she loses
them she finds them on her little brother as he is trying to read.
Turk, R. (1998). The doll on the top shelf. Los Altos, CA: Owl’s House Press.
(3–8) An enchanting story of a girl with a visual impairment’s favorite Christmas and a lesson
on giving. Bilingual in English and Braille.
Educational Resources
Albert Whitman and Company specializes in timely books for children about topics such as divorce,
disability, and cultural diversity. http://www.awhitmanco.com
Bebop Books have a selection of child-centered stories that support literacy learning and provide
multicultural content for beginning readers in guided reading and intervention settings.
www.bebopbooks.com
Children’s Book Press is a nonprofit independent publisher of multicultural and bilingual literature
for children. The stories are about historically under-represented or misrepresented popula-
tions in children’s literature. They focus on promoting inter-cultural and cross-cultural
awareness for all children. http://www.childrensbookpress.org
Barahona Center for the Study of Books in Spanish for Children and Adolescents at California State
University-San Marcos has a very searchable data base of over 10,000 books in Spanish or in
English about Hispanic topics. New books are updated weekly.
http://www.csusm.edu/csb/intro_eng.html
International Children’s Digital Library wants all children to have books available to them and to
members of the global community. The books are from many different countries and in many
different languages. Book pages are displayed on the computer. Books are available on line at
no charge. http://www.childrenslibrary.org/
JayJo Books publishes The Special Kids in School Series that covers many different disabilities and
special health care needs. The commonalities are children in the context of their friends,
facing challenges with courage. http://jayjo.com/
Magination Press was created to publish psychology-based books designed to educate, motivate
and empower children to work toward change. They cover topics that all children face, such
as starting school, as well as clinical and medical disorders. The purpose is to provide age-
appropriate information on a particular issue, understand the feelings that might be associ-
ated with a situation, and provide some practical ways to cope and resolve the problems and
emotions. The books all use cognitive-behavioral techniques to treat the identified disor-
ders. They are interactive self-help book and include examples, activities and step by step
instructions. The books are from the American Psychological Association through their chil-
dren’s book division Magination Press. http://apamaginationpress.apa.org/
Oyate offers books, music, curriculum materials, and lesson plans that authentically portray the lives
of many different Native American tribes and people. www.oyate.org
Multicultural Kids is a great source of multicultural books, videos, puzzles, music, dolls, puppets, and
other educational resources in a variety of languages. www.multiculturalkids.com
Pan Asian Publications offers multicultural, multilingual, and bilingual books and materials. They
have original, translated, or bilingual materials in 36 languages. www.panap.com
Parent’s Choice reviews children’s books, TV shows, web sites, videos, and more. Their Doing &
Learning section provides ideas for activities and explorations. http://www.parents-
choice.org/default.cfm/
Shen’s Books is a publisher of multicultural children’s literature that emphasizes cultural diversity
and tolerance with a special focus on the cultures of Asia. http://www.shen.com/
Woodbine House has a special needs collection of over 50 books on specific disabilities and related
topics. http://www.woodbinehouse.com