This book is great for older elementary ages. It's advanced descriptive language, calm pacing, and beautiful illustrations make it an excellent read-aloud for younger children, while its themes of patience, family bonding, and respect for nature provide meaningful discussion opportunities for slightly older students.

“When you go owling you don‘t need words or warm or anything but hope.”

Caldecott award winner: (1987) This is a gentle story about a young child who goes owling with their father on a cold winter night. As they walk quietly through the snowy woods, the child learns patience, hope, and the magic of nature, until at last they spot a great horned owl.

“We stand with our songs and our drums. We are still here.”

This story is a great read for all elementary grades. Its poetic language and striking illustrations introduce students to environmental stewardship and Indigenous perspectives on caring for the Earth. Teachers can use the story to spark discussions in older grades about natural resources, community activism, and respect for cultural traditions, while also connecting to science and social studies standards on ecosystems and civic responsibility.

Caldecott award winner: (2020) This story is inspired by Indigenous-led movements to protect water. Told through lyrical text and vibrant illustrations, it shares the story of a young Ojibwe girl who calls on her community to stand together against a “black snake” (symbolizing oil pipelines) that threatens the Earth‘s water, land, and creatures. The book emphasizes unity, respect for nature, and the responsibility to care for our planet.

“She realized she was tired. Not tired from work but tired of putting white people first.”

This book would be great for elementary-aged children because it explains themes and important historical events in a way that makes it easy for children to grasp and understand.

Caldecott Award Winner- Rosa (2005), written by Nikki Giovanni and illustrated by Bryan Collier, tells the powerful story of Rosa Parks and her courageous stand on a Montgomery bus. With poetic text and stunning collage art, it honors Parks‘ quiet strength and the spark it lit in the civil rights movement, making history accessible and inspiring for young readers.

“He walked with his toes pointing out, like this. He walked with his toes pointing in, like that.”

This is an amazing book that would be great for young readers. It is a simple read that children can find relatable, with the magic of seeing something such as snowfall for the first time. The book also uses vibrant pictures to help convey feelings throughout the story.

Caldecott Award Winner- The Snowy Day (1962), written and illustrated by Ezra Jack Keats, is a timeless classic about a young boy named Peter discovering the magic of his first snowfall. With simple text and bold collage illustrations, the book beautifully captures childhood wonder and everyday adventure, making it a beloved story for generations.

“Sometimes when you‘re surrounded by dirt, CJ, you‘re a better witness for what‘s beautiful.”

This is an amazing book for all ages because it has strong messages that help students see things from different perspectives and give a glimpse of different living styles for families.

Caldecott Award Winner- Last Stop on Market Street (2015), written by Matt de la Peña and illustrated by Christian Robinson, is a heartwarming story of CJ and his Nana riding the bus through the city. With vibrant illustrations and lyrical text, the book celebrates community, kindness, and finding beauty in everyday life. It gently teaches gratitude and perspective, making it a meaningful read for children and adults alike.