7
Hello Universe

Erin Entrada Kelly

Published In 2017

Grade Level #Middle grade novel #grades 5-6

Four middle-schoolers’ fates intertwine one summer Chapters alternate between the four kids’ perspectives, sharing their unique interests, backgrounds, beliefs, and doubts. Readers will be instantly engrossed in this relatable neighborhood adventure. 

Winner of the Newbery Medal

18
Crenshaw

Katherine Applegate

Published In 2015

Grade Level #4-8

The importance of friends helping individuals deal with life's hardships is shown through the friendship between Crenshaw and Jackson.

30
Listening With My Heart

Gabi Garcia Illustrator: Ying Hui Tan

Published In 2017

Grade Level #K-6

Listening with my heart reminds us of the importance of being friends to ourselves. It also touches on the universal themes of friendship, empathy and kindness. Includes mindfulness and self-compassion activities. Amazon

36
Rayme Nightingale

Kate Di Camillo

Published In 2016

Grade Level #5-8

Raymie and her new friends, Louisiana Elefante and Beverly Tapinski, have all lost parents and seek ways to move on with their lives and to protect one another along the way. Tense, dramatic conclusion. 

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