From the Book Jacket: One day, Finn discovers an amazing white feather right on his doorstep. It's obviously from Hamish, his brother who is now an angel. He's sure of it. Finn excitedly tells his mom, but she just takes a deep breath and gives him a big hug. He also tells his teacher, who gives him a big smile. Why aren't they excited, too? The feather is amazing! Fortunately, his friend Lucas gets it. Hamish wants Finn to have fun with the feather! What follows is a grand day of fun and friendship, inspired by the best brother ever.
Why It's on My Bookshelf: I once heard someone say that in America we do not do a good job of talking about grief. That it is a taboo subject. I am ever so grateful when I come across books like Finn's Feather. It teaches us that a death does not have to become something we are not allowed to talk about. The spirit of a person lives on in many ways. I like how Finn still finds his brother's essence in a feather. That he knows his brother would want him to keep being happy and live his life. This is a very special book that opens doors to conversations that might be uncomfortable.
Author: Grace Byers Illustrator: Keturah A. Bobo From the Book Jacket: "Like the sun, I'm here to shine." I Am Enough is an essential book for everyone - an inspiring lyrical ode to loving who you are, respecting others, and being kind to one another. Why It's On My Bookshelf: This year I am going to be doing more groups on self-esteem and needed some new resources to help guide my work. This book is so beautiful and I see it setting the tone for the group sessions and an art project. The illustrations are gorgeous and the words are so uplifting. Excited to share this with students and express to them that they are MORE than enough. Book Trailer: A Link to This Book:
From the Book Jacket: When a young girl named Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, her classmate wants to make her feel better and remember that Mom always says, "Be kind." But what does it mean to be kind? As the child ponders everything from asking a new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving and thoughtful story explores what kinds is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference - or at least help a friend. Why It's On My Bookshelf: This is such a lovely story on the incredible power of kindness. The story centers around another child witnessing unkindness. From that moment, she starts to think of how important daily kindness is when it comes to all of our interactions with one another. Through empathy she does something to bring joy to the child who was originally hurt. I love this book so much. One of our school rules/standards is "BE KIND" so this fits right in with what we are trying to teach children. It was refreshing to see this book and I will be using it TONS in the beginning of the school year. A Link to This Book:
