Growing Together: Recent Picture Books for Social & Emotional Learning

Over the past year, I have provided several workshops and webinars on the science of reading engagement and motivation. Most of these learning opportunities were with small groups of librarians and educators. As part of this work, I’ve created several resource and book lists. I thought you might appreciate some of these recommendations, too!

This picture book list brings together a selection of texts blending storytelling with themes of social and emotional learning and positive identity formation. Each title has been chosen for its potential to spark engaging read alouds, inspire dynamic discussions with young people, and serve as thoughtful resources for individual counseling or reading advisory. Although the publishers’ recommended ages are for preschool and elementary readers, I think that most of these books have appeal and utility with older readers, too!

Each book offers diverse narratives that encourage children to explore and articulate their feelings, celebrate their unique identities, and develop essential social skills. Whether integrated into lesson plans, read aloud, or used for reading response activities, these books invite young people to reflect on their experiences, connect with peers, and build a foundation of empathy and self-awareness. I hope this list gives you some fresh books for creating safe and nurturing spaces for your students and children at home.  

Aloha Everything by Kaylin Melia George, illustrated by Mae Waite

Red Comet Press

ISBN# 978-1636551128

Ages 5-8

Publisher’s Description:

In this exciting adventure, you'll encounter mighty canoes crashing over ocean waves, regal hawks soaring high above the clouds, and brilliant lizards jumping nimbly through forest trees! Most importantly, you'll meet a courageous young girl named Ano who learns, grows, and comes to love her island home with all her heart.

Since the day that Ano was born, her heart has been connected to her home. But, this adventurous child has a lot to learn! When Ano begins to dance hula — a storytelling dance form that carries the knowledge, history, and folklore of the Hawaiian people — Ano comes to understand the true meaning of aloha.

Aloha Everything is both a captivating read and a fantastic educational resource for learning about Hawaiian history, ecology, and culture. With breathtaking hand-painted illustrations and beautiful rhyming poetry that will lull little ones into brilliant dreams of vibrant adventure, this book is sure to capture the hearts of both children and parents alike.

The beautiful poetry—weaving its way through every page—artfully blends 25 Hawaiian words into the English prose and provides a thoughtful exploration of the meaning of aloha in relation to the land, the people, and the lore. There is also a pronunciation guide and glossary providing additional information for those looking to learn more about the rich language and culture of Hawai’i.

Brave Like Fireweed (2024) by Jesse White, illustrated by the author.

Union Square Kids

ISBN-13: 978-1454949718

Age 4-8 years

Publisher’s Description

The journey begins in a young girl's bedroom, the night before a big performance. Excited but nervous, she dreams her way through North American flora and discovers the resilient, powerful, and radiant nature of plants and builds her confidence. Using a blend of social-emotional learning concepts and a poetic interpretation of the natural world, White showcases the complexities of nature alongside her stylistic and emotive art, encouraging readers to explore their feelings and emotions—no matter how big or small.

The Rock in My Throat (2024) by Kao Kalia Yang, illustrated by Jiemei Lin.

Carolrhoda Books

ISBN-13: 978-1728445687

Ages 5-10 years

Publisher’s Description:

In this moving true story, Kao Kalia Yang shares her experiences as a young Hmong refugee navigating life at home and at school. Having seen the poor treatment her parents received when making their best efforts at speaking English, she no longer speaks at school. Kalia feels as though a rock has become lodged in her throat, and it grows heavier each day. Although the narrative is somber, it is also infused with moments of beauty, love, and hope.

This is a story for anyone who has ever struggled to find their voice.

Bijan Always Wins (2024) by Adib Khorram, illustrated by Michelle Tran.

Dial Books

ISBN-13: 978-0593325308

Ages 4-8

Publisher’s Description:

Winning is Bijan's favorite thing. And Bijan always wins. But after declaring himself the winner of drawing and dinosaurs and even of lunch, Bijan notices that his friends aren't so keen to play with him. Could it be that some things, like friendship, can't be won?

Lupita’s Hurricane Palomitas (2024) by Alexandra Alessandri, illustrated by Anastasiya Kanavaliuk.

Beaming Books

ISBN-13: 978-1506488882

Ages 4-8

Publisher’s Description: 

Shutters rattled. Wind howled. As a ferocious hurricane descends upon her town, Lupita finds two baby birds who have fallen out of their nest and brings them inside to shelter them from the storm. While Lupita and her family wait out the tempest, she focuses on protecting the palomitas to alleviate her own fears and hopes she can soon reunite them with their mother.

Perfect for families living in hurricane-prone states or with children who have storm-related anxieties, Lupita's Hurricane Palomitas offers a gentle, soothing story about extending a hand of kindness to others even while facing fears of our own. The book includes Spanish-language vocabulary words and a glossary in the back.

Brown Girl, Brown Girl (2024) by Leslé Honoré, illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera.

Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

ISBN-13: 978-0316314039

Ages 4-8

Publisher’s Description: 

Brown girl, brown girl, what did you see? 

A world that sees my skin before it sees me. 

Based on a viral poem by Blaxican poet and activist Leslé Honoré, and illustrated by Caldecott Honoree Cozbi A. Cabrera, this moving journey through the past, present, and future of brown and Black girls is a celebration of community, creativity, and joy—and offers a reminder of the history that inspires hope, and the hope that inspires activism.

Home In a Lunchbox (2024) by Cherry Mo, illustrated by the author.

Penguin Workshop

ISBN-13: 978-0593661345

Ages 4-8

Publisher’s Description:

When Jun moves from Hong Kong to America, the only words she knows are hello, thank you, I don’t know, and toilet. Her new school feels foreign and terrifying.

But when she opens her lunchbox to find her favorite meals—like bao, dumplings, and bok choy—she realizes home isn’t so far away after all.

Through lush art and spare dialogue, Cherry Mo’s breathtakingly beautiful debut picture book reminds readers that friendship and belonging can be found in every bite. 

My Hair Is a Book (2024) by Maisha Oso, illustrated by London Ladd.

HarperCollins

ISBN-13: 978-0063249103

Ages 4-8

Publisher’s Description:

Black hair has been telling stories for generations, from ponytails of ancient tribes and Nubian vibes to cornrows that mapped paths to freedom for enslaved Africans. There have been stories about dance with styles that twist and swoop and the sweetest stories of Cinna-buns and Afro puffs made perfect in the hottest kitchens. In each of these stories, one notion rings true: Black hair is everything—rich with history, a thesaurus, an atlas, and more, telling of truth, trials, and undeniable beauty.

Maisha Oso’s powerful and uplifting text and London Ladd’s soul-stirring illustrations capture the remarkable nature of Black hair and remind us that whether it be curly, kinky, coarse, or straight, Black hair is beautiful.

Making Space (2024) by Paola Quintavalle, illustrated by Miguel Tanco.

Enchanted Lion Books

ISBN-13: 978-1592704088

Ages 5-7 years

Publisher’s Description:

Watching a flower grow. Taking time to say goodbye. Giving yourself the chance for another try. Holding hands and letting go. And welcoming the night when the moon is up.

These are all things for which we need to make time—things that involve both imagination and intention, even though they are ordinary. By sharing these small moments, this playful, conceptual book inspires us not to waste but to fill the precious time we have on our hands.

What Lolo Wants (2024) by Cristina Oxtra, illustrated by Jamie Bauza.

Kids Can Press

ISBN-13: 978-1525308369

Ages 3-7 years

Publisher’s Description: 

In this heartwarming and poignant story, a girl and her grandfather share a love beyond words, for fans of When Lola Visits and Holding On.

Every night, Maria and Lolo draw together. Though she tries, Maria isn’t nearly as good as her grandfather. Lolo can draw anything: Lola cooking, sampaguita blooming, maya birds perching. One day, though, things start to change. Lolo does not feel well. And when Maria asks him to draw, he says he needs to rest. Not long after, Lolo begins to forget people’s names, and soon he cannot find the words for what he wants. Maria tries to find some way to help Lolo communicate – could their shared love of drawing be the answer?

This sweet and moving picture book written by Cristina Oxtra is a wonderful conversation starter about how to navigate through family changes by continuing to care and connect. It highlights a strong intergenerational bond between a young girl and her beloved grandfather. Jamie Bauza’s rich illustrations in gorgeous tropical colors are full of evocative details of the setting in the Philippines. Tagalog words are incorporated into the text. This book works well for character education lessons on empathy, initiative and resilience.

The Table (2024) by Winsome Bingham and Wiley Blevins, illustrated by Jason Griffin.

Neal Porter Books

ISBN-13: 978-0823456420

Ages 4-8 years

Publisher’s Description

Two families—both filled with love, both encountering hardship and joy, both living in the same place—and the one simple table that connects them all.

For years, a mining family’s life revolves around their table. It’s where they eat, read, sew, laugh, and pay the bills; it’s stained with easter egg paint, warmed by fresh biscuits and the soft morning sun. 

Outside the house, though, Appalachia changes. The coal mine closes, and the bills keep coming. Eventually, there’s no choice but to move on— and to say goodbye to the table.

But then: When a young girl’s father sees the table by the road, he slams on the brakes. A lifelong carpenter, he can see it’s something special. They bring it home and clean it up; sitting around it, they eat and work and laugh. The girl wonders if another child once sat there, if they were anything like her. She’ll never know . . . but the table remembers. 

The Table is a stirring contemplation on the similarity between even people whose lives are entirely different. The details of these different lives take many forms, but the love underlying both of these families makes them much more similar than they are different. The center of this book is family love, and the many important connections we share with the family we live with. Even in strife, this book shows, love provides a literal support.

Expressively illustrated by Caldecott Honoree Jason Griffin, the story is deeply personal to coauthors Wiley Blevins, raised in West Virginia, and Winsome Bingham, who immigrated as a child from Jamaica to the U.S. South.

Look (2024) by Gabi Snyder, illustrated by Samantha Cotterill.

Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books

ISBN-13: 978-1665905404

Ages  4-8

Publisher’s Description:

In the tradition of Tomie dePaola’s Quiet, this lyrical, timely picture book with beautiful diorama illustrations shows that if you really look, you never know what the world might give you to see.

The natural world is full of patterns to enjoy for those who can ground themselves, be mindful, and truly see.

What Can a Mess Make? (2024) by Bee Johnson, illustrated by the author.

Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)

ISBN-13: 978-1250900241

Ages 4-8 years

Publisher’s Description:

In this gorgeously illustrated rhyming picture book, two sisters spend their day playing at home and leaving joyful, cozy messes in their wake.

Kitchen clatter.

Milk and juice.

Syrup splatter.

Chocolate mousse.

Bowl of berries―

Red and blue.

A mess can make a meal for two.

From breakfast to bedtime, from pillow fort to pillow fight, these sisters make all kinds of messes. 

Imaginative, playful, forgiving, delicious messes.

And their messes make a day full of possibilities.

With bouncy rhyming language and warm illustrations, What Can A Mess Make? inspires readers to embrace their imaginations, linger in the beautiful messes on every page, and make some messes themselves.

The Day the Moon and Earth Had an Argument (2024) by David Duff, illustrated by Noemi Volta.

Princeton Architectural Press

ISBN-13: 978-1797228266

Ages 4-7

Publisher’s Description:

All friends have disagreements. But when the friends are the Moon and planet Earth, the consequences are pretty cosmic!

After 4.5 billion years together, Moon has had enough of Earth. So, she packs her things and sets off to see what the solar system has to offer. On her galactic tour, Moon sweeps young readers along on a delightful and educational journey.

From scorching Venus to giant Jupiter, Moon encounters the oddities and charms of all the other planets on her journey. But as she reaches the cold and lonely edge of the solar system, she begins to wonder whether Earth is really so bad after all . . .

With vibrant illustrations, a dash of humor, and heartfelt explorations of emotions like anger and empathy, this children’s book about friendship beautifully conveys the value of connection and the invaluable lesson that sometimes what we’re looking for is closer than we think.

Offering a fun and practical review of the planets and their characteristics throughout, The Day Moon and Earth Had an Argument also includes two full spreads at the back of the book filled with fascinating facts about our solar system, information about gravity, how the moon was formed, and more.

How to Hug a Pufferfish (2022) by Ellie Peterson, illustrated by the author.

Roaring Brook Press

ISBN-13: 978-1250796998

Ages 3-6

Publisher’s Description:

So, you want to hug a pufferfish...

Who could blame you? That friendly, gap-toothed grin is hard to resist! Only, when Pufferfish is hugged or touched unexpectedly by their friends, things can get a little…spiky.

It’s not that Pufferfish doesn’t ever want hugs―it’s just that they need to have a say in when and how they’re hugged. Luckily, they have great friends who are willing to listen and learn the best ways to show Pufferfish some love and respect their personal space.

With its bright, commercial art and unique exploration of a timely topic, Ellie Peterson's How to Hug a Pufferfish provides a straightforward and humorous look at consent and body autonomy for kids.

Sour Apple (2024) by Linda Liu, illustrated by the author.

Henry Holt

ISBN-13: 978-1250835086

Ages 4-8

Publisher’s Description:

Ever been picked last? Well, this sour apple knows a thing or two about what it feels like to be forgotten. When apple season passes and he’s left on the cold, hard ground, he questions his place in the world.

As his introspection branches out into different ideas of what could have been if he was chosen, he learns some core truths about what it means to be alive.

More Than Words: So Many Ways to Say What You Mean (2023) by Roz MacLean, illustrated by the author.

Henry Holt

ISBN-13: 978-1250864505

Ages 4-8

Publisher’s Description:

Nathan doesn't say much. 

He sure has a lot on his mind, though.

At school, Nathan quietly observes the ways his peers communicate. Even when they’re not talking, they’re expressing themselves in all sorts of ways! 

By witnessing the beauty of communication diversity, Nathan learns and shows his classmates the essential lesson: Not only does everyone have something to say, but seeking to understand one another can be the greatest bridge to friendship and belonging.

This tender, stunningly illustrated picture book explores and celebrates the many forms of expression―signing, speaking, singing, smiling, among others―and culminates in a poignant story about connection and understanding.

Includes additional material at the end of the book with vocabulary, an introduction to various forms of communication, and information about communication access, perfect for back-to-school and classroom discussions.

Just One Little Light (2023) by Kat Yeh, illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault.

HarperCollins

ISBN-13: 978-0063094963

Ages 4-8 years

Publisher’s Description: 

Your one little light 

cannot light the whole sky

but it is enough to begin.

This luminous picture book is a powerful reminder to readers of any age that no matter how dark it may seem, even the smallest glimmer of hope can make a difference. 

I’m Sorry You Got Mad by Kyle Lukoff, illustrated by Julie Keon

Dial Books

ISBN# 978-0593462911

Ages 4-7

Publisher’s Description

Jack wants to apologize for hurting Zoe’s feelings. He just can’t seem to find the right words. Turns out there’s more to an apology than just saying “I’m sorry.” Elevated by equally charming illustrations and text, I’m Sorry You Got Mad is a journey in learning the importance of an apology that goes deeper than just words.

One Light (2024) by Christie Matheson, illustrated by Anuska Allepuz.

Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) 

ISBN-13: 978-0374389802

Ages 3-6

Publisher’s Description:

Mouse feels all alone one dark and dreary night. She wonders if anybody else feels lonely, too. She’s not sure if a single person can make a difference, but she decides to try.

Mouse lit one light…

And the result is magical. One by one, others in the neighborhood follow Mouse’s lead. With each new spark, the stormy night becomes less gloomy. This luminous story is a brilliant and tender call to action, encouraging readers to spread kindness and create change in the world – one light at a time.

When You Have to Wait (2024) by Melanie Conklin, illustrated by Leah Hong.

Roaring Brook Press

ISBN-13: 978-1250816542

Ages 4-8 years

Publisher’s Description

Sometimes, you have to wait.

For the line at the public pool on a hot summer day.

For mom to come home after being away.

For your legs to grow just a bit longer to ride a new big kid bike.

The seconds drag on... each one feels like forever. Why can’t you have it now?

But while you wait, you might notice things: a possible new friend who is also in line, why homecoming hugs are extra special, and how beautiful the world is when you’re not racing by.

Sometimes, when you have to wait, you find the good in the moments between now and later.

The Magical Science of Feelings: Train Your Amazing Brain to Quiet Anger, Soothe Sadness, Calm Worry, and Share Joy (2024) by Jen Daily, illustrated by Gwen Millward.

Storey Publishing, LLC

ISBN-13: 978-1635867541

Ages 5-8 years

Publisher’s Description

Where do feelings come from? Are they magic? No, they're science! There is a reason our tummies feel funny when we are worried, and why we want to stomp and clench our fists when we feel mad. With endearing illustrations, the parts of the brain come alive as friendly characters who explain how emotions like happy, sad, mad, worried, and overwhelmed are created in the body. 

Along with clear explanations about the origins of feelings, author and clinical social worker Jen Daily provides creative coping skills and activities (playfully called emotion potions) that help build a child's ability to reflect, cope, calm anxious thoughts, and welcome greater joy. From dancing to storytelling and meditation, the coping skills are accessible and effective for a wide range of social-emotional needs and learning styles. 

I hope this SEL book list offers you some new(ish) titles that can offer fresh perspectives and foster empathy, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence in young readers. Each book provides unique insights into social-emotional learning, diverse identities, and the challenges children face as they grow. Please share your favorite SEL picture books, too. We can all benefit from our shared enthusiasm for reading and sharing great books with young people.

Happy Reading!

-Donalyn