Librarian-Recommended Reads That Kids Will Love

National Library Week (April 7-13) is a great time to honor libraries and librarians and their vital role within our communities. More than just book curators, librarians are event planners, storytellers, singers, and performers. They offer tech support and educational resources. They promote literacy for all, and — through programs that support equality and diversity — they are agents of inclusion and change. Librarians are community builders of the highest power.

In celebration of National Library Week, we asked librarians nationwide to share some of the books they love recommending to kids. Check out these awesome stories at your local library, or use the links below to grab a copy of your own.

Picture Books

Show the World!

by Angela Dalton, illustrated by Daria Peoples

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"As an elementary librarian, I'm always looking for picture books that will empower young people and make for good read-alouds. Show the World! does just that in a poetic text with a message to be all they can be and have pride in various abilities and strengths while encouraging them to follow their interests and find confidence in their own path through life."

—Jillian Heise, Elementary Library Media Specialist & founder of #ClassroomBookADay, Wisconsin

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The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read

by Rita Lorraine Hubbard, illustrated by Oge Mora

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“I can’t think of a better way to celebrate National Library Week than by reading (or re-reading) The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read. It’s a captivating story, masterfully depicted by Rita Lorraine Hubbard and Oge Mora, based on the remarkable life of an incredible woman—who learned to read at the age of 116. Perfect for all ages!”

—Hanna Lee, Youth Services Coordinator, First Regional Library, Mississippi

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Chapter Books & Middle Grade

The Penderwicks

by Jeanne Birdsall

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“The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy by Jeanne Birdsall is a magical book that can transport readers to carefree summer days in search of adventure. Much like another famous set of literary sisters, the Penderwick’s wrap readers up in their world in eager anticipation for their next escapade. A true gem to read any time of the year.”

—Lucy Podmore, Librarian, Clark High School, Texas

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Letters from Cuba

by Ruth Behar

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Letters from Cuba by Ruth Behar is a compelling, inspirational story of Esther, a young Jewish girl who flees Poland to escape WWII to join her father and begin a new life in Cuba. Esther’s journey as an immigrant is described via the many letters to her sister, Malka. They detail the trials, discrimination, friendships, and Esther's determination as a dressmaker to save enough money for the remaining family members to make the long, expensive voyage from Poland to Cuba. I truly relish reading and walking in the shoes of a character. As a reader, this book helped me understand Esther’s challenges, hopes, and dreams for her family. It’s a moving historical fiction middle grade novel readers will be inspired by.

—Becky Calzada, District Library Coordinator, Texas

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Beast of Prey

by Ayana Gray

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“Beasts of Prey is one of the best books I have read in a while. Ayana Grey masterfully tells a magical story that merges fantasy, girl power, and African folklore into a must-read! Follow Koffi and Ekon's journey to a magical jungle full of surprises that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Fans of Black Panther will be mesmerized by Beasts of Prey, and is sure to make your students fall in love with reading."

—Cicely Lewis, Meadowcreek High School, Georgia

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When You Were Everything

by Ashley Woodfolk

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“Relationships are hard. Relationships ending are even harder, especially when they are with your BFF. Who knows you better? Who else have you given more trust? Rarely do we get to see this common, life phenomenon of friendship breakups on the page. In alternating "then" and "now" moments, Woodfolk captures the pain of endings, and the hope of new beginnings.”

—Danielle Jones, Library Youth Development Manager, Multnomah County, Oregon