Books to Cuddle up with this Winter Break
By: Dr. Janie Avant
The Nora Project is eagerly awaiting Winter Break! I am sure every child and teacher, everywhere, is as well!! As we turn to cherishing time spent with family and friends, celebrating, and enjoying our time of rest and relaxation, we believe it is also a great time to settle down with a good book, and maybe a cup of hot chocolate by a roaring fire! We have gathered some of our favorite picture books for young readers (and the young at heart) to get you started.
Dr. Janie Avant (Program Advisor) recommends “Mighty Mara,” written by Carina Ho and Jesse Byrd and illustrated by Monica Paola Rodriguez. This colorful picture book features Mara, a little girl who resists the sameness of Sametown. Mara is determined to shine while celebrating her uniqueness. This beautifully written story, set in a town where everyone looks the same, feels the same, and is expected to act the same, can lead to discussions with young children about assumptions, diversity, and identity - and the importance of being yourself!
Emily Pappa (Program Strategy Manager - Curriculum) recommends “Where Happiness Lives,” written by Barry Timms and illustrated by Greg Abbott. This beautiful book follows three little mice who live in three very different houses. Each mouse believes that the others must be happier. But where does happiness truly live? A sweet tale all about appreciating and loving what we have. The engaging illustrations and interactive flaps throughout the story make this a wonderful book for families with children of all ages.
Jessica Karoutsos (Marketing Consultant) recommends “Giraffes Can’t Dance,” written by Giles Andreae and illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees. Festive and fun illustrations help tell the tale of Gerald the giraffe whose long neck and thin legs make him stand out from the rest of the animals at the annual jungle dance. This powerful story teaches children about the importance of inclusion while embracing and celebrating their own differences, as well as those of others.
Rebecca Kuntz (Program Coordinator) recommends “We Move Together",” written by Kelly Fritsch and Anne McGuire, illustrated by Eduardo Trejos. This beautifully illustrated children's book celebrates a group of disabled and nondisabled children as they become friends and play together. The book highlights different ways to move and navigate the world. I love this book for kids because it shows that there is no right or wrong way to move, and we always move together.
Jordyn Zimmerman (Program Strategy Manager - Spaces and Supports) recommends “What If One Day…,” written by Bruce Handy and illustrated by Ashleigh Corrin. “What if one day...” is a vibrantly illustrated book reminding kids and adults, alike, that there is so much beauty in our world, as it is. Highlighting a plethora of imaginative situations to spark thinking, it can empower kindness, inclusion, and change. This is a favorite of mine for 2023!
Jo Tolley (Program Advisor) recommends “Horton Hears a Who” by Dr. Seuss. A classic tale from the works of Dr Seuss about Horton the elephant who saves Whoville against the odds. After hearing their plea for help, he protects the town and its people, irrespective of the rest of the jungle fighting to destroy what appears to them as a speck of dust. This heart-warming story teaches readers about empathy, friendship and loyalty, alongside advocating for what and who they believe in.
Books are the windows to worlds of adventure, guiding readers onto new paths of learning and understanding. We hope you enjoy these selections, and would love to hear your favorites!
Please continue to let us know what you think about the books we have chosen to highlight, and tag us on social media (Facebook, Twitter/X, LinkedIn, or Instagram) with book recommendations for our ever-growing list of stories to read and discuss.
About the Author: Dr. Janie Avant is a retired teacher with 40 years of experience working with children with a wide range of disabilities. She continues to work as an early intervention specialist with children birth to age 3 with disabilities, and is a Program Advisor for The Nora Project.
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