First Book Title Raves

From First Book: First Book Title Raves

Books are instrumental in helping children see themselves in the world they live. By providing access to a rich diversity of titles, educators can shed light on challenges specific to children in need and inspire an unending love of reading.

With this outlook, First Book has released its inaugural “First Book Title Raves,” a list of ten newly-published books ranging from board books to young adult fiction reviewed and recommended by educators who serve children in need.

These stories play a critical role to help address the top subjects facing these educators’ students. They also demonstrate that addressing the problem of book deserts — the areas in the United States that are devoid of libraries and bookstores — has to be done with quality, relevant, inclusive books.

First Book Title Raves

(listed in alphabetical order by author, with the educator’s review):

The Benefits of Being an Octupus, by Ann Braden

This title follows the journey of Zoey, a girl raised in poverty and chaos, as she learns to claim space in the world and see herself as worthy. My students and I love it.—Wendy G

Yasmin the Fashionista, by Saadia Faruqi, illustrated by Hatem Aly

Our school has so many Muslim families but the options for representation in literature for early readers is limited. These books were a hit! Parents were asking where to buy copies for their home libraries. Grandparents are positively represented in several of the books as well. The art is FABULOUS.—Sheila B.

Potato Pants! by Laurie Keller

If you are looking for a hilarious, laugh out loud perfect read aloud for K-5, this book is potato-ey perfect! Laurie Keller doesn’t disappoint with her humor, word play and fantastic author’s message. I read this aloud 20 times in our school library and the kids ALL loved it!—Colleen M.

Read the full list of rave reviews on First Book.