When you go owling you don't need words or warm or anything but hope.“

In the classroom, it works beautifully for lessons on imagery, patience, and making connections between text and illustration.

Owl Moon is a gentle, poetic story about a child and father going owling on a quiet winter night. Jane Yolen‘s lyrical language captures the stillness of nature, while John Schoenherr‘s illustrations create a peaceful, magical atmosphere.

“TAKE COURAGE! I must keep the black snake away / From my village's water. I must rally my people together“

I could use this for earth day as a lesson starter. The lyrical text and stunning artwork capture both the urgency and the hope behind the message. In the classroom, this book can spark meaningful discussions about environmental responsibility, activism, and respect for Indigenous voices.

We Are Water Protectors is a powerful and beautifully illustrated book that celebrates the importance of protecting our environment, especially water. Inspired by Indigenous-led movements, it teaches children that they, too, have a role in caring for the Earth.

“Now, my little chicken,” said Papa, “you must try not to interrupt.”

In the classroom, this book is a great way to introduce lessons on patience, respect, and being a good listener. Kids laugh at the humor but also recognize themselves in Little Chicken, making it both entertaining and meaningful.

Interrupting Chicken is a funny and relatable story about a little chicken who can‘t stop interrupting her papa‘s bedtime stories. The playful text and colorful illustrations keep children engaged while also highlighting the challenge of self-control and listening.

“For a moment, the sky belonged to him alone.”

This book gives children a sense of wonder and courage, while also honoring the memory of the towers. In the classroom, it can spark conversations about bravery, dreams, and the importance of perspective.

Cadecolt winner: 2003

The Man Who Walked Between the Towers tells the true story of Philippe Petit, who daringly walked on a tightrope between the Twin Towers in 1974. Mordicai Gerstein‘s writing is simple yet dramatic, and the illustrations capture both the height and the breathtaking beauty of the moment.

She had not sought this moment but she was ready for it.”

This book helps children not only learn about a key moment in the Civil Rights Movement, but also feel the courage and determination behind it. When used in the classroom, Rosa can inspire meaningful conversations about fairness, justice, and the power of standing up for what is right.

Rosa is a powerful picture book that tells the story of Rosa Parks and her brave act of refusing to give up her seat on a Montgomery bus. Nikki Giovanni‘s writing is clear, respectful, and deeply moving, while Bryan Collier‘s illustrations bring the moment to life with warmth and strength.

“Chooch learns by watching. You‘re one of his most important teachers.”

I think this book would hold a good spot in the classroom when discussing being a leader in the classroom.

Caldecott winner- 2025

Chooch Helped is a heartwarming picture book that beautifully captures the frustrations and joys of sibling relationships. What really stands out is the vivid, layered mixed-media artwork.

“He walked with his toes pointing out, like this. He walked with his toes pointing in, like that.”

When I share this book in the classroom, I notice it makes children feel curious, cozy, and excited about their own experiences in nature. It‘s also a great springboard for discussions or writing prompts about seasonal changes, favorite memories, and the small moments that bring joy.

Category: CALDECOTT WINNER 1962

The Snowy Day is a beautiful story that captures the joy and wonder of a child‘s first snowfall. The simple text and bright illustrations draw children in, and it encourages them to notice and celebrate the little moments in their own lives.

The story encourages them to notice beauty in unexpected places and to appreciate what they already have. Many students may feel comforted by the warmth between CJ and his grandmother, and inspired to see their own world in a more positive light. Overall, it‘s a story that can make children feel valued, grateful, and more connected to their community.

“Sometimes when you‘re surrounded by dirt,CJ, you‘re a better witness for what‘s beautiful.”

CATEGORY: CALDECOTT WINNER_________________ Published in 2015- Overall I loved this book and I feel the story of CJ and his grandmother sparks rich discussion about community, diversity, and perspective, while the illustrations capture students‘ attention with their color and warmth. I appreciate how the book naturally opens the door for conversations about kindness and seeing the world in different ways.