Wanda Gág‘s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is a classic retelling of the Grimm fairy tale with simple yet striking illustrations. It is a fairy tale because it includes magic, such as the poisoned apple and the magic mirror, and shows the battle between good and evil. The story teaches lessons about jealousy, kindness, and justice, which are common themes in traditional literature.

“..., and the three sisters told her the story of the Po Po who had come“

I would use Lon Po Po in the classroom to compare and contrast it with the Western version of Little Red Riding Hood, helping students explore cultural variations in traditional tales. The story also encourages discussions about bravery, teamwork, and problem-solving as the children outsmart the wolf.

Paul Zelinsky‘s Rumpelstiltskin is a beautifully illustrated retelling of the classic Grimm story. This tale is considered a fairy tale because it includes magical elements, such as spinning straw into gold and the mysterious little man who appears to help the miller‘s daughter. Like many fairy tales, it teaches lessons about greed, promises, and cleverness, while also highlighting the importance of wit and determination in overcoming challenges

“When the king came in the morning and found everything he had wished, he married the miller's beautiful daughter, and she became a queen“

I would use Rumpelstiltskin in my classroom to teach story elements such as character, setting, problem, and solution. Students could discuss the choices made by the miller‘s daughter and how they might solve the problem differently. The book‘s illustrations could also inspire an art activity where students create their own depictions of the magical scenes.

Paul O. Zelinsky‘s Rumpelstiltskin is a beautifully illustrated version of the classic Grimm fairy tale. It fits into the fairy tale category because it includes magical elements, such as spinning straw into gold and the mysterious figure of Rumpelstiltskin. The story teaches lessons about greed, promises, and cleverness, which are common themes in traditional literature.

The Wrinkle in Time graphic novel helps children move beyond just following the plot to thinking more deeply about how words and images work together. Its illustrations make the mature and complex themes—like love, courage, and the struggle against darkness—easier to understand. This adaptation makes the classic story more accessible while still encouraging thoughtful analysis.

There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly is a classic cumulative tale first published in 1961, written by Simms Taback. The story follows the increasingly silly and absurd choices of an old lady who swallows a series of animals, each larger than the last, to catch the one before it.

“Now the towers are gone. But in memory, as if imprinted on the sky, the towers are still there“

You could use it as a mentor text for discussing taking risks and following your passions. Students can talk about what it means to be brave or creative, and even try their own “safe risk-taking” projects.
After reading, explain that the Twin Towers were an important part of New York City and were tragically destroyed on 9/11. Emphasize remembrance and respect rather than graphic details.

“The Man Who Walked Between the Towers” (2003) by Mordicai Gerstein is a beautifully illustrated and compelling story that captures Philippe Petit‘s daring high-wire walk between the Twin Towers in 1974. The book combines stunning visuals with poetic text, making the suspense and awe of his feat palpable for readers of all ages. It‘s a celebration of courage, creativity, and the human spirit.”

“It was late one winter night, long past my bedtime, when Pa and I went owling. There was no wind. The trees stood still as giant statues. And the moon was so bright the sky seemed to shine.”

In the classroom, I would use it as a mentor text for teaching sensory details in writing.

Owl Moon (1987)
This gentle story follows a child and parent on a quiet, late-night search for owls. It uses rich imagery to capture both the beauty of nature and the warmth of family bonds.

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

In the classroom, I would use it during Earth Day or in science/social studies to connect literature with conservation.

We Are Water Protectors (2020)
This lyrical, award-winning book emphasizes the importance of protecting Earth‘s water, inspired by Indigenous culture and activism. It highlights environmental responsibility and the power of community. In the classroom, I would use it during Earth Day or in science/social studies to connect literature with conservation.

″ Before he got into bed he looked in his pocket. His pockets was empty. The snowball wasn‘t there. He felt very sad. ”

n the classroom, I would use it for lessons on descriptive writing or to connect with students‘ own seasonal experiences.

(1962) This classic story follows Peter as he explores the wonder of a snowy day in his neighborhood. It highlights imagination, discovery, and the joy of simple childhood experiences.

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

You could use Rosa to teach about courage, civil rights, and standing up for what‘s right. Students could discuss times they‘ve witnessed or shown bravery, or write about someone they admire for taking a stand. It could also lead into a history lesson on the Civil Rights Movement, helping students connect personal actions to larger social change.

Rosa (2005) is a powerful picture book that recounts Rosa Parks‘ pivotal act of defiance on a Montgomery bus in 1955. Through Nikki Giovanni‘s evocative text and Bryan Collier‘s striking cut-paper illustrations, the book captures the quiet strength and courage of Parks. It‘s a poignant introduction to the Civil Rights Movement for young readers, highlighting the impact of individual actions on societal change.

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

You could use Chooch Helped to spark discussions about siblings, patience, and helping others. Students could share times they‘ve tried to help someone, even if it didn‘t go perfectly. It could also lead into a writing or drawing activity where they illustrate a helpful moment in their own family or classroom.

This book is a Caldecott medal winner (2025). Chooch Helped is a tender story about sibling dynamics in a Cherokee family. Chooch‘s attempts to “help” often cause trouble, while his sister Sissy learns patience and the importance of being a teacher. Warm collage illustrations by Rebecca Lee Kunz bring depth and cultural richness, making this Caldecott Medal winner both heartfelt and memorable.

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

I‘d use Last Stop on Market Street to spark discussions about gratitude, community, and seeing beauty in everyday experiences. After reading, students could share what they‘re thankful for or draw something beautiful they notice in their own neighborhood. It could also lead into a writing activity where they describe a bus ride, walk, or trip through their community. This helps build empathy and perspective while connecting literacy to real life.

This book is a Caldecott winner, published in 2015. Last Stop on Market Street is a sweet story about seeing beauty in everyday life. CJ and his Nana‘s bus ride shows kindness, gratitude, and finding joy in simple things.

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

I would use this book in my current classroom! My students have a tricky time staying quiet during read-alouds, and this would help them to understand some implications of interrupting.

(2010) This book was great! Would be very useful for a chatty class who needs a little extra learning about how to behave during a story. Includes humor which makes the book interesting for students.