Monthly Themed Book Selections

Each month we hand-pick a book tied to civics, cultural celebrations, and the world your child is growing up in — stories that spark curiosity, empathy, and big conversations.

How We Choose Each Book

Our curators align every selection with the month's most meaningful moments — Black History Month, Earth Day, Hispanic Heritage Month, Election season, and more. Every book is age-appropriate for readers aged 5–12, beautifully illustrated, and chosen to open up real conversations between children and the adults who love them.

January

New Beginnings & Civic Pride

Martin Luther King Jr. Day · Inauguration · New Year

The Story of Ruby Bridges

Robert Coles

Ruby Bridges walked into a segregated school at age six and changed history. A powerful introduction to courage, civil rights, and what it means to stand up for what is right — perfect for MLK Jr. Day discussions.

Talking points

What does bravery look like? Why do rules sometimes need to change? How can one person make a difference?

February

Black History & Heritage

Black History Month · Valentine's Day · Presidents' Day

Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition

Margot Lee Shetterly

The true story of the Black women mathematicians at NASA who helped launch America into space. Celebrates brilliance, perseverance, and breaking barriers — a natural fit for Black History Month.

Talking points

Why is it important to learn about people who were left out of history books? What does it mean to be a pioneer?

March

Women's History & Equality

Women's History Month · St. Patrick's Day · Spring Equinox

She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World

Chelsea Clinton

From Harriet Tubman to Sonia Sotomayor, this book celebrates women who were told no — and kept going anyway. A joyful, inspiring read for Women's History Month.

Talking points

What does it mean to persist? Who are the women in your own life who inspire you? What would you keep going for?

April

Earth, Environment & Science

Earth Day (April 22) · National Poetry Month · Spring

The Lorax

Dr. Seuss

The Lorax speaks for the trees — and for every child who cares about the planet. A timeless Earth Day classic that opens up conversations about conservation, responsibility, and the world we leave behind.

Talking points

What can we do to protect the environment? What would the Lorax say about your neighbourhood? How do small actions add up?

May

Family, Community & Memorial

Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month · Mother's Day · Memorial Day

The Name Jar

Yangsook Choi

When Unhei moves from Korea to the US, she wonders whether to keep her name or choose an American one. A warm, funny story about identity, belonging, and the courage to be yourself — perfect for AAPI Heritage Month.

Talking points

What does your name mean? What makes a community welcoming? How do we honour people who are different from us?

June

Juneteenth, Freedom & Pride

Juneteenth (June 19) · Pride Month · Summer Solstice

All Are Welcome

Alexandra Penfold

A vibrant, rhyming celebration of a school where every child — no matter their background, faith, or family — belongs. Pairs beautifully with Juneteenth and Pride Month conversations about freedom and inclusion.

Talking points

What does freedom mean to you? What makes a place feel truly welcoming? How can we make sure everyone feels included?

July

Independence & Democracy

Independence Day (July 4) · Constitution Week · Summer Reading

We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States

David Catrow

A hilarious and surprisingly moving illustrated guide to the Preamble — told through the adventures of three kids and their dog. Makes the founding ideals of democracy feel alive, funny, and genuinely relevant.

Talking points

What rights do you think every child should have? What does 'We the People' mean? How do we form a more perfect union in our own home or classroom?

August

Back to School & New Chapters

Back to School · Summer's End · National Book Lovers Day (Aug 9)

The Invisible String

Patrice Karst

As summer ends and new classrooms begin, this gentle story reassures children that love connects us even when we are apart. A comforting read for first days, new schools, and big transitions.

Talking points

What are you nervous about? What are you excited for? Who are the people you feel connected to no matter where you are?

SeptemberThis Month

Hispanic Heritage & Cultural Pride

Hispanic Heritage Month (Sep 15–Oct 15) · Constitution Day (Sep 17) · Fall Equinox

Alma and How She Got Her Name

Juana Martínez-Neal

Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela has a very long name — and this Caldecott Honor book shows her why every part of it is a gift. A beautiful celebration of family, heritage, and identity for Hispanic Heritage Month.

Talking points

What stories are in your name? What traditions does your family carry? How do we honour where we come from?

October

Civic Participation & Elections

National Voter Registration Day · Indigenous Peoples' Day · Halloween

Grace for President

Kelly DiPucchio

When Grace discovers there has never been a female US president, she decides to run for school president herself. A fun, empowering civics lesson about elections, representation, and making your voice heard.

Talking points

Why is voting important? What would you change if you were in charge? What does it mean to represent your community?

November

Gratitude, Native Heritage & Giving

Native American Heritage Month · Veterans Day · Thanksgiving

Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story

Kevin Noble Maillard

Told in lyrical verse, this Sibert Medal winner uses the making of fry bread to explore Native American identity, history, and community. A meaningful counterpoint to traditional Thanksgiving narratives.

Talking points

Whose land do we live on? What does it mean to be grateful? How do food and traditions connect us to our history?

December

Winter Celebrations & Global Traditions

Hanukkah · Christmas · Kwanzaa · Winter Solstice · New Year's Eve

Hanukkah at Valley Forge

Stephen Krensky

A soldier at Valley Forge meets General Washington and shares the story of Hanukkah — a tale of perseverance and light in dark times. A moving bridge between American history and Jewish tradition, perfect for December's many celebrations.

Talking points

What holidays does your family celebrate? What do light and warmth mean in winter? How do different traditions share the same values?

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Members receive each month's book pick, a discussion guide, and an invitation to our live read-along session.

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