The Wishing Flower (AJ Irving)

 

The summary says that this is an LGBTQ-inclusive story but it is very subtle in that regard. But then again, maybe I just don't know enough about what it is like to be an LGBTQ child. I don't know. I think there are a lot of kids who feel like they don't belong and don't have a friend. 

My class will love looking under the dust-cover of this one! It's beautiful!

The author grew up in Boise and lives in SLC now. What are the chances she isn't a member of the LDS church? That puts an interesting spin on her topics.

Goodreads says:

An LGBTQ-inclusive story about understanding your peers, your feelings, and yourself, The Wishing Flower is a love letter to longing, belonging, and longing to belong.

Birdie finds comfort in nature and books, but more than anything she longs for connection, to be understood. At school, Birdie feels like an outsider. Quiet and shy, she prefers to read by herself, rather than jump rope or swing with the other kids. That all changes when Sunny, the new girl, comes along. Like Birdie, Sunny has a nature name. She also likes to read, and loves to rescue bugs. And when Sunny smiles at her, Birdie's heart balloons like a parachute.

From the acclaimed author of Dance Like a Leaf, with stunning illustrations by Kip Alizadeh, this book will inspire readers to honor their wishes and show the world their truest selves.

I Wish You More (Any Rosenthall)

 

Perfect for the end of the school year!

Goodreads says:

Some books are about a single wish. Some books are about three wishes. The infallible team of Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld have combined their extraordinary talents to create this exuberant book of endless good wishes. Wishes for curiosity and wonder, for friendship and strength, laughter and peace. Whether celebrating life's joyous milestones, sharing words of encouragement, or observing the wonder of everyday moments, this sweet and uplifting book is perfect for wishers of every age. Plus, this is the fixed format version, which will look almost identical to the print version. Additionally for devices that support audio, this ebook includes a read-along setting

I Wish You More (Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichentenheld)

 

This is really beautiful! There are many pictures to stop and pause on and think about the delight children are. It would be a great story for the last day of school. 

Goodreads says:

Some books are about a single wish. Some books are about three wishes. The infallible team of Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Tom Lichtenheld have combined their extraordinary talents to create this exuberant book of endless good wishes. Wishes for curiosity and wonder, for friendship and strength, laughter and peace. Whether celebrating life's joyous milestones, sharing words of encouragement, or observing the wonder of everyday moments, this sweet and uplifting book is perfect for wishers of every age.

Once Upon a Goat (Dan Richards)

 

We loved the surprise when the Queen and King had a child and it turned out to be a goat. We laughed out loud. 

Goodreads says:

A twisted fairy tale about a king and queen who wish for a child of their own…and end up with a baby goat.

Once upon a time, a very prim and proper king and queen begged their fairy godmother for a child. They’d prefer a boy, with glowing skin, bright eyes, and two roses for lips…but any kid will do. When they find themselves gifted with a baby goat (also known as a kid) instead, they can’t imagine how he’ll fit into their lives.

Ella May and the Wishing Stone (Cary Fagan)

What kid doesn't think about what they'd do if they could have their wishes granted?

This may be my favorite Cary Fagan story yet. My class was captivated by it as well. It definitely had some gasp moments...one of my favorite things when reading to my class. This would be great one to read while we're doing our Rocks and Minerals unit.

Goodreads says:
One day, Ella May finds a stone that has a line going all-all-all the way around it. Surely a stone this special must grant wishes, she decides. Soon she is busy making wishes and bragging about them. When her friends want to share the fun, Ella May objects. But she soon learns that keeping the stone for herself is a sure way to lose friends. By using her imagination – much more powerful than any stone – she is able to grant everybody’s wishes, including her own.

Cary Fagan’s witty and sharply observed story will delight young readers who are beginning to explore the pleasures and challenges of sharing and friendship.