Empathy Books for Young Readers, Tweens and Teens
In this 3rd and final part of the Empathy series, Lewis & Clark Library staff recommend books for younger readers.
Empathy is a skill that begins in early childhood. I love this charming picture book which models a caring relationship between a young boy and his mother who encourages her son to think about what is best for the wild creatures he encounters. The book ends with a positive, satisfying conclusion.
Find it in the library catalog HERE
Check out a delightful video version of Can I Keep It? HERE
by Jacqueline Woodson & illustrated by Rafael López
My number one recommendation for a book about kindness and empathy is The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson. It's a beautifully illustrated book that simplifies the concept of differences and similarities and allows caregivers and children to continue the conversation.
Find it in the library catalog HERE
I also love If You Plant a Seed by Kadir Nelson. This is another beautifully illustrated picture book that uses a concrete example of planting seeds and how the choices that you make can produce a generous crop to share or a mess of weeds.
Find it in the library catalog HERE
Watch a gentle video telling of this great story HERE
A Boy Called Bat is the first in a series (of the same name) by Elana K. Arnold. The books follow a third-grade student on the autism spectrum as he struggles to adapt to change, be kind to friends, and express himself. He also has to find a way to convince his mom to let him keep the baby skunk (kit) that she rescued
Find it in the library catalog HERE
Sunnyside Plaza is a middle grade novel with a funny, sweet, clever, and persistent narrator who introduces readers to Sunnyside Plaza, the community center for adults with developmental disabilities where 19-year-old Sally Miyake lives. When a resident dies, it's up to Sally, the other residents, and some new friends to discover what happened.
Find it in the library catalog HERE
Read more about broadcaster/author Scott Simon HERE
A searing, insightful, and hilariously heartbreaking portrait of what it was like for one young man to grow up poor in a rich school district. Winner of the 2020 YALSA Excellence in Nonfiction Award.
Find it in the library catalog HERE
Meet the author in this brief YouTube introduction
Looks at current events related to race through the lens of Dr. Martin Luther King's teachings.
Find it in the library catalog HERE
Related library materials HERE
Young people are increasingly overwhelmed by what it means to struggle with and manage their mental health. Take a peek inside Aza's head as she lives life with anxiety, OCD, and her first real boyfriend.
Find it in the library catalog HERE
Also available in digital format:
YA Author John Green has a huge online presence connecting with his readers through YouTube and other venues. Great interview HERE
Other resources for empathy reading materials. . .
Better With Books: 500 diverse books to ignite empathy and encourage self-acceptance in tweens and teens
Find it in the library catalog HERE
Interview with the author on YouTube HERE
Also, check out this great book list on Goodreads’ website:
Finally, we here at the library love to hear about what you’ve been reading. Share your great finds in the comments section below.
