Reading Corner: Make the World a Better Place

By Jenna Sims

Five new releases that inspire perseverance and self-love.

by Sonia Sotomayor (Starting at $12.58, Philomel Books, Ages 4–8)

Inspired by her own family, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor tells a story to motivate all people to work together to make the world a better place. Each evening, Mami asks Sonia the question, “How did you help today?” and Sonia always works hard every day to make sure she has a good answer.

By Emily Winfield Martin (Starting at $8.54, Random House, Baby–3)

This adorable board book captures the beauty of diversity with simple text about different moods. Wonderful Babies would make a great baby shower gift from the same bestselling author as The Wonderful Things You Will Be.

by Stacey Abrams (Starting at $10.70, Balzer + Bray, Ages 4–8)

In this New York Times bestselling children’s book based on the author’s own experiences, Stacey is chosen by her teacher to compete in the school spelling bee. Although she loves words, fear creeps in. Follow Stacey’s journey as she learns just how powerful words can be.

by Joanna Ho (Starting at $15.49, HarperCollins, Ages 4–8)

As a companion book to the bestselling Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by duo Joanna Ho and Dung Ho, this beautifully illustrated picture book celebrates what it means to be truly you. A young Asian boy notices his eyes look different from his friends’ and later finds inspiration from the men in his family.

by Stuart Gibbs (Starting at $11.52, Simon & Schuster, Ages 8–12)

The first book in the New York Times bestselling series has been adapted into a graphic novel that tracks awkward middle schooler Ben Ripley as he survives his first year at the Academy of Espionage and becomes the secret agent he’s always dreamed of being.