8 Books to Help Children Build a Better World
The reading crisis is a global issue. Around the world, 64% of 10-year-olds are unable to read and understand a simple story. While this is frightening, our BookSmart app gets children reading. When children have the opportunity to read, they learn invaluable skills, experience joy, and reach their potential.
We believe that readers build a better world, but as readers ourselves, we know a better world often can’t be built all at once. Sometimes we start small, building better habits within ourselves or in our neighborhoods. So, we’ve crafted a digital reading solution to help children achieve a better world in a million little ways that add up to massive impact.
It’s why BookSmart is so diverse. These books can teach us a wide range of important themes – including how to build stronger relationships, healthier habits, or just a crazier imagination.
So we’ve highlighted a few of our favorite BookSmart reads that have helped us and our families build better worlds. How about you — have any stories helped you build something better in your life?
Build better relationships
The Golden Acorn Tree by Jocelyn Argueta
Published by Room to Read
Ages 6-8
Follow a friendly squirrel as she explores a charming forest and gathers acorns for her neighbors. Then discover how a shy skunk becomes an unlikely hero when their reliable tree is taken away without warning. Young children will delight in this sweet tale of friends with tails who help and accept every animal in their forest community.
► Discover the value of friendship here.
► Leer en español aquí.
Build imagination
Small Bird’s Big Adventure by Nick Mulgrew
Published by Book Dash
Ages 6-8
Small Bird loves the Giant. But where is the Giant? Small Bird goes on an adventure to find her.
► Discover a new adventure here.
Build a healthier planet
Build knowledge
When I Grow Up by Michele Fry
Published by Book Dash
Ages 6-8
I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. Can you help me choose?
► Learn about finding your future here.
Build self-confidence
Build better health
Walking Together by Jade Mathieson
Published by Book Dash
Ages 6-8
A walk to the clinic doesn’t have to be dull, especially when there are so many wonderful things to see on the way.
► Follow the family here.
Build peace
Building Peace by Regina Santiago
Published by Room to Read
Ages 6-8
How do we build peace? Letter by letter! Read about how four young activists find ways to stand up for others and for the planet—and how we can, too.
► Find a path to peace here.
Build welcoming spaces
Art for All by Olivia Wood
Published by Worldreader and Ashoka
Ages 6-8
Art for All is inspired by the true story of a young girl in Egypt who noticed that the refugees in her community sometimes had difficulty adjusting to their new home. Determined to take action, she used her love of art to help everyone feel welcome and have the chance to be happy!
► Uncover art in action here.
► Leer en español aquí.
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