3 Must Have SEL Books to add to your Library!

[Gabbyrenee]

1. The Invisible Boy by Patrice Barton

Summary: This is a story about Brian, who feels invisible by his friends and teachers at school. Until one day, a new student showed him how to feel included and participate in the group.

- This story teaches about ensuring everyone is included and that no one is left out.

- This emphasizes differences because when we like different things, others do not want to always be with us or leave us out if we do not like the same things. This story shows that it is essential to make everyone feel included.

- This book uses pictures and different color schemes to show how the reader is feeling so that the readers have a visual of him feeling invisible so it can be relatable to them as well.

2. My Mouth is a Volcano! by Julia Cook

Summary: this is a story about Louis, who struggles with shouting out and interrupting others because the words are racing out. He finds it to be a problem when others are starting to interrupt him

- This story teaches students the importance of waiting to talk rather than consistently shouting out.

- This book teaches differences because everyone may have a different thing they want to say, but you need to learn to wait for your turn to get a chance to talk.

- This book uses an abstract idea of interrupting and puts a character like a volcano on it so the students can understand the importance of waiting their turn to talk and learning respect for others.

3. Chrysanthemum  by Kevin Henkes

Summary: This story is about a character who loves the name her parents gave her until she goes to school, and kids make fun of her. Through the help of her teacher, she can learn not to care about what others think and that her name makes her unique.

- This book is an excellent way for students to learn about self-confidence and learn that even though they may be different, they are unique. This book is a great way to build a classroom community

- This book teaches differences because not all students share the same interests, yet our differences make us unique and essential. No one should be made fun of just because they are different.