In celebration of Children’s Book Week, the Library has added a curated Children’s Book collection of over 70 picture book and middle grade novels to its OverDrive ebook and audiobook collection.
Many of these titles were recommended by the ESSO Diversity Club. Titles of recent award winners such as Undefeated (Caldecott Winner) and Just Ask! Be Different, Be Brave, Be You (Schnieder Family Book Award Winner) were also selected by librarians to add to the start of this collection. In addition, OverDrive has made over 30 additional children titles freely available through a “Sweet Reads” sub-collection in an effort to provide more access to books while many library buildings remain closed.
Below is a list of a just a few of the recommended titles to check out in this wonderful new addition to our OverDrive collection.
The Day You Begin, by Jacqueline Woodson
“National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson and two-time Pura Belpré Illustrator Award winner Rafael López have teamed up to create a poignant, yet heartening book about finding courage to connect, even when you feel scared and alone.”
Charlotte’s Web, by E.B. White, audiobook read by Meryl Streep
“Brought to life by Meryl Streep and a full cast, this beloved book by E. B. White…is a tender novel of friendship, love, life, and death that will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come..”
The One and Only Ivan, by Katherine Applegate
“Winner of the Newbery Medal and a #1 New York Times bestseller – This unforgettable novel from renowned author Katherine Applegate celebrates the transformative power of unexpected friendship. Inspired by the true story of a captive gorilla known as Ivan, this illustrated book is told from the point of view of Ivan himself..”
Once you finish reading, check out the recently released sequel The One and Only Bob.
Look Both Ways, by Jason Reynolds
“From National Book Award finalist and #1 New York Times bestselling author Jason Reynolds comes a novel told in ten blocks, showing all the different directions kids’ walks home can take..”
Note: The OverDrive collection is available to any student, faculty or staff member with a PEA login. Download the Sora app to read or listen to these books on a mobile device.
Academy Library Blog 