10 Stories of Change, Courage, and Belonging for Children

At Read 2 Succeed, we believe stories help children make sense of the world and themselves.  Books can open doors to places they’ve never been and help them build understanding when everything around them is changing.
We’re shining a light on books that reflect the experiences of families who are building new lives in the United States. These stories show the courage immigrants and their children carry, the memories that travel with them, and the bonds they create along the way. From learning new languages to finding new friends, these books remind young readers that they have strength within them to navigate change with confidence and build meaningful connections in new places.
R2S honors our migrant communities and stands alongside them as we continue uplifting the wisdom, resilience, and cultural richness they bring to our shared work and our classrooms. 

Mama’s Nightingale: A Story of Immigration and Separation
​Written by Edwidge Danticat, illustrated by Leslie Staub
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Saya’s mother has been taken to an immigration detention center, leaving Saya longing for her comforting presence. Through recorded stories and heartfelt messages, Saya finds strength and connection even in separation. 
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Dreamers
Written and illustrated by Yuyi Morales
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This beautifully illustrated story follows a mother and son who come to the United States and discover the wonders of the public library. Books become their language, their bridge, and their way of finding belonging in a new place. 
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

If You See a Bluebird
​Written by Bahram Rahman, illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard
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When a young girl travels to visit her grandparents far away, she experiences the joy of reconnecting with family and the ache of missing home. Through gentle moments and meaningful cultural details, she learns what it means to love two places at once. 
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Maribel’s Year
​Written by Michelle Sterling, illustrated by Sarah Gonzales
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Maribel has just moved from the Philippines, and each month brings new challenges and discoveries as she adjusts to life in the United States. With patience and bravery, she grows more confident in her surroundings and begins to find her place. 
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

The Arabic Quilt: An Immigrant Story
​Written by Aya Khalil, illustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan
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Kanzi feels embarrassed about her Arabic name on her first day at a new school. But when her teacher introduces a quilt project that celebrates the languages in the classroom, Kanzi’s identity becomes a source of pride and connection. 
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Areli Is a Dreamer: A True Story
​Written by Areli Morales, illustrated by Luisa Uribe
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In this true story, Areli shares her experience of moving from Mexico to the United States as a young child. She navigates new language, new expectations, and new surroundings while holding onto her dreams. Her journey honors the bravery of many children who adapt, grow, and build a place for themselves in a new country.
Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Anita and the Dragons
​Written by Hannah Carmona, illustrated by Anna Cunha
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Anita imagines the airplane taking her from the Dominican Republic to her new home as a mighty dragon she must bravely face. As she says goodbye to the familiar, she gathers courage for the unknown ahead. 
​Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Fatima’s Great Outdoors
Written by Ambreen Tariq, illustrated by Stevie Lewis

Fatima and her family go on their first camping trip in the United States, discovering joy, peace, and adventure in the woods. Away from the pressures of school and fitting in, Fatima is able to celebrate her family’s traditions in the comfort of nature. 
​Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Waiting to Welcome
​Written by Samantha Cleaver and Reuben Nantogmah,
​illustrated by Carmen Mok
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A neighborhood prepares to welcome a newcomer family, and the children lead with kindness and excitement. Through thoughtful gestures and open hearts, they show how communities can make newcomers feel seen and supported. 
​Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.

Like a Dandelion
​Written and illustrated by Huy Voun Lee
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A child, compared to a dandelion seed, travels to a new place and begins the journey of growing roots and blooming. Through poetic language and bright illustrations, this story captures the resilience and beauty of starting fresh. 
​Listen to a live read-aloud - click here.