Upper elementary kids are feeling all the feelings, they just might not always know what to do with them yet. That’s where the magic of a good picture book comes in. In just a few pages, it can transport students into someone else’s world, give them a peek at another perspective, and spark those “Ohhh… I never thought about it like that” moments.
The best part? These books do the heavy lifting and you just get to enjoy the read-aloud and guide the conversation.
Here are five picture books that are big on heart, rich in discussion potential, and guaranteed to grow your class’s empathy muscles. Plus I’ve included a quick sentence stem for each to help you kick off those deeper talks.
The Boy and the Whale by Hideko Takahashi
This gentle, poetic story beautifully highlights connection and kindness that transcend language and cultural differences, making it a perfect choice for teaching students that empathy knows no boundaries and is something we all share as humans.
Conversation Starter: “When I meet someone new or different, one way I can show kindness is…”
The Year We Learned to Fly by Jacqueline Woodson
This uplifting story follows two siblings who discover the power of imagination to rise above challenges. It encourages readers to understand others’ struggles and recognize the strength it takes to keep going. This picture book helps students see that everyone faces hard times, and sometimes all it takes is a little support and hope to soar together.
Conversation Starter: “When I face a tough day, one thing that helps me is…”
I Walk with Vanessa: A Story About a Simple Act of Kindness by Kerascoët
Without any words, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a girl standing up for a bullied classmate and how kindness spreads through a community. It shows how one small act of courage and kindness can create a ripple effect, inspiring students to think about their own power to make a difference.
Conversation Starter: “One small way I can stand up for someone else is…”
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst
A beautiful story about the unseen connections that tie people together, showing how love and empathy keep us connected no matter where we are. It reminds students that even when we can’t see it, we are all linked through care and understanding, fostering a sense of belonging.
Conversation Starter: “Someone I feel connected to even when we’re apart is…”
A Different Pond by Bao Phi, illustrated by Thi Bui
This heartfelt story follows a young boy and his father fishing early in the morning, sharing memories and dreams despite the challenges they face as immigrants. It beautifully captures family bonds, sacrifice, and understanding. It invites students to appreciate different family experiences and the quiet strength found in love and resilience.
Conversation Starter: “A story from my family that I think others should hear is…”
Empathy is more than a buzzword, it’s a vital skill that helps our students grow into thoughtful, compassionate humans. Picture books like these hidden gems open doors for meaningful conversations that stay with kids long after the last page is turned.
By weaving these stories and sentence starters into your classroom routine, you’re not only nurturing empathy, you’re building a community where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. And that’s a lesson worth teaching every single day.
If you want even more great read-alouds, be sure to explore my collection of SEL picture books ideal for the classroom. And don’t miss my back-to-school picture book guide for fresh ideas to kick off the year!Looking for more ways to engage students with read alouds? Check out this blog post!
