The 2025 Schneider Family Book Award

Summary: Milo fears a monster lurks under his bed, but his friend Mel has a plan. Using shadow puppets, they try to scare the monster away. But what if the monster finds it amusing? As they devise a new strategy, they learn that true bravery comes from facing fears together. Will their friendship be enough to banish the monster for good? This enchanting tale, filled with warmth and creativity, offers comfort to children confronting nighttime fears.

Summary: Jake, a nursing home volunteer, finds solace in helping others but struggles with an eating disorder that threatens to consume him. As he avoids peers and mirrors, he battles the voice inside urging him to disappear. Can Jake find the strength to silence his inner torment and embrace self-acceptance before it's too late? This poignant novel-in-verse explores the raw journey of survival and self-expression, offering a lifeline to those in need.

Summary: Joe, a child with a limb difference, is tired of being praised for ordinary feats. As he and his friend Simone showcase their playground skills, Joe wonders if he can ever just be himself without the spotlight. This story challenges assumptions about disability, inviting readers to see it as a normal part of life. Will Joe find a way to be seen for who he truly is?