Grades K–5
Title List
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Our Stories Decodables are rich, highly decodable stories that help K–5 students apply newly learned phonics skills to authentic reading experiences. Featuring new, previously unpublished authors, the collection spans a wide range of stories and experiences that reflect your students’ world and accelerate their reading achievement.
Meet Our Authors
Layla Allen Howard University
Joseph DeGuzman Scholastic
Rayven Bryant Spelman College
Ausha Harris Howard University
Winslow Jones, Jr. Howard University
Mayah Johnson Spelman College
Chavi’ Lassiter Howard University
Nia McCullin Scholastic
Sean Miller Howard University
Simon Moore Howard University
Yvette Manns Clark Atlanta University
Marty Refugio Pérez University of Oregon
Quentin Price Howard University
Geena Talley University of Oregon
Dougziana Thomas-Chan Howard University
Priscilla Torres Texas A&M University
Gabriela Salaah (née Walker) Howard University
Our Stories Decodables | 2
Book 1
Big Box Party by Joseph DeGuzman & illustrated by Emily Paik
s born in Queens, New York, to parents who es. From an early age, he was fascinated by with him about their Filipino heritage. Today, holastic, where he develops curriculum s Education Solutions division. He is s that celebrate underrepresented cultures. is wife and daughter.
Dad hosts a backyard party for his daughter and her friends. When he brings out a box filled with hats, the kids get excited. Each child tries on a hat, sparking a joyful cultural celebration.
by Joseph De Guzman illustrated by Emily Paik
3/8/24 2:09 PM
Book 2
Dad’s Cab by Joseph DeGuzman & illustrated by Dione Kong
Dad, Zack, and Liv are on a fun adventure to see the sunset at a dock in Brooklyn. Their excitement is put to the test when the cab gets a flat tire along the way. Will they be able to fix it in time to catch the sunset?
s born in Queens, New York, to parents who es. From an early age, he was fascinated by with him about their Filipino heritage. Today, holastic, where he develops curriculum s Education Solutions division. He is s that celebrate underrepresented cultures. is wife and daughter.
by Joseph De Guzman
illustrated by Dione Kong
3/14/24 1:04 PM
Written and Illustrated by Nia McCullin ac ’ s
Book 3
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Jack’s Big Trip Written & illustrated by Nia McCullin
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As a family and their dog set out on a hike to their favorite pond, their day takes an unexpected turn when a duck snatches the dog’s toy. Will the duck spoil their adventure? Join the family on their trip and find out if the dog’s toy will be rescued!
d raised in New Jersey, where she loved from a young age. Coming from a long cited to be writing fun and diverse books! ally doodling, walking in nature, or watching Jersey with her dog Riley.
4/12/24 12:28 PM
Review Book 1
Let’s Read Review Book by Joseph DeGuzman & illustrated by Martha Aviles A group of kids and their pets read Books 1-3 of the Our Stories collection and discover it’s fun to read and discuss books!
s born in Queens, New York, to parents who s. From an early age, he was fascinated by with him about their Filipino heritage. Today, holastic, where he develops curriculum s Education Solutions division. He is s that celebrate underrepresented cultures. is wife and daughter.
5/29/24 4:55 PM
Book 4
Can Rex and Em Be Pals? by Nia McCullin & illustrated by Makenzie McCarthy
Em isn’t fond of cats like Rex, her sister Val’s pet. But when a bug flies into the house and comes after Em, Rex steps up heroically, getting rid of the intruder. Will this heroic act help Rex and Em become pals?
s born and raised in New Jersey, where writing, and drawing from a young age. line of educators, Nia is so excited to iverse books! When not working, Nia is alking in nature, or watching movies. She sey with her dog Riley.
by Nia McCullin illustrated by Makenzie McCarthy
5/17/24 2:15 PM
Book 5
The Big Move by Gabriela Salaah & illustrated by Nathalia Rivera
This book follows Ben’s big move from Maine to California as his Navy mom relocates the family. Feeling sad, the boy leaves behind old friends. Will he find new ones out west? And how will he stay connected with his old pals?
ker Salaah was born in Georgia, but she etherlands, and Virginia as a military child. Education graduate of Howard University chool teacher. Salaah is the author of two oks, Grow Your ’Fro Garden and The Big with her husband and two fur baby dogs.
5/17/24 2:58 PM
Our Stories Decodables | 3
Book 6
The Red Truck by Layla Allen & illustrated by Jessica Gibson
by Layla Allen illustrated by Jessica Gibson
Pops gets a call for a fan repair on a hot day and brings along his granddaughter Trish. An aspiring painter, Trish reluctantly helps her pop. When Trish discovers an art room at the customer’s house, she creates a painting of Pops’ truck. Pops is amazed by Trish’s talent, fostering a newfound appreciation for her artistic abilities.
d raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She was Steve and Jean Adamczyk, along with her family has owned their business, Adamczyk 1982. Layla learned her passion for working om her family’s business. Layla is currently d University, majoring in Elementary Education yla aspires to have a long career in education partner Nathan Pierre.
5/17/24 5:00 PM
Bring It On, Gran! Review Book by Rayven Bryant & illustrated by Maïté Schmitt
Review Book 2
On a rainy day in Louisiana, an eight-year-old girl feels hesitant about staying indoors with her grandmother, expecting an uneventful and boring day. But Grandma surprises her with a day filled with fun activities like listening to music, reading books, playing pretend, and making beignets. The girl discovers her grandmother’s entertaining side and becomes excited about spending more time together.
by Rayven Bryant illustrated by Maïté Schmitt
in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to a mother who age, she loved reading and was captivated ories come to life. Rayven is a student at majors in Elementary Education and minors he is determined to make a profound impact
4/16/24 10:39 AM
Tag Sale Tale by Marty Refugio Pérez & illustrated by Francisco Santoyo
Book 7
by Marty Refugio Perez illustrated by Francisco Santoyo
With a modest ten-dollar budget, two sisters, Marley and Phoenix, hunt for unique treasures at a tag sale. But first, their dad lays down some rules: Marley and Phoenix must agree on the items to purchase, they must both like the items, and they must share. Marley struggles to meet these expectations as Phoenix finds a dog bone, a dog leash and collar, and a dog bowl. Just when Marley’s optimism wavers, she sees some pups that need a home. The family adopts a dog and names her Jazz.
the world as the child of Brenda Jackson, a Klamath ez Sánchez (El Mezquite Grande, Jalisco, México). ears in Tulelake, California, with his family and friends. led him to leave his beloved hometown and secure ommunity College, University of Oregon, and University first teaching job in Anchorage, Alaska. His dedication ive American youth at the Native American Youth and gon. Marty’s journey reached new linguistic heights nguage Department at Franklin High School. In 2020, Sam Case Elementary in Lincoln County. Today, Marty Seal Rock, Oregon. He is the principal at Newport the sun disappear behind the Pacific Ocean and , and he remains committed to nurturing the minds of ark on the future of education.
3/14/24 12:52 PM
KRISTIN GETS BRAVE
Book 8
Kristin Gets Brave by Chavi’ Lassiter & illustrated by Wendy Tan
by Chavi’ Lassiter
illustrated by Wendy Tan Shiau Wei
In this heartwarming story, Kristin, a shy girl longing for friendship, convinces her parents to bring home a dog that she names Pete. As Kristin teaches Pete tricks, their bond strengthens. During a visit to the park’s dog run, Kristin and Pete’s captivating interactions not only display their skill, but also empower Kristin to conquer her shyness, opening doors to new friendships.
born and raised in Clifton, New Jersey, to d her to be her true self. Today, Chavi’ is a Our Stories Decodables project, where she ity to discuss subjects that are informative sitive and fun way. She is devoted to ate with children who go through common y discussed. My Name, My Crown is her currently continues her studies as an ajor at Howard University.
5/20/24 9:36 AM
Jayden’s Sax by Simon Moore & illustrated by Lhaiza Morena
Book 9
Inspired by a saxophone player on TV, Jayden’s heart is set on playing the sax. He shares this dream with his mom, who takes him to a store to buy a youth saxophone. At the store, they meet a kind music teacher who offers lessons to help Jayden pursue his dream. With dedication and practice, Jayden steadily improves and eventually plays a showstopping solo at his school’s talent show.
in Washington, D.C. Since he was a child, ding stories and playing music. Today, Moore her in Maryland. It is important to him to tell his own experiences. Jayden’s Sax is his Maryland, where he still writes stories and 024 graduate of Howard University with a on.
by Simon Moore illustrated by Lhaiza Morena
View Sample
3/27/24 11:25 AM
Review Book 3
The Rainy Night Review Book by Joseph DeGuzman and Nia McCullin & illustrated by Mónica Paola Rodríguez On a dark and stormy night, Lan and Matt are reading a spooky story when suddenly, the lights go dark! Then, a mysterious knock on the door sends shivers down their spines. To their surprise, it’s Mr. Hitch, the neighbor, searching for his missing cat. Together, they embark on a nighttime search for the cat, uncovering clues in the darkness.
Nia McCullin was born and raised in New Jersey, where she loved reading, writing, and drawing from a young age. Coming from a long line of educators, Nia is so excited to be writing fun and diverse books! When not working, Nia is usually doodling, walking in nature, or watching movies. She still lives in New Jersey with her dog Riley.
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by Joseph De Guzman & Nia McCullin illustrated by Mónica Paola Rodríguez
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4/26/24 12:25 PM
Our Stories Decodables | 4
It’ll All Add Up by Dougziana Thomas-Chan & illustrated by Lhaiza Morena
Book 10
Dee is a math whiz. She’s been selected to go to STEM camp, but she does not have the money needed to attend. In a family meeting with Mom and Grandmom, they come up with a creative solution. The family will host a STEM party, where they will sell STEM-themed baked goods and crafts to raise the funds Dee needs for the camp. Dee leads this effort, using her STEM skills to plan and run a successful party.
Dougziana Dy’Nese Thomas-Chan was raised in Irvington, New Jersey, and comes from an African American and Guyanese background. From an early age, she has loved learning and teaching others. As a student, she always gravitated towards all things math. She is now an elementary school teacher who hopes to inspire other children, especially those who look like her, to learn to love math, too. Even more so, she wants them to know that they can accomplish things they never even envisioned with faith and effort. Dougziana is a 2023 graduate of Howard University’s School of Education. It’ll All Add Up is her first published children’s book.
by Dougziana Dy’Nese
Thomas-Chan illustrated by Lhaiza Morena
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4/12/24 1:05 PM
Book 11
My Roots by Quentin Price & illustrated by Rachel Moss
by Quentin Price illustrated by Rachel Moss
Quentin Price is a 2024 graduate of Howard University in Washington, D.C., where he majored in elementary education and minored in history. Hailing from New York, Quentin is a product of the beautiful diversity found in the melting pot that is Queens. Quentin sings in choirs and directs praise teams at his home church. He became a member of the performing group “Sing Harlem!” where he performed alongside Zendaya, Billy Porter, Aminé, and others. At Howard University, Quentin served as the executive secretary of “Changó,” the Afro-Latine student association and was a member and events coordinator of the Howard University Step Team. He also served as the LGBTQ+ representative on the School of Education council. Quentin is a pre-service educator, completing his student teaching at Hyde-Addison Elementary School. Quentin plans on continuing his career in education and hopes to become a social studies teacher while working to achieve his master’s degree in speech pathology.
It’s hair day, and Tyler does not want Mom to cut his hair again. Tyler decides it’s time for a change, and with his mom’s okay, they head to a local barbershop for a fresh haircut. As Tyler steps into the barbershop, he embarks on an eye-opening experience. Not only does he conquer his fear of getting a haircut, but he also discovers a connection to his Jamaican heritage.
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4/26/24 12:23 PM
Book 12
Shell Soup by Priscilla Torres & illustrated by Francisco Santoyo
Priscilla Torres was born in Harlingen, Texas, into a humble family and a long line of storytellers. She spent her childhood listening to Mexican folklore and begging for original bedtime stories so she could stay up late. She is currently an English teacher, a mother to two karate kids, and an autism advocate. Torres is a former student of Texas A&M University. She encourages her students to give back to their community through higher education. She lives in south Texas where she appreciates the outdoors with her family. Shell Soup? is her first book.
Russ shares the funniest moment of his summer with his classmates: a prank on his brother Rudy during a visit to Granny’s house. The siblings collect beach shells to prank Rudy, pretending they’re for Granny’s shell soup. Little does Rudy know, Granny’s soup actually uses pasta shells, not seashells.
F r c i l
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5/20/24 9:53 AM
Sneaker Ball Review Book by Yvette Manns & illustrated by Ana Latese
Review Book 4
DJ is excited to wear his new sneakers for the end-of-year party called “Sneaker Ball.” But his friends make him realize that other kids may not have new kicks. The thought of students missing the ball makes DJ sad. DJ organizes a shoe drive with his friends, where his classmates customize their own kicks before the big event. Using paint, glitter, and markers, they customize each donated shoe, turning them into one-of-a-kind masterpieces.
Yvette Manns , an author from the Scholastic Our Stories partnership with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University. Born in Queens, New York, Yvette enjoyed reading books with her friends at an early age. Today, Yvette spends her time teaching children to learn to read and to love to read. She is passionate about creating stories that feature diverse, fun characters and celebrate African American culture. When she’s not writing, Yvette enjoys roller skating, traveling, and growing plants in her garden. Yvette lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband and son.
by YVETTE MANNS
illustrated by ANA LATESE
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3/14/24 12:59 PM
My Name, My Crown by Chavi’ Lassiter & illustrated by Tanisha Cherislin
Book 13
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Shante is excited to celebrate her birthday at school, where everyone gets a crown with their name on it. However, her unique name presents a challenge. There is no ready-made “Shante” crown for purchase anywhere. But Shante’s quick-thinking and resourceful parents step in to save the day. Using household items and her creative flair, Shante helps Mom and Dad create a custom crown just for her. With this special crown, Shante is proud of her name, embracing its uniqueness.
Chavi’ Lassiter was born and raised in Clifton, New Jersey, to parents who encouraged her to be her true self. Today, Chavi’ is a writer with Scholastic’s Our Stories Decodables project, where she is able to use her creativity to discuss subjects that are informative and encouraging in a positive and fun way. She is devoted to telling stories that resonate with children who go through common challenges that are rarely discussed. My Name, My Crown is her first children’s book. She currently continues her studies as an Elementary Education major at Howard University.
View Sample
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4/26/24 12:18 PM
Book 14
My Coach and Me by Winslow Jones, Jr. & illustrated by Ana Latese
Win, the star of his middle-school basketball team, is tired of being pigeonholed as an athlete. With the encouragement of his friends and coach, Win begins to realize that he can shape his own destiny. With their support, he learns about different career paths and discovers his passion for science, setting his sights on becoming a science teacher.
Winslow Jones, Jr. was raised in Lake Wales, Florida, by his parents with his two brothers. Ever since he was little, he was always fascinated with science and how things work. Today, Winslow is a ninth grade biology teacher. He hopes to inspire students to learn about why science is so important for the world. He currently lives in Washington, D.C., with his wife and dog. In his free time, he enjoys comics, anime, video games, and basketball. Winslow graduated from Howard University on May 11, 2023, with a Master’s Degree in Special Education.
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6/3/24 12:54 PM
Our Stories Decodables | 5
Grow Your Fro Garden by Gabriela Salaah (née Walker) & illustrated by Katie Crumpton
Book 15
Debby wishes her hair was long and straight like her classmates’. Her straight-haired peers don’t have to spend hours prepping their hair with different products and protective styles. Debby even goes as far as hiding her hair under different hats for a while. Mom and Dad step in to offer support and encouragement. They positively associate hair care with taking care of a garden, teaching Debby to cherish her hair and treat it with care. Debby learns to embrace her unique hair and grows to appreciate its beauty.
Gabriela Debrye-Walker Salaah was born in Georgia, but grew up in Maryland, The Netherlands, and Virginia as a military child. She moved around and traveled with her family of 7 all throughout grades K–12. She is a 2024 graduate of Howard University with a B.S. in Elementary Education. With a passion for teaching future leaders, she works as a K–3 educator. Salaah is the author of two Our Stories Decodables: Grow Your ’ Fro Garden and The Big Move . She lives in Virginia with her husband and two fur-baby dogs.
by Gabriela Debrye- Walker Salaah
illustrated by Katie Crumpton
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3/27/24 11:29 AM
My Glasses Give Me Superpowers Review Book by Sean Miller & illustrated by Brittney Bond
Review Book 5
Zee is a third-grader who struggles with being nearsighted. She is a huge fan of superheroes but thinks that glasses will make her appear weak. At school, Zee’s friends talk about the upcoming eye exam, and Zee is worried. Zee is upset when the school nurse discovers that Zee needs glasses. But when she starts wearing glasses, Zee realizes that glasses allow her to see the world clearly—and that gives her confidence and power.
Sean Miller is a Norfolk, Virginia, native who is an award- winning educator and artist. He is pursuing his Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Howard University. He received his Master of Education in Special Education from Regent University, Master of Arts in African American Religious Studies from Howard University, and Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drawing and Design from Old Dominion University. Sean currently serves as a History and Social Studies Department Chair and teacher. He is a lifelong creative who loves visual and performing arts.
by Sean Miller illustrated by Brittney Bond
View Sample
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3/8/24 2:11 PM
Shay Goes to College by Ausha Harris & illustrated by Shellene Wright
Book 16
by Ausha Harris illustrated by Shellene Wright
Ausha Harris was born in Toledo, Ohio, to a family who prioritized and sacrificed so that she would receive the best education possible. When it was time to pick a college, Ausha had the opportunity to visit over 20 HBCUs (historically Black colleges and universities). Ausha attended Howard University, where she received a bachelor of science in Psychology and a master’s of education in Special Education. Today, Harris works as an elementary school teacher in the District of Columbia.
When big brother Josh gets a law school acceptance letter, he screams with excitement. Shay, curious about the achievement, is puzzled. Seeing an opportunity to inspire his little sister, Josh persuades Shay to join him on a visit to the college campus. They explore different departments during an open-house event, where faculty and students showcase their work. The experience proves to be transformative as Shay discovers her calling. One day, she too will earn a college degree.
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4/26/24 12:16 PM
The Land We Love by Geena Talley & illustrated by Jessica Warrick
Book 17
At a beautiful local swimming hole, a Karuk sister, her brother, and their grandmother come across a lively group of tourists who arrive with floaties and coolers and leave the beach and swimming hole littered with trash. In an effort to protect their home, the Karuk family creates signs advocating for the preservation of the land. When the tourists return the following day, they become aware of the impact of their actions. The family and the tourists work together to clean up the beach.
Geena Talley is from the Karuk and Yurok Tribes of Northern California. She grew up learning from her greatest teachers: her Grandma and her ancestral homelands. Today, Talley is an elementary classroom teacher who holds respect for land, water, and people at the forefront of her teaching. The Land We Love is her first children’s book. She lives in Northern California with her family. Geena Talley is a graduate of the University of California, Santa Cruz, as well as the University of Oregon.
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4/11/24 10:25 AM
Book 18
Meera and the Mermaid by Mayah Johnson & illustrated by Nadia Fisher
by Mayah Johnson illustrated by Nadia Fisher
Mayah Johnson is an elementary school teacher who grew up in Santa Barbara, California, just a short drive away from the ocean. In 2020, when her senior year of high school was interrupted by the COVID-19 lockdown, Johnson bonded with her mother by walking along the beach looking for the prettiest shells. The character of Shelly in the story Meera and the Mermaid is inspired by the relationship Johnson has with her parents, along with her experiences not fitting in with her peers back in school. Mayah has always loved telling stories and hopes that readers can relate to Meera and Shelly!
In this fantasy, a lonely girl named Meera has trouble making friends. When she collects a beautiful shell on the beach and brings it home, she discovers that inside is Shelly, a small mermaid-like creature. It takes a while, but Shelly shows Meera what it means to be a friend. After Shelly goes back to her home in the sea, Meera uses what Shelly taught her, and she is able to make a new friend.
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6/3/24 4:04 PM
The House of Hip-Hop Review Book by Sean Miller & illustrated by Emmanuel Boateng
Review Book 6
Aspiring rapper J. Dot reluctantly spends a summer with his grandparents in Upstate New York. Initially disappointed and assuming his grandparents couldn’t possibly help him write his rap songs, he soon learns that his grandparents were at the birth of hiphop in the Bronx in 1973 and played a role in hip-hop history. J. Dot’s perception of his grandparents changes and the three of them begin to build a strong new bond over their shared love of music.
by Sean Miller illustrated by Emmanuel Boateng
Sean Miller is a Norfolk, Virginia native who is an award-winning educator and artist. He is pursuing his Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at Howard University. He received his Master of Education in Special Education from Regent University, Master of Arts in African American Religious Studies from Howard University, and Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drawing and Design from Old Dominion University. Sean currently serves as a History and Social Studies Department Chair and teacher. He is a lifelong creative who loves visual and performing arts.
View Sample
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4/12/24 12:50 PM
Our Stories Decodables | 6
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