Preschool, Kindergarten, 1st ; Hard Cover, Picture Book ; Recommended

The Bright Side by Chad Otis

A young boy lives on the bus with his family. He showers outside, they snuggle to stay warm, and he uses his imagination. One day his mom decides that it is time for him to go to school. He struggles to make friends and to follow the expectations that all of the other students seem to know. It’s hard to stay positive and look at the bright side, but using the skills that his parents taught him he discovers that he can do new things.

A gentle look at houselessness with a message of perseverance. Many readers can empathize with the main characters desire to fit in and make friends.