Emily Raij

Children’s Books About Neighbors Helping Neighbors

February 19, 2026

I recently learned about Book DNA (formerly Shepherd.com) on the podcast, Writers with Wrinkles, and thought the platform’s concept was really interesting. Book DNA aims to be a kinder alternative to Goodreads, which some complain has problems with negative review bombing, poor usability, and a lack of authentic interaction and recommendations. On Book DNA, authors and readers curate recommended reading lists around specific topics so that other readers can find their next great read more easily. I decided to give the site a try and created this list of children’s books about neighbors helping neighbors. It was a fun exercise and a great way to think more deeply about books. I also highly recommend the Writers with Wrinkles podcast. Hosts and authors Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid are honest, funny, smart, and incredibly enjoyable to listen to. They also bring on knowledgeable guests to speak about all things writing and publishing. Happy reading and listening!
Proud of My Budding Journalist!

December 31, 2025

My daughter Tilly just wrote an article on the dangers of students using e-bikes and e-scooters for Winter Park Voice, our local paper. I’m so proud of her initiative in contacting the editor, interviewing sources, and staying current on school board news. Local journalism matters!
Preorder and Save on My New Books!

December 30, 2025

Barnes & Noble is offering 25% off preorders for upcoming titles, and I just so happen to have three books coming out on January 1 from Capstone!

Purim is right around the corner, followed by Passover and Independence Day. Why not plan ahead and save while you’re at it?
My Book Was on a Podcast!

December 8, 2025

Thank you to Two Writing Teachers for sharing my book on both their blog and their podcast as an example of writing with empathy about the theme of belonging. I am truly honored!
A Mayor for All

November 18, 2025

The New York Times profiled Michael Gonnelli, mayor of Secaucus, New Jersey, and I am incredibly impressed by him. His inclusive, solutions-focused leadership should be a model for all leaders. He has embraced the increasing diversity of his town–encouraging other citizens to do so too–and it works! All voices are heard, and immigrants are valued for their contributions to the city without minimizing the contributions of long-time residents. There is room for everyone, and Mayor Gonnelli is showing how to peacefully and productively make that space.
Jewish Book Month Turns 100!

November 10, 2025

Jewish Book Month runs November 13-December 13 this year. It began in 1925 when Boston librarian Fanny Goldstein created the first Jewish Book Week display to promote, celebrate, and educate her community on Jewish literature. In just seven years, Jewish Book Week became an established event celebrated across North America. Its goal of celebrating Jewish writers and thinkers and also teaching the world about the Jewish people has continued. How will you participate this year?
LitBox

October 16, 2025

I love this vending machine for books in Washington, DC, and the fact that it promotes local authors and smaller publishers. The LitBox is located at 2000 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, between Foggy Bottom and Farragut West, at the entrance of Western Market in downtown Washington, DC. It showcases books (and authors) that might not get the same level of attention as books sold by larger, more mainstream publishers. Access to books and recognition for local authors–that’s a win for readers and writers! Has anyone visited the LitBox?
Banned Books Week

October 3, 2025

Banned Books Week is October 5-11, and you can find ways to celebrate here. Books should be read, not banned!
Teaching Guide

September 25, 2025

I created a short teaching guide for Just Say Welcome, available to download for free on Kar-Ben’s website. You can do the activities in conjunction with the book or as a standalone lesson on being welcoming. Enjoy!
The Power of Sharing Stories

September 25, 2025

Fifth-grader Ameya Desai is now a two-time winner in NPR’s Student Podcast Challenge. Last year, she shared the story of her grandfather’s forced migration from India to Uganda to the U.S. This year, Ameya won for sharing the story of her neighbor’s grandmother, who was a survivor of the Japanese-American incarceration camps of the 1940s. Ameya clearly has a compassion beyond her years and a gift for sharing stories that we can learn from listening to.

Recent Posts