"The Little Engine That Could" by Watty Piper

Similar to Suess' "Green Eggs and Ham," Piper's classic "The Little Engine That Could" is a favorite among parents and children alike. Although this story has been published multiple times with different illustrations, the base story continues to stay the same throughout the decades. This story is fantastic for children because it teaches them a critical value that should be instilled in all children, which is no matter what difficulties or roadblocks may come in life - anything is possible with one's intrinsic determination. This book helps push children to believe they can be anything/do anything they want in this world - with enough hard work and motivation. After reading this story, teachers can ask their young students of a time where they faced difficulty, and how they were able to overcome it with their own inner strength - similar to the engine. As I stated before, this story is optimal for children from Pre-K through 1st grade.