When asked if she has a favorite book in the library, Duzine Elementary Librarian Joann Martin didn’t hesitate. “The Rabbit Listened” by Cori Doerrfeld is a heartwarming story about a young child named Taylor who experiences a challenging and emotional event. The story teaches powerful lessons about the value of empathy, the importance of listening, and the idea that sometimes what people need most is someone who will be there for them without judgment. Students also learn to navigate their emotions and develop important social and emotional skills.

Ms. Martin said that she gives her own daughter a book as a gift every year. She's now a young woman in her twenties, but Ms. Martin’s daughter still says, “You’ll always be my rabbit, Mom.”