I recently came across the most beautiful story written by Diane Alber titled Sticks.
This story covers the gammit of social-emotional awareness. It is truly a most amazing story about a popsicle that is feeling extremely sad emotions when his ice-pop melts away and leaves nothing but his popsicle stick exposed. He feels regretful for going out in the hot sun and becomes uncertain about what his place is in the world. Along comes Twig who hears Sticks cries and desperation and shows Stick that sometimes the reasons for why things happen aren't clear, but over time the answers may appear. Throughout the story, Twig introduces Stick to other friends to help him realize that he too will soon find his talent and his place in the world.
To go along with this amazing book, I created a book companion that is geared for children at the primary and elementary level. Each reading response activity includes two versions - one for primary level and one for elementary level students. I have also included a popsicle Sticks craft and response for your classroom as well.