Graduation is a dramatic step for young people. It connotes a transition and change that is about to happen. It could be graduation from elementary school, high school or college. But whatever the graduation celebration, here is a list of some great books to give to your favorite graduate.

Zen Ties, written and illustrated by Jon J. Muth, is another oversized book that is rich in lessons for all to learn. The large panda and his little friends decide to visit an elderly lady in the neighborhood. Here's a simple life lesson that shows the impact of friendship for those in need. I especially like the inside covers depicting the pandas doing the movements of T'ai Chi.

The Legend of Lao Tzu and the TaoTe Ching, by Demi, briefly summarizes the life of this legendary Chinese philosopher and shares 20 verses from the Tao Te Ching. These philosophies are strong, sensible and the secret to a happy life — and will help simplify your own life! The gold encircling each picture enhances the Chinese culture that Demi illustrates so well.

The Boy Who Painted Dragons, also by Demi, is another beautifully and brightly illustrated book that's all about overcoming fear by using intelligence and courage.

Facts of Life: Stories, by Gary Soto, perhaps should be named “Lessons of Life.” This book contains short vignettes about young teens struggling to adapt, fit in or escape. The length of the stories allows the reader to digest the lessons learned. And the clever and thought-provoking endings are sure to enrich any life!

She Touched the World: Laura Bridgman, Deaf-Blind Pioneer, by Sally Hobart Alexander and Robert Alexander, is an inspiring account about a young lady who was both deaf and blind but learned to communicate many years before Helen Keller, which actually helped pave the way for Miss Keller's success. This is a story of strong determination and perseverance that is inspirational to all who read it. You will undoubtedly appreciate your sight and hearing much, much more after reading this exceptional account.

The Mozart Question, by Michael Morpurgo, and illustrated by Michael Foreman, is a smallish size book with great impact. This is a story about a young boy who secretly decides to learn to play the violin without his parents' knowledge. When he finally hears the truth about the music they never seem to want to hear, he is swept back to a time when during WWII — when his parents barely survived the death camps by playing their violins. But it's through music that his parents can find happiness once again. Here is a strong message of hope and happiness.

Someday You'll Thank Me for This!, by Marc Gellman, is a hilarious look into life's lessons. Some of the chapters include “Don't Interrupt,” “Play Fair,” and “Life's Too Short for This!” The chapters are short, funny and to the point.

Walk On! A Guide to Taking the First Step, by Marla Frazee, is the perfect little book for graduates. It's a funny, quick read about taking that first step no matter the age.

And Could You? Would You?: A Book to Tickle Your Imagination, by Trudy White, is another quick read that ingeniously appeals to your inner self.

And if you're looking for a hilarious quick read for your graduate, Life. Get One ( It's Happy Bunny), by Jim Benton, will make them smile clear to the end.

High as a Hawk: A Brave Girl's Historic Climb, by T.A. Barron, and illustrated by Ted Lewin, is a true account about the youngest girl ever to climb the tallest peak in Colorado back in 1905. The great difficulty of the climb, the freezing weather conditions and the danger encountered along the way make for an inspiring story.