18 Books About Diversity and Inclusion
This post has been sitting in my drafts for over a year now… so I figured I should probably complete it… better late than never! Right? Over the past couple weeks, I’ve been introduced and exposed to so many new books, authors, and resources, so I’ve been able to add and update this list. I wanted to keep adding and adding because there are SO many incredible books I’ve discovered. Look out for Part Two in the future because I enjoyed putting this together so much.
So here it is - the biggest book round up to date on some very important subject matters. We hope these books can help continue the discussion about race, diversity, and inclusion. It is essential for all kids to see a wide variety of people reflected in their toys and books.
I wasn’t able to physically get my hands on all of these books and see them in person and therefore couldn’t photograph them like usual… pandemic struggles… but we made it work! So here it is… in a slightly different format - 18 books on our Books About Diversity and Inclusion list:
An ABC of Equality
by Chana Ginelle Ewing
Illustrated by Paulina Morgan
This book is aimed for the little guys. An ABC of Equality introduces complicated concepts surrounding social justice from A to Z. All people have the right to be treated fairly, no matter who they are, what they look like, or where they come from.
You Matter
by Christian Robinson
Many different perspectives from around the world are empathetically explored through beautiful pictures in You Matter.
I’ll Walk With You
by Carol Lynn Pearson
IllustratED BY Jane Sanders
A story that teaches how to love the people around you, no matter how they look, sound, pray, love, or think.
Skin Again
by bell hooks
IllustratED By Chris Raschka
This book celebrates what makes us unique and different by talking about race and identity. Race matters, but only so much, what matters the most is who we are on the inside.
PARKER LOOKS UP: AN EXTRAORDINARY MOMENT
by Parker Curry and Jessica Curry
IllustratED By Brittany Jackson
Parker saw the possibility and promise, the hopes and dreams of herself in a powerful painting of Michelle Obama. She is able to believe that “anything is possible regardless of race, class, or gender.”
Love Makes A Family
by Sophie Beer
A celebration of what makes a family a family . . . LOVE! A simple preschool board book that demonstrates what is most important in each family's life (through a variety of different family types) is the love the family members share.
I Am Enough
by Grace Byers
Illustrated By Keturah A. Bobo
A beautiful story and breathtaking illustrations that teach us to love who we are, respect others, and be kind. We are all here for a purpose. We are more than enough. We just need to believe it.
This is How We Do It: One Day in the Livea of Seven Kids From Around the World
by Matt Lamothe
We love this concept! The book follows a day in the life of seven kids from Italy, Japan, Iran, India, Peru, Uganda, and Russia! This book provides a glimpse into traditions that may be different from our own, as well as similarities in our day to day and common experiences.
Little Heroes of Color: 50 Who made a big difference
by David Heredia
Another board book for preschoolers that educates and inspires by introducing us to 50 men and women of a range of races and ethnicities who have changed the world and have shaped history in science, the arts, government, and more.
One Family
by George Shannon
Illustrated by Blanca Gomez
An interactive book that shows us how a family can be a variety of different sizes (big or small) and made up of people of a range of different genders, races, and ethnicities.
The Skin You Live In
by Michael Tyler
Illustrated by David Lee Csicsko
This rhyming book delivers important messages such as friendship, acceptance, self-esteem, and diversity in a simple, straightforward, and relatable manner through clear illustrations and relatable activities, such as swimming in the ocean, hugging, catching butterflies, and eating birthday cake.
LOVELY
by Jess HoNG
We are all lovely in a world of differences! Big, small, curly, straight, loud, quiet, smooth, or wrinkly.
Counting Kindness: Ten Ways to Welcome Refugee children
by Hollis Kurman
Illustrated by Barroux
This book is pre-order only (September 2020) but we are excited for this one. A warm and welcoming story directed to young children about immigration, refugees, and inclusivity. This counting book shares the importance and power of a welcoming community.
It Feels Good to Be Yourself: A Book About Gender Identity
by Theresa Thorn
ILLUSTRATED BY Noah Grigni
A picture book that introduces the important concept of gender identity targeted for young children.
”Some people are boys. Some people are girls. Some people are both, neither, or somewhere in between.”
There is a great glossary to help with learning proper vocabulary.
Mixed: A Colorful Story
by Arree Chung
A book about colours… who knew the message would be of acceptance and unity? A great story abstractly teaching us about colour, tolerance, and embracing differences.
All Are Welcome
by Alexandra Penfold
Illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman
The pages in this book are filled with gorgeous bright illustrations of a diverse classroom of children. A school where students from all backgrounds learn from and celebrate each other's traditions and are welcomed with open arms.
Last Stop On Market Street
by Matt de la Peña
Illustrated by Christian Robinson
A little boy and his grandma ride the bus across town every Sunday. The boy begins to notice some differences between himself and the other kids around him… why don't they own a car like his friend? Why doesn’t he have an iPod like the boys on the bus? How come they always have to get off in the dirty part of town? The grandma answers each question with an encouraging answer, helping him see the beauty—and fun—in their routine and the world around them.
The World Needs More Purple People
BY Kristen Bell and Benjamin Hart
Illustrated By Daniel Wiseman
What is a purple person? Great question. This book explores the idea of what makes someone an everyday superhero - someone who is kind, hardworking, and stands up for what’s right (to name a few)! Penny Purple leads you through the steps to become a purple person. A silly and joyous book that offers a wonderful message about embracing the things that bring us together as humans.
Let’s keep this conversation going and continue to share! Would love your faves and recomendations!
#TMLbookclub