NEW Multicultural Children's Books June 2020

Here is our selection of new multicultural children’s books for June 2020! Whilst we only found one board book, there are quite a few interesting new young adult novels. Our favourites this month are Antiracist Baby (Babies & Toddlers), The Starkeeper (Preschool), Nana Akua Goes to School (Elementary School), American As Paneer Pie (Middle School), and Like A Love Story (High School).

New Multicultural Children’s Books June 2020

Babies & Toddlers

Antiracist Baby Board Book
by Ibram X Kendi

Never too early to start anti-racist education! Antiracist Baby introduces the littlest readers and their grown-ups to the concept and power of anti-racism. With bold art and thoughtful yet playful text, this progressive board book provides nine easy steps everyone can take for building a just society. ~ African – Babies & Toddlers

Preschool

Our Favorite Day of the Year
by A.E. Ali

Musa is feeling anxious about his first day of kindergarten. And when he meets classmates Moisés, Mo, and Kevin, he isn’t sure they’ll have much in common. But over the course of the year, the four boys learn more about each other, the holidays they celebrate, their favourite foods, and what they like about school. The more they share with each other, the closer they become, until Musa can’t imagine any better friends. Our Favorite Day Of The Year tells a heartwarming story of friendship and celebrating differences. ~ Diverse – Preschool

All Welcome Here
by James Preller

“The bus door swishes / Open, an invitation. /Someone is not sure . . .” In Haiku poems and with expressive multimedia illustrations, All Welcome Here follows a diverse group of children on their first day of school with all its excitement, challenges, and anxieties. A great gift for children about to take the big leap into school! ~ Diverse – Preschool

Bubble Kisses
by Vanessa Williams

A young girl’s goldfish, Sal, is no ordinary pet: while she can’t fetch a ball or curl up on a lap, she can give bubble kisses that transform the girl into a mermaid and transport her to a world of underwater adventures. There, beneath the sea, they play, sing, and dance with other mermaids. Bubble Kisses is a catchy rhymed, perfect for bedtime. Includes a CD plus a link to a digital download. ~ African – Preschool

You Matter
by Christian Robinson

Near of far, big or small, first or last — everyone matters. This is the reassuring message of this charming and heartfelt new release. You Matter explores many different perspectives around the world, from a pair of bird-watchers to the pigeons they’re feeding. Little readers will be drawn into the luminous illustrations inviting them to engage with the world in a new way and see how everyone is connected and matters. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Kindergarten Hat
by Janet Lawler

After moving to a new town, Carlos Abredo is nervous about starting kindergarten. What if the bus gets lost? What if he can’t make friends? What if he can’t find his teacher?! He picks out a gift for his teacher, and after a much-needed hug from Mom, he sets off for his first day. But when his present is accidentally ruined, will Carlos be able to salvage his first day of school? Kindergarten Hat is a sweet story, perfect for children about to start kindergarten. ~ Hispanic – Preschool

The Starkeeper
by Faith Pray

When a girl finds a fallen star, she decides to keep it hidden. But soon the glow from the star starts to fade, and the girl thinks that maybe she’s not a very good starkeeper. Then a chance gesture of kindness seems to brighten the star, and soon this kindness leads to a chain of good works that light up a once-dreary town. The Starkeeper is a heartwarming story with an important message. ~ Diverse – Preschool

The Day God Made You
by Rory Feek

In The Day God Made You, Grammy Award–winning singer and songwriter Rory Feek of Joey+Rory shares a heartfelt message for children about the wonder of the day God made them. Children will love cuddling up while discovering how God delighted over each and every detail of their lives and personalities as He created them–from the shape of their eyes to the sound of their laughter. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Elementary School

Libby Loves Science
by Kimberley Derting & Shelli R. Johannes

Libby and her friends are put in charge of the science booth at their school fair. There’s only one problem: No one is visiting their booth! But with teamwork, creativity, and just a bit of chemistry they turn things around and prove that science is for everyone. Libby Loves Science is perfect for aspiring little scientists. ~ African – Elementary School

Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea
by Meena Harris

One day, Kamala and Maya come up with a fantastic idea: They want to turn their empty apartment courtyard into a playground! Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea is an empowering picture book about two sisters who work with their community to effect change, inspired by a true story from the childhood of the author’s aunt, US Senator Kamala Harris, and mother, lawyer, and policy expert Maya Harris. ~ Diverse – Elementary School

Slush Puppy Love (Diary of an Ice Princess #5)
by Christina Soontornvat

Princess Lina’s BFF Claudia is desperate for a dog. So Lina decides to use her Winterheart magic to turn a puppy snow sculpture into the perfect pet. But the magical snow dog has a mind of its own — and it’s running loose at school! Slush Puppy Love is the fifth book in a Two-color in a fun-filled chapter book series that answers the question: What if Frozen’s Elsa went to regular school? ~ Asian – Elementary School

Different: A Story About Loving Your Neighbor
by Chris Singleton

Ever since his first day at a new school in a new country, Obinna’s classmates won’t let him forget that he is different. But with the help of a loving teacher and the unexpected chance to show his talents, Obinna’s proves that being different isn’t just okay—it’s the most important thing he could ever be. Different: A Story About Loving Your Neighbor is a beautiful book about celebrating difference and also a tribute to author’s late mother who, in 2015, was murdered alongside eight other parishioners in a race-related mass shooting at her church. ~ African – Elementary School

Nana Akua Goes to School
by Tricia Elam Walker

It is Grandparents Day at Zura’s elementary school, and she is worried that her classmates will be scared of her grandmother–or worse, make fun of her. Nana is Zura’s favorite person in the world but with her West African tribal face markings she looks a little different from other grandmas. But with a quilt of traditional African symbols and a bit of face paint, Nana Akua is able to explain what makes her special, and to make all of Zura’s classmates feel special, too. Nana Akua goes to School is a moving story that celebrates cultural diversity. ~ African – Elementary School

Cannonball
by Sacha Cotter

After hearing his grandma’s diving stories, a young Maori boy is ready to pull off the perfect cannonball, but everyone has advice: “You need more weight”, “Bigger shorts!” ,”More muscles!”, “BIGGER SHORTS!” Beautifully illustrated, Cannonball is a sweet summer tale about family, overcoming fears, and the importance of being oneself. Includes a glossary of Maori words. ~ Diverse – Elementary School

Jesse Owens
by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

The youngest of ten children, Jesse grew up working in the cotton fields of Alabama. Discovered by his high school track and field coach, Jesse quickly rose to fame as an athlete. He went on to challenge racism on the world stage at the 1936 Berlin Olympics and made new world records. Part of the acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series, Jesse Owens is a moving picture book about the great athlete and activist. Includes a biographical timeline with historical photos. ~ African – Elementary School

Jean-Michel Basquiat
by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

Jean-Michel was born in Brooklyn, New York, to a Puerto Rican mother and Haitian father. When he was eight and recovering from an accident in bed, his mother gave him a copy of Gray’s Anatomy, which sparked his interest in the human form. As a teenager, he gained recognition as part of the graffito duo SAMO that spray-painted cryptic messages and images around the landscape of Manhattan’s Lower East Side. He eventually made his way to the New York gallery scene and on to international acclaim. With stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, Jean-Michel Basquiat shines a light on the brilliant graffiti street art pioneer. ~ African – Elementary School

Mindy Kim and the Birthday Puppy
by Lyla Lee

All Mindy Kim has ever wanted is a puppy of her very own. She knows she has what it takes to be the perfect pet owner, and she thinks a dog would be a perfect gift for her upcoming birthday. Mindy Kim and the Birthday Puppy is the third book in this adorable chapter book series about a young Asian American girl. ~ Asian – Elementary School

The Story of Martin Luther King Jr.
by Christine Platt

Martin Luther King Jr was one of the most important civil rights leaders in America. Before he made history with his powerful speeches and peaceful protests, Martin was a dedicated, smart kid who loved to learn. He challenged racism and overcame hardships to follow his passion and do the right thing. The Story of Martin Luther King Jr. is an easy-to-read and beautifully illustrated chapter book about the outstanding leader. ~ African – Elementary School

Lift as You Climb: The Story of Ella Baker
by Patricia Hruby Powell

“What do you hope to accomplish?” asked little Ella Baker’s granddaddy. Her mother provided the answer: “Lift as you climb.” Long before the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 60s, Ella Baker worked to lift others up by fighting racial injustice and empowering poor African Americans to stand up for their rights. She worked to register voters and organize sit-ins, and she became a teacher and mentor to many young activists. With powerful pictures and poignant words, Lift As You Climb shines a light on one of the most influential female civil rights leaders. ~ African – Elementary School

Middle School

American as Paneer Pie
by Supriya Kelkar

Being the only Indian American kid in her small town, Lekha Divekar feels like she has two versions of herself: Home Lekha, who loves watching Bollywood movies and eating Indian food, and School Lekha, who pins her hair over her bindi birthmark and avoids confrontation about her culture at all costs. When another Desi girl moves across the street, Lekha is excited to finally have a friend who gets it. But Avantika does not feel the same way as Lekha. She proudly displays her culture and doesn’t take the bullying quietly. When a racist incident rocks the community, Lekha must make a choice: continue to remain silent or find her voice before it’s too late. Full of humour and heart, American As Paneer Pie is a brilliant middle grade novel about prejudice and the power of your own voice. ~ Asian – Elementary School

Julieta and the Diamond Enigma
by Luisana Duarte Armendariz

Nine-year-old Julieta is off to Paris to help her art-handler dad collect pieces for a new exhibit at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. Sadly, they must leave Julieta’s very pregnant mother behind. Julieta sees the best of Paris: the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Coeur, and plenty of great art. But things go awry when she and Dad walk in on a thief stealing the Louvre’s most prized piece–a priceless cursed diamond with a shady history. Julieta And The Diamond Enigma is smart younger middle-grade mystery with a spunk main character who cracks the case. ~ Hispanic – Middle School

American Immigration: Our History, Our Stories
by Kathleen Krull

Award-winning author Kathleen Krull takes an in-depth historical look at immigration in America—with remarkable stories of some of the immigrants who helped build this country. From writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, to scientists like Albert Einstein, to innovators like Elon Musk, American Immigration honors the immigrants who have changed the way we think, eat, and live. With its rich historical text, fascinating sidebars and photos, as well as an extensive source list and timeline, American Immigration is a fantastic resource for children, teachers, and librarians. ~ Diverse – Middle School

The Way to Rio Luna
by Zoraida Cordova

Eleven-year-old Danny Monteverde believes in magic. Most of all, he believes that his older sister, Pili, is waiting for him somewhere in Rio Luna, the enchanted land in their favorite book of fairy tales. When the siblings were placed in separate foster homes, she promised that she’d come back for him, and they’d build a new life together in Rio Luna. Yet as the years pass, Danny’s faith begins to dim. But then he finds a mysterious book in the library — a collection of stories with a map to Rio Luna . . . and to Pili. The Way To Rio Luna follows Danny on his adventure from New York to Ecuador to Brazil. ~ Hispanic – Middle School

The Dream Weaver
by Reina Luz Alegre

From start-up companies to selling motorcycles, Zoey’s dad is constantly chasing jobs that never seem to work out. As for Zoey, she’s willing to go along with whatever grand plans her dad dreams up—even if it means never staying in one place long enough to make real friends. Zoey’s world is turned upside down when Dad announces that he’s heading to a new job in New York City without her. Instead, Zoey and her older brother, José, will stay with their Poppy at the Jersey Shore. At first, Zoey feels as lost and alone as she did after her mami died. But soon she’s distracted by an even bigger problem: the bowling alley that Poppy has owned for decades is in danger of closing! The Dream Weaver is a heartwarming, coming-of-age novel about family and friendship. ~ Hispanic – Middle School

High School

Saving Ruby King: A Novel
by Catherine Adel West

When Ruby King’s mother is found murdered in their home in Chicago’s South Side, the police dismiss it as another act of violence in a black neighborhood. But for Ruby, it’s a devastating loss that leaves her on her own with her violent father. Her best friend, Layla, is the only one who understands. Their friendship is tested when Layla’s father, the pastor of their church, demands that Layla stay away. In a relentless quest to save Ruby, Layla uncovers the murky loyalties and dangerous secrets that have bound their families together for generations. Saving Ruby King is a powerful debut novel about family secrets and friendship. ~ African – High School

You Should See Me in a Crown
by Leah Johnson

Liz Lighty has always believed she’s too black, too poor, too awkward to shine in her small, rich, prom-obsessed midwestern town. She plans to get out of Campbell, Indiana, attend the elite Pennington College, play in their world-famous orchestra, and become a doctor. But when the financial aid she was counting on unexpectedly falls through, Liz’s only option is the school’s scholarship for prom king and queen. There’s nothing Liz wants to do less than endure a gauntlet of social media trolls, catty competitors, and humiliating public events, but despite her devastating fear of the spotlight she’s willing to do whatever it takes to get to Pennington. You Should See Me In A Crown is a fresh queer romcom celebrating diversity and individuality. ~ African – High School

The Invincible Summer of Juniper Jones
by Daven McQueen

For biracial Ethan Harper, who was raised mostly by his white father, race has always been a distant conversation. But when he spends the summer of 1955 with his aunt and uncle in Alabama, his Blackness is suddenly front and center, and everyone is making it clear that he’s not welcome there. Except Juniper Jones, the town’s resident oddball and free spirit. As Ethan is confronted for the first time by what it means to be Black in America, Juniper tries to help him see the beauty in even the ugliest reality. The Invincible Summer of Juniper Jones is a heartfelt novel about racism, friendship and a summer that changed lives. ~ African – High School

Forest of Souls
by Lori M. Lee

Sirscha Ashwyn comes from nothing, but she’s intent on becoming something. After years of training to become the queen’s next royal spy, her plans are derailed when shamans attack and kill her best friend Saengo. Sirscha, somehow, restores Saengo to life, and is summoned to the domain of the Spider King. As war looms, Sirscha must master her newly awakened abilities before the trees shatter the brittle peace, or worse, claim Saengo, the friend she would die for. Forest of Souls is an epic, unrelenting tale of sisterhood and self-discovery. ~ Asian – High School

Category Five
by Ann Dávila Cardinal

The tiny island of Vieques, just off the main island of Puerto Rico, is trying to recover after hurricane Maria, but the already battered island is now half empty. To make matters worse,developers have come in to buy up the land at a fraction of its worth, taking advantage of the island when it is down. Lupe, Javier, and Marisol are back to investigate a series of murders that follow in the wake of a hurricane and in the shadow of a new supernatural threat. Category Five is a new supernatural YA thriller that picks up a year after the events of Five Midnights. ~ Hispanic – High School

The Hero of Numbani (Overwatch #1)
by Nicky Drayden

In the technologically advanced African city of Numbani, in the not-so-distant future, humans live in harmony with humanoid robots known as omnics. But when a terrorist tries to shatter that unity, a hero named Efi Oladele rises. Efi has been making robots since she was little — machines to better her community and improve people’s lives. But after she witnesses Doomfist’s catastrophic attack on the city’s OR15 security bots, Efi feels the call to build something greater: Orisa, the true guardian of Numbani! The Hero of Numbani is the first-ever original novel for the worldwide gaming sensation Overwatch. ~ African – High School

All the Things We Never Knew
by Liara Tamani

From the moment Carli and Rex first locked eyes on a Texas high school basketball court, they both knew it was destiny. But can you truly love someone else if you don’t love yourself? In beautiful prose, All The Things We Never Knew explores love, family, heartbreak, betrayal, and the power of healing. ~ African – High School

A Song Below Water: A Novel
by Bethany C. Morrow

In a society determined to keep her under lock and key, Tavia must hide her siren powers. Meanwhile, Effie is fighting her own family struggles, pitted against literal demons from her past. Together, these best friends must navigate through the perils of high school’s junior year. But everything changes in the aftermath of a siren murder trial that rocks the nation, and Tavia accidentally lets out her magical voice at the worst possible moment. Set against the challenges of today’s racism and sexism, A Song Below Water is an enthralling modern fantasy about black mermaids, friendship, and self-discovery. ~ African – High School

A Song of Wraiths and Ruin
by Roseanne A. Brown

For Malik, the Solstasia festival is a chance to escape his war-stricken home and start a new life with his sisters in the prosperous desert city of Ziran. But when a vengeful spirit abducts his younger sister, Nadia, as payment to enter the city, Malik strikes a fatal deal—kill Karina, Crown Princess of Ziran, for Nadia’s freedom. Inspired by West African folklore, A Song Of Wraiths And Ruin is the first in a gripping fantasy duology about a grieving crown princess and a desperate refugee who find themselves on a collision course to murder each other despite their growing attraction. ~ African – High School

Like a Love Story
by Abdi Nazemian

For three teens in 1989 New York City the world is changing. Reza is an Iranian boy who has just moved to the city with his mother to live with his stepfather and stepbrother. He knows he’s gay, but all he knows of gay life are the media’s images of men dying of AIDS. Judy is an aspiring fashion designer who worships her uncle Stephen, a gay man with AIDS who devotes his time to activism. Judy meets Reza and they start dating. Art is Judy’s best friend, their school’s only out and proud teen. He’ll never be who his conservative parents want him to be, so he rebels by documenting the AIDS crisis through his photographs. As Reza and Art grow closer, Reza struggles to find a way out of his deception that won’t break Judy’s heart—and destroy the most meaningful friendship he’s ever known. Like A Love Story is an epic love letter to queerness, self-expression, and individuality. ~ Asian – High School