NEW Multicultural Children's & YA Books January 2025

New year, lots of exciting new multicultural children’s and young adult books! Our favourite books for January 2025 are The Welcome Book (Babies & Toddlers), Girls On The Rise (Preschool), Why We Need Dried Peanuts (Elementary School), As You Wish (Middle School), and Togetha (High School). Enjoy browsing!

You can buy the books on this list from Amazon USA by clicking on the book titles or images or from my Bookshop page.

As an Amazon & Bookshop Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

NEW Multicultural Children’s & YA Books January 2025

Babies & Toddlers

The Welcome Book
by Danna Smith

“If you meet someone new in the world today, / there is a very kind word you can say. / “Welcome!” / Welcoming somebody shows that you care. / You’re happy to see them. You’re glad they are there.” From inviting a friend to play to welcoming a new baby into the world, The Welcome Book celebrates all the ways we can welcome those around us—and shows readers that even small acts can have a big impact on individuals as well as communities. ~ Diverse – Babies & Toddlers

Preschool

Mai’s Áo Dài
by Thai Nguyen

It’s the morning of Tet, and Mai can’t wait to celebrate at her beloved grandmother’s home. With the perfect dress: a poofy, sparkly Cinderella dress that makes Mai look like the movie star she dreams of being! But when Mai’s father suggests that she wears an áo dài, a traditional Vietnamese outfit, to her Ba Noi’s party, Mai is disappointed. Stars don’t wear áo dài, she thinks. Then Ba tells her the story of a true star, her very own Ba Noi, who sewed beautiful, highly sought-after áo dài in Vietnam and brought her magic with her when she immigrated to the United States. So maybe stars wear áo dài after all! Mai’s Áo Dài is an irresistibly charming picture book about embracing your heritage and the traditions that tie generations together—centered around Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. ~Asian – Preschool

The Glam World Tour
by Rachel Werner

Bountiful ‘fros bop. Fresh, tight locs swing. Mehndi flashes as fingers snap. On the glam world tour, the stunning variation of beauty norms around the world are showcased and celebrated as inclusive, not divisive. With dynamic illustrations and bouncy text, The Glam World Tour is a compelling picture book reminds young readers that true beauty comes from accepting everyone. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Mixed Feelings
by Liana Finck

This exploration of mixed and wide-ranging emotions is presented in illustrated vignettes and beautifully articulate text. Each spread portrays a specific scenario involving a child and a phrase that reminds readers (young and old) that not all feelings can be summed up in a single word, or occur singularly. The text “Mostly happy but a little sad” accompanies a child leaving for the beach, but waving goodbye to his dog. “Like I’m trying hard to have fun” shows a child at a loud party, covering their ears. Mixed Feelings is a deeply insightful book that validates the way we all experience the world. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Night: A Children’s Fable
by Katherine Jumbe

Even long ago, there was day and night. The day was full of light and warmth, and people and animals alike rejoiced in the rays of the sun. But what happens when people get greedy and take the Night for granted? What will become of the Earth and those who dwell upon it? Follow Baby Mwana and her older Sister Alekachawo as they trek up the great Sky Road to bring the heavens back into balance. Night is a rhythmic tale –perfect for bedtime– that masterfully brings the world of the Malawian savanna to life. ~ African – Preschool

Wash Day with Mama
by Monica Mikai

“I love Sundays, because Sundays are wash days. And wash days are just for us.” Filled with heartwarming illustrations, Wash Day with Mama centers on a little girl cherishing each step of their hair washing routine while Mama imparts her wisdom and stresses the importance of self-care, loving yourself, and being proud of who you are. The process of washing and taking care of Black hair takes time and effort, but this poignant story shows how it is an act of self-love and nurtures a special connection between mother and daughter. ~ African – Preschool

Girls on the Rise
by Amanda Gorman

Who are we? We are a billion voices, bright and brave; we are light, standing together in the fight. Girls are strong and powerful alone, but even stronger when they work to uplift one another. In this galvanizing original poem by presidential inaugural poet Amanda Gorman, girls and girlhood are celebrated in their many forms, all beautiful, not for how they look but for how they look into the face of fear. Creating a rousing rallying cry with vivid illustrations, Girls on the Rise reminds us how girls have shaped our history while marching boldly into the future. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Captain America: Brave New World, A Hero Looks Like You
by Kwame Mbalia

Set in the world of Marvel Studios, stunningly illustrated Captain America: Brave New World, A Hero Looks Like You is a heartwarming picture book about a young boy named DJ who steps up to help Captain America, his favorite Super Hero, and discovers along the way that heroes don’t always look big or strong or wear a suit. Sometimes, they might even look like him. With stunning illustrations, this inspiring picture book shows readers that anyone can choose to be a hero. ~ African – Preschool

Elementary School

Greatness
by R & K Bethencourt

When Nasir and Imani step into their Grandma’s studio, she opens their minds to the power of a photograph. From Bessie Smith to Basquiat to Beyoncé, Grandma introduces them to famous figures and what makes them special. And before long, Nasir and Imani find themselves in the images and stepping into greatness, too. Greatness reimagines powerful moments from Black history through the eyes of the youngest readers. With child-friendly recreations of famous figures from the past and present, this book reminds children of their own potential for greatness. ~ African – Elementary School

Gabby Torres Gets a Billion Followers
by Angela Dominguez

Gabby Torres is nine years old and ready to conquer the world. She’s already joined the Sea Musketeers, the environmental protection club founded by her idol, Stella Díaz, and plans to be their best (and youngest) member ever. Gabby’s latest and greatest idea: start a social media page for her club. But her parents think she’s too young! Nothing stops Gabby though… until some online meanies get her in some serious trouble! Gabby Torres Gets a Million Followers is a new heartwarming graphic novel series featuring a tenacious, bold, relatable, and hilarious protagonist. ~ Hispanic – Elementary School

The Interpreter
by Olivia Abtahi

Some kids have one job: to be a kid! Cecilia has two. When she isn’t on the soccer field scoring goals, she’s accompanying her parents to all kinds of grown-up places, like the DMV, the accountant’s office, and the auto shop. She helps them translate from Spanish to English and from English to Spanish. It’s an important job, and it can even be fun. It’s also hard work. Sometimes Cecilia’s second job is so much responsibility, it feels like she’ll split in two! Is it time for Cecilia to blow her whistle and call for a time-out? With clever text and charming illustrations, The Interpreter captures a common aspect of life for immigrant and bilingual families while offering a model for teamwork that helps everyone feel understood. ~ Hispanic – Elementary School

Baking Up Love
by A. & K. Page

Esther and her mom are supposed to bake cupcakes after school this afternoon for tomorrow’s Literacy Feast. But when Esther arrives home, her mom is still at work, and she finds Grandpa snoozing in his favorite reading chair. “Grandpa! Wake up!” Grandpa reassures a doubtful Esther that he does in fact know how to bake, a skill he learned from Esther’s late grandmother. Grandpa and Esther bake, dance, and sing, filling the kitchen, and their hearts, with Grandma’s special ingredient―love. With expressive illustrations, Baking Up Love is a heartwarming story about the special bond between children and their grandparents. ~ African – Elementary School

Akua Goes to the Post Office
by Artika R. Tyner

Akua is excited to visit her grandparents and cousins over summer break, but she is worried she will miss her friends at home. Then she has an idea! She will write letters to her friends. Mama takes Akua and her friends to the post office to purchase stamps, paper, and envelopes. The children practice writing letters and addressing envelopes. Now they are ready to stay in touch all summer long. Akua Goes To The Post Office is a sweet story about friendship and the importance of reading and writing. ~ African – Elementary School

Why We Eat Fried Peanuts: A Celebration of Family and Lunar New Year Traditions
by Zed Zha

Join Mèng, a Chinese American girl, as she prepares for the Lunar New Year festivities with her family and discovers the significance of ancestral stories and the history behind the Mandarin language and traditional foods eaten during the holiday. Meng’s father shares with her the family story of tài nai nai, Meng’s great-grandmother, and a very important ancestor for the family. Tài nai nai’s brave act of courage many years ago inspired generations after and teaches valuable lessons that every child can learn from today. Along the way, see how food plays an important role in the festivities and why one food—peanuts—is an important snack. Rich with vibrant and joyful illustrations, Why We Eat Fried Peanuts honours the concept of ancestry, a pillar of Chinese culture that is remembered during the Lunar New Year celebrations. Includes a simple recipe for fried peanuts and a glossary of Mandarin words. ~ Asian – Elementary School

Saturday Morning at the ‘Shop
by Keenan Jones

“It’s Saturday morning. We hop in the car. Mom’s heading to work, and I’m geeked to go spend the day at the ’shop!” The barbershop is a sound booth, an art gallery, a playground, a classroom, and so much more. It’s a place for artistry and comradery and, most importantly, community. Come spend the day feeling all the style and wisdom and joy at the ’shop! Vibrantly illustrated Saturday Morning at the ‘Shop is an upbeat celebration of the spaces and places that bring communities together. ~ African – Elementary School

Middle School

A Copycat Conundrum (The Misfits)
by Lisa Yee

After solving the case of the Royal Rumpus, Olive Cobin Zang and her elite team of underdogs are on top of the world. As the awkward, crime-fighting Misfits, they’re acing every mission thrown at them from NOCK (aka No One Can Know, the covert agency they work for). But when their classmate Zeke starts receiving threatening notes, the Misfits are stumped. They’re no strangers to danger, but this case is a total head-scratcher. Who would target kind, friendly Zeke . . . unless he’s not what he seems to be? At the same time, unusual earthquakes start shaking up San Francisco just as priceless art goes missing, and the Misfits are called to investigate. Is it a coincidence that the city is under attack while Zeke is getting mysterious messages? Or is it all just a cover for a scheme bigger than any they’ve faced before? Part of the illustrated Misfits series, A Copycat Conundrum is a fast-paced and hilarious adventure that tweens everywhere will love. ~ Diverse – Middle School

Also available: A Royal Conundrum (The Misfits)

Stories of the Spirit of Justice
by Jemar Tisby

We are living in the civil rights movement of our day. But the challenges of the present call us to remember the past. Throughout American history, there has always been a resilient group of people who, motivated by their faith, resisted oppression and pushed for greater equality and liberty for all. With expressive illustrations and practical tips connecting readers to the continued fight for justice, Stories of the Spirit of Justice is an inspiring collection of stories about impactful historical figures—from the well-known to those often forgotten—who resisted racism and created a legacy of hope and perseverance. ~ African – Middle School

Chickenpox
by Remi Lai

All big sister Abby wants is to spend more time with her friends, far away from the sticky fingers and snooping eyes of her annoying brothers and sisters. But when a case of the chickenpox leaves the Lai kids covered in scratchy red spots and stuck at home together for two weeks of nonstop mayhem, Abby thinks this might be the end . . . of her sanity. Yet she feels responsible for the situation since her best friend was Patient Zero and brought chickenpox into their home. Will the itch to escape her siblings overwhelm Abby or will she realize being a big sister isn’t all bad? Full of heart and hijinks, Chickenpox is a hilarious and heartwarming contemporary middle-grade graphic novel that showcases what gets us through good times and bad: family. ~ Asian – Middle School

As You Wish
by Nashae Jones

Birdie has big plans for eighth grade. This is the year that she gets a boyfriend, and since she and her best friend, Deve, do everything together, it makes sense that Deve will get a girlfriend. This is the kind of math Birdie doesn’t find intimidating—it’s Eighth Grade 101. (Birdie + Boyfriend) + (Deve + Girlfriend) = Normal Eighth Grade Experience. And normal is something Birdie craves, especially with a mom as overprotective as hers. She doesn’t expect Deve to be so against her plan, or for their fight to blow up in her face. So when the West African god Anansi appears to her, claiming to be able to make everything right again, Birdie pushes past her skepticism and makes a wish for the whole mess to go away. But with a trickster god, your wish is bound to come true in a way you never imagined. As You Wish is a sweet and funny middle grade rom-com featuring a chaos-loving West African trickster god. ~ African – Middle School

Will’s Race for Home
by Jewell Parker Rhodes

It’s 1889, barely twenty-five years after the Emancipation Proclamation, and a young Black family is tired of working on land they don’t get to own. So when Will and his father hear about an upcoming land rush, they set out on a journey from Texas to Oklahoma, racing thousands of others to the place where land is free—if they can get to it fast enough. But the journey isn’t easy—the terrain is rough, the bandits are brutal, and every interaction carries a heavy undercurrent of danger. And then there’s the stranger they encounter and befriend: a mysterious soldier named Caesar, whose Union emblem brings more attention—and more trouble—than any of them need. All three are propelled by the promise of something long denied to them: freedom, land ownership, and a place to call home—but is a strong will enough to get them there? Will’s Race For Home is a thrilling adventure story about a son and his father who set out to win land during the Oklahoma Land Rush–if they can survive the journey. ~ African – Middle School

High School

King: A Life (Young Adult Edition)
by Jonathan Eig

Often regarded as more of a myth and legend than man, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was many things throughout his storied life: student, activist, preacher, dreamer, father, husband. From his Atlanta childhood centered in the historically Black neighborhood of Sweet Auburn to his precipitous rise as a civil rights leader on the streets of Birmingham, Selma, and Montgomery, Dr. King would go on to become one of the most recognizable, influential, and controversial persons of the twentieth century. King: A Life is a fast-paced and immersive adaptation of Jonathan Eig’s groundbreaking New York Times bestseller that shows a Dr. King like no other: a committed radical whose demands for racial and economic justice remain as urgent today as they were in his lifetime, a minister wrestling with his human frailties and dark moods, a citizen hunted by his own government. ~ African – High School

First Love Language
by Stefany Valentine

Taiwanese American Catie Carlson has never fit in with her white family. As much as she loves her stepmom and stepsister, she yearns to understand more about her culture and find her biological mother. So Catie is shocked when an opportunity comes knocking on her door: Her summer spa coworker, Toby, says he’ll teach her Mandarin. In exchange, she needs to teach him how to date so he can finally work up the courage to ask out his crush. The only problem is that Catie doesn’t actually have any dating experience. But she can fake it. With her late father’s copy of The Five Love Languages and all his annotated notes, Catie becomes the perfect dating coach. Or so she thinks. As she gets dangerously close to Toby and to finding out what really happened to her biological mom, she realizes that learning the language of love might be tougher than she thought. First Love Language is a fresh yet profound debut novel about grief, family, transracial adoption, and what it means to truly follow your heart. ~ Asian – High School

Togetha (Pritty, 2)
by Keith F Miller Jr.

After finally reuniting, Jay and Leroy have never been in more danger. Caught in the crosshairs of the affluent Bainbridge family, who they’ve learned is determined to reshape Savannah in their own image, the duo has only just survived a series of near-death experiences before reaching the safety of the Black Diamonds. But the BDs’ ability to protect the Black neighborhoods of their city is slipping…. Missing the key piece of evidence that could have broken the Bainbridges’ hold over Savannah, everyone is scrambling for options. But when one of their own is kidnapped, Jay and Leroy realize they can’t rely on anyone but themselves to save them. Togetha is the highly anticipated sequel to acclaimed Pritty. ~ African – High School

Build a Girlfriend
by Elba Luz

To the surprise of no one, Amelia Hernandez is once again single. It’s her family curse at work; whether it’s by heartbreak, scandal, or even accidental death, every romantic relationship that a Hernandez woman has will meet its demise eventually. And that may be fine with Amelia’s sisters, mom, and aunts, but definitely not with Amelia. So, convinced that she is the problem, Amelia decides to embark on an “Ex Retrospective:” tracking down her exes, finding out where she went wrong, and using that information to finally become un-break-up-able for whenever her next relationship comes along. But old loves die hard, and as Amelia’s feelings grow more complicated, she suspects that she may be in for more than she bargained for. Build A Girlfriend is a debut rom-com about a teen who deep-dives into her dating history to uncover her mistakes, become the perfect girlfriend, and get revenge on the wrong guy so she can ride into the sunset with the right one. ~ Hispanic – High School

The Queen’s Spade
by Sarah Raughley

The year is 1862 and murderous desires are simmering in England. Nineteen-year-old Sarah Bonetta Forbes (Sally), once a princess of the Egbado Clan, seeks revenge against the British Crown and its system of colonial “humanitarianism,” which stole her dignity and transformed her into royal property. From military men to political leaders, she’s vowed to ruin all who’ve had a hand in her afflictions. The top of her list? Her godmother, Britain’s mighty monarch, Queen Victoria herself. Taking down the Crown means entering into a twisted game of court politics and manipulating the Queen’s inner circle–even if that means aligning with a dangerous yet alluring crime lord in London’s underworld and exploiting the affections of Queen Victoria’s own son, Prince Albert, as a means to an end. Inspired by the true story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta, Queen Victoria’s African goddaughter, The Queen’s Spade is a lush and riveting historical thriller. ~ African – High School