The 100 Best Multicultural Picture Books of 2022

Colours of Us

2 years ago

Best Multicultural Picture Books of 2022

Presenting the 100 best multicultural picture books of 2022! I can’t believe how fast this year flew by, it’s absolutely crazy. Like this time every year, I searched the internet up and down for the best multicultural picture books of the year, and I am happy to say that I have found plenty of gems. Enjoy browsing!

The 100 Best Multicultural Picture Books of 2022

Babies & Toddlers

Peek-a-You! (A Bright Brown Baby Board Book)
by Andrea Davis Pinkney

“Peek-a-you, peek-a-you, can you see? / Here’s the pretty brown face of me?” Cuddle up with your little one and play a happy game of peekaboo! With bouncing, rhythmic text and warm, whimsical illustrations, Peek-a-You is a joyful celebration of perfectly huggable, oh-so-lovable bright brown bundles of joy! ~ African – Babies & Toddlers

Hello, Beautiful You!
by Andrea Davis Pinkney

“Brown baby, born bright. / Greet the world. Spread your light.” Get ready for sweet togetherness as you snuggle up with your little one and show them how truly extraordinary and beautiful they are. With bouncing text and charming illustrations, Hello, Beautiful You is a joyful celebration of Black and brown joy, babies, and families.

More in the Bright Brown Baby series: Bright Brown Baby // Count to LOVE!

The Hair Book
by LaTonya Yvette

“Covered hair, Bun Hair, Party Hair… No matter your hair—YOU are welcome anywhere!” With bold, colourful graphics and poetic rhyme, The Hair Book is a stunning tribute to every kind of hair, perfect for fans of Hair Love. ~ Diverse – Babies & Toddlers

Brown Sugar Baby
by Kevin Lewis

“Brown sugar baby, dark eyes spark bright with glee…Pie of my eye, stay right here with me.” The first book in a new series, Brown Sugar Baby is a lyrical celebration of the powerful love and protective, comforting instincts of a mother for her child. With soothing rhymes and charming illustrations, t’s the perfect bedtime book. ~African – Babies & Toddlers

Brown Baby Jesus: A Picture Book
by Dorena Williamson

Like Moses, brown baby Jesus would be a deliverer. Like Rahab, brown baby Jesus would save His people from destruction. Like David, brown baby Jesus would rule as a great king. With an unconventional Christmas setting of Egypt and written in sweet, lyrical prose, Brown Baby Jesus is a unique retelling of the Nativity story rich with Scripture, historical accuracy, and a multicultural weaving of love. ~ African – Babies & Toddlers

Little Santa’s Workshop
by Lala Watkins

Discover the magical world of Little Santa’s Workshop! Step inside the toy workshop, feed candy canes to the reindeer, and taste a sugary sweet in the kitchen. With bright illustrations, Little Santa’s Workshop is full of Christmas joy and good vibes. So pack your snow boots and travel to the North Pole! ~ African – Babies & Toddlers

We Are Friends
by Sue Downing

Watch as baby plays with everything they can find at home, and see the twinkle in their eyes as the first bonds in the playroom are made! Introducing babies to the idea of friendship, adorably illustrated We Are Friends is the perfect book about the friends that are all around us. ~ African – Babies & Toddlers

Leo, Sleep Tight! (Leo Can!)
by Anna McQuinn

Leo, Lola’s little brother from Leo Loves Mommy and Leo Loves Daddy, is back in a new bedtime story that helps him to relax using all five senses! Perfect for establishing nighttime routines, Leo, Sleep Tight is sure to delight. Leo had a long day, and it is time to get ready for bed. ~ African – Babies & Toddlers

Me and The Family Tree
by Carole Boston Weatherford

“I’ve got my brother’s ears / And my sister’s big bright eyes. / I’ve got my grandpa’s hands / Though mine are a smaller size.” As a young girl reflects on the characteristics she shares with her family, she also notices and appreciates what makes her unique. Me And The Family Tree is an adorably sweet book reminds children of the love and security of family and celebrates the wonderful diversity among the people that make up our families and who love us so much! ~ African – Babies & Toddlers

I Love My Beautiful Hair
by Elissa Wentt

For her first-ever trip to the hair salon, little EJ wants to find a special hair style. But with so many options… how can she choose? Should she try afro puffs, with ribbons and bows? Or twisty spirals that tickle her nose? Luckily, Mommy is there to offer reassurance: “Your hair is curly, like clouds in the sky. It’s beautiful no matter which style you try!” With bright illustrations and rhyming text, I Love My Beautiful Hair celebrates family tradition and Black hair. ~ African – Babies & Toddlers

Shady Baby Feels: A First Book of Emotions
by G. Union & D. Wade

Shady Baby is baking cupcakes, and she has some feelings about the process. From excitement to boredom, Shady Baby Feels: A First Book of Emotions introduces nine common emotions. Perfect for the youngest of readers, this book will inspire kids to discuss their multitude of feelings in a kid-friendly, accessible format. ~ African – Babies & Toddlers

This Is Music: Drums
by Rekha S. Rajan

What do a set of bongos, a tambourine, and a cooking pot have in common? They are all drums! This Is Music: Drums is a first introduction to instruments in the drum family beginning with a simple explanation of what defines a drum. The littlest readers are then invited on a global exploration of a variety of percussive instruments and are encouraged to find drums of their own in the world around them. ~ Diverse – Babies & Toddlers

Ours
by Ruth Forman

“I love mine / she loves hers / he loves his / I love theirs.” From the bestselling author of Curls, Glow, and Bloom comes a board book that joyfully celebrates skin tone self-love with a mirror for little ones. With rhyming text and expressive illustrations, Ours shows young readers how to see themselves and others with confidence and love. ~ Diverse – Babies & Toddlers

Preschool

Marley and the Family Band
by C. Marley & T. Baptiste

When Marley and her family move from Jamaica to Delaware, she knows life is about to change in big ways. And she’s got the perfect plan to help her and her siblings make friends: an outdoor concert for the whole neighbourhood! But when weather ruins their plans, she discovers help in the most unlikely places as her new neighbours quickly become the kindest of friends. Inspired by the author’s childhood and her iconic father, Marley And The Family Band is a vibrant picture book that celebrates music, love, and family. ~ African – Preschool

I Am Golden
by Eva Chen

“What do you see when you look in the mirror, Mei? Do you see beauty? We see eyes that point toward the sun, that give us the warmth and joy of a thousand rays when you smile. We see hair as inky black and smooth as a peaceful night sky. We see skin brushed with gold.” Written in the form of a letter from immigrant parents to their child, I Am Golden is a joyful and lyrical ode to the immigrant experience and a celebration of Chinese American identity. ~ Asian – Preschool

I’m Not Small
by Nina Crews

A young boy feels small in a world that is made up of big things. But when he takes a closer look, he discovers that he is big, too. His dog is smaller than he is, and his cat is smaller than his dog. And the teeny-tiny ant crawling through the grass? Even smaller! With playful text and bright illustrations, I’m Not Small will spark conversations about the concept of size, about growing up, about feeling seen, and about observing the world around you. ~ African – Preschool

Santiago’s Dinosaurios
by Mariana Rios Ramirez

Santiago is new to the United States, and he doesn’t speak English. On his first day of school, how will he connect with his peers? Santiago learns that even when you don’t speak the same language, some interests―like dinosaurs―are universal. Santiago’s Dinosaurios is a sweet story about making new friends despite language barriers. ~ Hispanic – Preschool

If You Find a Leaf
by Aimee Sicuro

During fall, a young artist draws inspiration from the leaves she collects. She imagines turning a Japanese Zelkova leaf into a boat to sail far away, a Honey Locust leaf into a swing to sway in the gentle breeze, and an American Basswood leaf into a hot air balloon to float high above the trees. With exquisite illustrations, If You Find A Leaf inspires young readers to use their own imagination as they hunt for leaves. Includes tips for artwork with leaves and additional fun craft ideas. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Beautiful You, Beautiful Me
by Tasha Spillett-Sumner

One night, cuddled up on Mama’s lap, Izzy notices something she’s never noticed before: her skin is the colour of chocolate, but Mama’s skin is the colour of sand. When Izzy realizes she’s different from Mama in other ways, too, she feels sad and confused. Mama addresses Izzy’s disappointment with a gentle, loving refrain: You’re part of me, and I’m part of you. I’m beautiful like me, and you’re beautiful like you. Finding lessons from nature and repeating her affirming message, Mama encourages Izzy to see her own unique beauty. Based on the author’s own experience growing up as an Afro-Indigenous girl, Beautiful You, Beautiful Me is a lyrical and warm story that celebrates the differences that make us uniquely beautiful. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Still This Love Goes On
by Buffy Sainte-Marie

Based on Sainte-Marie’s song of the same name, Still This Love Goes On combines breathtaking art with vivid lyrics to craft a stunning portrait of a Cree worldview. At the heart of this picture book is a gentle message about missing our loved ones, and the promise of seeing each other again. Brimming with love for community and the land, this gem of a picture book is destined to be read and sung for generations. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Granny’s Kitchen: A Jamaican Story of Food and Family
by Sadé Smith

Shelly-Ann lives with her Granny on the beautiful island of Jamaica. When she becomes hungry, she asks her Granny for something to eat. Granny tells her “Gyal, you betta can cook!” and teaches Shelly-Ann how to get in touch with her Jamaican roots through the process of cooking. As Shelly-Ann tries each recipe, everything goes wrong. But when Granny is too tired to cook one morning, Shelly-Ann will have to find the courage to try one more time and prepare the perfect Jamaican breakfast. With vibrant artwork, Granny’s Kitchen is the perfect read-aloud for budding chefs everywhere. ~ African – Preschool

That’s Not My Name!
by Anoosha Syed

Mirha is excited for her first day of school. But when her classmates mispronounce her name, she goes home wondering if she should find a new one. Maybe then she’d be able to find a monogrammed keychain at the gas station or order a hot chocolate at the café more easily. But Mama helps Mirha to see how special her name is, and she returns to school the next day determined to help her classmates say it correctly–even if it takes a hundred tries. That’s Not My Name is an empowering picture book about loving your name, and standing up for yourself. ~ Asian – Preschool

Me Gusta
by Angela Dominguez

“Me gusta your smile, tu sonrisa, / and your hugs, tus abrazos. / Me gusta when we explore this spectacular world, el mundo, /
and gaze at all the stars, las estrellas. / But most of all, me gusta that no matter where we are, I feel at home, en casa, when I’m with you.” Me Gusta is an encouraging bilingual picture book that celebrates Latinx families by highlighting moments of connection and delight and feelings of safety and home, even through challenges and difficult times. ~Hispanic – Preschool

The Stack
by Vanessa Roeder

Luna begins her stack with a single chair. But it’s not quite tall enough. So she adds a stool, then some books . . . and her bed . . . and before she knows it, she’s thrown a pile of plates, a bathtub (currently occupied), and a whale up there too. And yet the stack still isn’t tall enough. Finally, after she flings and slings bigger and wackier things into the stack, and then climbs and stretches just so, she is able to reach into the sky for just what she wants: a star of her own to use as a night-light! Stunningly illustrated The Stack is a clever bedtime story about doing (and building!) whatever it takes to reach for the stars. ~ African – Preschool

Emile and the Field
by Kevin Young

Emile loves the field close to his home–in spring, summer, and fall, when it gives him bees and flowers, blossoms and leaves. But not as much in winter, when he has to share his beautiful, changeable field with other children…and their sleds. With stunning illustrations and a charming text, Emile and the Field celebrates a child’s relationship with nature. ~ African – Preschool

The Little Toymaker
by Cat Min

One morning, an old woman brings the little Toymaker a candy tin she played with as a girl. He takes the tin and TA-DA! comes back with a sparkling new toy for the old lady. But it seems that what she truly wants was lost a long time ago. And it will take all the Toymaker’s skill, magic, and empathy to bring it back for her. A new holiday classic for a new generation, The Little Toymaker is the perfect story to share between generations young and old. ~ Asian – Preschool

Why Not You?
by Ciara & Russell Wilson

“Why not you? Amazing you! You’re a winner! You’re so strong! You are perfect and important—you and all your gifts belong!” Sometimes it’s hard to imagine our big dreams coming true. But what if someone saw all the amazing and spectacular parts of us—our winning smiles, our fancy feet, our warm hearts—and asked, “Why not you?” Whether it’s becoming a football player or a pop star or the president or a scientist: Why not you? From pop star Ciara and Super Bowl champion Russell Wilson comes this lyrical celebration of self-esteem, perseverance, and daring to shoot for the stars. ~ African – Preschool

Let’s Do Everything and Nothing
by Julia Kuo

“Will you climb a hill with me? / Dive into a lake with me? / Reach the starry sky with me, / and watch the clouds parade?” Love can feel as vast as a sky full of breathtaking clouds or as gentle as a sparkling, starlit night. It can scale the tallest mountains and reach the deepest depths of the sea. Standing side by side with someone you love, the unimaginable can seem achievable. But not every magical moment is extraordinary. Simply being together is the best journey of all. Let’s Do Everything and Nothing is a lush and lyrical picture book celebrating special moments―big and small―shared with a child. ~ Asian – Preschool

Song in the City
by Daniel Bernstrom

A blind young girl, filled with the sounds of her beloved city, shares a song with her grandmother that changes the two forever. After helping Grandma realize that the city makes music as beautiful as the sounds they hear in church on Sunday morning, the two sit down and take in all the sounds of the city…together. Song in the City bridges the gap between generations of music and family, while centering love, understanding, and joy. ~ African – Preschool

Dear Black Child
by Ramah Rodaah

“Dear Black Child, / We are here to remind you of your glory…” Dear Black Child is a moving and lyrical tribute to and affirmation of Black children around the world, a story of self-acceptance, love, joy, and resilience by an exciting new author and illustrator team. ~ African – Preschool

The Adventures of Qai Qai
by Serena Williams

“Don’t be scared, Best Friend! I’m right here with you, always!” “But what if I’m not good enough?” “Girl!” Qai Qai answered. “You’re already good enough when you walk in the door! Come on, let me show you.” Baby Girl worries about an upcoming dance recital. What if she forgets the steps or freezes up during her solo? Luckily, her best friend Qai Qai the doll has her back! When Qai Qai comes to life, they go on a magical journey that shows Baby Girl that she’s ready for the stage. Written by superstar athlete Serena Williams, The Adventures of Qai Qai is a heartwarming picture about the power of believing―in your best friend and in yourself. ~ African – Preschool

The Tray of Togetherness
by Flo Leung

A little girl and her family are hosting a Lunar New Year party. There’s a lot to do before the guests arrive! First, a trip to the market to fill up the Tray of Togetherness, a special candy box for the partygoers. Each of the eight lucky snacks in the Tray has an auspicious meaning: peanuts for a long life, pistachios for happiness, candied coconut for strong family ties…As the family returns home, they pass out delicious good wishes to the friends and neighbours they meet along the way. After the tray has been prepared and the decorations set up, it’s time for the party! The Tray of Togetherness is a sensory, food-focused story brought to life with eye-catching illustrations and a little girl’s cheerful narration. ~ Asian – Preschool

Charlie Makes a Splash!
by H. Robinson Peete & S. Evans

Like many kids on the autism spectrum, Charlie finds solace and empowerment in pools, ponds, sprinklers, visiting the aquarium, and swimming in the ocean. Through his adventures and discoveries, he shows the world that even though he has autism, autism doesn’t have him. A beautiful ode to the love between siblings Callie and Charlie, Charlie Makes A Splash! returns to the characters from the award-winning My Brother Charlie, showing readers that kids who may experience the world in different ways can help us see the wonders of swimming to your own rhythm. ~ African – Preschool

Ride, Roll, Run: Time for Fun!
by Valerie Bolling

“Pedal, pump. / Speed bump! / Ride, roll, run. / Friends and fun!” Ride, Roll, Run: Time for Fun! is a joyful, rhyming picture book that celebrates community and friendship, following children as they play their way through their vibrant neighbourhood. Paired with stunning illustrations, this book makes for an exciting read-aloud. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Kimchi, Kimchi Every Day
by Erica Kim

Explore the different ways to eat kimchi in this fun, rhyming tale that also teaches the days of the week. Korean-American author-illustrator Erica Kim shares her pride in her delicious cultural food through her cut paper art technique. The Hanji paper that is used to illustrate the book comes from a paper mulberry tree native to Korea. Whether round and crunchy like a kimchi pancake or pinched and plump like a kimchi dumpling, Kimchi, Kimchi Every Day shows the many ways to enjoy this Korean traditional dish, and will inspire children to take pride in their cultural foods, too. ~ Asian – Preschool

Brown Is Beautiful: A Poem of Self-Love
by Supriya Kelkar

On a hike with her grandparents, a young Indian-American girl makes note of all the things in nature that are brown, too. From a nurturing mother bear, to the steadiness of deep twisting roots, to the beauty of a wild mustang, brown is everywhere! On her way, the girl collects the beautiful brown things she encounters as mementos for a scrapbook to share with a very special new addition to her family–a baby brother! For fans of Hair Twins and Eyes that Kiss in the Corners, Brown Is Beautiful is an empowering picture book about recognizing the beauty around you and within you. ~ Asian – Preschool

Namaste Is a Greeting
by Suma Subramaniam

What is namaste? It’s found in a smile, a friendship, a celebration. It exists in silence; it can be said when you’re happy or when you’re feeling low. For one small girl in a bustling city, namaste (“I bow to you”) is all around her as she and her mother navigate a busy marketplace—and when she returns with a little plant and chooses to give it to an elderly neighbor, it can be seen in the caring bond between them. With sweet, universal text and delightful illustrations, Namaste Is A Greeting shines a light on a word with significance far beyond yoga class. ~ Asian & Preschool

Mama’s Home
by Shay Youngblood

Home can be a blue house with white trim you share with your mama. But it can be bigger than that, with lots of Big Mamas to take care of you when your mom works—different houses for every day of the week. Mondays mean Nurse Louella and bike riding. Tuesdays mean eating fufu with your fingers with Miss Zikora. And Wednesdays . . . well, no matter where you are, as long as you are with your Big Mamas, you are home. Mama’s Home is a powerful love letter to chosen families and the villages that raise us. ~ African – Preschool

Rafa Counts on Papá
by Joe Cepeda

Rafa and his papá love to count and measure together. They know how many branches they climb to their favorite spot, they know how high their dog Euclid can jump, and they know how far they can run. But there’s one thing Rafa can’t count or measure because it is infinite: the love that he and his papá share. With a subtle nod to introducing concepts, from real objects to the abstract, Rafa Counts On Papá the immeasurable love of this Latinx family. ~ Hispanic – Preschool

The Best Bed for Me
by Gaia Cornwall

Mama and Mommy would like Sweet Pea to settle into bed, but it’s not quite time. Even though the bed is fluffy, it’s not as snuggly as curling up like a pig in the mud, or as spacious as sleeping in the wide ocean like a blue whale. It’s not as fun as sleeping high up in a tree like a koala, or hanging upside down like a bat. And it’s definitely not as relaxing as sleeping standing up, like an emperor penguin. But after mimicking all the ways different animals rest, this little one concedes that a comfy bed, a soft pillow, and a good-night wish offer the best way to fall asleep after all. The Best Bed for Me is a loving, humorous story for even the most energetic of bedtime listeners. ~ Diverse – Preschool

My Hands Tell a Story
by Kelly Starling Lyons

A little girl, baking bread with her grandmother, becomes transported by the tales her grandmother’s hands tell–those that spring from the rose-painted nails, a flower-banded wedding ring, and the way her fingers move and glide. These hands have many tales to tell. But only if you listen. My Hands Tell a Story is a heartwarming picture book that celebrates a special moment between granddaughter and grandmother. ~ African – Preschool

Olu and Greta
by Diana Ejaita

Olu lives in Lagos, Nigeria; his cousin, Greta, lives in Milan, Italy. Though their lives may be different, their ways of living and playing are quite similar. They both roller skate; they both skip down the street; they both play with toy trains, trucks, and boats… and they both dream of meeting and being together. Referencing the author’s own childhood and heritage, Olu & Greta is a rich, poignant, and authentic portrayal of Nigeria, of Italy, and of the unity of childhood. ~ African – Preschool

Eyes That Speak to the Stars
by Joanna Ho

When a friend at school creates a hurtful drawing, a young Asian boy turns to his family for comfort. He realizes that his eyes rise to the skies and speak to the stars, shine like sunlit rays, and glimpse trails of light from those who came before—in fact, his eyes are like his father’s, his agong’s, and his little brother’s, and they are visionary. Inspired by the men in his family, he recognizes his own power and strength from within. Companion to the acclaimed Eyes That Kiss in the Corners, Eyes That Speak To The Stars is a lyrical and uplifting picture book that redefines what it means to be truly you. ~ Asian – Preschool

Mary Had a Little Plan
by Tammi Sauer

“Mary had a little plan / that sprouted on the spot. / It all began the day she passed / a drab, abandoned lot.” Fashion-forward Mary is known for adding flair everywhere she goes. When she spots an abandoned lot in her neighbourhood, Mary knows she can use her stylish talent to spruce it up. Soon she’s rallying neighbourhood shops and calling on her friends to help. With Mary leading the way, this group carries out her little plan that has a big impact on her community! With adorable illustrations, Mary Had A Little Plan follows the spunky little protagonist from Mary Had a Little Glam on her second adventure. ~ African – Preschool

Twas the Night Before Pride
by Joanna McClintick

On the night before Pride, families everywhere are preparing to partake. As one family packs snacks and makes signs, an older sibling shares the importance of the march with the newest member of the family. Reflecting on the day, the siblings agree that the best thing about Pride is getting to be yourself. Twas the Night Before Christmas pays homage to the beauty of families of all compositions—and of all-inclusive love. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Friends
by Daniela Sosa

There are many kinds of friends—old friends, new friends, friends that last a lifetime—and the day to make new friends is always near, if you look. This story celebrates all of them: who they are, where we find them, and what we count on them for. Friends is a joyful, resonant picture book that celebrates the wonder of new friends, old friends, and everything-in-between friends. ~ Diverse – Preschool

The Very Best Sukkah: A Story from Uganda
by Shoshana Nambi

Sukkot is Shoshi’s favourite Jewish holiday. She and her brothers love to decorate their sukkah, the hut where her family will celebrate. But who will win the Ugandan Abayudaya community’s annual sukkah contest? While only one sukkah can be the best, everybody wins when neighbors work together. The Very Best Sukkah is a gorgeously illustrated, sweet story about family, tradition, and community. ~ African – Preschool

I Am Amazing!
by A. Holder & Z. Holder-Young

Ayaan loves being a superhero, from helping a friend who has fallen on the playground, to giving pushes on the swings, and offering a boost to those who need it at the rock wall. But his fun is ruined when two of his friends tell him he doesn’t seem like a superhero. When he gets home from school, his Dad reminds him that anybody can be a superhero if you are helping other. I Am Amazing! is the latest picture book about the always-inspiring Ayaan. ~ African – Preschool

When I’m With You
by Pat Zietlow Miller

“There’s something that I’ve noticed. / Perhaps you’ve seen it, too. Life is so much better / when it’s me and you.” From the time we are young, we are drawn to special people—the ones who complete our sentences and who know our favourite colour, food, and song. The people who understand us and make us happier than anyone else in the world. After all, no matter how much time passes or how many miles tug us apart, there is no one quite like a best friend. When I’m With You is a jubilant celebration of friendship and the adventures of childhood. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Climb On!
by Baptiste Paul

When a young child reminds her dad about the hike they planned, her father is hesitant —To the tippy top? It’s a great day to watch futbol (soccer). But as the two climb on, her enthusiasm is contagious. Filled with setbacks, surprises, and stunning views, Climb On! is a warm and humorous story that highlights the bonding power of a shared experience. A list of creatures at the end prompts a second look for keen-eyed readers to make discoveries of their own. ~ Diverse – Preschool

The Blur
by Minh Lê

From the very beginning, there was something different about this child… An ultrasonic voice. Fantastically elastic limbs. Super-magnetic powers. But it wasn’t until the child took her first steps that she became: THE BLUR! Nothing can stand in her way as she takes the world by storm: always on the move and darting into danger! All too soon, she is zipping through the days, and zooming over the years… From the award-winning creators of Drawn Together comes The Blur, a delightful superhero romp that will pull at the heartstrings of every parent. ~ Asian – Preschool

The Queen of Kindergarten
by Derrick D. Barnes

MJ is more than ready for her first day of kindergarten! With her hair freshly braided and her mom’s special tiara on her head, she knows she’s going to rock kindergarten. But the tiara isn’t just for show—it also reminds her of all the good things she brings to the classroom, stuff like her kindness, friendliness, and impressive soccer skills, too! Like the bestselling companion book The King of Kindergarten, The Queen of Kindergarten is the perfect back-to-school book. ~ African – Preschool

Let Your Light Shine
by Keb’ Mo’

From GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Keb’ Mo’ comes Let Your light Shine, a sweet picture that brings the inspirational lyrics from one of Keb’ Mo’s most inspiring songs to life. Featuring a young Keb’, this beautiful book encourages readers to keep shining through their darkest days and to show love wherever they go. ~ African – Preschool

Abuelita and I Make Flan
by Adriana Hernández Bergstrom

Anita is making flan for Abuelo’s birthday, but when she accidentally breaks Abuelita’s treasured flan serving plate from Cuba, she struggles with what to do. Anita knows it’s right to tell the truth, but what if Abuelita gets upset? Worried that she has already ruined the day, Anita tries to be the best helper. After cooking the flan, they need a serving dish! Anita comes up with a wonderful solution. Complete with a glossary of Spanish terms and a traditional recipe for flan, Abuelita and I Make Flan is a delicious celebration of food, culture, and family. ~ Hispanic – Preschool

Lola Out Loud: Inspired by the Childhood of Activist Dolores Huerta
by Jennifer Torres

Her grandpa calls her “Lolita Siete Lenguas”—Little Lola, Seven Tongues, all fighting to be heard. Lola is trying not to make so much noise, but when she witnesses injustices in her own neighborhood, she knows she can’t keep quiet. Can Lola find a way to use her voice for change? ¡Sí, se puede! Inspired by the real-life civil rights activist and labor leader Dolores Huerta, Lola Out Loud is a warm and rollicking picture book that reminds us that sometimes one strong voice is just what we need. ~ Hispanic – Preschool

Black Boy, Black Boy
by A. Kamanda & J. Redmond

“Dear boy, Black boy, I believe in you so. / Let’s start your story―ready, set, go.” From athlete and activist Colin Kaepernick to musician Sam Cooke, inventor Elijah McCoy and writer Chinua Achebe, there are so many inspirational men in Black history. With lyrical text, Black Boy, Black Boy encourages boys to imagine everything they can be and the great things they can do, drawing on the strength of people throughout history that paved the way for Black boys today. ~ African – Preschool

Braver Than Brave
by Janet Sumner Johnson

Wanda desperately wants to be brave like her big brother Zane, but it’s not easy. When the Coaster of Doom opens at the local amusement park, Wanda is determined to show her brave. With all eyes on her, Wanda must find the confidence to be her own kind of Brave. Mixing humour with themes of self-awareness and responsible decision making, Braver Than Brave shows the importance of thinking for yourself, being confident in your own beliefs, and accepting differences in others. Everyone has their own kind of brave, and that’s totally okay. ~ African – Preschool

To Change a Planet
by C. Soontornvat & R. Jomepour Bell

“One person. / Small, quiet, insignificant. / But when one person, / and one person, / and one person / become many, /they can change a planet.” With spare, poetic text and stunning illustrations, To Change A Planet takes readers on a stirring journey that gently illuminates the causes of climate change as well as how our individual and collective actions can make the world better. Clear endnotes vetted by a climate expert answer questions in simple language. Meticulously researched and brimming with hope and hands-on solutions, this book is vital for every family and classroom. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Hair to Share
by Sylvia Walker

Suri was born with more hair than anyone had ever seen on a baby. As she grew, so did her hair until it eventually reached all the way down to her knees! When she makes a new friend who has no hair, Suri wants to find a way to help her feel comfortable and confident. Hair To Share is a joyful exploration of friendship, generosity, and confidence that comes from within. Includes backmatter about medical hair loss. ~ African – Preschool

Be a Good Ancestor
by Leona & Gabrielle Prince

Addressing environmental issues, animal welfare, self-respect, and the importance of community, this stunning picture book delivers a universal message in accessible stanzas: Be good to yourself and the world around you. Rooted in Indigenous teachings, Be A Good Ancestor encourages readers of all ages to consider the ways in which they live in connection to the world around them and to think deeply about their behaviors. ~ Diverse – Preschool

Elementary School

More Than Peach
by Bellen Woodard

When Bellen Woodard’s classmates referred to “the skin-colour” crayon, she knew just how important it was that everyone understood that “skin can be any number of beautiful colours.” More Than Peach spreads Bellen’s message of inclusivity, empowerment, and the importance of inspiring the next generation of leaders. Bellen created the More Than Peach Project in order to transform the crayon industry and grow the way we see our world. Includes back matter about becoming a leader and improving your community just like Bellen. ~ African – Elementary School

They’re Heroes Too: A Celebration of Community
by Pat Brisson

As a young girl travels through her community, she notices many everyday heroes — teachers, bus drivers, grocery clerks, mail carriers, and kids who are kind and brave and help each other. With expressive illustrations and flowing text, They’re Heroes Too is a beautiful celebration of the ordinary people who hold our world together. ~ Diverse – Elementary School

Sitti’s Bird: A Gaza Story
by Malak Mattar

Malak is a little girl who lives in Gaza with her parents. She goes to school, plays in the ocean, and visits Sitti’s house on Fridays. One day while she is in school, bombings begin. She spends the next 50 days at home with her parents worrying and feeling scared, until one day she picks up her paintbrush… Written and illustrated by Palestinian artist Malak Mattar, Sitti’s Bird is a sensitive and heart warming story of how a little girl in Gaza finds strength and hope through painting. ~ Asian – Elementary School

Be a Bridge
by I. Latham & C. Waters

With rhyming verse and cheerful illustrations of a diverse group of students, Be A Bridge shows different ways in which readers can “be a bridge,” from welcoming a new student and listening respectfully when someone else is talking to standing up to a bully and comforting a classmate who is upset. Scan a Page Plus QR code at the end of the book to download a Bridge Builder Pledge. An ideal book to share with students now to set the tone for the whole school year! ~ Diverse – Elementary School

The Talk
by Alicia D. Williams

Jay’s most favourite things are hanging out with his pals, getting kisses from Grandma, riding in his dad’s cool car, and getting measured by his mom with pencil marks on the wall. But as those height marks inch upward, Grandpa warns Jay about being in too big a group with his friends, Grandma worries others won’t see him as quite so cute now that he’s older, and Dad has to tell Jay how to act if the police ever pull them over. The Talk is a gently honest and sensitive starting point for this far-too-necessary conversation, for Black children, Brown children, and for ALL children. Because you can’t make change without knowing what needs changing. ~ African – Elementary School

Indigo Dreaming
by Dinah Johnson

A young girl living on the coast of South Carolina dreams of her distant relatives on the shores of Africa and beyond. Indigo Dreaming is a poetic meditation between two young girls—on different sides of the sea—who wonder about how they are intricately linked by culture, even though they are separated by location. The girls’ reflections come together, creating an imaginative and illuminating vision of home, as well as a celebration of the Black diaspora. ~ African – Elementary School

Hold Them Close: A Love Letter to Black Children
by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

As affirming as it is touching and warm, this picture book encourages young children to hold close their joy, the words of their ancestors and elders, as well as their power to change the world. From the celebrated author of Your Name Is a Song, gorgeously illustrated Hold Them Close is a a joyful love letter to Black children that will inspire young people to march forth with pride, glow, and happiness. ~ African – Elementary School

The Unbreakable Thread
by Emily Joof

The thread between a mother and child starts to unwind when the child begins to walk, talk, and run. It stretches a little more on the first day of school. It swirls and unfurls the further the child gets from Mom’s reach. One thing is constant ― that thread always remains. Inspired by the Gambian tradition of leaving a thread with the child when a parent travels, The Unbreakable Thread is a bittersweet celebration of the everlasting bond between a mother and child through the changing phases of their lives. ~ African – Elementary School

Still Dreaming / Seguimos Soñando
by Claudia Guadalupe Martínez

Faced with the prospect of being separated from each other, a young boy and his family make the difficult decision to leave their home and begin a journey filled with uncertainty. On the road, they meet other people like them. Families with deep roots tied to the land. Others that helped build the railroads. Some were shop owners and factory workers. Each with similar hopes and dreams. Between 1930 and 1940, an estimated two million people living in the United States were forcibly removed and sent to live in Mexico. Told from a child’s perspective, Still Dreaming shines a light on this often-overlooked period of United States history–Mexican Repatriation. ~ Hispanic – Elementary School

Phoenix Gets Greater
by Marty Wilson-Trudeau

Phoenix loves to play with dolls and marvel at pretty fabrics. Most of all, he loves to dance―ballet, Pow Wow dancing, or just swirling and twirling around his house. Sometimes Phoenix gets picked on and he struggles with feeling different, but his mom and brother are proud of him. With their help, Phoenix learns about Two Spirit/Niizh Manidoowag people in Anishinaabe culture and just how special he is. Based on the childhood experiences of the author’s son, Phoenix Gets Greater demonstrates the difference that a loving and supportive family can make. ~ Diverse – Elementary School

Black Gold
by Laura Obuobi

When the Universe decides to create a child, she draws from the earth–rich, dark, and full of everything that gives life, including eyes like black star sapphires and full lips to speak the truth. With help from the Sun and the Moon, they create a child of the Universe: beautiful, powerful, and boundless with the brilliance of Black Gold. With lyrical text and lustrous illustrations, Black Gold is a joyous celebration of Black children and a reminder of the Universe’s unconditional love. ~ African – Elementary School

Am I Made of Stardust?: Dr Maggie Answers the Big Questions for Young Scientists
by Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock

How long would it take me to fly to a star? What would happen if I fell inside a black hole? Would I get a phone signal in space? From whether there are rainbows on other planets to what dinner tastes like on the International Space Station, this book is packed full of fabulous facts, mind-blowing insights and engaging explanations from the renowned space scientist. Written in Dr Maggie‘s fun, accessible style, and featuring out-of-this-world illustrations throughout, Am I Made of Stardust? is guaranteed to bring the wonders of space and science to life for young readers. ~ African – Elementary School

Alcatoe and the Turnip Child
by Isaac Lenkiewicz

Alcatoe the town witch and the local children of Plum Woods are up to some witchy business…like casting spells and growing a prize-winning turnip. When their grouchy neighbour Mr. Pokeweed chases them out of his garden, the kids ask Alacatoe for help to win the Annual Harvest Festival Vegetable Pageant. From cursed fruit salad to potions filled with the sneeze of a donkey and the tail hair of a copy cat, Alcatoe knows all the right ingredients to make the magic happen. But when their prize-winning vegetable comes alive, it soon becomes a friend, in danger of being prepared for the feast. Will they save Turnip Child in time? Alcatoe and the Turnip Child is a wild and fun book that young readers will love. ~ Diverse – Elementary School

Bonnie’s Rocket
by Emmeline Lee

Bonnie’s father is an engineer for the Apollo 11 space mission. Bonnie is an engineer too, developing a model rocket that she plans to shoot high into the sky. While Baba works on the moon-landing module far away, Bonnie designs, builds, and tests her own project — with sometimes disastrous results! Throughout the process, Baba’s letters encourage her in her work, and after the astronauts return from the moon, Baba comes home in time to see Bonnie launch her amazing rocket. Bonnie’s Rocket is a heartwarming father-daughter story and a great gift for budding engineers and space fans. ~ Asian – Elementary School

Just Like Jesse Owens
by A. Young & P. Young Shelton

As a boy, civil rights icon Andrew Young learned a vital lesson from his parents when a local chapter of the Nazi party instigated racial unrest in their hometown of New Orleans in the 1930s. While Hitler’s teachings promoted White supremacy, Andrew’s father told him that when dealing with the sickness of racism, “Don’t get mad, get smart.” To drive home this idea, Andrew Young Senior took his family to the local movie house to see a newsreel of track star Jesse Owens racing toward Olympic gold, showing the world that the best way to promote equality is to focus on the finish line. Just Like Jesse Owens delivers a powerful story about a special day in Andrew’s childhood that changed him forever. ~ African – Elementary School

Say Their Names
by Caroline Brewer

Aliya, a seven-year-old Black girl, sees on TV news the public reaction to recent and tragic events. Determined to make sure the lives of those lost matter, she leads her own protest march that extends beyond her living room and into her neighborhood to “say their names” and loudly proclaim “good people come in all colours.” Say Their Names is a timely picture book that addresses racism and police brutality in an age-appropriate manner. ~ African – Elementary School

Stacey Abrams and the Fight to Vote
by Traci N. Todd

“Sometimes she would light the way. Sometimes her way would be lit by others…” Stacey Abrams was always destined for big things, because she always imagined more. Now she protects the least powerful and works toward making voting fair and easy. Stacey Abrams’s determination, perseverance, and courage will inspire young readers to make meaningful change in the world. With lyrical text and stunning illustrations, Stacey Abrams and the Fight to Vote encourages conversation at home and the classroom about Black women and voting. ~ African – Elementary School

Everything in Its Place: A Story of Books and Belonging
by Pauline David-Sax

Nicky is a shy girl who feels most at home in the safe space of her school library, but the library closes for a week and Nicky is forced to face her social anxiety. When she meets a group of unique and diverse women at her mother’s diner—members of a women’s motorcycle club—Nicky realizes that being different doesn’t have to mean being alone, and that there’s a place for everyone. Everything In Its Place is an inspiring and poetic love letter to reading—and how words help us find empathy and connections with the world around us. ~ African – Elementary School

When Words Have Power
by Lisa Chong

Henry overhears someone calling his Chinese American mother a strange name at the market: “banana.” But Henry doesn’t understand. A banana is just a piece of fruit. What’s the big deal? And what does the name mean? With expressive illustrations, When Words Have Power gently reveals the powerful effect microaggressions and name calling can have, and shows how a little kindness and respect can lead to bright, new friendships and stronger relationships with loved ones. ~ Asian – Elementary School

Powwow Day
by Traci Sorell

River is recovering from illness and can’t dance at the powwow this year. Will she ever dance again? Vibrantly illustrated Powwow Day is an uplifting #ownvoices story that follows River’s journey from feeling isolated after an illness to learning the healing power of community. Additional information explains the history and functions of powwows, which are commonplace across the United States and Canada and are open to both Native Americans and non-Native visitors. ~ Diverse – Elementary School

Nigel and the Moon
by Antwan Eady

When Nigel looks up at the moon, his future is bright. He imagines himself as…an astronaut, a dancer, a superhero, too! Among the stars, he twirls. With pride, his chest swells. And his eyes, they glow. Nigel is the most brilliant body in the sky. But it’s Career Week at school, and Nigel can’t find the courage to share his dreams. It’s easy to whisper them to the moon, but not to his classmates—especially when he already feels out of place. Beautifully illustrated Nigel And The Moon is a glowing tale about dreaming big and overcoming fear. ~ African – Elementary School

Girl Dad
by Sean Williams

A fun read-aloud written in upbeat rhyming verse, Girl Dad is a picture book that honours the strong men who raise, love, and uplift strong girls. Perfect for fans of Hair Love by and Made for Me, and a great gift for Father’s Day. ~ African – Preschool

Not So Small
by Pat Zietlow Miller

“A small voice can travel for miles. / Showing kindness. / Hope. / And love.” With lyrical text and vibrant illustrations, Not So Small celebrates the many ways people can join together to become something bigger—an unstoppable force. Each and every one of us can use our voices to make a difference — no matter your size! ~ Diverse – Elementary School

My Paati’s Saris
by Jyoti Rajan Gopal

Another exciting day with Paati begins with a host of fun activities done in preparation for tonight’s party; threading flowers into garlands for decoration, going to the market, and helping her in the kitchen with the scent of sambar in the air. Through it all the boy finds comfort in Paati’s sari, whether he’s wrapped in its colors for dress-up or clutching its folds for comfort. Each sari holds a story—ones that speak to him, but most important of all they allow him just to be. With joyful text and dazzling art, My Paati’s Sari is a tale of family love and expressing your true self. ~ Asian – Elementary School

The World Belonged to Us
by Jacqueline Woodson

Released from school and reveling in their freedom, the kids on one Brooklyn block take advantage of everything summertime has to offer. Freedom from morning till night to go out to meet their friends and make the streets their playground–jumping double Dutch, playing tag and hide-and-seek, building forts, chasing ice cream trucks, and best of all, believing anything is possible. That is, till their moms call them home for dinner. But not to worry–they know there is always tomorrow to do it all over again–because the block belongs to them and they rule their world. With rhythmic text and lively art, The World Belonged To Us celebrates the joy and freedom of summer in the city. ~ Diverse – Elementary School

Sarah Rising
by Ty Chapman

Sarah joins her dad at a protest to speak out against police violence against Black people. The protesters are loud, and Sarah gets scared. When she spots a beautiful monarch butterfly and follows it through the crowd, she finds herself inside the no-man’s land between the line of police and protesters. In the moments that follow, Sarah is confronted with the cruelty of those who are supposed to protect her and learns what it feels like to protect and be protected. Inspired by the protests of the Minneapolis Uprising after the police killing of George Floyd, Sarah Rising provides a child’s-eye view of a protest and offers an opportunity for children to talk about why people take to the streets to protest racial injustice. ~ African – Elementary School

The Little House of Hope
by Terry Catasús Jennings

When Esperanza and her family arrive in the U.S. from Cuba, they rent a little house, una casita. As the family settles into their new house, they all do their part to make it a home. When other immigrant families need a place to stay, it seems only natural for the family in la casita to help. Together they turn the house into a place where other new immigrants can help one another. The Little House of Hope is an inspiring, semi-autobiographical story of how immigrants can help each other find their footing in a new country. ~ Hispanic – Elementary School

Uncle John’s City Garden
by Bernette Ford

Visiting her uncle in the city from her home in the suburbs, L’l Sissy sees how a few packets of seeds, some helping hands, and hard work transform an empty lot in a housing project into a magical place where vegetables grow and family gathers. It’s the magic of nature in the heart of the city! Uncle John’s City Garden is a loving glimpse at a family’s shared passion for farming. L’l Sissy’s fascination with measurement, comparison, and estimation introduces children to STEM concepts, and the progress of Uncle John’s garden introduces them to the life cycle of plants. ~ African – Elementary School

Mae Makes a Way: The True Story of Mae Reeves, Hat & History Maker
by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich

Mae had a dream to make one-of-a-kind hats. But the path for a Black female designer was unclear, so Mae made a way, leaving her home in the segregated South to study at the Chicago School of Millinery. She went on to become the first Black woman to own a business on South Street. Whether you were Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald, Marian Anderson or a lady from the neighbourhood, Mae wanted you to look good and feel special in one of her original hats. Dynamically illustrated Mae Makes Way celebrates iconic fashion designer and civil rights icon Mae Reeves. ~ African – Elementary School

Smile Out Loud: 25 Happy Poems
by Joseph Coelho

This vibrant picture book presents 25 poems from award-winning poet Joseph Coelho, designed to be read aloud to project confidence, conjure happiness, make you laugh or cheer others up. Some are odes, some can be said as personal mantras or just poems full of words that you can’t help but smile when you hear them. Smile Out Loud fosters a love of words and the power that comes with the spoken word. ~ Diverse – Elementary School

A Land of Books: Dreams of Young Mexihcah Word Painters
by Duncan Tonatiuh

A young Aztec girl tells her little brother how their parents create beautiful painted manuscripts, or codices. She explains to him how paper is made from local plants and how the long paper is folded into a book. Her parents and others paint the codices to tell the story of their people’s way of life, documenting their history, science, tributes, and sacred rituals. With Duncan Tonatiuh’s lyrical prose and beloved illustration style, inspired by the pre-Columbian codices, A Land Of Books tells the story of how the Aztec and their neighbours in the Valley of Mexico painted books and records long before Columbus arrived, and continued doing so for generations after the Spanish Conquest. ~ Hispanic – Elementary School

Stella Keeps the Sun Up
by Clothilde Ewing

Stella wants to stop sleeping on her sixth birthday. Because sleep is boring. So she comes up with a plan. People only have to go to bed when it gets dark, and it only gets dark because the sun goes down. If she can keep the sun in the sky, she and her best friend, Roger, can stay up for a hundred years! They offer the sun a cup of coffee, shine a light at it so it will shine back, and jump on a trampoline to push the sun higher. But before long, Stella begins to wonder…are there downsides to keeping the sun up forever? Stella Keeps The Sun Up is a fun picture book kids will love! ~ African – Elementary School

Hana’s Hundreds of Hijabs
by Razeena O. Gutta

Hana has a humongous collection of hijabs and accessories – and her hijab is always styled superbly. But when her overflowing collection gets a little out of hand, Hana knows something needs to be done . . . and comes up with a clever plan for sharing her talents and possessions with her community! Hana’s Hundreds of Hijabs is a humorous tale of creative problem-solving and learning to help others that will have young readers chuckle along. ~ Asian – Elementary School

The Year We Learned to Fly
by Jacqueline Woodson

On a dreary, stuck-inside kind of day, a brother and sister heed their grandmother’s advice: “Use those beautiful and brilliant minds of yours. Lift your arms, close your eyes, take a deep breath, and believe in a thing. Somebody somewhere at some point was just as bored you are now.” And before they know it, their imaginations lift them up and out of their boredom. Then, on a day full of quarrels, it’s time for a trip outside their minds again, and they are able to leave their anger behind. This precious skill, their grandmother tells them, harkens back to the days long before they were born, when their ancestors showed the world the strength and resilience of their beautiful and brilliant minds. With lyrical text and stunning art, The Year We Learned To Fly celebrates the extraordinary ability to lift ourselves up and imagine a better world. ~African – Elementary School

Beauty Woke
by NoNieqa Ramos

Beauty is a Puerto Rican girl loved and admired by her family and community. At first, she’s awake to their beauty, and her own—a proud Boricua of Taíno and African descent. But as she grows older, she sees how people who look like her are treated badly, and she forgets what makes her special. So her community bands together to help remind her of her beautiful heritage. Beauty Woke is a powerful story of pride and community, told with bold lyricism and the heart of a fairy tale. ~ Hispanic – Elementary School

Love in the Library
by Maggie Tokuda-Hall

After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Japanese American Tama is sent to live in a War Relocation Center in the desert. She works in the camp’s tiny library, taking solace in pages bursting with colour and light, love and fairness. And she isn’t the only one. George waits each morning by the door, his arms piled with books checked out the day before. As their friendship grows, Tama wonders: Can anyone possibly read so much? Is she the reason George comes to the library every day? Beautifully illustrated Love In The Library is a moving love story set in a shameful chapter of American history. ~ Asian – Elementary School

Lunch from Home
by Joshua D. Stein

What happens when a child’s favourite packed lunch is met with disparaging comments at the school lunch table? In a classroom of sandwiches, four students stand out with their homemade, culturally-specific lunches. But before they can dig in, their lunches are spoiled by scrunched noses and disgusted reactions from their sandwich-eating classmates. Following each of the four students as they learn to cope with their first “lunch box moments”, Lunch From Home is a heartwarming story that reminds us all that one’s food is a reflection of self and an authentic celebration of culture. ~ Diverse – Elementary School

Making Happy
by Sheetal Sheth

When Leila’s mother gets sick, lots of things change for her family. But one important thing stays the same: they still have each other, and they know how to find joy and laughter when they need it most! Making Happy is a poetic, uplifting story with a hopeful ending that is based on the author’s own experience battling cancer as the parent of young children. ~ Asian – Elementary School

Ablaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas
by Jeanne Walker Harvey

As a child in Georgia, Alma Thomas loved to spend time outside, soaking up the colours around her. And her parents filled their home with colour and creativity despite the racial injustices they faced. After the family moved to Washington DC, Alma shared her passion for art by teaching children. When she was almost seventy years old, she focused on her own vibrant artwork, inspired by nature and space travel, and became one of the most distinguished painters of the 20th century. Told from the point of view of young Alma Thomas, Ablaze With Color tells the incredible story of the first Black woman to have a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum in New York City and to have her work chosen for the White House collection. ~ African – Elementary School

Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free: The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth
by Alice Faye Duncan

Every year, Opal looked forward to the Juneteenth picnic—a drumming, dancing, delicious party. She knew from Granddaddy Zak’s stories that Juneteenth celebrated the day the freedom news of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation finally arrived in Texas in 1865—over two years after the president had declared it! But one Juneteenth day when Opal was twelve years old, an angry crowd burned down her brand-new home. This wasn’t freedom at all. She had to do something! But could one person’s voice make a difference? Could Opal bring about national recognition of Juneteenth? Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free follows Opal on her historic journey to recognize and celebrate “freedom for all.” ~ African – Elementary School