# data[].attributes.headline
UNICEF UK Rights Respecting Schools Award Book lists

# data[].attributes.subject
UNICEF UK Rights Respecting Schools Award Book lists

# data[].attributes.body
A set of three book lists for 3-7, 7-11 and 11-18 year olds. Each list has ten suggested books for exploring rights issues.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

There are many books that can be used to explore rights with children and young people through all stages of learning.

These downable pdf reading lists are not prescriptive, they are not intended as books that you must include in your literature work as a Rights Respecting School.

They are simply 10 book suggestions that have been tried and tested by other teachers who are linking reading and rights and which you may find useful if you are aiming to do similar in your educational setting.

These book lists were produced in early 2024 and linked to our Spotlight on threading rights through your curriculum using literature.

We hope they inspire you to make your own links between favorite books and children's rights.

We would also recommend reading our three case studies of schools who have done interesting work in this area: George Green's Secondary, St Mary's CE Primary School Moss Side and Barr Hill Primary. For a few simple ideas on visually linking reading to rights see these examples from George Spicer Primary School.

Resources

Read more

George Green Secondary School - children's rights and literature

Read more

Read more

St Mary's CE Primary School Moss - children's rights and literature

Read more

Read more

Barr Hill Primary School - children's rights and literature

Read more

Read more

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Rights-linked reading suggestions for children and young people - Rights Respecting Schools Award

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
There are many books that can be used to explore rights with children and young people through all stages of learning.

# data[].attributes.headline
Linking reading and rights: ideas from George Spicer Primary School

# data[].attributes.subject
Linking reading and rights: ideas from George Spicer Primary School

# data[].attributes.body
With thanks to Rebecca McNamara from George Spicer Primary School who shared some examples of how children explore rights through reading.

# data[].attributes.body
Reflecting Realities is the first UK study looking at diversity in children's literature. The annual reports track progress made over the last six years. This is useful reading for schools who are looking to diversify the books that are available for children and young people.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Reflecting Realities is the first UK study looking at diversity in children's literature. Funded by the Arts Council, our aim is to quantify and evaluate the extent and quality of ethnic representation and diversity in children's publishing in the UK.

# data[].attributes.headline
Read for Empathy Collection 2024 (Primary)

# data[].attributes.subject
Read for Empathy Collection 2024 (Primary)

# data[].attributes.body
Many of the fantastic books in this collection will be easily linked to rights issues. Schools will need to consider how to make the links to CRC articles explicit for learners.

# data[].attributes.headline
Read for Empathy Collection 2024 (Secondary)

# data[].attributes.subject
Read for Empathy Collection 2024 (Secondary)

# data[].attributes.body
Some fabulous books for older readers, many of which have rich themes linking to children's rights. Schools will need to consider how to make the links to CRC articles explicit for learners.

# data[].attributes.headline
Scottish Book Trust: Picture books to discuss children's rights in the classroom

# data[].attributes.subject
Scottish Book Trust: Picture books to discuss children's rights in the classroom

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.scottishbooktrust.com/book-lists/picture-books-to-discuss-childrens-rights-in-the-classroom

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Book List: Picture books to discuss children’s rights in the classroom

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.headline
Scottish Book Trust: 8 picture books exploring children's rights

# data[].attributes.subject
Scottish Book Trust: 8 picture books exploring children's rights

# data[].attributes.body
8 picture books to support children to develop their understanding of children's rights.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Looking for more in Book Lists?

Children have every right to lives filled with peace, happiness, freedom, love and understanding. So much so that those rights are enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Explore the books on this list together with your child to help them understand their rights and why they matter.

If you want to learn more about this subject, take a look at our article about exploring children's rights with wee ones.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Book List: 8 picture books exploring children's rights

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Looking for more in Book Lists? Children have every right to lives filled with peace, happiness, freedom, love and understanding. So much so that those rights are enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Explore the books on this list together with your child to help them understand their rights and why they matter.

# data[].attributes.headline
Children's Commissioner for Wales: Books that link to Children's Rights

# data[].attributes.subject
Children's Commissioner for Wales: Books that link to Children's Rights

# data[].attributes.headline
Amnesty International UK: Words That Burn

# data[].attributes.subject
Amnesty International UK: Words That Burn

# data[].attributes.body
Resources for secondary school pupils to explore human rights through poetry.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Words That Burn challenges you to explore and take action for human rights through poetry.

Secondary Schools can explore human rights through poetry, with free educational resources designed to help students develop their own writing and performance style.

This is a project to explore and express human rights through poetry, in partnership with Cheltenham festivals.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Words That Burn challenges you to explore and take action for human rights through poetry. Secondary Schools can explore human rights through poetry, with free educational resources designed to help students develop their own writing and performance style. This is a project to explore and express human rights through poetry, in partnership with Cheltenham festivals.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Tips for using picture books to explore rights with younger children. 

# data[].attributes.headline
Scottish Book Trust: Exploring children's rights through picture books

# data[].attributes.subject
Scottish Book Trust: Exploring children's rights through picture books

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Looking for all Articles by Marie Gallagher?

How picture books can help children understand their rights

Celebrated each year on 20 November, World Children's Day marks the date in 1959 when the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Rights of the Child. Exactly 30 years later, the same coalition adopted the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which we have come to know more commonly as the UNCRC. Countries across the world, including Scotland and the UK, have signed up to this, committing to make children's rights a priority in law, policy and service provision. There is even a possibility that the UNCRC will become enshrined in Scots law in the near future.

The first Article of the UNCRC states that children should know about the convention and the rights within it and that grown-ups have a responsibility to help children understand their rights. However, this can feel like a big and abstract concept for practitioners, parents and carers to explain to children, particularly in the early years. How do we begin to open up these conversations about rights in a way that is fun, engaging and age appropriate? At Bookbug, we believe that picture books are the best place to start, so we've created some top tips for using them to explore the UNCRC.

Don't worry about 'correct' terminology

When helping younger children understand their rights, it is okay if we don't directly mention the word 'rights' or use picture books specifically relating to the UNCRC (although many lovely ones do exist - take a look at our book list for inspiration). We can take a holistic and informal approach, whether as part of the early years curriculum or choosing books and activities for the home. The Children's Parliament explains children's rights as things that all children need to feel healthy, happy and safe. That gives us lots of scope for fun and creativity when exploring children's rights with our little ones!

Bring rights to life through character-driven stories

When choosing narrative books, think about stories that need something to change in order for the main character to be healthy, happy and safe. Often this will relate to a fundamental human need, whether emotional or physical. Also, consider the role of the adults within the story - what do they do (or not do) to help? Are they present or absent? Children need to know that the role of grown-ups is to make sure their rights are met.

Have fun with concept books

There are lots of picture books designed to explain ideas or activities through illustrations, engaging rhymes or interactive elements. Many relate to core learning areas such as numbers, shapes, the alphabet or daily routines. In addition to these, lots of children's authors and illustrators provide opportunities to learn about feelings and the diversity of people and the world around them. For example, in Happy To Be Me by Emma Dodd, bold, expressive illustrations and diverse characters highlight all of the things our bodies and minds do for us every day and celebrates the importance of love and friendship. You Choose by Nick Sharratt inspires children to imagine the reality of different types of people, activities and environments and what topics they would like to explore. These concept books are fantastic in supporting the development of emotional literacy and empathy.

Opportunities for choice and participation

As well as books themselves, think about the child's role in book sharing and the environment in which books are shared. Article 12 of the UNCRC states that children have the right to express their views and be listened to. Picture books are an excellent vehicle for helping children feel confident about sharing their opinions and influencing activities. Think about the following key questions when creating participative and inclusive book sharing opportunities:

Do children have the chance to choose books and express their preferences?

Are picture books visible and physically accessible to the children in your setting?

Is there diversity in terms of characters, subject matter and authors/illustrators from a variety of backgrounds?

How can we enrich children's experience of interacting with books through play and creative opportunities?

Celebrate - you are supporting children's rights through the joy of book sharing!

Simply by sharing books with children and building them into our daily routines, we are doing a great deal to promote children's rights, including the right to learn and play, social and emotional development, cultural activities and much more. Book sharing promotes positive relationships between children and their families, which is a perfect basis for children to begin confidently understanding and articulating their rights in a safe and supportive space as they grow.

Take a look at our book list for inspiration on getting started with children's rights and, of course, get in touch to share your suggestions!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Exploring children's rights through picture books

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Looking for all Articles by Marie Gallagher? How picture books can help children understand their rights Celebrated each year on 20 November, World Children's Day marks the date in 1959 when the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration on the Rights of the Child.

# data[].attributes.body
An online bookshop specialising in diversity and inclusion. Schools can set up wish lists that parents or supporters can use to purchase books that are then sent directly to the school.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Inclusive and Diverse Children's Bookstore | A New Chapter

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A New Chapter provides children's books to customers and schools across the UK. We specialise in diverse and inclusive books and book sourcing services.

# data[].attributes.body
An inclusion-led bookshop selling books for every reader. Round Table Books exists to celebrate underrepresented authors, writers and illustrators. Book lists for different age groups are available.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Award-winning children's bookshop in heart of Brixton, London

# data[].attributes.headline
National Literacy Trust: Can I read to save the planet?

# data[].attributes.subject
National Literacy Trust: Can I read to save the planet?

# data[].attributes.body
Research on the link between reading engagement, environmental engagement and pro-environmental action. This may be useful reading for schools intending to use books to inspire young people to take action on climate change issues both locally and globally.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
In 2023, climate change continues to pose a threat to our planet. Young people can play a crucial role in shaping the future of the planet, yet some remain disengaged from environmental issues and activism. For example, while UK research found that 83% of young people aged 8 to 15 wanted to look after the environment ( Natural England, 2022), EU research has shown that only 64% of those aged 15 to 25 reported having taken action to protect the environment in the past six months ( European Climate Pact, 2022). This indicates a gap between intentions to support the environment and actual behaviours and, also, a decline in youth engagement.

This report examines the relationship between young people's reading engagement and their environmental awareness and pro-environmental action, using data collected from 50,238 young people aged 11 to 16, as part of our Annual Literacy Survey in 2022. Results show a positive relationship between reading engagement and both environmental awareness and action. Furthermore, the report shows that environmental awareness influences the relationship between reading engagement and daily environmental action (e.g., 'I do things to support the environment in my everyday life'), but not external environmental action (e.g., 'I have written to someone in power about the environment').

The findings highlight the importance of reading engagement in promoting young people's environmental awareness and indicate a need to differentiate between types of environmental action when targeting reading behaviours. Applications of these findings in educational interventions and directions for future research are explored.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Can I read to save the planet? | National Literacy Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This report examines the relationship between young people's reading engagement and both their environmental awareness and pro-environmental action

# data[].attributes.headline
Amnesty International UK: Brilliant picture books for younger children

# data[].attributes.subject
Amnesty International UK: Brilliant picture books for younger children

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Explore our list of best children's books for younger readers, featuring stimulating, delightful picture books that will spark children's imaginations through a celebration of human rights values.

Our best children's books for younger readers

For younger children great picture books often celebrate human rights and underlying values such as as community, safety, friendship and self-expression, encouraging children to take pride in the ways they are different and special

Silver Buttons by Bob Graham

Silver Buttons starts with the minute and particular - a young girl, Jodie, is busy drawing a duck who wears boots adorned with silver buttons. Nearby, her baby brother Jonathan is taking his momentous first steps across the carpet. However, the scope of the book widens to include not just these two children but the multitude of extraordinary moments taking place in the world around them: a man buying fresh bread at the baker's; a blackbird finding a worm; the birth of a baby; a soldier taking leave from his mother; and a gentle breeze spraying children sailing boats in a park fountain. This celebration of an instant in time and the variety of events contained within it is beautifully conveyed through Graham's delicate and vivid illustrations, bringing these often overlooked yet important moments to life.
Buy the book here.
Welcome by Barroux

When part of their ice floe suddenly breaks off, three polar bears are set adrift in the ocean. As they float through the waters, seeking refuge, they are told they are 'too bearish', that there are too many of them, or are even simply ignored by some indifferent giraffes taking tea. The powerful echoes with the current refugee crisis are suggested through bold, quirky illustrations that convey the bears' vulnerability as they attempt to find a new home. As well as exploring the nature of belonging and inclusivity, Barroux ' book portrays the dangers climate change poses for the bears' habitat in an accessible and thoughtful way.

Vanilla Ice Cream by Bob Graham

Vanilla Ice Cream explores the journey of a young sparrow, who travels from a truck-stop in the midst of an Indian rice-paddy to a city in the North, where his chance encounter with baby Edie leads to a very important moment for her. Celebrating the interconnectedness of our world, Graham's enchanting illustrations brilliantly evoke both towering cityscapes and minute details with warmth and humour.

Buy the book here.

There's a Bear on My Chair by Ross Collins

Awarded the 2016 CILIP Amnesty Honour, There's a Bear on My Chair is a powerful celebration of peaceful protest. A tiny mouse is aghast to find a bear occupying his favourite chair, while the bear remains blissfully unconcerned. The mouse tries a range of strategies to shift the bear...will he succeed in making his voice heard? A witty portrayal of activism, There's a Bear on My Chair encourages young readers to take a stand and defend their rights.
Explore the human rights in this book Buy the book here.
No! by David McPhail

In No! a young boy in a war-torn country sets off to post a letter, yet witnesses an act of cruelty and intimidation on his way. When he is confronted by a bully at the post-box, he decides he must speak up. This largely wordless picture book emphasises the importance of saying 'no' to threatening behaviour and bullies of all kinds. The boy's letter to the President is, in fact, a small yet powerful act of resistance in itself. The book highlights how freedom of expression can be exercised at any age, and how even young children are capable of taking a stand against oppression.

There Is A Tribe of Kids by Lane Smith

In There Is A Trib e of Kids, Lane Smith uses bold sponge-print illustrations to bring a child's natural curiosity to life. Awarded the 2017 Kate Greenaway medal, the book follows a young child as they befriend and mimic a host of creatures, from the magnitude of a pod of whales to the slow, sinuous movements of an army of caterpillars. The child is captivated by the habits of each group, yet also longs to find their own 'tribe'. The delicate palette of colours used throughout the book creates a sense of the natural world's diversity; from the brilliance of a 'smack of jellyfish' against the ocean depths, to the earthy elephants strolling through a verdant jungle. This is a visually delightful exploration of community and children's right to express themselves through play.
Buy the book here. Explore the human rights in this book
Luna Loves Library Day by Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Fiona Lumbers

Young Luna loves nothing more than a day spent at the library with her beloved dad, exploring titles about bugs (which her dad hates!) magic tricks and fairy tales. Dad reads her ' The Troll King and the Mermaid Queen ' (delightfully included within the book), which has poignant resonance for their own family life, as well as a black-and-white history book about where he grew up and his own childhood library. This is a touching reflection on the power of reading to bring families together; Fiona Lumbers' illustrations convey Luna's vivid inner life, while Coelho's lyrical style celebrates the joyful curiosity of early childhood.
Buy the book here.
Swimmy by Leo Lionni

In Swimm y, dreamlike potato-print illustrations of an underwater world combine with a wonderful story of togetherness. Swimmy is a small fish, vulnerable to attack from larger tuna. However, as he travels through the ocean, he comes to realise that through working collaboratively, he and his friends can protect each other. The soft pastel hues create a childlike sense of wonder in exploring the ocean's mysteries - Swimmy is a beautifully crafted fable that will capture the imaginations of young readers.

Oliver by Birgitta Sif

Oliver feels different to everyone around him, yet he finds comfort in his imaginary companions and the adventures they have together. One day, as he plays a tennis match on his own, his ball rolls away through the wild jungle and up the mountain, towards a little girl who feels just as different as he does. Birgitta Sif's vivid illustrations evoke Oliver's inventiveness, as well as his sense of isolation. A celebration of difference, the book explores how true friendship springs from self-acceptance.

Buy the book here.
Explore the human rights in this book
My Little Book of Big Freedoms by Chris Riddell

We all want a good life, to have fun, to be safe, happy and fulfilled. For this to happen, we need to look after each other and stand up for the basic human rights that we often take for granted. This book features 16 different freedoms, each accompanied by beautiful illustrations. It shows why our human rights are so important - they help to keep us safe. Every day.
Buy the book here. Chris Riddell upholds human rights. Parents! Join our campaign to save the Human Rights Act Why we've published My Little Book of Big Freedoms Explore our fun activities related to the book.
What Are You Playing At? by Marie-Sabine Roger and Anne Sol

Through phot ographs of the range of extraordinary things both boys and girls can go on to achieve, this wonderful lift-the-flap book aims to challenge rigid gender norms around childhood play. Clichés such as 'boys do not play with dollies' or 'girls do not fly planes' are presented before revealing a father feeding his daughter, or a female astronaut ready to set off in a rocket. Ultimately the book demonstrates how ludicrous and restrictive gendered play can be: all children should be free to develop as wide a range of interests as possible.

So Much! by Trish Cooke, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury

In So Much! a baby boy and his mum are not doing very much, yet each time the doorbell rings ('DING DONG!') a new relative arrives to smother the baby with affection. Auntie Bibba wants to squeeze him; Uncle Didi wants to kiss him; Nannie and Gran-Gran want to eat him and Cousin Kay-Kay wants to fight him. The family are gathered there to celebrate Daddy's birthday, and the baby is determined not to be left out! Written with warmth and humour, this portrait of family life is complemented by Helen Oxenbury's striking gouache illustrations of a joyful occasion.

Odd Dog Out by Rob Biddulph

In Odd Dog Out a small dog gets lonely in her city: all the other dogs blend in, while she is 'dancing to a different beat.' She packs her bags and heads for fabulous Doggywood, where she truly feels she belongs. However, an encounter with another 'odd dog out' leads her to realise that her city may just need a dog like herself, one who is not afraid to be different. A gentle fable about being true to oneself, Odd Dog Out emphasises the importance of individuality and the freedom to live as one chooses.

Buy the book here.

Handa's Surprise by Eileen Browne

Handa is going to visit her friend Akeyo, having prepared seven delicious fruits in a basket to surprise her with. However, a series of wild animals find Handa's basket far too tempting...will she arrive empty-handed? Young readers will enjoy the rich, brightly-coloured illustrations, as well as the gentle humour of a story about sharing and friendship.

Buy the book here.

Footpath Flowers by JonArno Lawson, illustrated by Sydney Smith

In this wordless picture book, a young girl in a bright red coat accompanies her father on a walk around the city. Whilst most of the adults around her remain oblivious to their surroundings, the girl gathers wild flowers, and transforms people's lives through giving them away. Emphasising the importance of small acts of kindness as well as seeing the beauty in the everyday, the little girl suggests how we can change the world through paying closer attention to our environment and community.
Buy the book here Explore the human rights in this book
How To Look After Your Dinosaur by Jason Cockcroft

In this humorous guide for prospective dinosaur-owners, a little boy struggles to contain a rambunctious new pet, yet ultimately takes very good care of him. Emphasising the importance of friendship, the joyous illustrations bring this touching and witty story to life. Young readers will thoroughly enjoy the dinosaur's escapades, while the empathy the little boy feels for his pet is celebrated throughout.
Buy the book here.
I Have The Right to Be a Child by Alain Serres, illustrated by Aurélia Fronty

I Have The Right to Be a Child illustrates the Convention on the Rights of the Child, using simple language and powerful images to ensure young readers come to know and understand their rights. Exploring the right to healthcare, education, shelter and play, this book is a powerful resource for teachers and parents wishing to introduce the topic of human rights in an accessible way.
Buy the book here. Explore the human rights in this book
The Promise by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Laura Carlin

In a grey and unforgiving city, where 'a gritty, yellow wind' blows constantly, a young girl is forced to survive as a thief. However, when she steals a bag from an old lady, she is shocked to discover it is full of acorns, acorns that might just bring colour and light back to her environment. As she plants them she spreads hope among many grey and desolate places, until, with the arrival of another young thief, she knows she must pass on the gift. The lyrical beauty of Nicola Davies' words is complemented by Laura Carlin's powerful illustrations; this is a touching and beautiful story about how small acts of compassion can radically change the world we live in.

Buy the book here.

We Are All Born Free by Amnesty International

We Are All Born Free explores the UN Declaration of Human Rights through beautiful and personal illustrations from a range of artists from around the world. These simple yet powerful images give children a clear insight into their human rights. With forewords from David Tennant and John Boyne, this would be a brilliant stimulus for conversations about the impact of human rights on our lives.
Buy the book here Explore the We Are All Born Free activity pack
Think we've missed a good title?

We're always keen to hear about fantastic new reads that convey the message of human right. Email your suggestions here.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Explore our list of best children's books for younger readers, featuring stimulating, delightful picture books that will spark children's imaginations through a celebration of human rights values.

# data[].attributes.body
Many schools begin to explore sustainability and climate change with children as part of their work on RRSA, linking to the Sustainable Development Goals. Schools will need to consider how to make the links to CRC articles explicit for learners.

# data[].attributes.headline
Stonewall: LGBTQ+ inclusive books for children and young people

# data[].attributes.subject
Stonewall: LGBTQ+ inclusive books for children and young people

# data[].attributes.body
Some useful suggestions for schools looking to diversify their book stock.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
LGBTQ+ inclusive books for children and young people

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Welcome to the Stonewall Book List for schools, colleges, parents, and carers. We’ve hand-selected a wide range of LGBTQ-inclusive books for children and young people to enjoy. Since we first released our book lists, there has been enormous growth in LGBTQ-inclusive children’s and young adult…

# data[].attributes.headline
Read for Empathy Collection 2023 (Primary)

# data[].attributes.subject
Read for Empathy Collection 2023 (Primary)

# data[].attributes.body
Another great list of books, many of which cover rights issues. Schools will need to consider how to make the links to CRC articles explicit for learners.

# data[].attributes.headline
Read for Empathy Collection 2023 (Secondary)

# data[].attributes.subject
Read for Empathy Collection 2023 (Secondary)

# data[].attributes.body
More books for older readers, many of which have rich themes linking to children's rights. Schools will need to consider how to make the links to CRC articles explicit for learners.

# data[].attributes.headline
Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland: Let's explore our rights book 

# data[].attributes.subject
Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland: Let's explore our rights book 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
The Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Date published on site:

Our book for young children Illustrated by Corinna Campbell

"Let's Explore Our Rights" teaches young children about their human rights. The book which features iconic Scots landmarks is aimed at children aged up to five. It was beautifully illustrated by Corinna Campbell and takes readers on a journey to discover rights like having a safe home, being healthy, learning, and playing. The book will support early years practitioners to spark first conversations about human rights with very young children.

The book was created in response to requests from early years practitioners for a resource to help them talk about human rights with children. The book aims to explain in a gentle, age-appropriate way what rights are and why they are important, and to support even very young children to understand their rights and to challenge adults in power when they feel their rights aren't being respected. The children from Lochardil Primary School Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) played a vital role in creating the book, with their ideas helping to create and refine the illustrations, and some of their own drawings included. The book will be provided to every local authority nursery in Scotland before the end of term, with a Gaelic edition in production.

You can download or view a copy of the book below. We also have some physical copies available to order. Please email administration@cypcs.org.uk to find out more.

A reading of the book by Isla, age 8.

We also have a British Sign Language version of the book. BSL Version

Downloads

You can download or browse the book below. We also have some rights explorers badges which can be downloaded, printed, cut out and fed into your chosen badge-making machine!

We also have some physical copies of the book available to order. Please email administration@cypcs.org.uk to find out more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
"Let's Explore Our Rights" is a beautifully illustrated book that teaches young children about their human rights through iconic Scots landmarks. This resource, supported by early years practitioners, aims to spark first conversations about human rights with children aged up to five, explaining in a gentle and age-appropriate way what rights are and why they are important.

# data[].attributes.headline
Amnesty International UK: Story Explorer

# data[].attributes.subject
Amnesty International UK: Story Explorer

# data[].attributes.body
A piece of origami to encourage discussion around rights when reading.

# data[].attributes.headline
Scottish Book Trust: Read Woke learning resources

# data[].attributes.subject
Scottish Book Trust: Read Woke learning resources

# data[].attributes.body
A range of resources to support learners to engage with social justice issues through books and to stand up for the rights of themselves and others. There are links to CRC articles throughout the resources.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Looking for more in Learning resources?

What is Read Woke?

The Read Woke challenge was developed by Cicely Lewis in Georgia, USA in 2017. Motivated by the political climate and seeing students grapple with issues of social injustice daily, Cicely realised the need to empower them with knowledge. Knowledge about the issues they (and others) face and knowledge about their own rights. The aim is to educate children and young people through reading. Find out more at readwoke.com

Read Woke is a movement. It is a feeling. It is a style. It is a form of education. It is a call to action; it is our right as lifelong learners. It means arming yourself with knowledge in order to better protect your rights.

- Cicely Lewis, Founder of Read Woke

Read Woke South Ayrshire

The Read Woke challenge was brought to Scotland in 2020 via the School Library Improvement Fund. A collaboration of South Ayrshire secondary schools created a book list and incentivised reading programme for S1-6 students with the aim of improving representation within library collections, celebrating diversity and encouraging students to be socially aware.

Further backing from the Scottish Library and Information Council has allowed this work to be expanded into a primary school setting with Read Woke South Ayrshire Primaries launched in February 2022.

Providing carefully chosen books to schools - along with tailor-made resources and activities through 2022 - is allowing us to educate and empower students to engage with social justice issues and stand up for the rights of themselves and others.

Learn more at ReadWokeSouthAyrshire.co.uk

About the resources

Scottish Book Trust has worked with the Read Woke South Ayrshire team to create a suite of resources to support reading and sharing of selected books in class. These resources are being made available for free to schools and teachers across Scotland so that they can also use the books in class and across the school to embed themes of equality, diversity and social justice throughout their curriculum from P1-S1. The resource packs currently available are:

Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow by Benjamin Dean

The Invisible by Tom Percival

The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad and S K Ali, illustrated by Hatem Aly

Danny Chung Does Not Do Maths by Maisie Chan

Fight Back by A. M. Dassu

I Talk Like a River by Jordan Scott, illustrated by Sydney Smith

Stuntboy, in the Meantime by Jason Reynolds, illustrated by Raúl the Third

The Good Turn by Sharna Jackson

Tomorrow by Nadine Kaadan

Windrush Child by Benjamin Zephaniah

Sulwe by Lupita Nyong'o

Granny came here on the Empire Windrush by Patrice Lawrence

Race to the Frozen North by Catherine Johnso

I am the Subway by Kim Hyo-eun

Ghost by Jason Reynolds

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are a national charity bringing the benefits of reading and writing to everyone in Scotland.

# data[].attributes.headline
Tell Me: Children, Reading and Talk by Aiden Chambers

# data[].attributes.subject
Tell Me: Children, Reading and Talk by Aiden Chambers

# data[].attributes.body
Guidance on book talk in the classroom. This book provides a practical framework which encourages children to think about texts and to share their ideas linked to Article 12 and 13 of the CRC.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Buy Tell Me: Children, Reading, and Talk by Chambers, Aidan (ISBN: 9781571100306) from Amazon’s Book Store. Everyday low prices and free delivery on eligible orders.

# data[].attributes.headline
Children's Literature about Refugees by Julia Hope

# data[].attributes.subject
Children's Literature about Refugees by Julia Hope

# data[].attributes.body
This book offers guidance and concrete case studies on how children's literature about refugees can be used in the classroom.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
'It could happen to anybody', observed one nine-year-old child when her teacher read a book in class about refugees. Fiction provides the perfect conduit for the experiences of refugees so that young refugee students feel their experiences are validated, and their peers come to understand their situation. In this book, Julia Hope explores ways of engaging in class with children's books about refugees. Using Beverley Naidoo's novel 'The Other Side of Truth' along with a book aimed at younger children - Mary Hoffman's 'The Colour of Home' - Hope offers concrete case studies on how children's literature about refugees can be used productively in the classroom. As more and more people flee wars, violence and political oppression, this book gives teachers both pedagogical support and knowledge of the resources, and shows how they can tackle this challenging topic. It is indispensable for educators of younger children and for researchers who are interested in controversial children's literature.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Children's Literature about Refugees: A catalyst in the classroom

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
'It could happen to anybody', observed one nine-year-old child when her teacher read a book in class about refugees. Fiction provides the perfect conduit for the experiences of refugees so that young refugee students feel their experiences are validated, and their peers come to understand their s...

# data[].attributes.body
Pearson, Penguin Books UK and The Runnymede Trust are looking for secondary schools in England to take part in a trial of a new programme aiming to diversify texts used within the curriculum.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Lit in Colour

Together with Penguin Books UK and The Runnymede Trust, we want to highlight the importance of a diverse English Literature curriculum.

It's essential that students across the UK are given access to books by Black, Asian and minority ethnic writers and those from a range of backgrounds, to ensure a better reflection of contemporary culture and society, and to provide students with both experiences beyond their own and experiences that may resonate with them.

To help in achieving this mission, we've introduced the Lit in Colour Pioneers programme - and we've also developed a new unseen text anthology for those studying our Pearson Edexcel GCSE (9-1) English Language 2.0 qualification.

By viewing this third-party content from www.youtube.com you agree to their terms and conditions, privacy notice and acknowledge they may use cookies and pixels for information and analytics gathering.

Accept

What is the Lit in Colour Pioneers programme?

We're looking for secondary schools and colleges to take part in our 2024 Lit in Colour Pioneers programme, receiving free access to:

Copies of the chosen set texts for every student in the relevant year group, donated by Penguin

A series of free resources including CPD training webinars for teachers and school librarians, plus qualification support and training where required

Resources to support you when teaching a new set text, including schemes of work, exemplars, sample assessment materials and support from our subject specialists

A Lit in Colour mini library including 200 free Penguin books by Black, Asian and minority ethnic writers designed for all age groups, together with colourful posters and artwork.

The application window will open on Monday 22nd January 2024.

To be eligible to apply, you must:

commit to diversifying your English Literature curriculum by switching to Edexcel GCSE and/ or A Level English Literature and changing to a new set text to be taught from September 2024 with first examination from 2026

be a secondary school or college based in England

be new to the Lit in Colour pioneers programme at either GCSE or A level. Please be aware that you will not receive an additional library donation if your school/college has previously taken part in the Lit in Colour Pioneers Programme.

What are the texts?

Discover the qualifications and set texts in our Lit in Colour qualifications guide, or visit our qualifications website to find out more about the set texts on our Pearson Edexcel GCSE and A level English Literature qualifications.

You can also watch our launch event videos to find out more about the 2024 programme and the texts that are included.

What our existing pioneers have to say

Take a look at our case studies to find out more about our diverse set text options and the Lit in Colour experience.

Play

By viewing this third-party content from www.youtube.com you agree to their terms and conditions, privacy notice and acknowledge they may use cookies and pixels for information and analytics gathering.

Accept

Westonbirt School

Hear from Tabatha Sheehan, Head of English at Westonbirt School, about her experience as a Lit in Colour Pioneer and how the programme helps form a foundation for diversity and inclusion in English lessons.

Read the case study (PDF | 555KB)

Turing House School

Hear from the students at Turing House School and see firsthand the impact that can be made by taking a more inclusive approach to the study of English Literature.

Meet the students at Turing House School

"I thought you might like to know that our 2023 GCSE cohort performed above both our 2019 (pre-Lit in Colour) GCSE cohort and above the national average in their Literature P1/Section B responses to the Boys Don't Cry questions. We are delighted to see the 'risk' of changing from a well-known text to a new text paying off. It is wonderful to see the students' excitement and enthusiasm for BDC translating into tangible results that will help them take the next steps in their educational careers."

Emma Zipfel, English Teacher, Arts and Media School Islington

More about Lit in Colour

Every young person deserves an educational experience that more fully reflects Britain's past and the lives of its young people today. Penguin and The Runnymede Trust found that fewer than 1% of students in England study a book by a writer of colour at GCSE. This compares to 34.4% of school-age students who identify as Black, Asian or minority ethnic.

By joining forces with Penguin and The Runnymede Trust, we hope to encourage schools to make the switch to a more diverse English Literature curriculum.

New to Pearson Edexcel qualifications?

If you'd like to know more about how we can support you in switching to our Pearson Edexcel English Literature qualifications, visit our website:

GCSE English Literature

Our GCSE curriculum strives to ensure that students are exposed to literature from a variety of British authors, from different backgrounds, and are reading about contemporary issues that they can engage with and relate to.

Learn about GCSE English Literature

AS and A level English Literature

Here you'll find information about the texts on our Pearson Edexcel A level English Literature text list that align with our commitment to maximising diversity in curriculum. The four new texts are now available.

Learn more about AS and A level English Literature

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Together with Penguin Random House UK and The Runnymede Trust, we want to highlight the importance of a diverse English Literature curriculum.