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Books to build relationships (K-2) over the first few weeks of school. Also includes diverse books such as Your Name is A Song and the Day You Begin.

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The first days of back-to-school can truly set the stage for the entire school year with students. Read-aloud books are a perfect way to get to know one another, encourage class discussions, and figure out which values will define your class's identity. Here are 53 of our favorite back-to-school books plus follow-up activities for each one.

(Just a heads up, WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. We only recommend items our team loves!)

1. How To Get Your Octopus to School by Becky Scharnhorst

Just like many little ones, Octopus is nervous about going to school. He would rather stay at home and play, so he finds clever places to hide. Your students will get a kick out of trying to find him in the colorful illustrations.

Buy it: How To Get Your Octopus to School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask students to share with a neighbor about a time they hid when it was time to go somewhere they didn't want to go. Ask them to include details about where and why they hid.

2. The Smallest Spot of a Dot by Michael Tyler

When you head off to school, you meet a lot of kids that seem to be really different from you. This charming story teaches us how much we really all have in common.

Buy it: The Smallest Spot of a Dot at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Play a round of Get to Know You Bingo or one of these other fun icebreakers.

3. Lou's Zoo and Winston Too by JoAnn M. Dickinson

Winston the Wise Owl joins the neighborhood in this sweet follow-up to the book Who's New at Lou's Zoo? With his help, his new friends learn how to solve problems with kindness and compassion.

Buy it: Lou's Zoo and Winston Too at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Together with your students, make a kindness chain. Or try one of the other activities in 19 Activities To Help Nurture Kindness in Your Students

4. The Two of Us Belong Together by Michael Engler

Little Hare and Little Hedgehog become friends and learn to respect and enjoy all of the things that make each of them unique.

Buy it: The Two of Us Belong Together at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students pair up and create a Venn diagram together about the things they have in common and the things that make each of them unique.

5. The Truth About My Unbelievable Summer by Benjamin Chaud

When the teacher asks the main character what they did over the summer, he tells a fantastical tale full of daring and adventure. But is it all true? Your students will be on the edge of their seats waiting to find out.

Buy it: The Truth About My Unbelievable Summer at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have your students create a comic strip of what they did (or maybe didn't do?) over summer. Download some of these free comic strip templates.

6. Never, Not Ever! by Beatrice Alemagna

Pascaline is NOT going to school, regardless of what the other kids are doing. But in a clever twist, her parents figure out a way to help her overcome her fear and anxiety.

Buy it: Never, Not Ever! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask your students to tell a follow-up story about what happened after Pascaline got to school.

7. Llama Llama Back to School by Anna Dewdney

From the beloved Llama Llama series, this story deals with back-to-school anxiety. Llama wants summer to go on forever. He's had such a lovely time with his friends and family. How will Mama Llama convince him that going back to school will be fun?

Buy it: Llama Llama Back to School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Gather your students in a circle and talk about all the fun things that happen in school. Create a large poster with their insights and post it on the wall to remind them of how much fun they are going to have this year.

8. Harry Versus the First 100 Days of School by Emily Jenkins

An energetic, funny book that follows Harry through the first 100 days of first grade-from name games to making friends to learning how to be a friend. It's broken into short chapters, so add this to your list of back-to-school books for a fun way to start your first days of school.

Buy it: Harry Versus the First 100 Days of School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Start a 100-link paper chain to mark your first 100 days together, or try one of these fun activities.

9. The Circles All Around Us by Brad Montague

When a child is born, their circle is very small. As they grow, the circle around them grows to include family, friends, and neighbors. This sweet story is perfect for back-to-school to set the tone for enlarging our circles to include new friends and experiences.

Buy it: The Circles All Around Us at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Watch this video, adorably narrated by the author's children.

10. Principal Tate Is Running Late! by Henry Cole

Looking for funny back-to-school books? When Principal Tate is running late, the students, teachers, parents, and visitors at Hardy Elementary School must come together to keep school running smoothly.

Buy it: Principal Tate Is Running Late! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Try one (or more) of these fun team-building activities with your students.

11. Hello World! by Kelly Corrigan

Everywhere we go, we can meet interesting people who add value to our lives. This charmingly illustrated book is a great conversation starter to help your students get to know one another.

Buy it: Hello World! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Try one (or more) of these icebreaker activities with your students.

12. A Letter From Your Teacher on the First Day of School by Shannon Olsen

In this heartwarming book, a teacher writes a love note to her students. She shares all the things she is looking forward to for the school year and all the fun things they will share.

Buy it: A Letter From Your Teacher on the First Day of School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask students to turn to a friend and share what they are most looking forward to this school year.

13. Butterflies on the First Day of School by Annie Silvestro

If you're looking for the best back-to-school books to ease your students' butterflies, try this sweet story. Rosie gets a new backpack and can hardly wait for school to start. But the first morning, she's not so sure. "You just have butterflies in your belly," her mom tells her.

Buy it: Butterflies on the First Day of School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Play a game of toss-around. Form a circle and begin by telling your students how you are feeling about the new school year. For example, "I was nervous, but now I'm excited." Toss the ball to a student so they can share how they're feeling. Play continues until every student who wants to has had a chance to participate.

14. The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi

An inspirational rhyming book that teaches kids the power of "yet." We all have a lot to learn in life, and sometimes skills we wish we had just aren't there ... yet. A book about perseverance and having faith in yourself. Add this to your list of back-to-school books that teach growth mindset.

Buy it: The Magical Yet at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask students to write an entry in their journal about something they are hoping to learn or get better at this year.

15. My Wild First Day of School by Dennis Mathew

This humorous book by the author of Bello the Cello encourages kids to be brave, take a risk, and try something new.

Buy it: My Wild First Day of School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Brainstorm a list of "what if" questions with your students. Tap into their hopes and wishes and set the stage for an amazing year.

16. Most Marshmallows by Rowboat Watkins

If you're looking for the best back-to-school books about individuality, you're going to want to check out this quirky tale. It's all about marching to the beat of your own drum. What would happen if you dreamed big?

Buy it: Most Marshmallows at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask students to write in their journals about what makes them unique.

17. If I Built a School by Chris Van Dusen

Hover desks? Robo-chef in the cafeteria? Field trips to Mars? The main character of this school story has some out-of-this-world ideas about what his ideal school would look like!

Buy it: If I Built a School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask students to draw a picture, with captions and explanations, showing what their perfect school would look like.

18. Your Name Is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow

A young girl learns the musicality of African, Asian, Black American, Latinx, and Middle Eastern names and returns to school eager to share with her classmates.

Buy it: Your Name Is a Song at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Go around the circle and ask each student if there is a story behind their name.

19. Our Class Is a Family by Shannon Olsen

Back-to-school books like this one show your class that they are a family, no matter whether they meet for online or in-person learning.

Buy it: Our Class Is a Family at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have each student draw an image of their family and "extended family."

20. Tomorrow I'll Be Kind by Jessica Hische

Sometimes the smallest gesture of kindness goes a long way. Reading sweet back-to-school books like this one teaches young ones how to be good friends and classmates.

Buy it: Tomorrow I'll Be Kind at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask students to share what is the most important thing about being a good friend.

21. I Got the School Spirit by Connie Schofield-Morrison

Students will love the rhythm and sounds in this book about back-to-school spirit. VROOM, VROOM! RING-A-DING!

Buy it: I Got the School Spirit at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask students to share the sounds they identify with school.

22. Waiting Is Not Easy! by Mo Willems

Mo Willems has written some fantastic back-to-school books. In this one, when Gerald tells Piggie he has a surprise for him, Piggie can hardly wait. In fact, he has a hard time waiting all day! But when the sun goes down, and the Milky Way fills the night sky, Piggie learns that some things are worth the wait.

Buy it: Waiting Is Not Easy! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask your students to turn to a partner and share a time that they had to wait for something.

23. Sorry, Grown-Ups, You Can't Go to School! by Christina Geist

If you're looking for back-to-school books for students who are having a hard time leaving their parents, this sweet tale is a good pick. Perfect for the child who is feeling a little nervous about going to school, this story features a family that doesn't want to be left behind.

Buy it: Sorry, Grown-Ups, You Can't Go to School! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Draw a picture of what school would look like if students' moms and dads came to school with them.

24. The Pigeon Has To Go to School! by Mo Willems

Want more back-to-school books by Mo Willems? This silly picture book addresses many of the fears and anxieties that little ones feel as they get ready to go to school for the first time.

Buy it: The Pigeon Has To Go to School! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: This one will get kids riled up, so after reading, have them stand up and shake their sillies out.

25. School's First Day of School by Adam Rex

There are books about children, parents, and teachers being nervous for the first day of school. This adorable book examines the first day of school from the perspective of the school itself.

Buy it: School's First Day of School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Project a photo of your school onto the board as inspiration as kids draw and color in their own image of school.

26. Brown Bear Starts School by Sue Tarsky

Sweet little Brown Bear worries about the first day of school, but soon he realizes he is more capable than he thought.

Buy it: Brown Bear Starts School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students turn and talk about one worry they had before school started.

27. Pirates Don't Go to Kindergarten! by Lisa Robinson

Need back-to-school books for kindergartners? Ahoy, mateys! Pirate Emma has a hard time transitioning from her beloved preschool captain to the new captain aboard the S.S. Kindergarten.

Buy it: Pirates Don't Go to Kindergarten! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask students to share their favorite things about preschool, which you can record on a piece of chart paper. As you list them, tell students something that will be just as fun about kindergarten.

28. The Cool Bean by Jory John and Pete Oswald

Once "peas in a pod," poor chickpea doesn't fit in with the other beans anymore. Despite having grown apart, the other beans are always there to lend a hand when chickpea is in need.

Buy it: The Cool Bean at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask students to write about a friend from whom they have grown apart.

29. How To Read a Book by Kwame Alexander

Back-to-school books can inspire students with beautiful illustrations about the miraculous pleasures of reading that will inspire the book lover in all of us. One reader gushes, "Every page is a wonder as the words and art melt into one."

Buy it: How To Read a Book at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask students to write one colorful sentence in praise of reading.

30. The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes and Vanessa Brantley-Newton

The bubbly main character of this sweet story is bursting with excitement for the first day of school. His confidence will be contagious for your new kindergartners.

Buy it: The King of Kindergarten at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students turn to a neighbor and tell them the one thing they were most excited about on the first day of school.

31. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson

Starting fresh in a new environment can be scary, especially when you look around and think that nobody quite looks or sounds like you. This lovely story will inspire your students to understand the gifts of individuality.

Buy it: The Day You Begin at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have your students play get-to-know-you bingo to find out just how much they have in common with their classmates.

32. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman

A lovely story that celebrates diversity and inclusion in a school where everyone, no matter their dress or skin color, is welcomed with open arms.

Buy it: All Are Welcome at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Create an anchor chart of character traits. Brainstorm with your students all the ways they are alike and some of the ways they may be different.

33. We Don't Eat Our Classmates by Ryan T. Higgins

One of the silliest back-to-school books, this story will crack up your students. Little Penelope Rex is nervous about going to school for the first time. She has some very important questions: What are my classmates going to be like? Will they be nice? How many teeth will they have? Little ones will relate to this charming story.

Buy it: We Don't Eat Our Classmates at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask your students to share some of the questions they wondered about before starting school.

34. You're Finally Here! by Melanie Watt

A perfect first read-aloud book to show your students how excited you are to finally meet them! Follow along with the main character, Bunny, as he bounces through a hilarious range of emotions. All of your students will recognize the back-to-school feelings beneath the surface of this silly, in-your-face story.

Buy it: You're Finally Here! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students draw a self-portrait that shows the strongest emotion they felt coming into school this year.

35. First Day Jitters by Julie Danneberg

Everyone knows that sinking feeling in the pit of their stomach at the prospect of being the newbie. Sarah Hartwell is scared and doesn't want to start over at a new school. Kids will love the delightful surprise ending of this sweet story!

Buy it: First Day Jitters at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students write about a time they were scared and how their situation turned out. Or have students partner with a friend and tell their stories to each other.

36. The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi

When Unhei, a young Korean girl, arrives at her new school in the United States, she begins to wonder if she should also choose a new name. Does she need an American name? How will she choose? And what should she do about her Korean name? This heartwarming story speaks to anyone who has ever been the new kid or welcomed one into their familiar surroundings.

Buy it: The Name Jar at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have groups of students brainstorm 10 different ways they could make a new student feel welcome in class and create a poster to display.

37. The Exceptionally, Extraordinarily Ordinary First Day of School by Albert Lorenz

John is the new kid in school. When asked if the school is any different from his last one, he weaves a wildly creative tale that captures the attention of his new classmates. A hilarious story about conquering the fear of being the new kid.

Buy it: The Exceptionally, Extraordinarily Ordinary First Day of School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students write a tall tale about what school was like last year to share with their new classmates.

38. The Book With No Pictures by B.J. Novak

You might think a book with no pictures would be serious and boring, but this book has a catch! Everything, and we mean everything, written on the page must be read out loud by the person reading the book, regardless of how goofy and preposterous it may be. Irresistibly silly!

Buy it: The Book With No Pictures at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students work with a new friend or partner to create their own short book with no pictures. (Be sure to set clear parameters about content before letting students create.)

39. Splat the Cat: Back to School, Splat! by Rob Scotton

How can there be homework when it's only the first day of school? Splat must pick only one of all of his fun summer adventures to share with his classmates at show-and-tell.

Buy it: Splat the Cat: Back to School, Splat! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: First-day-of-school homework, of course! Have students write about one of their favorite summer adventures.

40. If You Take a Mouse to School by Laura Numeroff

You know the routine ... if you take a mouse to school, he'll ask you for your lunch box. When you give him your lunch box, he'll want a sandwich to go in it. Then he'll need a notebook and some pencils. He'll probably want to share your backpack too. Another silly story from one of our favorite authors that is not only fun but lays the groundwork for teaching sequencing.

Buy it: If You Take a Mouse to School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Using a long, narrow sheet of paper folded accordion-style, have students create their own "If You Take ..." book. Students can build on the mouse story or create a character of their own.

41. Dear Teacher by Amy Husband

This hilarious collection of letters from Michael to his new teacher comes packed with alligators, pirates, rocket ships, and much, much more. Can Michael's imagination save him from the first day of school?

Buy it: Dear Teacher at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students write a postcard to a friend or family member telling them about their fun first week of school!

42. How To Get Your Teacher Ready by Jean Reagan

In a charming role reversal, the students in this story gently guide their teacher through the getting-ready process for back-to-school. Your students will laugh and surely learn a lesson or two themselves.

Buy it: How To Get Your Teacher Ready at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students compile a list of rules that will help their teacher have the best year ever.

43. If You Ever Want To Bring an Alligator to School, Don't! by Elise Parsley

An alligator for show-and-tell sounds like TONS of fun. What could possibly go wrong? Magnolia is determined to have the best show-and-tell ever. What will she do when her reptilian pal starts wreaking havoc in the classroom? This hilarious story is sure to inspire even the timidest of show-and-tellers.

Buy it: If You Ever Want To Bring an Alligator to School, Don't! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students write a story or draw a picture about something outrageous they would bring to school for show-and-tell.

44. This School Year Will Be the Best! by Kay Winters

On the first day of school, new classmates are asked to share what they hope for in the upcoming year. The children's wishes, from the familiar to the off-the-wall, are shown in humorously exaggerated illustrations. As the first day draws to a close, there can be no doubt this school year will definitely be the best!

Buy it: This School Year Will Be the Best! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students draw a star, put their name in the middle, and write one wish for the school year on each point (total of five). Then, have them loop a colorful ribbon through a hole on top to hang from the classroom ceiling.

45. Back-to-School Rules by Laurie Friedman

School is in session! When it comes to surviving school, Percy has 10 simple rules that show there is more to school than showing up on time and staying awake in class, including no spitballs, no running in the halls, and no crazy scheming! See what other trouble-and tips-Percy has in mind!

Buy it: Back-to-School Rules at Amazon

Follow-up activity: As a whole class, brainstorm "rules" that will make this year the best ever. Then, have students transfer their ideas to a class-promise poster that can hang prominently for the rest of the year. Have each student sign their name to make it official.

46. David Goes to School by David Shannon

David's antics in the classroom will make your students giggle with recognition. He's so enthusiastic about going back to school! But David needs to learn that every classroom needs rules so that every student can learn.

Buy it: David Goes to School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Gather the whole class on the rug. Select a few students to act out "bad" behavior and ask the other students to explain why the behavior is not OK for the classroom. Then have the same students act out the "good" behavior. Repeat with different sets of students to address the different rules you are reinforcing in your classroom.

47. A Place Called Kindergarten by Jessica Harper

One of the best back-to-school books for kindergartners, this story will help ease their worries before the event. Tommy's barnyard friends are worried. He's gone to a place called kindergarten. They wonder what will happen to him and if he will ever come back. Eventually, he returns with exciting tales of all the fun and learning he's had.

Buy it: A Place Called Kindergarten at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have your students take a "field trip" around the school to learn more about their new "barnyard."

48. Is Your Buffalo Ready for Kindergarten? by Audrey Vernick

Is your buffalo ready for kindergarten? Does he play nicely with friends? Check. Share his toys? Check. Is he smart? Check!

Buy it: Is Your Buffalo Ready for Kindergarten? at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Follow along with Buffalo's checklist in this hilarious look at first-day-of-school jitters.

49. There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed Some Books! by Lucille Colandro

We've all heard about the old lady who swallowed a fly. Well, now she's getting ready for back-to-school and is swallowing up a whole assortment of things to make it the best first day ever!

Buy it: There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed Some Books! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Trace the image of the old lady from the book cover without the books in her hands. Make a copy for each of your students and have them fill in the picture and write a sentence about what they would "swallow" for the first weeks of school if they were the old lady.

50. School Is Cool! by Sabrina Moyle

Holy smokes, tomorrow is the first day of school! The characters in this story have lots of needless worries as they discover that school is cool.

Buy it: School Is Cool! at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students do a turn-and-share about one thing they were worried about before the new school year started and how they are feeling about their worry now.

51. Froggy Goes to School by Jonathan London

Lovable favorite Froggy is off for his first day of school. His mama is worried, but not him! He hops off with his trademark enthusiasm and curiosity.

Buy it: Froggy Goes to School at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Together with your class, make a "Top 10 Best Things About School" poster. Ask for students' input, then vote on the top 10.

52. Chairs on Strike by Jennifer Jones

Everyone's excited about going back to school. Everyone, that is, but the classroom chairs. They've had enough of wiggly bottoms and smelly kids and go on strike to protest.

Buy it: Chairs on Strike at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Ask for volunteers to play the part of the different chairs and act out the story. Have a few rounds so that as many students that want to participate can.

53. It's OK To Be Different by Sharon Purtill

If you're looking for a back-to-school book that embraces the uniqueness of your class, this is a lovely tale that subtly broaches the subjects of diversity and kindness in a way that students can grasp.

Buy it: It's OK To Be Different at Amazon

Follow-up activity: Have students reflect about the one thing that they think is truly unique about themselves and write a paragraph (or more) about this trait in their journals.

Plus, if you like these back-to-school books, check out all of our book lists here.

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These back-to-school books are a great way to facilitate discussions and to encourage students to feel comfortable sharing.

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Patriot football player turned reader. Great role model and his website offers virtual reading challenges as well as teaching resources.

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Share the Magic Foundation

A non profit dedicated to providing free virtual reading challenges, delivering impactful school events and introducing book ownership to inspire kids to read.

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Share the Magic Foundation A non profit dedicated to providing free virtual reading challenges, delivering impactful school events and introducing book ownership to inspire kids to read.

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International Board on Books for Young People

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International Board on Books for Young People

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Promotes international understanding through children's literature. Great for perspectives, culture, and resources from around the world.

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The International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) is a non-profit organization which represents an international network of people from all over the world who are committed to bringing books and children together. > more

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The International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) is a non-profit organization which represents an international network of people from all over the world who are committed to bringing books and children together. > more

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Mrs. Knott offers weekly book suggestions including suggestions for summer reading. Her posts include What are you reading Mondays and Non-fiction book Wednesdays. The Blog posts are broken down into suggestions for elementary, middle, and high-school.

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The late Paul Janeczko had a real eye for poetry. Besides being a poet himself, he was also able to cultivate collections of poems that seemed like they were written to be in a book together.

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Anita offers daily new book suggestions to read to kids.  Helpful resource when searching for new classroom books.

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Today marks the birthday of both Russell Freedman and Eleanor Roosevelt. Originally a West Coaster, Russell was born in San Francisco and studied at the University of California at Berkeley. Russell's long-time editor Dorothy Briley once said that he made the most perfect dinner guest she had ever encountered. He could make intelligent conversation about any topic with anyone she brought to the table. Indeed, he has often been called a Renaissance man, because of the range and depth of his knowledge in a variety of topics.

Russell began writing books for young readers in the science and social studies area-books like How Animals Learn and Sharks. But when his editor Ann Troy asked him to write a biography, something he had never done, he turned to his childhood hero Abraham Lincoln and wrote Lincoln: A Photobiography. He won the Newbery Award for this book and found a new direction and purpose: writing quality, narrative nonfiction for young readers.

As Russell wrote in The Essential Guide to Children's Books and Their Creators: "Nonfiction is supposed to be utilitarian. It's expected to do its duty-to inform, instruct, enlighten. And yet a hard-working, nose-to-the grindstone nonfiction book should be just as absorbing as any imaginary story, because it is, in fact, a story, too."

Of all of Russell's biographies, I have always loved his Eleanor Roosevelt the best. Perfect for ten- to fourteen-year-olds-I needed this book as a child myself. I once made a fool of myself in class because I thought that "FDR" was a swear word-so vehemently was it used at home. Imagine my surprise to find out these initials acknowledged a president of the United States. Russell has always admitted that he loved FDR's wife a bit more than he loved the president, and the resulting tribute to her certainly shows his enthusiasm.

A shy child, with absent parents, Eleanor only began to bloom when she was sent away to London for schooling. She married her distant cousin and was given away as a bride by her uncle Theodore, the president of the United States. "Well, Franklin, there's nothing like keeping the name in the family," the president quipped.

But as Eleanor Roosevelt began to find the causes of her life-the plight of minorities, the poverty of the disadvantaged-she turned from a shy person into a firebrand, the conscience of Franklin D. Roosevelt. Russell captures this complex marriage-its betrayals and its strength. He shows the final years of Eleanor Roosevelt as she worked in the United Nations and became, as President Harry Truman called her, "the First Lady of the World."

Happy birthday, Russell. You have been just as much a crusader as Eleanor Roosevelt. You have believed in the intelligence of young readers, their ability to handle complex issues, and, like Eleanor, you have not shied away from controversy. Wherever you are going to celebrate, you will be the best conversationalist at the table-just as Dorothy always said.
Here's a page from Eleanor Roosevelt: A Life of Discovery:

Also recommended: All of the books of Russell Freedman

Originally posted October 11, 2011. Updated for .

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Today marks the birthday of both Russell Freedman and Eleanor Roosevelt. Originally a West Coaster, Russell was born in San Francisco and studied at the University of California at Berkeley. Russell's long-time editor Dorothy Briley once said that he made the most perfect dinner guest she had ever encountered.

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Useful when seeking a list of new and notable children's books, recordings, as well as digital media.

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Has a "Readers Choice List" that includes book suggestions made by children, teachers, and young adults.

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Choices: A Brief History

In 1974, the International Reading Association (now International Literacy Association) and the Children's Book Council (CBC) launched Children's Choices: an annotated list of high-quality books written for readers in grades K-6 (ages 5-12). For more than four decades, approximately 12,500 children from different regions of the United States read hundreds of new titles donated by North American publishers and selected up to 100 of their favorites for inclusion on the reading list.

Sister projects Young Adults' Choices and Teachers' Choices were introduced in 1986 and 1989, respectively; the former highlighted approximately 30 books for teenagers, while the latter identified the same number rated by teachers, school librarians, and reading specialists as outstanding for curriculum use.

A New Beginning

The three lists served as trusted and anticipated resources until 2020, when the COVID-19 virus created conditions that rendered the volunteer-driven project untenable. As a result, ILA paused the program for the first time before ultimately deciding to rehome it with long-term cosponsor CBC.

In May 2022, CBC announced that it was relaunching the reading lists under a new name: Favorites. The inaugural set of lists -Children's Favorites, Young Adult Favorites, Teacher Favorites, and Librarian Favorites-were released in spring 2023.

Learn more about the Favorites Lists.

Choices Archives

ILA members may obtain archived lists by contacting choices@reading.org. The three most recent reading list booklets-each an annotated compilation of all three Choices lists-may be accessed by anyone through the links below.

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The Choices reading lists once produced by the International Literacy Association (ILA) have shifted over to the project's former cosponsor, the Children's Book Council, and have been rebranded as the Favorites Lists. Visit the CBC's website for more information.

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Yearly list of books that received the Texas Bluebonnet Award. Useful for showcasing new and award winning books to students.

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Statement Opposing HISD Elimination of Librarian Jobs and Library Services

In early June, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) took over Houston ISD, installing state-appointed managers in place of the elected school board and appointing Mike Miles as superintendent. Superintendent Miles [...]

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Current List - Texas Library Association

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The 2023-2024 Master List resource website is live! 2023-2024 Texas Bluebonnet Award Resources and Activities Website At this site, you will find author interviews, tracking charts, book trailers, discussions questions, [...]

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Has a section entitled "Good Reads" where book suggestions are offered by genre, age, and theme.

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An Affiliate of International Literacy Association

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Suggested diverse books that reflect all children.

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A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, WNDB aims to create a world where every reader can find themselves in the pages of a book. To reach this goal, we've created programs to mentor diverse writers and illustrators, support diverse publishing professionals, and provide books to classrooms nationwide.

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Monthly reading lists for varied ages and genres. These lists could be helpful for parents and for summer reading ideas.

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Hot off the Press - Children's Book Council

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The Children's Book Council (CBC) is the nonprofit trade association of children's book publishers in North America, dedicated to supporting the industry and promoting children's books and reading.

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100 great children's books as selected by librarians. Useful for introducing students to timeless children's literature.

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Picture books that help students social emotionally. Offers books and guidance on an array of social emotional situations kids may face including bullying, divorce, kindness, and starting school.

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Little Parachutes: Picture books to help children

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Little Parachutes helps you to find children’s picture books about your child’s worries, experiences and milestones. Our children’s book reviews library contains hundreds of picture books about sharing, moving house, starting school, potty training and the arrival of a new baby. There are also children’s books about more challenging situations: bereavement, adoption, divorce and serious illness.

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Offers diversity book lists and plans for teachers.

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The following is a downloadable/clickable "List of Lists" designed so that parents, teachers, and caregivers can find the multicultural and diverse book titles for kids that they are in need of. These lists are broken down into easy-to-find topics and themes. Every blue title is a link to more book lists on that topic.

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Our Diverse World Book Lists for Kids (this is a general book list)

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Seeing Yourself in Children's Books

Timely Topics

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Find more diverse, multicultural, and inclusive books on our Multicultural Children's Book Day Pinterest Board. Follow on Pinterest to get daily updates.

Follow PragmaticMom's board Multicultural Books for Kids on Pinterest.

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Diverse Book Lists & Activities for Teachers and Parents - Multicultural Children's Book Day

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Welcome! The following is a downloadable/clickable "List of Lists" designed so that parents, teachers, and caregivers can find the multicultural and diverse book titles for kids that they are in need of. These lists are broken down into easy-to-find topics and themes. Every blue title is a link to more book lists on that topic.

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Book about kids who are different and how we should celebrate diversity and create empathy within students.

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More than 100 carefully selected lists of multicultural and social justice books for children, young adults, and educators. When you find a book at this site, please purchase it here. Our titles are linked to Bookshop. A portion of your book purchase helps sustain our work. New Releases Activism and Organizing Africa Afro-Latinx American Indians Arabs […]

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Offers up-to-date themed book lists for kids up to 9 years old. Useful when teaching children's literacy across the curriculum.

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Sometimes it just takes one wonderful book to turn a kid into a reader. Tap into what interests your child. Browse these booklists created by Maria Salvadore, our children's literature expert. These books are for kids 0-12 years old, focus on new titles, and emphasize quality and diversity. Happy Reading!

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Search through more than 5,000 books on Reading Rockets to create a custom booklist. Search by author, illustrator, age, reading level, genre, format, and topic.
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Reading together: booklists for parents of children with disabilities

Books with positive portrayals of older characters

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Sometimes it just takes one wonderful book to turn a kid into a reader. Tap into what interests your child. Browse these booklists created by Maria Salvadore, our children's literature expert. These books are for kids 0-12 years old, focus on new titles, and emphasize quality and diversity. Happy Reading!

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Pernille offers a list of favorite books including: favorite picture books, books every year, and chapter books.

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Highlights the best in children's literature, provides a reviews and guide database, and a diverse blog.

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The Horn Book Magazine and The Horn Book Guide are the most distinguished journals in the field of children’s and young adult literature and the core of our company. Founded in 1924 by Bertha Mahony to herald the best in children’s literature, more than eighty-five years later, we are still following her lead.

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Resource for multicultural and urban children's literature. Offers book suggestions based upon interest, content, and genre.

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home | Kids Like Us © 2020 | your place for urban children's literature

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Offers read aloud and book suggestions for teaching students about disabilities.

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Think Inclusive | The Official Blog of MCIE

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One in four adults live with a disability, yet disabled representation in children's books is far too sparse. In a study (2014) conducted by Donna Sayers Adomat and published in Disability Studies Quarterly, she found that reading and discussing children's books that feature disabled characters in the classroom led to more positive interactions:

Ms. Schild related how, before the unit, students were resentful of a classmate with developmental disabilities who had an aide to help her; the classmates thought that she was receiving unfair privileges. After the unit, they understood why she needed assistance. One boy with autism, who was usually quiet and withdrawn during class time, participated actively in the book discussions and could identify with some of the characters in the stories. At one point he said, "That's like me. I have autism-a little bit." A parent noticed changes in her daughter: "She doesn't say, 'Oh, I changed,' but I notice a big difference in her attitude when we go out and see someone in a wheelchair. She'll go up and start talking to that person, and she won't complain about the kids in her class with ADHD anymore."

These types of interactions and outcomes demonstrate why it's essential to read children's books featuring disabled characters and to make sure that both school and home libraries are stocked with these books. It's also vital to discuss the books afterward, as the study notes, children often speak about disabilities utilizing societal stereotypes and attitudes. Adult guidance and discussions can help create more positive and realistic attitudes about disabled people.

I am a disabled mother, so I know how important it is to have disabled representation in the children's books my daughter and I read at home. One tendency I've noticed in these children's books is for authors to portray characters with easily identifiable physical disabilities, like wheelchair use. While this is excellent, I wish I saw more instances of invisible disabilities, like my own.

These ten children's books portray many types of disabilities and from many perspectives. Some are told by a child with a disabled mother, relative, or classmate. Some are about a disabled child or adult and their day-to-day living, and others reveal a unique, fictional story that doesn't relate to the child's disability. These are just as important, for it's essential to show children that disabled people can have fun and adventures and full lives of their own.

10 Children's Books With Disabled Characters

For many, disability shows itself as chronic illness and exhaustion. This is the case for Aleeya's mother in Mommy Sayang, Rosana Sullivan's debut picture book. The story is based on Sullivan's childhood, of her life growing up in a small Malaysian village, or kampung, and the loneliness she felt when her mother became ill and could no longer play with her. Though this is her debut picture book, Sullivan illustrates and directs for Pixar and has worked on many of their shorts, so she's experienced in creating short tales for children. Her illustrations are sweet and engaging, just like the prose.

This picture book is about kite battles during the festival of Basant; fighting bullies with kindness, and also features a wheelchair user as one of the main characters. I love books that feature disabled characters having adventures and fun in a story not defined by their disability. Our lives are not defined by our disability, even when it's something we think about every day. This may be my favorite book on the list.

The Baby Loves Science board book series explains scientific concepts in toddler-friendly ways. The Sight and Hearing books feature blind toddlers, glasses-wearing toddlers, and toddlers who need hearing implants. Whether your toddler experiences sight or hearing difficulties or not, they're very likely to meet other children who do. This is a great way to explain these types of differences in a scientific way.

Most children will have experiences with disabled elderly as their grandparents and great grandparents age. According to the Center for Disease Control, elderly who require home health care are more likely to have depression than those who don't. This is the case with Fern's grandmother, Nanna. When Nanna becomes a wheelchair user, she becomes depressed, and she no longer does the things that once brought her joy. So Fern decides to try and capture some joy for her Nanna, but that's more difficult than she thought. This book is magical. Illustrator Isabelle Follath uses color to show the impacts of depression visually and also the vibrancy of joy. The illustrations pair perfectly with Corrinne Averiss's sweet and hopeful prose.

This book never says that Charlotte is autistic, but those who have or are experienced with autism will recognize and relate to Charlotte and her need for quiet. No matter where she goes-at home, school, even the park-Charlotte feels overwhelmed by the many noises that surround her. After her dog escapes the leash one day, Charlotte learns how to find a quiet place inside herself, a place to return to when she feels overwhelmed.

"I know I'm not an ordinary kid" opens R.J. Palacio's picture book about the loneliness of looking different than other children and the bullying that often accompanies that. The child in We're All Wonders finds comfort in the friendship of Daisy, his dog, and in his imagination. The simplicity of the prose makes its message of kindness and acceptance even more poignant. Of all the books on this list, this one made me the saddest, though it does end on a hopeful note when another child offers his friendship. This picture book is based on R.J. Palacio's middle-grade novel Wonder.

Many people with disabilities aren't born with their disabilities. The Deaf Musicians tells the story of a jazz piano player who is kicked out of his band when he becomes deaf. He despairs at losing his passion, but he soon discovers that music is still a part of him, and he forms a band of deaf musicians on the subway. As with all the books by Pete Seeger and Paul DuBois, the jazzy prose sings, just as the illustrations by award-winning illustrator R.Gregory Christie do.

Donna Jo Napoli is a prolific and award-winning children's book author. What you may not know about her is that she's also a linguist who specializes in sign language and activism for deaf children. Hands & Hearts tells the story of a mother and daughter's fun day at the beach, and each page of sparse prose is accompanied by a sign, with a total of fifteen signs. The watercolor illustrations are soft and lovely, perfect accompaniments to the text. The signs are illustrated in a sidebar on each page spread.

Looking after Louis shows how inclusive classrooms are advantageous for both disabled and non-disabled children alike. Louis has autism and doesn't speak on his own or participate in class activities like the protagonist, a little girl, and fellow student does. When Sam, another classmate, plays soccer with Louis one day, a whole new world opens up for Louis, and all the children learn a bit more about communication, joy, being human, and that breaking the rules is allowed in certain circumstances.

In Not So Different, Shane Burcaw answers all the frequently asked questions he gets about being disabled with humor and honesty. These are the kind of questions adults are too polite to ask, but that children with their bluntness certainly will, like "What's wrong with you?" and "How do you eat?" Burcaw has spinal muscular atrophy. In addition to writing, he's also the president of a nonprofit he created, Laughing at My Nightmare, which promotes positivity and kindness and provides medical equipment grants for people with muscular dystrophy. This book is quite funny, and the photographs are pretty hilarious, especially the sections with Shane and his non-disabled brother getting into mischief.

These ten children's books are essential for classroom and home libraries alike. While there are other children's books featuring disabled characters, I do wish more stories were published and that disabled representation more closely matched the reality of disabled life and the number of disabled people who live in the United States.
(This post contains affiliate links)

Margaret Kingsbury writes about disability representation, fantasy, science fiction, and fairy tales for Book Riot, The Bronzeville Bee, Star Trek, and more, and she's co-creator of Baby Librarians where she, a friend, and their children write about the children's books they love. Her fairytale fiction has been published in Nonbinary Review, Devilfish Review, and Expanded Horizons, among other places. She lives in Nashville, TN with her husband, daughter, and their many, many books. Find out more on her website and follow her on Instagram @babylibrarians or Twitter @areaderlymom

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Representation Matters: 10 Children's Books With Disabled Characters | Think Inclusive | The Official Blog of MCIE

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One in four adults live with a disability, yet disabled representation in children's books is far too sparse. In a study (2014) conducted by Donna Sayers Adomat and published in Disability Studies Quarterly, she found that reading and discussing children's books that feature disabled characters in the classroom led to more positive interactions: Ms. Schild related how, [...]

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Database to explore and find diverse books to utilize in the classroom. Great resource for finding books to fit themes or core content areas.

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Diverse BookFinder | Identify & Explore Multicultural Picture Books

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Are you looking for multicultural children’s books? We’ve got you covered! You can search our circulating collection of picture books (2002-present), explore our quick lists, then borrow our books from your own library through interlibrary loan. We believe that too many children are left out of main…

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Culturally responsive children's literature resources. Offers guidance for selecting diverse children’s literature, selecting children’s literature that include racially diverse characters as well as themes, and offers examples of how to use suggested books to discuss race in the classroom.

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Four-year-old Yasmin, who is Black, walks into the dramatic play area, enjoying the sound of the beads in her braids clicking to the rhythm of her steps. Her teacher, Ms. Cindy, who is White, and her friend Alexis, who is Black, are sitting on the floor, talking and braiding the dolls' hair. Ms. Cindy and Alexis take turns choosing beads to put in the dolls' braids.

Recognizing this familiar scenario, Yasmin picks up a doll anddeclares, "I'm Auntie Doreen." She sits down to join the play. Thinking about how carefully her mother brushes her hair, Yasmin picks up a plastic banana and tells another child, "My baby likes this brush because it is the softest."

Later, Ms. Cindy reads aloud I Love My Hair (Tarpley 2001) and talks with the children about the things adults do to help childrentake care of their hair. Children share their experiences: "My mother washes my hair every night and dries it with the little blue towel," says Tatiana; "I sit on a chair in the backyard while my grandpa shaves my head," states Delavan. Ms. Cindy reiterates that children have different types of hair and there are different ways adults care for children's hair, but these actions all show love. She asks the children whether they have noticed that differences in their hair are related to differences in their races and ethnicities.

Showing children that we see and value all aspects of them-including attributes related to race and culture-is a critical step in helping them feel welcome and connected to their teachers and peers. In the preschool classroom in the vignette, Yasmin sees others engaging happily in a familiar routine that is part of her family life. When her teacher intentionally participates in this play and follows up with a book about it, she is sending the message to Yasmin and her peers that this classroom is a place where all children-no matter their culture or ethnicity-can feel comfortable being themselves. Yasmin not only expresses aspects of her racial and cultural identity through her play, but she also takes pride in sharing them with others. Moments like this help convey to Yasmin that she is accepted in this classroom and can safely build a strong relationship with her teacher. This feeling of trust is crucial because it sets the stage for Yasmin to engage freely in exploration and learning.

Addressing race in early education classrooms

Early childhood educators are well versed in the importance of building relationships with children of diverse backgrounds, but many try to do so using a color-blind approach-that is, they do not directly talk about race or race-related experiences (Husband 2012). This approach, although not intended to be harmful, may send the negative message to children of color that their teachers do not recognize or feel comfortable acknowledging a salient and influential part of their identity: their race. Researchers and practitioners are still figuring out how best to address race so young children can develop their own positive racial identity, build relationships across races, and recognize and stand up to race-related injustices. There are a number of ways early childhood educators can approach race in the classroom. We refer to these practices as race-related teaching practices (RRTPs). In this article we begin to address the need for these practices by offering categories for thinking about RRTPs and suggesting ways teachers can use children's literature to welcome related conversations.

Children's literature offers an engaging vehicle for generating these conversations, as depicted in the opening vignette. We see these discussions about race in relation to children's books as part of a larger effort to revise conceptualization of high-quality early childhood education to include teaching practices that intentionally address race. As Ladson-Billings (1995) stated, addressing race in our teaching practices "challenge[s] us to reconsider what we mean by 'good' teaching" (163).

Children see race, and so should we

Children's ideas about their own race and others' races are forming in early childhood, regardless of whether the topic of race is directly addressed, completely ignored, or actively suppressed in their classrooms (Derman-Sparks & Edwards 2010). Each approach sends a message, intentional or not, about how children should think about and understand racial differences at a time in their lives when they are beginning to notice and respond to race. Children as young as 3 months are aware of racial differences, and by the time they are preschoolers, they make choices, based on race, about with whom to play and how (Katz & Kofkin 1997; Van Ausdale & Feagin 2001; Hirschfeld 2008; Quintana & McKown 2008). In the absence of intentional teaching, children are left to come to their own conclusions about how to think about their own race and others' races. Research suggests that the common practice of ignoring race in early childhood classrooms is not satisfactory and that educators must take a more active, anti-bias approach to addressing issues of culture and race if they are to enact positive change (Derman-Sparks & Edwards 2010).

In the United States, the majority of early childhood teachers are White (Saluja, Early, & Clifford 2002). Classrooms-and the educational materials chosen, like children's books-often reflect the values and beliefs prevalent in a traditional White ethos. When educators do not notice this and do not attempt to counterbalance the primacy given to White early childhood experiences, they miss opportunities to teach children that all races should be valued. As a result, White children may subconsciously learn that their race holds a privileged status compared to others, and non-White children may learn that their race does not (Clark & Clark 1950; Van Ausdale & Feagin 2001). The good news is that there are opportunities to teach children that we value all cultures and aim to be fair to people of all races. By shifting classroom practices, early childhood educators can positively impact children's acceptance of their own race and others' races.

Race-related teaching practices in classrooms

For adults working with young children, RRTPs may include helping children to develop positive racial identity, the ability to build relationships across races, and the awareness of race-related injustices and the inclination to take action to stop them (Durden, Escalante, & Blitch 2015).

We propose thinking about three categories of RRTPs-color-blind, color-aware, and social justice approaches. As mentioned earlier, the color-blind approach is a common but ineffective and potentially harmful method in which adults do not directly talk about race with children, yet the absence of an intentional message about race sends a powerful message in itself. Children are left to develop their own understandings about race, and if they ask questions, they may be met with adults declining to talk about race at school.

An improvement on the color-blind approach is a color-aware approach. To be color aware is to intentionally teach children about race and tell them that we see and value their race because it is an important part of who they are. Adults in color-aware classrooms bring up race in direct and positive ways, take advantage of teachable moments, and respond to children's race-related questions and interactions with books and activities to advance the conversation.

One step beyond color awareness is a social justice approach to teaching about race. This RRTP is considered ideal because it empowers children to play a role in acting against discrimination. Teachers using this approach to help children learn how to actively recognize and act on race-related injustices. Taking a social justice approach means seeking out teachable moments that specifically have to do with unfairness or discrimination, such as suggesting children write a letter to a company that makes "flesh-colored" bandages to let them know that their products do not match all skin tones and to propose that the name or the colors should be changed.

Ultimately, educators can look for opportunities to infuse all aspects of children's learning with color awareness and social justice connections. Although addressing all aspects of classroom practice is ideal, teachers who are new to RRTPs may find it easiest to begin with children's literature, an accessible medium for early childhood educators.

Racially relevant children's literature

Children's literature has enormous potential for helping children develop positive racial identity. In 1965, Nancy Larrick wrote passionately about the "all-White world of children's books," noting that the body of children's literature overwhelmingly featured characters who were White and that the books were aimed at a White readership. Some 50 years later, children's book author Walter Dean Myers (2014) posed a question in the New York Times: "Where are the people of color in children's books?" The question remains a sound one. Many scholars have examined the topic of diversity in children's literature, noting that the majority of publications continue to portray a homogeneous, White, middle-class existence as the norm (Horning, Lindgren, & Schleisman 2013; Boyd, Causey, & Galda 2015). These portrayals are not consistent with the lives of many children and their families.

Books can be mirrors in which children see and savor images and representations similar to their own lives and experiences. They can also be windows that enable young readers to gain new cultural perspectives by peering into others' worlds (Bishop 1990; Botelho & Rudman 2009). Teachers and other caring adults can make the most of these mirrors and windows by selecting literature that represents the diverse experiences of children and using it effectively to develop culturally responsive classrooms that promote color awareness and social justice (Paley 1998; Laminack & Wadsworth 2012). (See "Tips for Selecting Diverse Children's Literature.") Note that although it is important to share, explore, and learn about all cultures and races, in the limited space this article provides, the authors focus on children's literature that mainly highlights the African-American experience.

Choosing high-quality, diverse literature

Children need access to books that reflect their own race, culture, experiences, and context. Literature should include representations of different aspects of daily life within a culture, with particular attention given to aspects of setting and racial relevance (Yenika-Agbaw & Napoli 2011). Ezra Jack Keats, for example, was among the first picture book creators to portray a cast of Black characters in an urban setting. More than a half century later, children still enjoy reading The Snowy Day (Keats 1962), which follows Peter, a young Black child, as he plays in the snow. The story is one that unites a child's sense of excitement with the warmth of family love-all situated in an urban setting. Another example is Tap Tap Boom Boom (Bluemle 2014), which provides a lyrical look at a rainstorm and the way it plays out in the streets of a diverse city. The rain sends everyone ducking for cover, resulting in chance meetings and the beginning of new relationships, including interracial ones. Readers might also seek poetry grounded in the daily lives of Black children in varied settings, such as Thanks a Million by Nikki Grimes (2006), Brothers & Sisters: Family Poems by Eloise Greenfield (2009), and Honey, I Love, also by Greenfield (2002). (See "Selected Children's Literature With Racially Diverse Characters and Themes," for more suggestions.)

It is important to look carefully at unique issues of racial relevance. Physical aspects, for example, are addressed in Jabari Asim's companion board books Whose Toes Are Those? (2006) and Whose Knees Are These? (2006). These joyful, rhyming texts celebrate Black and Brown bodies. Likewise, I Love My Hair by Natasha Tarpley (2001), Big Hair, Don't Care by Crystal Swain-Bates (2013), and Emi's Curly, Coily, Cotton Candy Hair by Tina Olajide (2014) reinforce the beauty of thick, curly hair more typical of Black children.

Using literature as an entry point to discussions about race

Books that provide readers with opportunities to see different aspects of themselves, their communities, and the people they love can serve as material tools that affirm their sense of racial identity (Bishop 1990; Yenika-Agbaw & Napoli 2011). Such books can serve as springboards for teachable moments and meaningful conversations reflecting the teacher's color awareness and orientation toward thinking and acting from a social justice perspective. It is important to remember, however, that no book can fully represent a group or a complex issue. Rather, it is helpful to think in terms of text sets, or collections of connected books, that address different perspectives on topics.

Consider the following scenarios-one in which a teacher uses a color-aware approach and the other in which a teacher uses a social justice approach.

Tasha comes to kindergarten, excited to share news that her baby brother has been born. Other children want to share stories about what happened when their siblings joined their families. Ms. Franklin asks the children to describe what babies look like and then reads Happy in Our Skin, by Fran Manushkin (2015), a poetic celebration of different skin tones:

Bouquets of babies
sweet to hold:
cocoa brown,
cinnamon,
and honey gold.

Ginger-colored babies,
peaches and cream, too-
splendid skin for me,
splendid skin for you!

These words prompt the children to describe their own skin. "My skin is cinnamon," one child offers. "Mine is more cocoa," says another. Ms. Franklin affirms their observations: "Each of us is unique. We are different in lots of ways, including our races." She then takes out multicultural paint and guides the children as they mix colors to match their own skin.

In this snapshot, Ms. Franklin, using a color-aware approach, reads to the children from high-quality literature that addresses concepts related to racial differences in a positive manner. Second, she encourages them to respond to the text. Finally, she uses the opportunity to extend children's consideration of their racial identity by giving them the time, materials, and pedagogical support to extend their learning through an appropriate activity.

Let's look at another example of effective use of RRTPs and children's literature. Before story time, a first grade teacher has planned ways to help the children think about different aspects of the text, including issues related to race.

Mr. Harkins gathers the children for a read-aloud of Mr. George Baker by Amy Hest (2007), the story of a friendship across both age and race. In the text, young Harry is mesmerized by Mr. George Baker. At age 100, George has accomplished many things-he is a talented musician with a loving wife and a warm home. Yet he has never learned to read-a problem that he indicates "must be corrected." Harry and George are bound together in their pursuit of learning-Harry in the first grade and George in adult education.

Afterward, individual children comment on different parts of the story. One child mentions his relationship with an older neighbor to whom he and his mother take treats. Another says, "George could really play!" He then stands and taps out his own rhythm, just as Mr. Baker does in the book. "It's too bad George never learned to read, but he's going to now-even though he's old," says another. Mr. Harkins smiles and says that they really noticed a lot. Then, he adds, "It's great that Mr. Baker is learning to read. Hmm . . . I wonder why he waited. Does anyone have thoughts on why he didn't learn to read before?"

Through his question, the teacher has opened up a social justice teaching moment. The children can consider possible reasons why Mr. Baker did not learn to read. Could it have been because he didn't finish school? Was he doing other things, like working or helping at home? Could it be that Mr. Baker was not welcomed at school? Did race play a part in this? By introducing important issues that might not be readily apparent, teachers provide children with opportunities to become critical readers who can move beyond the text of a book to read between the lines. They can use a social justice lens to view and discuss sensitive historical and current events.

Introducing RRTPs to colleagues and families

As is the case for any new practice, it is always wise to first stop and reflect on the perspectives of colleagues and other important adults in children's lives. This is especially necessary when teaching about race. Many of the strategies described here may not be considered controversial, but some will. It may be useful to speak to other teachers about what they feel is appropriate for the children you serve. If everyone is not on the same page, consider beginning a book study group to talk about the role of RRTPs in early childhood classrooms. In addition, you might engage families by asking if and how they talk about race at home. ("Examples of How to Use Literature to Discuss Race," p. 13, may be helpful to families as well as teachers.) Many will be happy to hear that you are starting this conversation at school, but some may have concerns.

As educators begin thinking more about RRTPs, the early childhood field will generate more examples of using materials-children's literature, the classroom environment, free play scenarios, outdoor play, and other interactions and experiences-to bring the subject of race into the classroom. Now is the time to begin this work to ensure that educators are offering children guidance in this important aspect of their development.

Tips for Selecting Diverse Children's Literature

Base your selection on quality. Books should not just teach a lesson but should have a good story, high-quality text, and engaging illustrations.

Choose books that help children see themselves. Include books that mirror different aspects of identity (e.g., race, setting, beliefs) of children in the class, so that they can imagine themselves in the story.

Choose books that help children expand their understanding of others in this multicultural world. Include books that introduce children to new people, places, and concepts that they may not yet have encountered.

Look widely for texts. Be alert to new titles related to diversity. In addition, the library can be a great source for out of print titles that appeal to children and relate to urban issues and diversity.

Use text sets. Expose children to different perspectives. These book collections may be organized by theme or may feature the work of a highly accomplished author or illustrator of color. Great picks for books by Black writers and artists include those by Christopher Myers, Floyd Cooper, Jacqueline Woodson, Ashley Bryan, Jerry Pinkney, Brian Pinkney, and E.B. Lewis.

Selected Children's Literature With Racially Diverse Characters and Themes

Beautiful Moon (2014), by Tonya Bolden. Illus. by Eric Velasquez.

Black Cat (1999), by Christopher Myers.

Brothers & Sisters: Family Poems (2008), by Eloise Greenfield. Illus. by Jan Spivey Gilchrist.

Goggles (1969), by Ezra Jack Keats.

Honey, I Love and Other Love Poems (2002), by Eloise Greenfield. Illus. by Jan Spivey Gilchrist.

The Hula-Hoopin' Queen (2014), by Thelma Lynne Godin. Illus. by Vanessa Brantley-Newton.

Magic Trash (2015), by J.H. Shapiro. Illus. by Vanessa Brantley-Newton.

Subway (2008), by Anastasia Suen. Illus. by Karen Katz.

Thanks a Million (2006), by Nikki Grimes. Illus. by Cozbi A. Cabrera.

Those Shoes (2007), by Maribeth Boelts. Illus. by Noah Z. Jones.

Examples of How to Use Children's Literature to Discuss Race

Last Stop on Market Street By Matt de la Peña, illus. by Christian Robinson, 2015

When CJ and his nana ride the bus home, he wonders why the street where they get off does not seem as beautiful as some of the others.

Purpose for RRTPs: Highlights finding beauty in difficult life circumstances. Invites readers to ask questions about how economic limitations can impact specific racial groups.

Happy Like Soccer By Maribeth Boelts, illus. by Lauren Castillo, 2014

A young girl from the city loves to play soccer, but her aunt (and guardian) can't attend the games due to her work schedule. The girl bravely asks that the game be moved into the city on a day her aunt can attend.

Purpose for RRTPs: Presents a portrait of economic disparities between poorer urban areas and higher income suburbs-and their impact on practical social and emotional factors in children's lives.

Amazing Grace By Mary Hoffman, illus. by Caroline Binch, 1991

When Grace wants to be Peter Pan in a school play, her classmates tell her she can't because Peter is not Black and is not a girl.

Purpose for RRTPs: Provides a model for ways children can discuss and deal with negative, discouraging, and inaccurate comments about racial limitations.

The Other Side By Jacqueline Woodson, illus. by E.B. Lewis, 2001

Set in an era of segregation, two little girls want to become friends despite physical and social barriers.

Purpose for RRTPs: Presents a model of interracial friendship during a difficult time. Offers a springboard for considering ways to bridge the real and metaphorical fences that divide people.

"More, More, More," Said the Baby By Vera B. Williams, 1997

Three intergenerational vignettes depict the loving rituals of children in racially diverse families.

Purpose for RRTPs: Invites children to discuss their family's racial composition and describe the ways their family shares love.

Happy in Our Skin By Fran Manushkin, illus. by Lauren Tobia, 2015

A lyrical celebration of skin of every color.

Purpose for RRTPs: Offers a jumping-off point for children to use positive, descriptive language to describe their own skin color.

References

Asim, J. 2006. Whose Knees Are These? New York: Little, Brown.

Asim, J. 2006. Whose Toes Are Those? New York: Little, Brown.

Bishop, R.S. 1990. "Multicultural Literacy: Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors." Perspectives: Choosing and Using Books for the Classroom 6 (3). www.psdschools.org/webfm/8559.

Bluemle, E. 2014. Tap Tap Boom Boom. Somerville, MA: Candlewick.

Botelho, M.J., & M.K. Rudman. 2009. Critical Multicultural Analysis of Children's Literature: Mirrors, Windows, and Doors. Language, Culture, and Teaching series.New York: Routledge.

Boyd, F.B., L.L. Causey, & L. Galda. 2015. "Culturally Diverse Literature: Enriching Variety in an Era of Common Core State Standards." The Reading Teacher 68 (5): 378-87.

Clark, K.B., & M.P. Clark. 1950. "Emotional Factors in Racial Identification and Preference in Negro Children." The Journal of Negro Education 19 (3): 341-50.

Derman-Sparks, L., & J.O. Edwards. 2010. Anti-Bias Education for Young Children and Ourselves. Washington, DC: NAEYC.

Durden, R., E. Escalante, & K. Blitch. 2015. "Start With Us! Culturally Relevant Pedagogy in the Preschool Classroom." Early Childhood Education Journal 43 (3): 223-32.

Greenfield, E. 2009. Brothers and Sisters: Family Poems. New York: HarperCollins.

Greenfield, E. 2002. Honey, I Love. New York: Amistad.

Grimes, N. 2006. Thanks a Million. New York: Greenwillow.

Hest, A. 2007. Mr. George Baker. Reprint ed. Somerville, MA: Candlewick.

Hirschfeld, L.A. 2008. "Children's Developing Conceptions of Race." In Handbook of Race, Racism, and the Developing Child, eds. S.M. Quintana & C. McKown, 37-54. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.

Horning, K.T., M.V. Lindgren, & M. Schliesman. 2013. "A Few Observations on Publishing in 2012." CCBC Choices 2013. ccbc.education.wisc.edu/books/choiceintro13.asp.

Husband Jr., T. 2012. "'I Don't See Color': Challenging Assumptions About Discussing Race With Young Children." Early Childhood Education Journal 39 (6): 365-71.

Katz, P.A., & J.A. Kofkin. 1997. "Race, Gender, and Young Children." Chap. 3 in Developmental Psychopathology: Perspectives on Adjustment, Risk, and Disorder, eds. S.S. Luthar, J.A. Burack, D. Cicchetti, & J.R. Weisz, 51-74. New York: Cambridge University Press.

Keats, E.J. 1962. The Snowy Day. New York: Viking.

Ladson-Billings, G. 1995. "But That's Just Good Teaching! The Case for Culturally Relevant Pedagogy." Theory Into Practice 34 (3): 159-65.

Laminack, L.L., & R.M. Wadsworth. 2012. Bullying Hurts: Teaching Kindness Through Read Alouds and Guided Conversations. Portsmouth, NH: Heinemann.

Larrick, N.G. 1965. "The All-White World of Children's Books." Saturday Review 48:63-65.

Manushkin, F.2015. Happy in Our Skin. Somerville, MA: Candlewick.

Myers, W.D. 2014. "Where Are the People of Color in Children's Books?" New York Times. www.nytimes.com/2014/03/16/opinion/sunday/where-are-the-people-of-color-in-childrens-books.html?_r=0.

Olajide, T. 2014. Emi's Curly, Coily, Cotton Candy Hair. Charleston: CreateSpace.

Paley, V.G. 1998. The Girl With the Brown Crayon: How Children Use Stories to Shape Their Lives. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.

Quinn, P.C., K. Lee, O. Pascalis, & J.W. Tanaka. 2015. "Narrowing in Categorical Responding to Other-Race Face Classes by Infants." Developmental Science. Advance online publication.

Quintana, S.M., & C. McKown, eds. 2008. Handbook of Race, Racism, and the Developing Child. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.

Saluja, G., D.M. Early, & R.M. Clifford. 2002. "Demographic Characteristics of Early Childhood Teachers and Structural Elements of Early Child Care and Education in the United States." Early Childhood Research and Practice 4 (1). http://ecrp.uiuc.edu/v4n1/saluja.html.

Schrodt, K., J.G. Fain, & M. Hasty. 2015. "Exploring Culturally Relevant Texts With Kindergartners and Their Families." The Reading Teacher 68 (8): 589-98.

Swain-Bates, C. 2013. Big Hair, Don't Care. Atlanta: Goldest Karat.

Tarpley, N.A. 2001. I Love My Hair. Reprint ed. New York: Little, Brown.

Van Ausdale, D., & J.R. Feagin. 2001. The First R: How Children Learn Race and Racism. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield.

Yenika-Agbaw, V., & M. Napoli, eds. 2011. African and African American Children's and Adolescent Literature in the Classroom: A Critical Guide. 2nd ed. New York: Lang.

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Reading Your Way to a Culturally Responsive Classroom

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Showing children that we see and value all aspects of them-including attributes related to race and culture-is a critical step in helping them feel welcome and connected to their teachers and peers.

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Books that showcase Black voices for younger readers. I love that the website had a 28 day campaign in which it showcased many of the best books written/illustrated by African Americans in order to assist  parents, teachers, librarians in choosing diverse books.

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About the Brown Bookshelf - The Brown Bookshelf

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The Brown Bookshelf is designed to push awareness of the myriad Black voices writing for young readers. Our flagship initiative is 28 Days Later, a month-long showcase of the best in Picture Books, Middle Grade, and Young Adult novels written and illustrated by Black creators. You can read more abou…

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Offers many resources including picture books that strengthen social emotional learning. Helpful for beginning of the year read alouds or small grow social emotional guidance.

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A starter collection of picture books that address social emotion learning topics and themes for one-on-one sharing and sparking discussions with young audiences.

Many of the foundational skills associated with social emotional learning, such as the ability to identify and process emotions, being aware of oneself and others, controlling impulses, appreciating and embracing different perspectives, demonstrating empathy, building relationships, and making good decisions, are developed in the first years-during preschool and the early elementary grades. The following list is a sampling of titles ideal for starting conversations about SEL topics and themes.
Related Article Social Emotional Rescue This School Library Is All About SEL
Please, Mr. Panda by Steve Antony, illus. by author. Scholastic. 2014. ISBN 9780545788922. RELATIONSHIP SKILLS; RESPECT FOR OTHERS Boats for Papa by Jessixa Bagley, illus. by author. Roaring Brook. 2015. ISBN 9781626720398. emotions; grief; resilience Sam's Pet Temper by Sangeeta Bhadra, illus. by Marion Arbona. Kids Can. 2014. ISBN 9781771380256. RESPONSIBLE DECISION-MAKING; SELF-MANAGEMENT Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña, illus. by Christian Robinson. Putnam. 2015. ISBN 9780399257742. appreciating diversity; perspective-taking; social engagement How To Heal a Broken Wing by Bob Graham, illus. by author. Candlewick. 2008. ISBN 9780763639037. empathy; ethical responsibility; identifying problems; solving problems Thanks a Million by Nikki Grimes, illus. by Cozbi A. Cabrera. HarperCollins/Greenwillow. 2006. ISBN 9780688172930. gratitude; self-awareness; social awareness Red: A Crayon's Story by Michael Hall, illus. by author. HarperCollins/Greenwillow. 2015. ISBN 9780062252074. self-awareness; self-esteem; social awareness Waiting by Kevin Henkes, illus. by author. HarperCollins/Greenwillow. 2015. ISBN 9780062368430. Empathy; patience I Like Being Me: Poems About Kindness, Friendship, and Making Good Choices by Judy Lalli. Free Spirit. 2016. ISBN 9781631980923. empathy; relationships; responsible decision-making The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig, illus. by Patrice Barton. Knopf. 2013. ISBN 9781582464503. empathy; perspective-taking The Honest-to-Goodness Truth by Patricia McKissack, illus. by Giselle Potter. S. & S./Aladdin. 2003. ISBN 9780689853951. consideration; honesty; emotions Move Your Mood by Brenda S. Miles & Colleen A. Patterson, illus. by Holly Clifton-Brown. Magination. 2016. ISBN 9781433821127. accurate self-perception; identifying emotions; stress management Wild Feelings by David Milgrim, illus. by author. Holt. 2015. ISBN 9780805095876. EMOTIONS; SELF-MANAGEMENT Enemy Pie by Derek Munson, illus. by Tara Calahan King. Chronicle. 2000. ISBN 9780811827782. relationship skills; social awareness Zen Shorts by Jon Muth, illus. by author. Scholastic. 2005. ISBN 9780439339117. mindfulness; self-awareness I'm New Here by Anne Sibley O'Brien, illus. by author. Charlesbridge. 2015. ISBN 9781580896122. APPRECIATING DIVERSITY; RELATIONSHIP SKILLS; SELF-MANAGEMENT; SOCIAL AWARENESS EMPATHY; SELF-AWARENESS; SOCIAL AWARENESS One by Kathryn Otoshi, illus. by author. KO Kids. 2008. ISBN 9780972394642. embracing differences The Feelings Book by Todd Parr, illus. by author. Little, Brown. 2005. ISBN 9780316012492. Identifying EMOTIONS The Lion & the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney, illus. by author. Little, Brown. 2009. ISBN 9780316013567. empathy Ish by Peter H. Reynolds, illus. by author. Candlewick. 2004. ISBN 9780763623449. SELF-AWARENESS A World of Pausabilities: An Exercise in Mindfulness by Frank J. Sileo, illus. by Jennifer Zivoin. Magination. 2017. ISBN 9781433823237. accurate self-perception; Mindfulness self-awareness Anh's Anger by Gail Silver, illus. by Christianne Kromer. Plum Blossom. 2009. ISBN 9781888375947. emotions; self-awareness; self-management The Dark by Lemony Snicket, illus. by Jon Klassen. Little, Brown. 2013. ISBN 9780316187480. emotions; overcoming fear/bravery; self-management The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires, illus. by author. Kids Can. 2014. ISBN 9781554537044. EMOTIONS; SOLVING PROBLEMS Is Everyone Ready for Fun? by Jan Thomas, illus. by author. S. & S./Beach Lane. 2011. ISBN 9781442423640. EMOTIONS; PATIENCE; RELATIONSHIP SKILLS The Forgiveness Garden by Lauren Thompson, illus. by Christy Hale. Feiwel & Friends. 2012. ISBN 9780312625993. embracing differences; emotions Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family's Fight for Desegregation by Duncan Tonatiuth, illus. by author. Abrams. 2014. ISBN 9781419710544. ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITY; social awareness Sometimes I'm Bombaloo by Rachel Vail, illus. by Yumi Heo. Scholastic. 2005. ISBN 9780439669412. Identifying emotions And Two Boys Booed by Judith Viorst, illus. by Sophie Blackall. Farrar. 2014. ISBN 9780374303020. empathy; fear; self-management; resilience A Chair for My Mother by Vera B. Williams, illus. by author. HarperCollins/Greenwillow. (25th Ed.) 2007. ISBN 9780688040741. EMPATHY; responsible decision-making; SELF-MANAGEMENT Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson, illus. by E.B. Lewis. Penguin/Nancy Paulsen Bks. 2012. ISBN 9780399246524. empathy; perspective-taking; respect for others Why Am I Here? By Constance Ørbeck-Nilssen, illus. by Akin Duzakin. Eerdmans. 2016. ISBN 9780802854773. Hooray for Hat! by Brian Won, illus. by author. HMH. 2014. ISBN 9780544159037. EMOTIONS; RELATIONSHIP SKILLS Jack's Worry by Sam Zuppardi, illus. by author. Candlewick. 2016. ISBN 9780763678456. Emotions; overcoming fear/bravery; self-management
Publishers with an SEL Focus
Cuento De Luz, in partnership with the What Really Matters Foundation, publishes a series of titles focusing on "universal human, ethic and moral values." www.cuentodeluz.com

Free Spirit Publishing is known for their children's and teen self-help books and guides. www.freespirit.com

Little Parachutes publishes "picture books to help children with life's challenges." www.littleparachutes.com

Little Pickle Press's mission is to publish books that "foster kindness in young people." www.littlepicklepress.com

Magination Press is an imprint of the American Psychological Association. www.apa.org/pubs/magination

Red Chair Press , particularly its "Smart Start" series, focuses on health and community. www.redchairpress.com
Other Great SEL Booklists
SEL Through Literature from Bank Street College of Education: ow.ly/qbDi307Z43L

Children's Book List from the Center on the Social and Emotional Foundations for Early Learning: csefel.vanderbilt.edu/documents/booklist.pdf

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Hearts and Minds: Picture books that strengthen social emotional learning

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A starter collection of picture books that address social emotion learning topics and themes for one-on-one sharing and sparking discussions with young audiences. Many of the foundational skills associated with social emotional learning, such as the ability to identify and process emotions, being aware of oneself and others, controlling impulses, appreciating and embracing different perspectives, demonstrating empathy, building relationships, and making good decisions, are developed in the first years-during preschool and the early elementary grades.

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Database for searching books based upon genre, age, and award winners.

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Jillian Heise offers #classroombookaday recommendations including relationship building at the beginning of the year and the must share books of 2020.

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Jillian Heise {Hi-Z} is a National Board Certified Teacher with one Masters degree in Reading/Language Arts + another Masters in Library & Information Science. She has been an elementary Library Media Specialist in southeastern Wisconsin since 2017. Prior to that, she taught 7th & 8th grade ELA in the Milwaukee area for eleven years with an additional year out of the classroom as a literacy consultant. As founder of #ClassroomBookADay (inspired by Donalyn Miller's #bookaday) in 2014, Jillian is a passionate advocate for the power of shared stories to build classroom and school community and engagement. She dedicates her practice to ... read more

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A School Librarian Sharing Books & #ClassroomBookADay