10 books for children to read to celebrate racial diversity
Could primary school age books such as these help over the long-term to reduce the tensions we have seen in recent times and eventually change the culture?
Links are to Waterstones (keep the High Street going) but other booksellers are, of course, available.
All the Ways to be Smart - Allison Colpoys
'This colourful picture-book provides an alternative perspective on the culture of academic achievement by celebrating a diversity of talents … Allison Colpoys’s illustrations celebrate a diversity of cultures too, offering a parade of beauty that will give children of all backgrounds and interests confidence in their own uniqueness.’
One Day, So Many Ways - Laura Hall
Discover what daily life is like for kids all around the world. Meet children from over 40 countries and explore the differences and similarities between their daily routines. Over 24 hours, follow a wide variety of children as they wake up, eat, go to school, play, talk, learn and go about their everyday routine.
Young Gifted and Black: Meet 52 Black Heroes from Past and Present - Jamia Wilson
Highlighting the talent and contributions of black leaders and changemakers from around the world, readers of all backgrounds will be empowered to discover what they too can achieve. Strong, courageous, talented and diverse, these extraordinary men and women's achievements will inspire a new generation to chase their dream... whatever it may be.
Desmond and the Very Mean Word - Desmond Tutu
A powerful, stirring yet utterly down-to-earth story with an unforgettable message about anger, compassion and forgiveness.
Islandborn - Junot Diaz
Islandborn is a celebration of creativity, diversity, and our imagination's boundless ability to connect us - to our families, to our past and to ourselves.
Little Leaders: Exceptional Men in Black History - Vashti Harrison
Learn all about the exceptional black men who broke barriers and fought injustice to realise their dreams and make the world a better place.
Little People, Big Dreams Series - several books
Lives of pioneering figures for younger readers, from Jane Austen to Martin Luther King, each book provides an age-appropriate overview of an iconic life in simplified text and bold, captivating illustrations. Inspirational and enlightening,
Thank You Omu! - Oge Mora
Everyone in the neighbourhood dreams of a taste of Omu's delicious stew! One by one, they follow their noses toward the scrumptious scent. And one by one, Omu offers a portion of her meal. Soon the pot is empty. Has she been so generous that she has nothing left for herself? A story of inclusivity, gratitude, and delicious fellowship.
Amazing Grace - Mary Hoffman
A touching and beautiful picture book about being true to yourself and not letting anyone hold you back. This is the perfect story for children everywhere to remind them to be themselves no matter what the world tells you.
What If We Were All The Same! - C M Harris
Aimed to help children understand there are many great reasons for being friends with those who are different than they are. Whether they have red hair or brown hair, green eyes or blue eyes, long legs or short legs, light skin or dark skin, glasses, uses a wheelchair or anything else, it's absolutely OK! Our differences are what makes us unique and if we truly think about it, would you want to be the exact same as someone else?
Other books are available!
Could these be a good addition to libraries either personal, public or at primary schools? Could you help buy them?
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Geoff Knott, 05/06/2020