Children's Picture Books that Celebrate Diverse Characters
Picture books are powerful tools for teaching children about the world around them. They not only entertain but also educate, shaping young minds and fostering empathy and understanding. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for diversity in children's literature, with readers seeking stories that reflect the rich tapestry of human experience. In this blog post, we'll explore a selection of multicultural children's books that feature diverse main characters, celebrating the beauty of different cultures, backgrounds, and identities.
Children's Picture Books that Celebrate Diverse Characters
There is no greater gift than the love of reading and no better use of time than getting lost in a book. When you look at the titles in your home or your child’s school, do the characters all look like them? Literature serves as a powerful tool in enabling children and families to gain a better understanding of the cultures of others. Having books that not only are educational about other races, ethnicities, cultures but books where main characters and authors are diverse are incredibly powerful. These 15 must read diverse picture books are amazing to add to your collection.
Diverse picture books can be powerful tools for promoting empathy, understanding, and inclusivity in various settings such as home, school, and the community. Here's how they can be utilized effectively in each context:
At Home:
Cultivate Empathy: Use diverse picture books to spark conversations about different cultures, experiences, and perspectives. Encourage children to empathize with characters who may be different from them and discuss how they would feel in similar situations.
Celebrate Diversity: Integrate diverse picture books into your family's reading routine to celebrate diversity and foster a sense of appreciation for different backgrounds and identities.
Promote Identity Exploration: Encourage children to see themselves reflected in diverse characters and stories, helping them develop a positive sense of identity and self-esteem.
Encourage Critical Thinking: Prompt children to think critically about themes such as fairness, justice, and equality portrayed in diverse picture books. Discuss how these themes relate to their own lives and the world around them.
At School:
Incorporate Into Curriculum: Integrate diverse picture books into classroom lessons across various subjects, including language arts, social studies, and character education. Use them to teach about different cultures, historical events, and social issues.
Promote Inclusivity: Create a classroom environment that celebrates diversity and inclusivity by featuring diverse books prominently in the classroom library and displaying multicultural artwork.
Facilitate Discussions: Use diverse picture books as springboards for discussions about empathy, tolerance, and social justice. Encourage students to share their perspectives and experiences related to the themes explored in the books.
Support Language Development: Utilize diverse picture books to support language development and literacy skills for English language learners by providing opportunities for language practice and cultural exploration.
In the Community:
Community Read-Alouds: Organize community events, such as read-aloud sessions at libraries, bookstores, or community centers, featuring diverse picture books. These events can bring people together and promote dialogue about diversity and inclusion.
Book Clubs and Discussion Groups: Form book clubs or discussion groups focused on diverse literature within the community. These groups can provide a platform for community members to engage in meaningful conversations and share diverse perspectives.
Collaborative Projects: Partner with local organizations, schools, or businesses to create collaborative projects centered around diverse picture books. This could include art projects, performances, or community service initiatives inspired by the themes of the books.
Advocacy and Activism: Use diverse picture books as catalysts for advocacy and activism within the community. Organize campaigns or events that raise awareness about social issues addressed in the books and promote positive change.
By leveraging diverse picture books in these settings, families, educators, and community members can work together to foster empathy, understanding, and inclusivity among children and adults alike.
How Do I Find Diverse Books for My Child?
One great resource that I love personally is The Diverse Book Finder! The Diverse Book Finder is a comprehensive collection of children's picture books featuring Black and Indigenous people and bipoc characters. The Diverse Book Finder catalogues and analyzes trade picture books fitting this criterion, published since 2002. You can search on Diverse BookFinder at this link.
Reading books with diverse main characters is incredibly important for several reasons:
Representation Matters: Seeing characters who look like them or share similar backgrounds validates children's identities and experiences. It helps them feel seen, heard, and valued, boosting their self-esteem and confidence.
Promotes Empathy and Understanding: Exposure to diverse characters and perspectives helps children develop empathy and understanding towards others who may be different from them. It teaches them to appreciate diversity and fosters a sense of inclusivity.
Counters Stereotypes and Prejudices: Diverse literature challenges stereotypes and biases by presenting nuanced portrayals of characters from various backgrounds. It broadens children's perspectives and encourages them to question and overcome prejudices.
Cultural Awareness and Appreciation: Books featuring diverse characters provide opportunities for readers to learn about different cultures, traditions, and ways of life. Multicultural picture books can promote cultural awareness and appreciation, fostering a sense of curiosity and respect for the world's diversity.
Reflects the Real World: Our world is diverse, with people from different ethnicities, races, religions, abilities, genders, and sexual orientations. Reading books with diverse characters reflects this reality, preparing children to navigate and thrive in a multicultural society.
Builds Inclusive Communities: Exposure to diverse literature from a young age lays the foundation for building inclusive communities. It teaches children to value diversity and celebrate differences, fostering environments where everyone feels welcome and respected.
Encourages Critical Thinking: Diverse literature encourages children to critically examine social issues and inequalities. It prompts discussions about fairness, justice, and the importance of standing up against discrimination, empowering children to become agents of positive change.
In essence, reading books with diverse main characters not only enriches children's literary experiences but also plays a crucial role in shaping them into empathetic, open-minded, and socially conscious individuals. It helps create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone's stories are valued and celebrated.
Must Have Diverse Picture Books for Young Children
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"The Snowy Day" by Ezra Jack Keats
Description: Follows Peter, an African American boy and main character, as he explores the wonders of a snowy day in his urban neighborhood. With simple yet beautiful illustrations, this classic picture book captures the joy and excitement of childhood adventures for all kinds of families. This great story is one that early elementary readers and adults alike for years. One of the most significant aspects of "The Snowy Day" is its representation of an African American protagonist, Peter. Published in 1962, it was one of the first major children's books to feature a Black main character in a story that wasn't specifically about race or social issues. Peter's experiences—his joy, curiosity, and wonder—resonate with children from diverse backgrounds, providing them with a character they can relate to and see themselves in.
"The Snowy Day" played a pivotal role in paving the way for greater diversity and inclusion in children's literature. Its success helped demonstrate the market demand for diverse stories and characters, inspiring subsequent generations of authors and illustrators to create more inclusive books. Today, The Snowy Day remains a shining example of the power of representation and the importance of diverse voices in storytelling.
The Snowy Day is a timeless classic that continues to enchant readers with its universal themes, vibrant illustrations, and groundbreaking representation. Its enduring popularity speaks to its ability to inspire wonder, foster empathy, and celebrate the beauty of childhood, making it a cherished treasure in the world of children's literature. Grab it in board book or picture book options.
"Julian Is a Mermaid" by Jessica Love
Description: Julian dreams of becoming a mermaid after seeing them on the subway. In this heartwarming story, Julian finds the courage to express himself authentically, embracing his identity with the support of his abuela.
"Hair Love" by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
Description: Celebrates the bond between a father and daughter as they navigate the challenges of styling her natural hair in this great book. Through tender illustrations and a heartfelt story, this book promotes self-love and acceptance and can create and open great conversations for readers own experiences with their hair.
"Sulwe" by Lupita Nyong'o, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
Description: Tells the story of Sulwe, a young girl with dark skin who learns to embrace her unique beauty and inner strength. Through vibrant illustrations and powerful storytelling, this book encourages readers to celebrate their individuality.
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Description: Chronicles the journey of a mother and son who immigrate to the United States and find solace in the local library. Through stunning illustrations and lyrical prose, this book celebrates the power of imagination and the transformative potential of books.
"The Day You Begin" by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
Description: Explores the courage it takes to be yourself and find connection, even when you feel different. Through poetic language and vibrant illustrations, this beautiful book celebrates diversity and the beauty of embracing your true self.
"Mufaro's Beautiful Daughters: An African Tale" by John Steptoe
Description: Retells a Zimbabwean folktale about two sisters, one kind and one cruel, and their encounters with a king. Through lush illustrations and captivating storytelling, this beautiful story celebrates kindness, integrity, and the power of inner beauty.
"The Undefeated" by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Kadir Nelson
Description: Honors the resilience and strength of African Americans throughout history. Through powerful poetry and stunning illustrations, this book pays tribute to the unsung heroes and trailblazers who have shaped our world.
"Last Stop on Market Street" by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson
Description: Follows a little boy CJ and his grandmother on a bus ride through the city, celebrating diversity and community. Through vibrant illustrations and lyrical prose, this book encourages readers to find beauty and joy in the world around them.
"The Name Jar" by Yangsook Choi
Description: Explores the journey of a young Korean girl adjusting to her new life in America and learning to embrace her identity. Through heartfelt storytelling and charming illustrations, this book celebrates cultural diversity and the power of self-acceptance.
"The Colors of Us" by Karen Katz
Description: Celebrates the beauty of diversity through the story of a girl painting portraits of her friends and family. Through vibrant illustrations and poetic language, this book encourages readers to appreciate the myriad shades of skin color and embrace inclusivity.
"Islandborn" by Junot Díaz, illustrated by Leo Espinosa
Description: Follows Lola as she learns about her cultural groups heritage and the island where she was born. Through colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling, this book celebrates the importance of cultural identity and the power of storytelling.
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Description: Explores the experience of a young girl whose sister wears a hijab for the first time. Through empowering storytelling and striking illustrations, this book celebrates identity, sisterhood, and the courage to be true to oneself.
"Alma and How She Got Her Name" by Juana Martinez-Neal
Description: Tells the story of Alma Sofia Esperanza José Pura Candela, a girl who learns about the significance of her long name. Through charming illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, this book celebrates family, heritage, and the power of names.
"Ada Twist, Scientist" by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts
Description: Follows Ada, a curious and inquisitive girl of color, as she explores the wonders of science. Through lively illustrations and playful rhymes, this book encourages readers to embrace their curiosity and pursue their passions.
"Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut" by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James
Description: Celebrates the transformative power of a trip to the barbershop for a young black boy. Through vibrant illustrations and poetic language, this book captures the joy, confidence, and sense of pride that comes from looking and feeling your best.
"We Are Water Protectors" by Carole Lindstrom, illustrated by Michaela Goade
Description: Empowers young readers to stand up for environmental justice and protect the earth's water. Through powerful illustrations and stirring prose, this book inspires readers to take action and become stewards of the natural diverse world.
"My Papi Has a Motorcycle" by Isabel Quintero, illustrated by Zeke Peña
Description: Follows a girl and her father on a motorcycle ride through their neighborhood, celebrating their Mexican American heritage. Through vibrant illustrations and lyrical prose, this book captures the beauty of community and the bond between father and daughter.
"A Different Pond" by Bao Phi, illustrated by Thi Bui
Description: Explores the bond between a father and son as they fish early in the morning and reminisce about their family's immigrant experience. Through evocative illustrations and poignant storytelling, this book celebrates resilience, sacrifice, and the power of family.
"When Aidan Became a Brother" by Kyle Lukoff, illustrated by Kaylani Juanita
Description: Tells the story of a transgender boy preparing to welcome a new sibling into the family. Through gentle illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, this book celebrates acceptance, love, and the joy of welcoming a new baby.
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Description: Explores friendship and cultural differences through the story of two girls who swap lunches. Through playful illustrations and humorous storytelling, this book celebrates the power of friendship and the importance of embracing diversity.
"All Are Welcome" by Alexandra Penfold, illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman
Description: Celebrates inclusivity and diversity in a school where children from all backgrounds are welcomed. Through vibrant illustrations and inclusive language, this book promotes acceptance, kindness, and a sense of belonging for all.
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Description: Introduces concepts of intersectionality and inclusivity through diverse characters in this wonderful book. Through engaging illustrations and accessible language, this book promotes empathy, understanding, and the importance of embracing diversity.
"Jabari Jumps" by Gaia Cornwall
Description: This simple story follows Jabari as he conquers his fear of jumping off the diving board at the pool. Through expressive illustrations and relatable storytelling, this book celebrates courage, determination, and the thrill of overcoming challenges. Kids who are fearful of the pool and the diving board will love the genuine exchange that comes from reading this book and celebrating Jabari's wins.
"Bilal Cooks Daal" by Aisha Saeed, illustrated by Anoosha Syed
Description: Follows Bilal as he prepares daal, a traditional South Asian dish, for the first time with his friends. Through vibrant illustrations and mouthwatering descriptions, this book celebrates food, friendship, and cultural heritage.
"Julián at the Wedding" by Jessica Love
Description: Explores themes of love, acceptance, and family as Julián attends a wedding with his abuela and learns about different kinds of love. Through expressive illustrations and tender storytelling, this book celebrates diversity and the joy of celebrating love in all its forms.
"Lubna and Pebble" by Wendy Meddour, illustrated by Daniel Egnéus
Description: Tells the story of a young refugee girl and her friendship with a pebble that becomes her companion in a new and unfamiliar place. Through evocative illustrations and poignant storytelling, this book celebrates resilience, friendship, and the power of imagination.
"The Day You Begin" by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
Description: Explores the courage it takes to be yourself and find connection, even when you feel different. Through poetic language and vibrant illustrations, this book celebrates diversity and the beauty of embracing your true self.
"I Am Enough" by Grace Byers, illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo
Description: Celebrates self-love, confidence, and empowerment in children of all backgrounds. Through affirming language and striking illustrations, this book encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and recognize their inherent worth.
Drawn Together" by Minh Lê, illustrated by Dan Santat
Description: Explores the power of art and imagination to bridge language and generational barriers between a boy and his grandfather.
"Thunder Boy Jr." by Sherman Alexie, illustrated by Yuyi Morales
Description: Follows Thunder Boy Jr. as he searches for the perfect name that celebrates his unique identity and honors his Native American heritage.
The Arabic Quilt: An Immigrant Story" by Aya Khalil, illustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan
Description: Explores the challenges and joys of navigating cultural identity as a young girl blends her Egyptian and American heritages through a special quilt.
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Description: Follows Ava and her mother as they navigate unexpected challenges on their cherished Saturday outings, celebrating the resilience of love and family.
"Malala's Magic Pencil" by Malala Yousafzai, illustrated by Kerascoët
Description: Tells the inspiring true story of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Malala Yousafzai's childhood dreams and her journey to advocate for girls' education.
These picture books offer diverse representations of characters and stories that celebrate identity, culture, and the human experience, inspiring readers of all ages to embrace diversity, empathy, and inclusion.
What Diverse Books are recommended for Young Adults?
How important is diversity in a teen’s reading?
Diverse books are important for any age group, but the young adult or YA group is key as this age group is able to extrapolate the experiences of the character or community. A young adult typically possesses the ability to take what they are reading and have a meaningful conversation about the character, issue, theme, experience with others around them. This can be a powerful tool for a family or a classroom or youth group to select a diverse young adult books and read and discuss together. A book is a great starting point to then research the topic in their own community, neighborhood, school, or state. This article with the 25 must read books for young adults with diverse characters has amazing times.
What Other Diverse Kids Books Should We Read?
These books may rank as 25 of the best picture books with diverse characters but they are equally as amazing for adults as well. Read with your teen, your child, grab your book club, whatever you do read these books as soon as possible. If you are looking for diverse books for your small children, check out this list too!
These picture books are just a small sample of the diverse stories available to young readers today. By sharing narratives that reflect a variety of cultures, backgrounds, and identities, we can foster empathy, understanding, and appreciation for the richness of the human experience. Whether celebrating cultural heritage, embracing individuality, or promoting inclusivity, these books play a vital role in shaping a more diverse and inclusive world for future generations.