Hush! A Thai Lullaby
Repetitive text and colourful illustrations make Hush! A Thai Lullaby an appealing picture book for babies and toddlers.
Round is a Mooncake: A Book of Shapes by Roseanne Thong
A little girl's urban neighborhood becomes a discovery ground for all things round, square, and rectangular in this lyrical picture book. Most items are Asian in origin, others universal: round rice bowls and a found pebble, square dim sum and the boxes that the pizzas come in, rectangular Chinese lace and a very special pencil case.
Bee-Bim Bop! By Linda Sue
In this fast-paced book, a hungry girl helps her mother make Bee-Bim Bop!, a traditional Korean rice dish. In bouncy rhyming text coupled with whimsical illustrations, the story tells of shopping, preparing ingredients, setting the table, and sitting down to enjoy a favourite meal with the family.
I Live in Tokyo
I live in Tokyo follows seven-year-old Mimiko through a year of fun, food and festivities in Japan’s bustling capital. Month by month, little readers learn about Mimiko’s favourite meals and many Japanese customs, from tea ceremonies to how to put on a kimono. This lively picture book with its detailed, bright illustrations is a great introduction to Japanese life and traditions.
Grandpa Grumps by Katrina Moore
An absolutely adorable book about a little girl, Daisy, and Yeh-Yeh ( Grandpa). He’s visiting from China and trying to get to know each other. Only he’s kinda grumpy. It takes time but eventually, they connect, and he even laughs!
Peek!: A Thai Hide-and-Seek
A sweet book about a father and daughter playing an epic game of hide and seek in the jungle, and the animals play along too.
The Name Jar by Yangsook Choy
Just having moved to the US from Korea, Unhei worries that her new classmates won’t be able to pronounce her name. She tells them that she will choose a name later. Her classmates are fascinated by this no-name girl and start filling a glass jar with names for her to pick from. After trying some names, Unei decides to stick with her real name. The Name Jar is a beautifully illustrated, engaging story about valuing your roots and your uniqueness.
Dear Juno by Soyung Pak
Juno and his grandmother love writing letters to each other. Juno sends drawings, his grandmother letters in Korean and photos. One day she even sends a miniature aeroplane to let Juno know that she is coming to visit. Dear Juno is a warm and tender story about family far away.
Snow White (Once Upon a World series), Chloe Perkins
The classic tale of Snow White gets a fresh twist in this debut title of a brand-new board book series, Once Upon a World. With Japan as the backdrop, and beautiful artwork from Japanese illustrator Misa Saburi, Snow White is still the same girl who meets seven dwarves and accepts a shiny red apple—but she’s totally reimagined. Once Upon a World offers a multicultural take on the fairy tales we all know and love. Because these tales are for everyone, everywhere.
Rapunzel (Once Upon a World series), Chloe Perkins
The classic tale of Rapunzel gets a fresh twist in this third book of a brand-new board book series, Once Upon a World. With India as the backdrop, and vibrant artwork from illustrator Archana Sreenivasan, Rapunzel is still the same girl who lets down her beautiful hair—but she’s totally reimagined. Once Upon a World offers a multicultural take on the fairy tales we all know and love. Because these tales are for everyone, everywhere.
Eyes That Kiss in the Corner, Joanna Ho
A picture book that tells a story about learning to love and celebrate your Asian-shaped eyes, and is a celebration of diversity.
Black Characters and Black History
I Love My Hair! Natasha Anastasia Tarpley and E. B. Lewis *New*
A modern classic, this whimsical story has been celebrating the beauty of African-American hair for 20 years!
In this imaginative, evocative story, a girl named Keyana discovers the beauty and magic of her special hair, encouraging black children to be proud of their heritage and enhancing self-confidence.
Dream Big, Little One, Vashti Harrison *New*
This beautifully illustrated board book edition of instant bestseller Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History showcases women who changed the world and is the perfect goodnight book to inspire big dreams.
My Hair, Hannah Lee *New*
My birthday's coming up so soon, I'll need new clothes to wear. But how shall I style my hair? Joyous and vibrant, this captures the excitement of getting ready for a celebration, as well as showcasing a dazzling array of intricate hairstyles.
Hoorah for Mary Seacole, Trish Cooke
Mary is a brave nurse. When a war starts in the Crimea she sails across the sea to help, and even enters the battlefield!
Coming to England, Floella Benjamin
A warm and moving autobiographical story of Floella's journey from Trinidad to England in the 1960s as part of the Windrush generation.
Disabilities
Blindness
A Day at the Seaside (Hattie and Friends series), Lesley Berrington
Hattie and Lucy enjoy a day at the seaside with their daddies. They have a bus journey, collect shells & make sandcastles on the beach.They have chips for lunch and a ride on a donkey. Lucy is blind. Her disability is not mentioned in the text. Great positive images of disability with educational content. Perfect for meeting EYFS Statutory Framework Guidelines.
Deafness
A Day at the Park (Hattie and Friends series), Lesley Berrington
Hattie and Toby enjoy a day at the park with their mummies. They have a train journey, feed the ducks, see other animals and shelter from the rain. Toby is deaf and has a cochlear implant. His disability is not mentioned in the text. Great positive images of disability with educational content. Perfect for meeting EYFS Statutory Framework Guidelines.
Freddie and the Fairy, Julia Donaldson and Karen George
Freddie is desperate for a pet, so when he rescues Bessie-Belle and she offers to grant his wishes he knows just what to ask for. The only problem is that Bessie-Belle can't hear very well, and Freddie tends to mumble. Whatever can they do? Luckily the Fairy Queen is on hand to explain . . .
The Hospital Dog, Julia Donaldson
Dot the dog loves visiting the children of Wallaby Ward and they’re always pleased to see her too; from a crying baby to a bored teenager – a pat, a stroke and a cuddle with Dot cheers everyone up. But the work of the hospital dog doesn’t stop there and when one of her patients is in trouble, it’s up to Dot to save the day!
What the Jackdaw Saw, Julia Donaldson
The jackdaw is flying into danger! The other animals are trying to warn him, but he can't understand the signs they're using. Will he work out what they mean before it's too late?
Down's Sydnrome
What's Inside of You Is Inside Me Too, Deslie Webb Quinby
This book informs people about Down's syndrome in a fun illustrative way and also explains chromosomes and their role in making every living thing special.
47 Strings. Tessa's Special Code, Becky Carey
A picture book about the remarkable lessons to be learned from a little girl named Tessa, who was born with Down's syndrome.
Mobility and physical disabilities
Amazing, Steve Antony
A little boy in a wheelchair and his pet dragon are the very best of friends. They laugh, they sing, they dance, they snooze. They are both amazing - just like everyone else! A celebration of friendship and being yourself with a positive message about celebrating diversity. The perfect platform to start conversations about the importance of understanding and acceptance.
A Day at the Zoo (Hattie and Friends series), Lesley Berrington
Hattie and George enjoy a day at the zoo with their mummies. They see lots of different animals, have a picnic and watch a parrot show. George uses a wheelchair. His disability is not mentioned in the text. Great positive images of disability with educational content.
A Day at the Farm (Hattie and Friends series), Lesley Berrington
Hattie and Nisha enjoy a day at the farm with their mummies. They have a car journey, feed the lambs and other animals. They all have lunch in the cafe and have a tractor ride. Nisha wears leg braces and uses crutches. Her disability is not mentioned in the text. Great positive images of disability with educational content.
Just Because, Rebecca Elliott
An amusing and touching story that encompasses the issue of disability in a charming celebration of sibling friendship.
Empathy and Kindness
A Sick Day for Amos McGhee, Philip C. Stead
Friends come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. In Amos McGee's case, all sorts of species, too! Every day he spends a little bit of time with each of his friends at the zoo, running races with the tortoise, keeping the shy penguin company, and even reading bedtime stories to the owl. But when Amos is too sick to make it to the zoo, his animal friends decide it's time they returned the favor. This award-winning book shows the value of selflessness and caring for one another.
Little Blue Truck, Alice Schertle
The first in a series by the same title, "Little Blue Truck" is all about unlikely friendships and the beauty of helping others.
Last Stop on Market Street, Matt de la Peña
This Newbery Medal-winning book follows a boy and his grandmother as they witness beauty, kindness and joy on the bus.
You, Me and Empathy, Jayneen Sanders
This charming story uses verse, beautiful illustrations and a little person called Quinn to model the meaning of empathy. Throughout the story, Quinn shows an abundance of understanding, compassion and kindness towards others. Showing empathy towards others is a learnt trait, and one to nurture and cherish with the children in our care. Also included are Discussion Questions for parents, caregivers and educators, and suggested activities to promote empathy and kindness.
Most People, Michael Leannah
"Most People" reminds kids that, although there are many scary events and images in the world, there are also countless examples of goodness.
Be Kind, Pat Zietlow Miller
When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, her classmate contemplates how to make her feel better and what it means to be kind. From asking the new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving and thoughtful story explores what a child can do to be kind, and how each act, big or small, can make a difference - or at least help a friend. With award winning author Pat Zietlow Miller's gentle text and Jen Hill's irresistible art, Be Kind is an unforgettable story about how two simple words can change the world.
Hey Little Ant, Hannah Hoose
What would you do if the ant you were about to step on looked up and started talking? Would you stop and listen? What if your friends saw you hesitate? That's what happens in this funny, thought-provoking book. Originally a song by a father-daughter team, this conversation between two creatures, large and small, is bound to inspire important discussions. It might even answer that classic childhood question: To squish or not to squish? Hey, Little Ant forces readers to consider the feelings of others.
We’re All Wonders, R J Palacio
We're All Wonders shows readers what it's like to live in Auggie's world - a world in which he feels like any other kid, but he's not always seen that way. We're All Wonders taps into every child's longing to belong, and to be seen for who they truly are. It's the perfect way for families and teachers to talk about empathy, difference and kindness with young children.
Otis and the Scarecrow, Loren Long
On the farm where Otis the tractor lives, the farmer has introduced someone new--a scarecrow to shoo away the pesky crows. But when Otis and the animals greet the scarecrow with friendly smiles, the scarecrow's frown never leaves his face. So everyone leaves him alone. Then one day, when a cold autumn rain sets in, Otis and the animals snuggle close and play Otis's favorite game: the quiet game. Otis knows the puppy and ducks can't sit still for long, and soon the farm friends begin to giggle and squirm, feeling warmed by one another's friendship . . . but on this day, Otis can't seem to take his eyes off the lonely figure in the cornfield. A deeply resonant book about subtle acts of compassion and standing up for others, featuring everyone's favorite tractor, Otis.
A Rainbow of Friends, P. K. Hallinan
Friends come in all colors and sizes; they can be funny or serious, musical or athletic, outgoing or quiet. This book reminds children to celebrate their differences because that is what makes each of us so special.
It's Okay to Be Different, Todd Parr
Cleverly delivers the important messages of acceptance, understanding, and confidence in an accessible, child-friendly format.
Where Oliver Fits, Cale Atkinson
Explores all the highs and lows of learning to be yourself and helps to show children that fitting in may not always be the best fit.
Daniel's New Friend (Daniel TIger's Neighborhood), Becky Friedman
About Daniel Tiger making a new friend, regardless of their differences.
Our Stripy Baby, Gillian Shields
Zara can't wait for the new baby – he will be just like her friend`s baby brother, Max. But when Zack finally arrives, something isn't right – he has stripes instead of spots, and he doesn't look anything like Max. Zara wishes Zack was the same as everyone else, until she sees just how special and perfect he is at being Zack…
F is for Feelings, Goldie Miller
We all feel many different emotions every day. For young children, those feelings can be extra strong. And sometimes, children need help finding the words to describe how they’re feeling. This friendly and positive alphabet book gives children those “feelings words,” and explores the idea that while some feelings are more comfortable than others, all are natural and important. F Is for Feelings invites children to share, express, and embrace their emotions—every day! Added benefit of a diverse range of characters.
Jewish
My First Jewish Baby Book: Almost everything you need to know about being Jewish―from Afikomen to Zayde, Julie Merberg
A board book that gives an alphabetical introduction to Judaism—the delicious foods, meaningful rituals, lively holidays, expressive language, and more.
Ruth Bader Ginsberg (Little People, BIG DREAMS), Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy bestselling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the incredible life of Ruth Bader Ginsberg, the beloved supreme court justice and the first Jewish woman and the second woman to serve on the Court.
Indigenous and Native American
My Heart Fills with Happiness, Monique Gray Smith
The sun on your face. The smell of warm bannock baking in the oven. Holding the hand of someone you love. What fills your heart with happiness? International speaker and award-winning author Monique Gray Smith wrote My Heart Fills with Happiness to support the wellness of Indigenous children and families, and to encourage young children to reflect on what makes them happy.
Mama, Do You Love Me? Barbara M. JoosseThis beloved story of a child testing the limits of her independence, and a mother who reassuringly proves that a parents love is unconditional and everlasting is a perfect first book for toddlers.
Latinx
Yo Soy Muslim: A Father's Letter to His Daughter, Mark Gonzales *New*
From Muslim and Latino poet Mark Gonzales comes a touching and lyrical picture book about a parent who encourages their child to find joy and pride in all aspects of their multicultural identity.
Lil Libros books
Lil’ Libros was created to introduce bilingualism and Latin American culture through picture board books. The stories celebrate characters like Mexican painter Frida Kahlo and Cuban music icon, Celia Cruz in English and Spanish with rich and colorful illustrations.
LGBTQ+
Everywhere babies, Susan Meyers
This gorgeous board book follows all sorts of babies – 'small babies, tall babies, winter and spring babies' – over the course of a year.
Introducing Teddy, Jessica Walton
One sunny day, Errol finds that Thomas the Teddy is sad, and Errol can't figure out why. Then Thomas the Teddy finally tells Errol what Teddy has been afraid to say: 'In my heart, I've always known that I'm a girl teddy, not a boy teddy. I wish my name was Tilly.' And Errol says, 'I don't care if you're a girl teddy or a boy teddy! What matters is that you are my friend.' A sweet and gentle story about being true to yourself and being a good friend, Introducing Teddy can also help children understand gender identity.
The Story of Ferdinand, Munro Leaf
Ferdinand is the world’s most peaceful—and beloved—little bull. While all of the other bulls snort, leap, and butt their heads, Ferdinand is content to just sit and smell the flowers under his favorite cork tree. Leaf’s simple storytelling paired with Lawson’s pen-and-ink drawings make The Story of Ferdinand a true classic.
Bunnybear, Andrea J. Loney
Although Bunnybear was born a bear, he feels more like a bunny. He prefers bouncing in the thicket to tramping in the forest, and in his heart he's fluffy and tiny, like a rabbit, instead of burly and loud, like a bear. The other bears don't understand him, and neither do the bunnies. Will Bunnybear ever find a friend who likes him just the way he is?
Red: A Crayon's Story, Michael Hall
Blue crayon mistakenly labeled as "red" suffers an identity crisis. Almost everyone tries to “help” him be red until a friend offers a new perspective. He’s blue! About finding the courage to be true to your inner self. This can be read on multiple levels.
They, She , He easy as ABC, Maya and Matthew Smith-Gonzalez
Inclusive pronouns are featured alongside the alphabet. An introduction to the many different ways people identify and use pronouns. Shows that including everyone is all part of the dance. “No one left out and everyone free.”
What Makes a Baby, Cory Silverberg
Takes the gender out of making a baby.
Who Are You? A Kids' Guide to Gender Identity, Brook Pessin-Whedbee
This brightly illustrated children's book provides a straightforward introduction to gender for anyone aged 3+. It presents clear and direct language for understanding and talking about how we experience gender: our bodies, our expression and our identity. This is a one-of-a-kind resource for understanding and celebrating the gender diversity that surrounds us.
The Boy & the Bindi, Vivek Shraya
In this beautiful children's picture book by Vivek Shraya, author of the acclaimed God Loves Hair, a five-year-old South Asian boy becomes fascinated with his mother's bindi, the red dot commonly worn by Hindu women to indicate the point at which creation begins, and wishes to have one of his own. Rather than chastise her son, she agrees to it, and teaches him about its cultural significance, allowing the boy to discover the magic of the bindi, which in turn gives him permission to be more fully himself.
Jacob's New Dress, Sarah and Ian Hoffman
This heartwarming story speaks to the unique challenges faced by boys who don’t identify with traditional gender roles.
Julian Is a Mermaid, Jessica Love
While in the subway with his abuela, Julián sees three women spectacularly dressed up and he wants to dress up just like them. But what will his Abuela think? A story about the power of being seen and affirmed.
It Feels Good to Be Yourself, Theresa Thorn
Some people are boys. Some people are girls. Some people are both, neither, or somewhere in between. This sweet, straightforward exploration of gender identity will give children a fuller understanding of themselves and others. With child-friendly language and vibrant art, It Feels Good to Be Yourself provides young readers and parents alike with the vocabulary to discuss this important topic with sensitivity.
Pink is for Boys, Robb Pearlman *New*
A simple story packing a powerful punch, this education picture book proves colours are for everyone, whatever their gender.
Arab, Middle Eastern & Muslim
Baby Touch: Happy Eid!
Introduce your baby to Eid in this bright, interactive touch-and-feel book.
The Proudest Blue A Story of Hijab and Family, Ibtihaj Muhammad with S.K. Ali
This picture book narrates a loving, tender bond between two sisters. It’s a relatable, sweet story that shows the importance of the hijab in the Muslim faith and feeling pride in who you are.
Mommy’s Khimar, Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
A young Muslim girl spends a busy day wrapped up in her mother’s colorful headscarf
Under My Hijab, Hena Khan
The women in this girl’s life wear hijabs and also, sometimes don’t. They inspire her with all that they do and who they are.
Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets: A Muslim Book of Shapes, Hena Khan
Lavish, richly colored illustrations fill this beautiful book of shapes celebrating Muslim culture. “Hexagon is a tile, / bold and bright, / painted with an ayah / I love to recite.”
Race & Representation
I Is for Immigrants, Selina Alko *New*
Alphabet picture book weaves together a multitude of immigrant experiences in a concise, joyful package. What do African dance, samosas, and Japanese gardens have in common? They are all gifts the United States received from immigrants.
Ten Little Fingers and Ten Littler Toes, Mem Fox and Helen Oxenbury
A charming picture book about babies from around the world and what they all have in common.
Who? A celebration of babies, Robie H. Harris
A board book for young babies. Who? explores the relationships babies form with the people and things they love the most.
Everywhere babies, Susan Meyers
This gorgeous board book follows all sorts of babies – 'small babies, tall babies, winter and spring babies' – over the course of a year.
All Are Welcome, Alexandra Penfold
Follow a group of children through a day in their school, where everyone is welcome. A school where children in patkas, hijabs, baseball caps and yarmulkes play side by side. A school where students grow and learn from each other's traditions. A school where diversity is a strength. Warm and inspiring, All Are Welcome lets young children know that no matter what, they have a place, they have a space, and they are welcome in their school. Engaging lyrical text and bright, accessible illustrations make this book a must for every child's bookshelf, classroom and library.
Miles and Mia A to Z, Michaela Alexander
An educational, diverse picture book that teaches children different letters of the alphabet in a fun way.
The Smeds and The Smoos, Julia Donaldson
The Smeds (who are red) never mix with the Smoos (who are blue). So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love, their families strongly disapprove. But peace is restored and love conquers all in this happiest of love stories. There’s even a gorgeous purple baby to celebrate!
Strong Female Characters
"My First Little People, Big Dreams" series, Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara
Little People, BIG DREAMS is a bestselling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream. Many of the books are now available in “My First” simpler board book versions - perfect to read out loud with younger children.
How To Hide A Lion, Helen Stephens
How does a very small girl hide a very large lion? It's not easy, but Iris has to do her best, because mums and dads can be funny about having a lion in the house. Luckily, there are lots of good places to hide a lion - behind the shower curtain, in your bed, and even up a tree. But can Iris hide her lion forever?
Do Princesses Wear Hiking Boots? Carmela Coyle
Every inquisitive little girl wonders what it is really like to be a genuine princess. At the heart of this story lives an energetic, spirited, and contemporary child who has lots of important questions for her mother. This heart-warming book offers a gentle lesson about self-acceptance, and will inspire children to follow their dreams and leave their own mark on the world.
The Worst Princess, Anna Kemp
Find out how the feisty princess escapes the clutches of her twit of a prince in this funny, feminist twist on the traditional princess tale. Forget about pretty dresses, fairytale weddings and grand balls, Princess Sue is all about adventure, mischief and making unusual friends. She really is the worst princess!
Rhinos Don't Eat Pancakes, Anna Kemp
Daisy's mum and dad are always too busy to listen to a word that she says, so when, one day, she tells them that a big purple rhino has just walked into the house and taken a chomp of her pancake, guess what? That's right - nobody listens! But there's a surprise in store for Mum and Dad when they discover that a big purple rhino has gone missing from the zoo. Perhaps they should have taken more notice of what Daisy had to say.
Princess Smartypants series, Babette Cole
Princess Smartypants does not want to get married. She enjoys being a Ms. But being a rich and pretty princess means that all the princes want her to be their Mrs. Find out how Princess Smartypants fights to preserve her independence in this hilarious fairy-tale-with-a-difference.
Not All Princesses Dress in Pink, Jane Yolen and Heidi Yolen Stemple
Not all princesses dress in pink. Some play in bright red socks that stink, blue team jerseys that don't quite fit,accessorized with a baseball mitt, and a sparkly crown! Not every girl has a passion for pink, but all young ladies will love this empowering affirmation of their importance and unlimited potential.
You can't eat a princess, Gillian Rogerson
When King Cupcake is captured by hungry aliens, it's up to his feisty daughter, Princess Spaghetti, to save him! So she blasts off into space to show those naughty aliens who's boss. But how can she stop them from having the king for dinner? Only by introducing them to something even tastier than people: chocolate!
Mia and the Rocket Ship Tree, Boaz Gavish
Follow Mia and her robot Koala as they embark on their imaginative space adventure
The Mermaid And The Shoe, Keith Campbell
Award-winning author and illustrator K. G. Campbell beautifully captures the watery world of his mermaids with soft blues and greys, long hair rippling in the currents and lots of bubbles.
Katie series, James Mayhew
Come on a magical tour with Katie and discover London's most famous sights! When Katie and her brother Jack visit London with Grandma, something very unexpected happens . . . One of the Trafalgar Square lions comes to life and takes them on a wonderful tour of all the best sights! Including Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, Big Ben and the London Eye.
The Girls, Lauren Ace
Four little girls meet under an apple tree and form a bond that grows as they share secrets, dreams, worries and schemes. This beautifully illustrated tale charts the girls' lives through ups and downs and laughter and tears. Find out how their friendship flourishes as the years pass by and the girls become women.