As a child, I was completely captivated by reading. My collection of books was so extensive that I often turned playtime with friends into a mini-library experience. I would sneak books into unexpected places, like under the bathroom radiator, to indulge in reading while getting ready for school, and I kept a flashlight under my mattress for late-night reading sessions. Book fairs were the highlight of my school year, especially since my mom volunteered, allowing me to pick up as many books as I pleased. My frequent visits to the library meant I knew exactly where my favorite stories were located. A book was always in my bag; I just couldn’t get enough of them.
Growing up, I adored series like The Baby-Sitters Club by Ann M. Martin and its spin-off, Little Sister. I related most to Stacey, who was from New York City, just like me, and admired Claudia’s unique style. Jessi, the ballerina, struck a chord with me as a fellow dancer. However, it was disheartening to see few characters that looked like me in the stories I loved. While I found books highlighting Black experiences, contemporary children’s literature featuring Black characters alongside white ones was scarce. The only notable ones I remember from the BSC series were Jessi’s family.
As I began writing in my youth, I made sure all my characters reflected my own identity—I longed to see myself in the narratives I created. Thankfully, the publishing industry has recognized the importance of diversity in children’s literature over the past few years. These formative years are crucial for developing a love for reading, and it’s uncommon to hear an adult who claims to have “hated” reading as a child. Though there’s still much work to be done regarding representation in children’s books, movements like #ownvoices are empowering authors of color to share their stories, providing children of color with characters that resemble them—a luxury many of us didn’t have growing up.
Here are 11 diverse children’s books that can help broaden your child’s bookshelf:
- Cleo Edison Oliver, Playground Millionaire by Lisa Smith
Cleopatra Edison Oliver dreams of being an entrepreneur. When her class is assigned a “passion project,” she starts a unique tooth-pulling business while searching for her biological parents. - Hunters of Chaos by Crystal Velasquez
After being accepted into an elite boarding school, Ana discovers she and her friends possess magical powers that enable them to battle the spirits trapped in ancient artifacts at their school. - In a Village by the Sea by Muon Van and April Chu
This beautifully illustrated picture book poetically explores the theme of longing for home, showcasing diverse cultures and offering a rich visual experience. - The Jumbies by Tracey Baptiste
Corinne La Mer isn’t afraid of jumbies—until she sees a pair of eerie yellow eyes in the forbidden forest. When a mysterious stranger threatens her island, Corinne must tap into her hidden courage and magic. - The Gauntlet by Karuna Razi
In this thrilling tale reminiscent of Jumanji, 12-year-old Farah and her friends find themselves trapped in a board game, tasked with rescuing children, including her baby brother, who are ensnared within. - The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson
Clover and Anna live in a segregated town divided by a fence. Despite their differences, they form a friendship that challenges the barriers set before them. - Two Naomis by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich & Audrey Vernick
Naomi Marie and Naomi Edith lead very different lives until their parents’ romantic endeavors force them to collaborate in a class, leading to unexpected lessons. - Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin
Young Minli embarks on a quest to find the Old Man on the Moon to help change her family’s fortune, discovering a world filled with magical characters along her journey. - Save Me a Seat by Sarah Weeks & Gita Varadarajan
Joe and Ravi, from different backgrounds, unite to confront their school bully, realizing they might have more in common than they initially thought. - Moving Target by Christina Diaz Gonzalez
When her father’s life is endangered in Rome, Cassie Arroyo learns about her ancient bloodline and the monumental responsibility that comes with it. - Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
Jabari, ready to conquer the diving board, faces his fears before taking the leap, showcasing the importance of courage and self-confidence.
As we continue to advocate for diversity in children’s literature, supporting these books by purchasing, borrowing, or donating them to schools is crucial. Representation is essential, and it’s vital to convey to children that their stories matter. In these challenging times, we must ensure every child knows their narrative is important.
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In summary, enriching your child’s bookshelf with diverse stories not only broadens their worldview but also fosters an appreciation for different cultures and experiences.