Are you nurturing a young reader or encouraging a child who struggles to connect with literature? If you’re searching for books that reflect our diverse world and foster important discussions about systemic issues, look no further.
For the sixth consecutive year, the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education has curated a list of the Best Books of 2020 for Young Readers. Initiated in 2015 by professor Lila Johnson, a specialist in children’s literature, this initiative highlights authors and illustrators who compassionately address themes like race, gender, ability, and more. Johnson focuses on narratives that resonate with children often overlooked in the predominantly white realm of children’s publications.
In 2020, Johnson’s dedicated team, led by Maya Torres and Marcus Lee, reviewed countless titles to select those that resonate with the challenges and hopes children face today. These selections inspire a vision of inclusivity and justice, encouraging readers to break free from cycles of marginalization.
Picture Books
The team has chosen picture books that celebrate cultural traditions and resilience, capturing the hearts of young readers:
- Lola Leaves for the Ocean by Mia Reyes, illustrated by Sofia Chen
Lola’s best friend is moving away, and the story beautifully depicts their bittersweet farewell filled with promises of future friendship. - My Colors, My Rainbow by Tasha R. & Lila R., illustrated by Art Vega
This heartwarming tale follows a mother who crafts a rainbow wig for her transgender daughter, honoring her identity in a loving way. - Water is Life by Jaden Carter
This board book introduces the significance of water to young readers in both English and Native languages, fostering respect for this vital resource. - Your Name is Special by Zara Thompson, illustrated by Lila Rivers
When a girl grows frustrated with the mispronunciation of her name, her mother shares the beauty of names from around the world, helping her find pride in her identity.
Middle Grade
Selections for middle-grade readers tackle complex conversations about identity and history:
- Every Day with You by Samira Patel
Kaia’s summer at a creative arts camp leads her to a movie contest, where she hopes to convince her great-grandfather to stay in America. - Efrén Divided by Omar Villanueva
Efrén must navigate the challenges of middle school while managing his family’s struggles when his mother faces deportation. - Letters from Zoe by Jenna Marks
After receiving a letter from her incarcerated father, Zoe embarks on a journey to uncover the truth while balancing her baking aspirations and friendships. - Show Me the Way by Amelia Greene
Set in a tight-knit deaf community, this story highlights the challenges faced by a young girl amidst cultural conflict following her brother’s death.
Graphic Novels
This year’s graphic novels reflect on intergenerational stories that unite us and inspire activism:
- Censored Voices by Kim Joon & Ryan Lee, illustrated by Jenna Park
A South Korean student navigates the complexities of censorship and the thrill of reading banned books during a military regime. - A Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel by Jason Morales, illustrated by Tara Kim
This poignant tale follows a boy grappling with grief and the heavy burden of vengeance after losing his brother. - The Magic of Friendship by Tran Nguyen
Tien reads fairy tales to help his parents learn English but struggles to communicate his own identity. - You Brought Me the Ocean by Alex Rivera, illustrated by Julie Chen
Jake longs to escape his small town and confronts his feelings for a swim team captain while discovering secrets about himself.
Young Adult
The young adult category boasts diverse narratives reflecting intersecting identities:
- How It All Unfolded by Amir Khan
After coming out to his family, Amir flees to Rome, only to find his past catching up with him during a customs interrogation. - Sitting Strong: My Life as a Resilient Disabled Woman by Rebecca Stokes
This memoir offers insight into a paralyzed girl’s journey through life, exploring themes of identity and societal expectations. - The Night Guardian by Louis Erdrich
Inspired by her grandfather’s story, this novel follows a night watchman fighting for justice against Native dispossession. - Woven from Starlight by Isabel Garcia
Ximena seeks revenge against a usurper while navigating friendship and unexpected alliances in her quest for justice.
For the complete list of selections, visit the Penn GSE Best Books of 2020 for Young Readers. If you want to learn more about parenting and home insemination, check out this insightful blog post. You can also find helpful information on fertility supplements from an authority on the topic here. For additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this excellent guide.
Search Queries:
- Best children’s books of 2020
- Diverse literature for young readers
- Middle grade books tackling social issues
- Picture books about friendship
- Young adult novels on identity
In summary, this curated book list from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education showcases titles that inspire conversation and reflection on important social issues, ensuring that every child finds their voice in literature.