More Children’s Books Celebrating Racial Inclusion

Here are some more books celebrating families from all backgrounds, races, and cultures. You can see our current list of recommendations here.

My People

Written by Langston Hughes / Illustrated by Charles R. Smith, Jr.

This book pairs Langston Hughes’s inspiring poem with moving photographs. Winner of the Coretta Scott King Award.

Watch a video of My People being read aloud.

Antiracist Baby

By Ibram X. Kendi / Illustrated by Ashley Lukashevsky

What’s antiracism? This uplifting book is a great introduction to ways — both big and small — that families can confront racism. Watch a video of Antiracist Baby being read aloud.

Islandborn

Written by Junit Díaz / Illustrated by Leo Espinosa

For a school assignment, a young girl tries to learn more about the Dominican Republic — the island where she was born but no longer remembers.
Watch a video of Islandborn being read aloud.

All Are Welcome

Written by Alexandra Penfold / Illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman

A celebration of children and their cultural traditions from around the world.

Watch a video of All Are Welcome being read aloud.

Amazing Grace

Written by Mary Hoffman / Illustrated by Caroline Binch

Grace is determined to play Peter Pan in the school play — even though her classmates say she can’t, because she’s both Black and a girl. An inspiring story about following your beliefs and overcoming prejudice.
Watch a video of Amazing Grace being read aloud.

If Dominican Were a Color

Written by Sili Recio / Illustrated by Brianna McCarthy

A beautifully-illustrated celebration of Dominican culture.
Watch a video of If Dominican Were a Color being read aloud.

Listening With My Heart

Written by Gabi Garcia / Illustrated by Ying Hui Tan

A moving story about showing kindness — not just to others, but to ourselves.

Watch a video of Listening with My Heart being read aloud.

Sulwe

Written by Lupita Nyong’o / Illustrated by Vashti Harrison

Written by the Oscar-winning actor, this compelling story encourages children to feel proud of who they are and embrace their skin color.

Watch a video of Sulwe being read aloud.

Whoever You Are

Written by Mem Fox / Illustrated Leslie Staub

A beautifully-illustrated book that shows similarities — and celebrates differences — between children around the world.

Watch a video of Whoever You Are being read aloud.

Freedom Soup

Written by Tami Charles / Illustrated by Jacqueline Alcántara

While she teaches her granddaughter how to make a traditional New Year’s soup, Ti Gran tells the story of Haiti’s independence.

Watch a video of Freedom Soup being read aloud.

Want a copy of one of these books?

Check it out from your local library. Or if you’d like to buy a copy, use Bookshop to find and support an independent bookstore near you.

Get in touch!

Do you have favorite books you’d like to share? Send us an email. We may even use your book in a future list!

Last updated November 17, 2021