It’s world book day! Today we celebrate the books that will broaden your child’s imagination and open new worlds of discovery and self-love. Here are some must-reads to add to your kid’s bookshelf.
‘Chocolate Me!’ by Taye Diggs and Shane W. Evans
When a little boy is teased for looking different than other kids because of his dark skin, his mother tells him why he’s beautiful just the way he is. Actor Taye Diggs and Shane W. Evans’ book will help both kids and parents love the skin they’re in.
‘The Snowy Day’ by Ezra Jack Keats
Over 50 years ago, Ezra Jack Keats wrote this story about a young Black child’s imaginative day playing in the snow and we’ve been mesmerized ever since. It’s the perfect read for a bad weather day.
‘Peter’s Chair’ by Ezra Jack Keats
Ezra Jack Keats also gave us the endearing story of Peter who has a hard time adjusting to sharing his toys and furniture with his new baby sister. Any kid with new siblings will relate to Peter’s struggle and his resolution.
Nappy Hair by Carolivia Herron
Nappy Hair by Carolivia Herron is written in the call and response tradition and could be fun to read together with your little one. The illustrations by Joe Cepeda are vibrant and stunning.
‘Ruby Bridges Goes to School: My True Story’ by Ruby Bridges
Simple text and historical photographs help little readers follow the extraordinary story of Ruby Bridges, the first African-American child to integrate a New Orleans school. In the face of racism and segregation, Ruby’s triumphant spirit endures, teaching brown girls they can overcome any obstacle.
‘I Love My Hair’ by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley,’ Illustrations by E.B. Lewis
This delightful story teaches girls to love their hair and their heritage. The affirmative “I love my hair!” really teaches girls to say “I love myself!” A familiar ritual of combing the tangles from a head full of kinks and curls will give brown girls something to relate to in the story. This book, which starts with tears ends in triumph as the narrator imagines the many styles she can wear her kinky, curly hair. Definitely a great read for any girl who is struggling with loving every bit of her brown girl self.
‘The People Could Fly: American Black Folktales’ by Virginia Hamilton
“The People Could Fly” is brightly illustrated retelling of some of the best folk tales, cautionary tales and slave tales that will enchant and educate your little one.
Penny and the Magic Puffballs by Alonda Williams
Penny and the Magic Puffballs by Alonda Williams is the book to buy for your little girl who wishes her hair was like anyone’s but hers—Penny discovers the magic in her hair and that could inspire your little girl to love her own magic puffballs!
‘Amazing Grace’ by Mary Hoffman
“Amazing Grace” is an old school favorite about a young girl who loves stories, movies and plays who fights for the chance to play the lead in Peter Pan. Grace’s fierce determination and love of words will be contagious.
Happy to Be Nappy (Jump at the Sun)
Happy to Be Nappy (Jump at the Sun) by bell hooks is a favorite for a reason. The lessons imparted by the famed feminist scholar are bright and beautiful, and the illustrations by Chris Rashcka just jump off the page.
‘Something Beautiful’ by Sharon Dennis Wyeth
A young girl searches for beautiful things in her inner-city neighborhood and finds that they are actually all around her. Her neighbors show her that there is a lot of beauty in the little things—from a fried fish sandwich to a smooth stone. This story is perfect for teaching our daughters perspective: it’s our outlook that determines our outcome.
‘Of Thee I Sing: A Letter To My Daughters’ by Barack Obama
President Obama’s tender letter to his daughters will make your pre-teen girl feel loved and empowered.
‘Twintuition: Double Vision’ by Tia and Tamera Mowry
The debut book from our favorite twins. Tia and Tamera Mowry team up to tell the story of Cassie and Caitlyn who use their magical abilities to change the future before it can happen.
‘Neon Aliens Ate My Homework And Other Poems’ by Nick Cannon
Nick Cannon combines comedy with storytelling in this book of silly poems and illustrations that just might teach your kid something about the meaning of life. Maybe…
‘Pass It On: African American Poetry for Children’ by Wade Hudson
This book features poems by Countee Cullen, Zora Neale Hurston and Langston Hughes that will give your child pride in their history and culture.
