Books Supporting Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

“Children who are read to learn two things: First, that reading is worthwhile, and second, that they are worthwhile.” Laura Bush

Children's literature is an effective tool for supporting a responsive program where all children are included.  Choosing books representative of the children, families, and culture of the classroom strengthens relationships and builds community.  The following list is a sample of the rich, engaging children's books that support equity, diversity, and inclusion in early childhood classrooms and homes.  Your local or school library is also an excellent resource for additional titles and resources.

Featured Favorites

Happy in Our Skin by Fran Manushkin, illustrated by Lauren Tobia (2015)

Happy in Our Skin by Fran Manushkin, illustrated by Lauren Tobia (2015)

Bright, cheerful images, sweet faces of all ages, and perfectly rhyming text will make this a favorite read-aloud for young children. The beautifully diverse illustrations are an exuberant celebration of skin color and community.  As the community gathers, all ages, races, abilities, and religions are playfully enjoying the day.  This delightful book will be a well-worn addition to any collection.

Ages 2-5

After The Story

Look at the bright and wonderfully diverse illustrations.  Have children find families whose skin or hair matches their own. What other features do children notice?

Just like in the book, invite children to paint pictures of themselves with skin-colored paint (or markers).  Invite children to make hand or fingerprints on their papers too.  Hang the portraits (or create class books) and encourage children to tell a partner or family member about their pictures.

Littles and How They Grow by Kelly DiPucchio Illustrated by AG Ford (2017).

Littles and How They Grow by Kelly DiPucchio Illustrated by AG Ford (2017).

Families will love this sweet journey as newborns become toddlers and are finally ready for the first day of school.  Busy days full of snuggling with mommies, bubbly baths with daddies, peek-a-book with family, sleeping, eating, laughter, and tears.  Beautiful images of diverse babies and their families are cheerful and engaging—a perfect program or home library addition.

Ages baby to 2 years 

Responses to Reading

With little ones, find the babies on the cover and count them. Remember, little ones may enjoy listening to favorite sections instead of the entire book.  The Littles and How They Grow is a great choice to read with older children who have a newborn in the family.  Ask how they like to spend time with the baby.  Do they cuddle them, rock them, play or read?

Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match by M Brown (2011)

Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match by M Brown (2011)

Marisol McDonald is a Peruvian Scottish American, and she is magnificently unique.  Marisol is happy with her bright-colored hair, mismatched clothes, and peanut butter burritos. Her friends tell Marisol she doesn't match, but trying to fit in doesn't feel right. In the end, a caring, thoughtful teacher writes a note to Marisol to encourage her to embrace her individuality.

(Ages 4-8) English/Spanish

After The Story

Read the book in English and Spanish or invite a special guest to read it with children. Reading in both languages reinforces that we should celebrate languages different from our own.  

Talk about what mismatched means.  Ask children if they have ever experienced feeling different or having other kids make fun of them. What did that feel like?  Encourage children to brainstorm ideas for making sure all children feel comfortable with who they are.

Do all children like the same snacks? No! What are some of your favorite snacks? Make a snack with your teacher or favorite grown-up.  Try peanut butter and jelly burritos just for fun.

Red, A Crayon's Story by Michael Hall (2015)

Red, A Crayon's Story by Michael Hall (2015)

In this clever story, a blue crayon lives in a red wrapper. Red strives to be the best red crayon by drawing what red crayons draw.  After many attempts and advice from others, he is still unable to meet the expectations of the red wrapper. Finally, when another crayon suggests he draw blue, he is joyfully free to express himself as a blue crayon.  This colorful celebration of individual differences is a great way to make connections through art.

(Ages 4-8)

After The Story

Pair up children, or a parent and child can work together.  Open a box of crayons (or markers) and invite each person to choose a favorite crayon.  After selecting a crayon, decide what you will draw together. Did everyone choose the same color? Display the pictures and discuss how we are all different and should celebrate those differences.

Encourage children to think about their strengths and the things they enjoy most.  Is everyone the same? What did Berry do to be a good friend to Red? What are some favorite things you like to do with a friend or family member?

Thank You, Omu! By Oge Mora (2018) Ages 4-8 years

Thank You, Omu! By Oge Mora (2018) Ages 4-8 years

This award-winning is a beautifully illustrated sweet story of sharing, gratitude, and community.  When Omu makes her stew, the aroma reaches the noses of everyone in her neighborhood! One by one, they visit her, and she shares helpings of the stew she was cooking for her dinner.  The pot is empty, and Omu is left without dinner until the whole neighborhood brings food to her.  They all celebrated together as they expressed their gratitude to Omu.  

After the Story

Initially, Omu was happy to share, but she was a bit sad when her pot was empty at the end of the day.  Have you ever had to share something when it was hard? 

Who are the people in your life that you are thankful for? How could you show them you are grateful for all they do for you?

The little boy writes a thank you note to Omu.  Can you write a thank you note (with help) or draw a picture for someone in your life?

What could you cook or bake to share that would smell so good everyone would want to share? With the help of a grown-up, could you make cookies at your school or home?  What other ways could you share something yummy at your school or home?

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More Favorites

  • Alma and How She Got Her Name, by Juana Martinex-Neal (2018)

    Ages 4 and up

  • B is for Baby by Atinuke Illustrated by Angela Brooksbank (2019)

    Ages 3-7

  • Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes (1991)

     Ages 3-9 years

  • Last Stop on Market Street by Matt De La Peña, Illustrated by Christian Robinson (2015)

    Ages 3-5 years.

  • May Your Life Be Deliciosa by Michael Genhart Illustrated by Lois Lora (2021)

    Ages 3-8

  • My Hair is Beautiful by Shauntay Grant (2019)

    Ages Baby -4 years

  • My Heart Fills With Happiness by Monique Gray Smith Illustrated by Julie Flett (2016)

    Ages Baby to 3 years

  • One is a Pinata, A Book of Numbers, by Roseanne Greenfield Thong, Illustrated by John Parra (2019)

    Ages 3-5 years

  • Papa, Do You Love Me? By Barbara M. Josse Illustrated by Barbara Lavallee (2005)

    A perfect follow-up companion to Mama Do You Love Me? from the same author and illustrator.

    PowWow Day by Traci Sorell Illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight (2022)

    Ages 4-8 years

  • Something, Someday by Amanda Gorman, Illustrated by Christian Robinson (2023)

    Ages 4-8 years

  • Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev Illustrated by Taeeun Yoo

    Ages 2-5 years

  • The Big Umbrella by Amy June Bates, Cowritten with Juniper Bates (2018)

    Ages 3-6

  • The Colors Of Us by Karen Datz (2002)

    Ages 2-5 years

  • Want To Play Trucks? By Ann Stott Illustrated by Bob Graham (2018)

    Ages 3-7 years

  • We All Play by Julie Flett (2021)

    Ages 3-7

  • Where Are You From? by Yamile Saied Mendez Illustrated by Jaime Kim

    Ages 4-8 years

    Listen to Yamile Saied Mendez read her book aloud on YouTube.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqaIE1Skn6Y

  • Whoever You Are by Mem Fox Illustrated by Leslie Staub (2006)

    (Ages 2-6) 

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Ideas for Sharing Books with Children

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Library Connections

Check Out the local library in your Wyoming community.  Librarians are an excellent resource and can help you find the perfect books for your classroom, program, or home.  If you can’t get to your local library, try the Libby App!

Use your local library card and access the Libby App for children’s books on your phone, tablet, or computer. 

https://library.wyo.gov/find-thousands-of-e-books-and-audiobooks-in-gowyld-with-libby