Top-rated books by Patricia Polacco
Books like Patricia Polacco’s
Award winning
Black Boy, Black Boy
Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and empowerment for young Black boys.
Nurtures self-identity and self-worth in children.
Inspires resilience and ambition through relatable storytelling.
Supports developmental growth in empathy and emotional intelligence.

Black Boy, Black Boy
Ali Kamanda, Jorge Redmond, 2022
Mindy Kim and the Fun Family Vacation
Lyla Lee, 2025
80 pages
Why to read
Culturally rich travel adventure.
Teaches adaptability and empathy.
Accessible text with lively art.
Perfect springboard for family talks.

Mindy Kim and the Fun Family Vacation
Lyla Lee, 2025
Award winning
My Day with the Panye
Tami Charles, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates Haitian culture and family traditions.
Teaches resilience and the importance of community.
Empowers readers through strong female role models.
Encourages understanding and appreciation of diverse lifestyles.

My Day with the Panye
Tami Charles, 2021
Award winning
Hair Twins
Raakhee Mirchandani, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural identity and family bonds.
Encourages self-expression and confidence through relatable storytelling.
Illustrations enhance comprehension and engagement.
Supports emotional development and inclusivity.

Hair Twins
Raakhee Mirchandani, 2021
Award winning
Like Lava in My Veins
Derrick Barnes, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Explores emotional regulation through creative storytelling.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Supports development of coping strategies in children.
Engaging narrative that strengthens reading skills.

Like Lava in My Veins
Derrick Barnes, 2023
Award winning
Mango, Abuela, and Me
Angela Dominguez, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Bridges generational and cultural gaps effectively.
Enhances bilingual language skills.
Strengthens family bonds through storytelling.
Encourages empathy and understanding.

Mango, Abuela, and Me
Angela Dominguez, 2022
Award winning
Soul Food Sunday
Winsome Bingham Bingham, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates family traditions through cooking and sharing meals.
Strengthen bonds with intergenerational, culturally rich storytelling.
Enhances understanding of community and togetherness.
Vivid illustrations complement engaging, heartwarming narrative.

Soul Food Sunday
Winsome Bingham Bingham, 2021
Award winning
My Powerful Hair
Carole Lindstrom, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and self-expression through hair.
Encourages confidence and self-love in young readers.
Supports understanding and acceptance of individual differences.
Interactive, engaging narrative for shared reading moments.
