Books like Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré
Award winning
A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer!
Anika Aldamuy Denise, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires with Rita Moreno's captivating real-life achievements.
Highlights cultural diversity and perseverance.
Encourages artistic expression and following dreams.
Educational insights into historical and social contexts.
A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer!
Anika Aldamuy Denise, 2021
Starring Carmen!
Anika Aldamuy Denise, 2017
32 pages
Why to read
Vibrant story celebrates creativity and family bonds.
Illustrations captivate and stimulate visual learning.
Empowers kids through strong, independent female lead.
Encourages expression in children, boosting confidence.
Starring Carmen!
Anika Aldamuy Denise, 2017
Award winning
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Enhances understanding of African American history.
Strengthens empathy through powerful storytelling.
Encourages critical thinking and discussion.
Beautiful, evocative illustrations complement the narrative.
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, 2021
Award winning
Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun's Thanksgiving Story
Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, Alexis C. Bunten, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Rich in Native American history and culture.
Encourages gratitude and community values.
Beautiful illustrations complement storytelling.
Supports understanding of Thanksgiving from a new perspective.
Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun's Thanksgiving Story
Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, Alexis C. Bunten, 2022
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
Award winning
She Persisted: Pura Belpré
Meg Medina, Chelsea Clinton, Marilisa Jiménez García, 2023
96 pages
Why to read
Inspires with Pura Belpré’s empowering, historical impact.
Highlights cultural diversity and importance of representation.
Encourages perseverance and following one's dreams.
Engages young readers with vibrant storytelling.
She Persisted: Pura Belpré
Meg Medina, Chelsea Clinton, Marilisa Jiménez García, 2023
Award winning
The Tower of Life: How Yaffa Eliach Rebuilt Her Town in Stories and Photographs
Chana Stiefel, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Teaches children about history and resilience through storytelling.
Inspires empathy and understanding through real-life tales.
Beautiful photographs enhance the engaging narrative.
Encourages family discussions about heritage and memory.
The Tower of Life: How Yaffa Eliach Rebuilt Her Town in Stories and Photographs
Chana Stiefel, 2022
Award winning
Where Are You From?
Yamile Saied Méndez, 2019
34 pages
Why to read
Explores identity and belonging through a heartfelt storyline.
Encourages conversations about heritage and personal history.
Supports emotional development and self-awareness in young readers.
Beautifully illustrated, fostering visual and artistic appreciation.
