Books like Premlata and the Festival of Lights
Award winning
Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope
Jodie Patterson, Charnelle Pinkney Barlow, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates individuality and acceptance.
Encourages understanding diverse identities and expressions.
Inspires courage and resilience in adversity.
Family bonding through meaningful discussions.

Born Ready: The True Story of a Boy Named Penelope
Jodie Patterson, Charnelle Pinkney Barlow, 2021
Award winning
Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
Benjamin Dean, 2021
352 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of diversity and acceptance.
Encourages understanding of LGBTQ+ community.
Develops empathy through engaging storytelling.
Inspires adventure and family bonding.

Me, My Dad and the End of the Rainbow
Benjamin Dean, 2021
Award winning
The Cape of Wonders
Kevin Johnson, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Sparks imagination with a magical, captivating narrative.
Features relatable, diverse characters promoting inclusivity.
Enhances problem-solving through engaging plot twists.
Encourages family bonding through shared reading adventures.

The Cape of Wonders
Kevin Johnson, 2023
Award winning
What Are Your Words?: A Book About Pronouns
Katherine Locke, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Explores identity through creative use of pronouns.
Encourages respect and understanding of diverse identities.
Supports language development and personal expression.
Engaging illustrations enhance reading enjoyment.

What Are Your Words?: A Book About Pronouns
Katherine Locke, 2021
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
Salat in Secret
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Promotes cultural understanding and religious awareness.
Enhances empathy through diverse character representation.
Encourages respect for personal beliefs and practices.
Supports inclusive and global perspectives in young readers.

Salat in Secret
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, 2023
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
Karen's Birthday
Ann M. Martin, 2023
160 pages
Why to read
Captivating storyline celebrating milestones and growth.
Characters exhibit realistic emotions and decisions.
Enhances understanding of friendship and sharing.
Supports social skills development through engaging narrative.

