Books like Saltypie: A Choctaw Journey from Darkness Into Light
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
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.
Where Are You From?
Yamile Saied Méndez, 2019
Award winning
Binny's Diwali
Thrity Umrigar, 2020
34 pages
Why to read
Celebrates Diwali traditions, enhancing cultural awareness.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual perception.
Encourages understanding of diversity and inclusivity.
Reinforces importance of friendship and community.
Binny's Diwali
Thrity Umrigar, 2020
Award winning
Tía Fortuna's New Home: A Jewish Cuban Journey
Ruth Behar, Devon Holzwarth, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and diversity.
Explores themes of adaptation and resilience.
Strengthens family bonds through shared history.
Enhances empathy and understanding across cultures.
Tía Fortuna's New Home: A Jewish Cuban Journey
Ruth Behar, Devon Holzwarth, 2022
Award winning
Peeny Butter Fudge
Toni Morrison, Slade Morrison, 2009
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates creativity and spontaneity in family interactions.
Illustrates strong, loving intergenerational relationships.
Encourages understanding of family traditions and values.
Supports language development with playful, rhythmic text.
Peeny Butter Fudge
Toni Morrison, Slade Morrison, 2009
Award winning
Cinderella of the Nile
Beverley Naidoo, 2018
32 pages
Why to read
Vibrant retelling of the oldest known Cinderella story.
Enhances cultural awareness and historical understanding.
Stimulates empathy and moral development.
Rich, engaging narrative fosters language skills.
Cinderella of the Nile
Beverley Naidoo, 2018
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.
