Diverse Children's Books: Where to Find Them and Why Inclusion Is Important
Inquiry into the benefits of incorporating varied perspectives in children’s literature is a critical aspect of exploring cultural diversity in education and at home. Diversity in children’s books expands horizons, heightens emotional intelligence, and enhances social sensitivity.
Your questions answered:
- Why is diversity important for children?
- How do children’s books support cultural diversity?
- Why are multicultural books important for kids?
- What is considered a diverse book?
- Why are diverse books important in preschool?
- What are some tips for selecting diverse children’s literature?
- Can you help me find diverse books that promote inclusion and understanding?
Why Is Inclusivity Important in Children’s Books?
The Importance of Having a Place Within the Pages
Studies indicate that exposure to diverse books is crucial in fostering communal understanding, while raising societal awareness of multicultural practices.
The United States is a melting pot of diversity, shaped by immigration since its very inception. However, despite this diversity, many cultures and communities remain underrepresented in American culture. This is especially true in children’s publishing and children’s books.
According to the Diversity in Children’s Books 2018 infographic compiled by David Huyck and Sarah Park Dahlen with statistics compiled by the Cooperative Children’s Book Center, 50% of children’s books feature and focus on white characters. In comparison, only 5% of books feature Latinx characters, only 10% feature African American characters, only 1% feature Native American characters, and only 7% feature Asian characters.
This lack of diversity and representation in children’s books matters enormously. As children’s author Zetta Elliot writes, “I write predominantly about Black children because I grew up believing I was invisible in the real world, and it hurt just as much to discover that I was also invisible in the realm of the imaginary.” The push for greater diversity in children’s books is not about political correctness; it is about meeting the real needs of all children with books they can relate to, see themselves in, and feel inspired by.
What Is Considered a Diverse Book?
The question at hand pertains to the defining characteristics of a book that is considered diverse. In the academic realm, the term ‘diverse’ has been applied to literature that is representative of, or includes perspectives from, individuals or groups who may not be adequately represented in mainstream literature. This includes individuals of various ethnicity, races, genders, and sexual orientations, among other characteristics. Some scholars also state that diversity can extend to the inclusion of books that explore themes such as mental illness, disability, and physical diversity.
In essence, a diverse book can be understood as one that expands upon and challenges the predominantly white and cisgendered narratives that have historically dominated the literary landscape.
Why Are Diverse Books Important in Preschool and All Classrooms?
Diverse literature should be integrated into early childhood education to promote inclusivity and cultural proficiency.
When selecting varied children’s literature, conscious consideration of themes and characters sets the foundation for immersive, contemplative reading. Inclusive literature in the classroom empowers students by celebrating identity, respecting differences, and creating a safe space for discussions on cultural competency. Conclusively, teaching reading in diverse classrooms means showcasing perspectives and relatability, paving the way for meaningful, fulfilling educational experiences.
You may also want to read: 5 Reasons Why Books with Characters of Diversity Are Important
How to Choose Multicultural Childrens Books?
Choosing Racially Diverse Books
To assess a book’s diversity, variables such as representation, characters, and themes must be considered.
In line with the growing awareness of and public outcry against systemic racism in the United States, resources are plentiful for parents and educators who want to support racial diversity in children’s reading choices. At the top of the list is the dedicated website and organization, We Need Diverse Books. Visitors to the website can find teaching resources, book lists, blog articles about diversity in children’s literature, and information about the many programs, awards, and advocacy initiatives managed by the organization.
Another fantastic resource is The Children’s Book Council (CBC) website, which offers diversity in YA literature reading list and a resource list for social inclusivity and information about the CBC Diversity Initiative, including resources and book awards. For those interested in deepening their understanding of diversity in children’s literature, scholarly publications such as International Research in Children’s Literature and The Lion and the Unicorn and dedicated review periodicals such as the Horn Book Magazine offer a wealth of in-depth discussion from industry experts.
As you set out to select books, it is worth keeping in mind that diversity means, by definition, variety. The more comprehensive the representation of races, cultures, and ethnicities in the characters and authors you choose, the more diverse your selection will be.
Choosing Gender- and Sexuality-Inclusive Books
Although resources supporting gender and sexuality diversity in children’s books are less readily available, the publication and dissemination of children’s and YA books featuring lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ+) characters or by LGBTQ+ authors/illustrators continues to grow. In an article for the NCTE LGBTQ Advisory Committee, Stephen Adam Crawley offers links to resources for educators and definitions, themes, and reading suggestions. A webinar provided by Lee & Low Books is equally useful, titled LGBTQ+ Children’s Books.
Some fantastic recent publications include Jack (Not Jackie) by Erica Silverman, Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love, and From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea by Kai Yun Ching and Kai Cheng. Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas, The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar, and Lie to Me by Kaitlin Ward are excellent recent publications for older readers.
Choosing Ability-Inclusive Books
As with LGBTQ+ representation, resources supporting ability-inclusive literature and representation of disabilities are less readily available, but they can and should be found. According to writers on the Open Book Blog, children’s books representing physically and/or intellectually diverse characters remain scarce. Of those that do exist, themes of pity and dehumanization and the over-representation of white male characters have limited the inclusiveness of the genre.
In an open-access article in Disability Studies Quarterly, Donna Sayers Adomat writes that “[b]ooks about disability … inevitably frame their students’ opinions regarding disability” and recommends choosing books that “[portray] characters with disabilities as independent, equal, and socially active.” If you are just starting your list, Think Inclusive offers a great list of titles for younger readers, including We’re All Wonders by R.J. Palacio and Hands and Hearts by Donna Jo Napoli. The Disability in Kid Lit site reviews more great choices, including titles for older readers, like Stoner & Spaz by Ron Koertge and Wonderstruck by Brian Selznick.
Improving Diversity in Children’s Books
Improving diversity in children’s books can be tackled at a range of different levels. At the highest level, responsibility must be taken by the publishing houses and editorial boards, which act as “gatekeepers,” deciding what will be published and promoted to children, parents, and educators nationwide. According to Lee & Low Books, compilers of the Diversity Baseline Survey, the lack of diversity among employees in the publishing industry is a key contributor to the problem.
It may seem that there is little that those outside the industry can do to tackle this issue. However, because it is the interest and spending power of the public that drives publishing decisions, there is a lot that can be done by individual educators, librarians, parents, booksellers, and influencers to improve the diversity of books our children are exposed to. Most critically, we can choose to support, promote, and buy books featuring diverse characters created by diverse authors and illustrators.
Our List of Diverse Children’s Books
Here you can explore a diverse range of children’s books that celebrate differences and promote inclusion. Let’s inspire empathy and understanding in children from all walks of life. Every child deserves representation in the books they read. Together, let’s broaden horizons and create a brighter world for future generations.
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Children’s Books Promoting Diversity, Empathy, Culture
Inspirational Soccer Book for Kids Compilation is a practical and inspiring book for any reader who loves soccer and wants to improve their playing.
With its bright, joyful illustrations and rhythmic, parallel text, Millie & Mina is a heartwarming celebration of friendship across cultures.
Far more than just a book about soccer, this is a book about social-emotional intelligence, transformation, and achieving your dreams.
Funny, exciting, and fact-filled, Armando and the Amazing Animal Race is a superb adventure for all explorers-in-the-making.
Sweet, instructive, and interactive, Hi! I’m Cher. I Go Everywhere is a joyful learning tool for readers ready to explore mindfulness and self-expression.
A second-gen Korean American teen faces family pressure, identity struggles, fitting in, and first crushes in this heartfelt, relatable middle-grade novel.
Join us as author Lisa Tolin discusses her new picture book, Can You Imagine?: The Art and Life of Yoko Ono, and takes listeners beyond the Beatles narrative.
Today we chat with Jeanne Walker Harvey, author of The Glass Pyramid, a stunning picture book about I.M. Pei and the iconic Louvre transformation.
Inspirational Soccer Stories for Kids 2 In 1: Lionel Messi Biography for Kids is the perfect blend of inspiration and soccer knowledge for young soccer players.
A valuable addition to school libraries and home collections, The Glass Pyramid offers young readers an engaging introduction to architecture and I.M. Pei.