Though it is important for young readers to understand the history and complexity of oppression, racism, and discrimination, children of colour deserve to see themselves thrive and experience the joy of being part of a loving community. These books reflect the daily lives of children and the joy of play, family and friends, and being themselves.
Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick D. Barnes
Celebrates the magnificent feeling of walking out of a barber shop with newly-cut hair. Ages 3-8.
The Electric Slide and Kai by Kelly J. Baptist
Can Kai break through his nerves and break it down on the dance floor? Ages 4-7.
Magic Like That by Samara Cole Doyon
While her mother works magic styling her hair, a young Black girl recalls how her hairstyles can reflect the natural world and show that her hair can be elegant, mischievous, or whimsical. Ages 4-7.
Bedtime for Sweet Creatures by Nikki Grimes
A beloved and very sleepy little boy resists his mother's efforts to put him to bed. Ages 4-8.
Dreaming Up: A Celebration Of Building by Christy Hale
A picture book that connects great works of architecture to the ways children build and play. Ages 5-8.
Sunday Shopping by Sally Derby
Every Sunday night a young girl and her grandmother go on an imaginary shopping trip using play money and the advertisements in the newspaper as a guide for their purchases. Ages 5-8.
