From parenting how-tos to books that help kids look for — and be — the good in the world, these books promote respect, compassion, and dignity. For kids, parents, caregivers, teachers and anyone else in our communities, this list offers important reminders of diversity, equity, and inclusion, key to standing up for human rights.
You can also read along with the little ones in your life using books from our Pride collections!
Most People by Michael Leannah
Looks at the goodness of most people, pointing out how many more people there are in the world who would like to help others than would like to hurt them, and even most of those who do bad things can change. Ages 3-5.
Something Good by Marcy Campbell
Students are upset and begin acting mean after something bad is written on a school bathroom wall, but talking, listening, and an art project help them remember who they are. Ages 4-8.
The Breaking News by Sarah Lynne Reul
Touches on themes of community, resilience, and optimism with an authenticity that will resonate with readers young and old. Ages 4-8.
Come With Me by Holly M. McGhee
When the news reports are flooded with tales of hatred and fear, a girl asks her papa what she can do to make the world a better place and learns to champion the power of kindness, bravery, and friendship in the face of uncertainty. Ages 5-8.
IntersectionAllies: We Make Room For All by Chelsea Johnson, LaToya Council, and Carolyn Choi
A celebration of solidarity, allyship, and community and a welcoming resource for conversations about equality and social justice that shows readers how identities are made up of myriad influences. Ages 6-12.
Allies: Real Talk About Showing Up, Screwing Up, And Trying Again edited by Shakirah Bourne and Dana Alison Levy
As an ally, you use your power—no matter how big or small—to support others. You learn, and try, and mess up, and try harder. In this collection of true stories, 17 critically acclaimed and bestselling YA authors get real about being an ally, needing an ally, and showing up for friends and strangers. Ages 12+.
Raising LGBTQ Allies by Chris Tompkins
No matter who we are or where we come from, we all play on the same playground. By showing readers the importance of having open and authentic conversations with children at a young age, Chris Tompkins walks parents through the many ways they can prevent new generations from adopting homophobic and transphobic beliefs, while helping them explore their own subconscious biases.
Social Justice Parenting by Traci Baxley
Dr. Baxley, a mother of five herself, suggests that parenting is a form of activism, and encourages parents to acknowledge their influence in developing compassionate, socially-conscious kids.
Woke Parenting by Faith G. Harper and Bonnie Kime Scott
This book will help you raise a new generation of civil rights leaders and activists who will change the world for the better-all while maintaining your own separate identity and relationships, and without losing your mind.
Bringing Up Race: How To Raise A Kind Child In A Prejudiced World by Uju Asika
Bringing Up Race is an important book for all families, whatever their race or ethnicity. It's for everyone who wants to instill a sense of open-minded inclusivity in their kids, and those who want to discuss difference instead of shying away from tough questions.
How To Raise An Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi
Tragedies and reckonings around racism have created a specific crisis for parents, educators, and other caregivers. Teaching kids about the reality of racism and the myth of race provides a protective education in our diverse and unequal world. It is never too early or late to start raising young people to be antiracist.
Transgender Children And Youth: Cultivating Pride And Joy With Families In Transition by Elijah C. Nealy
A comprehensive guide to understanding, supporting, and welcoming trans kids. Covering everything from family life to school and mental health issues, as well as the physical, social, and emotional aspects of transition, this book is full of best practices to support trans kids.
The Beginner's Guide To Being A Trans Ally by Christina Whittlesey
This easy-to-read guide offers information and advice to anyone wanting to understand more about trans experiences. Filled with real-life examples and FAQs, it offers helpful strategies to navigate respectful conversations, speak up against transphobia and create inclusive relationships and spaces.
Raising Multiracial Children: Tools For Nurturing Identity In A Racialized World by Farzana Nayani
The essential guide to parenting multiracial and multiethnic children of all ages-and learning to nourish, support, and celebrate their multiracial identity.
