Written by Jerome Pumphrey, Illustrated by Jarrett Pumphrey, Published by Norton Young Readers, 2020 (fiction, ages 3-5)
My youngest, who is four, absolutely adored this book. It has such a simplistic and lovely text, but what he really enjoyed was the beautiful illustrations showing how the young girl ends up growing up and taking over the farm and fixing the old truck on her own. In the author and illustrator bios it is revealed that the pair are brothers and they wanted to pay tribute to the women in their family who managed their own farms.
BACKGROUND
On a small farm, a truck worked hard. It also got to experience many seasons and dreams as the young Black daughter of the farmers grows into her own dreams.
BEST FOR
About a two minute read aloud that can be easily stretched depending how much you explore the illustrations. This would be a great book to practice inference, observing the passage of time, family traditions, and growing up.
Written by Asma Mobin-Uddin, Illustrated by Laura Jacobsen, Published by Boyds Mills Press, 2007. (Ages 5-9)
I remember pulling this title off the shelf and reading it during a quiet moment between classes. What I appreciate about it, is that it is a rare title that talks about Eid al-Adha which is an Islam celebration that takes place later than Ramadan and centers around the Hajj pilgrimage. You also get to see the protagonist Aneesa practice compassion and generosity. I cannot tell you how important it is to have titles like these can help teach children to be empathetic and thoughtful of others.
BACKGROUND
Aneesa and her grandma enjoy celebrating Eid al-Adha with many gifts and food. However when she finds out that there are some within her community who may not get any gifts, Aneesa finds herself deciding what she really wants to celebrate.
BEST FOR
About a fifteen to twenty minute read aloud. It can been read over several days at a time. A great way to highlight Eid al-Adha, grandparents, compassion, and generosity.
Written by Tina Cho, Illustrated by Jess. X Snow, Published by Kokila, 2020. (Picture book, Ages 5-8)
When I first learned about the diving women in Jeju, Korea I thought that it was absolutely awesome! So I got even more excited to learn that there was a picture book about them! The story is great too. A young girl is scared of her first dive into the ocean, but her grandmother doesn’t downplay her fears and gently helps her to successfully complete a dive.
BACKGROUND
Dayeon wants to be like her grandmother and dive to collect different treasures of the ocean, but when it comes to the actual dive she starts to hesitate. Will the breathing exercises and lessons her grandmother taught her work?
BEST FOR
About a ten minute read aloud that is great for a unit about the ocean, diving, relationships with grandparents, or overcoming fears.
Written and Illustrated by Holman Wang, Published by Tundra, 2019. (Realistic Fiction, Ages 3-5)
Thanks for your patience! I have been slowly working myself back up to normal pace after some travel and getting a new puppy! For father’s day, I wanted to highlight a uniquely illustrated book series by Holman Wang. He makes wool models, sets, and he photographs them against life sized backdrops. As a result, young and older readers alike get to enjoy playful pictures accompanied by a simple narrative.
BACKGROUND
An Asian American father may go to a desk job everyday, but that doesn’t come close to the plethora of jobs he does for love at home with his two kids.
BEST FOR
This three minute read aloud is great for father’s day, discussing caregivers and family members, family relationships, and different types of art.
Written by Anika Aldamuy Denise, Illustrated by Leo Espinosa, Published by Harper, 2020 (Biography, Ages 6-13)
I am obsessed with musicals, especially during my teenage years, and the musical number “America” from West Side Story still invokes as much joy as it did the first time I watched it. As many know, the magnetic performance of Rita Moreno is a big part why it’s considered one of the most memorable moments caught on film. She even won an Oscar for it. So I was so excited when I saw that they were going to publish a picture book on her remarkable life.
BACKGROUND
Rita Moreno was signing and dancing for as long as she can remember in Costa Rica. When her and her mother ends up moving to America, she must navigate a new culture, language, while still pursuing her dream to perform.
BEST FOR
This fifteen minute read aloud would be great for a biography unit, discussing singing, dancing, or a great example of going for your dreams.
Written and Illustrated by Kam Mak, Published by HarperCollins, 2001. (Fiction, Ages 5-9)
Chinatown is closely entwined in my childhood memories. I always saw it as a place of comfort and familiarity no matter where I was in the world. It also is a place filled with little wonders and the most delectable treats! Now with my own sons it makes me so happy that they too see trips to Chinatown as a treat. Kam Mak captures the sights, sounds and smells, ubiquitous with Chinatown so perfectly with breathtaking artwork. You can seriously pour over the illustrations for hours.
BACKGROUND
A young boy is homesick for Hong Kong, but as he explores New York’s Chinatown he finds comfort in familiar sights and sounds. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
About a fifteen minute read aloud that would be great to highlight family, community, and Chinese New Year.
Written by Shaw Kuzki, Translated by Emily Balistrieri, Published by Delacorte Press, 2021. (Historical Fiction, Ages 10-14)
This book blew me away. I picked it up because of its striking cover, then upon reading it found that it was a story of students creating an art exhibit exploring the first hand effects of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on their community. While it addresses World War II, the primary focus is the grief. The older generation had refrained from talking openly about the loss to their children, but the trauma is simply too encompassing and interconnected to ignore. Yes the subject is heavy, but the author does a amazing job facing the ugliness and loss while offering hope and healing. It is rare to find a children’s book about this subject and the author is a second-generation A-bomb survivor. This is a translated edition.
BACKGROUND
Nozomi asks her mother why her family releases an unnamed lantern when honoring their loved ones during Bon. While she is aware that her town of Hiroshima was bombed at the end of the war, what she didn’t know just how many members of her community are still grieving their lost ones. When she brings this up with her classmates they decide to create an art show honoring all who were lost and their stories. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is best for students who look for emotionally poignant stories, Word War II books, with themes of inter-generational trauma, grief, and healing.
Written by Todd Yamashita, Illustrated by Jamie Meckel Tablason, Published by BeachHouse, 2014. (Realistic Fiction, Ages 4-8)
Thanks to my colleague @taotaotaitai on Instagram she helped me find publishers and resources to Pasifika children’s literature. With May celebrating AAPI, the PI – Pacific Islander part is sadly overlooked. This year, Instagrammer @thisislandreads has initiated the hashtag #pasifikareadathonchallege. Make sure to follow them to learn more! I was super excited to get my hands on a few Pasifika titles including this one!
BACKGROUND
In Hawaii, Uncle’s thrownet is known to catch every kind of fish that is in the sea. When a child questions why his thrownet has a hole in it, Uncle explains the importance of only taking what you need and sharing with others. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
About a seven minute read aloud that is great for modeling responsibility, taking care of the environment, sharing, and respect of nature and others.
Written by Danny Ramadan, Illustrated by Anna Bron, Published by Annick Press, 2020. (Realistic Fiction, Ages 5-9)
I’m continuing with the theme of food. With mother’s day yesterday it made me think of Salma, the heroine of this book who decides she wants to do her part and bring a happy smile back to her mother’s face. Salma and her mother are refugees in Canada and the adjustment has been hard, but I loved reading how Salma’s love and dedication ends up rallying the community around her family and her cause.
BACKGROUND
Salma and her mother are refugees from Syria and the move to Canada has be challenging. Her mother exhausted from work, language classes, and keeping touch with family, have left her with few smiles. Salma realizes while she cannot bring her father to Canada, what she can bring are the familiar tastes of the food! But can her and her community find all the ingredients to get the flavors just right? #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This ten minute read aloud would be great to highlight family relationships and traditions, empathy, community support, and discussing refugee/immigration issues.
Written by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan, Published by Clarion Books, 2020. (Realistic Fiction, Ages 9-12)
I have a soft spot for books with cooking themes so this was a natural pick for me. This read is unique in the sense that it explores some complicated issues surrounding racism, being an ally, and forging a sincere and authentic friendship. I appreciated that the main characters Elizabeth and Sara were able to have frank conversations about microaggressions, being supportive, and also opening up to others. The delectable descriptions of food are an extra bonus.
BACKGROUND
Sara and Elizabeth meet in an after school South Asian cooking class taught by Sara’s mother. When the two realize that both of their mothers are studying for the US citizenship test, they decide to arrange for their moms to become study partners. Eventually Sara and Elizabeth team up once again for a cooking competition and possibly a new friendship. Sara is Pakistani American and Elizabeth is Jewish from her father’s side and British from her mother’s. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is for readers who love books centered around school life, family relationships, food, and friendship.
Written and Illustrated by Remy Lai, Published by Harry Holt and Company Books for Young Readers, 2020. (Graphic Novel, Ages 9-12)
I don’t see many children’s books with Singaporean protagonists so I was delightfully surprised with this graphic novel narrative. Remy Lai has a very unique voice in the sense that she is not afraid to explore the more awkward and squeamish moments of adolescence while keeping it very entertaining.
BACKGROUND
Remy Lai lives in Australia with his Mom, older sister, and grandmother. Smothered by their attentions he decides to fly solo for the first time to Singapore to visit his father and also answer some life defining questions. No biggie. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel/graphic novel is ideal for readers who are looking for an adventure centered around family relationships and school life.
Written by Eden Royce, Published by Walden Pond Press, 2021. (Magical Realism, Ages 9-12)
In my personal reading history I don’t think I have ever read a middle grade novel based on Gullah culture, so I was very intrigued when this title came out. It didn’t disappoint! Royce has a talent of creating an immersive experience in her writing. This story played out like a movie in my head and I was really carried away physically and emotionally by Jezebel’s journey.
BACKGROUND
When Jezebel and her twin Jay lose their beloved grandmother, their uncle and mom decide it’s time for the twins to learn the Galluh tradition of rootwork. However, the more and more the twins learn, the more they grow aware of the world and possible darkness that surrounds them. Jezebel also realizes that she has more magic than anyone thought. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is best for readers who love genre-bending adventures with historical fiction mixed with magical realism. It is also slightly creepy.
Written by Mark Gonzales, Illustrated by Mehrdokht Amini, Published by Salaam Reads, 2017. (Ages 4-7)
Sometimes I need to remind myself that the world is so much more diverse than what I think it is. As Ramadan approaches, this book is a good reminder that Muslims all over the world from different countries, cultures, and languages are going to celebrate. Not only is this title beautiful, but it also teaches readers to love everything about themselves and their families. To all that celebrate, have a very happy Ramadan!
BACKGROUND
A father writes a letter to his daughter. He warns her that in the future, some people may not speak kindly about her, but to remember that “Yo Soy Muslim”. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
About a three minute read aloud that would be great for Muslim holidays, self-acceptance, empathy, and finding love and support within your community.
Written by Cathy Camper, Illustrated by Kenard Park, Published by Kokila, 2020 (fiction, ages 5-8)
Spring usually means unpredictable bouts of rain in my area. What’s interesting is hearing from friends and family from all over with some enjoying sunny days to others facing sudden storms of snow. Hearing about a particular friend waking up to snow reminded me of this new title and how I loved its quiet narrative and family themes.
BACKGROUND
Arab American Lina wakes up in her Midwestern home to a world covered in a white blanket. While she walks to her grandmother’s retirement home, she listens to all the sounds of snow. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
About a fifteen minute read aloud that would be a great way to model observation and listening skills, finding descriptors, and family relationships.
This middle grade novel is best for students who like realistic fiction with relatable characters overcoming big obstacles. It also discusses friendships, community, and activism.
Written by Yoon Ha Lee, Published by Rick Riordan Presents, 2019. (Science Fiction, ages 8-12)
I’m not going to lie, it has been tough especially this last week. When you hear from friends and family of growing harassment and violence then to see it culminate in a hateful event with lives lost, it’s devastating. My family is still processing, but one of the things I have clung to is to think of the victories no matter how seemingly small they are. A few of these victories I look to is when I read a children’s book that is unapologetically authentic and unique. It’s so empowering to me and for readers everywhere to read stories that aren’t written to “fit” in a certain narrative and quietly gives permission to go ahead and be different. So here’s to all of you who, despite the message that someone’s story is less valued or purposely overlooked by others, are totally unafraid to be your authentic self and to share your story. What you really end up doing is giving everyone a wondrous gift. Thank you.
BACKGROUND
Min is a gumiho, a Korean fox spirit that can shape shift. Life seems bleak on her desolate planet Jinju, but when her older brother Jun is rumored to defect to look for the powerful Dragon Pearl, Min thinks it sounds suspicious. She takes it upon herself to prove his innocence. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle school novel has Korean folklore interwoven throughout the story. It would best suited for readers looking for a high action, science fiction, gritty (but not too gritty!) read.
I finally got my copy in the mail this week and it did not disappoint! I have been excited to get a hold of this title since I read Traci Sorell’s previous middle grade novel, Indian No More. I was able to get a signed copy through a great bookstore called Birchbark Books. They are an independent Native bookstore located in Minnesota and have a great collection, check them out!
BACKGROUND
Native Mary Golda Ross was always gifted at math and science and paved her own path becoming an engineer responsible for designing aircrafts for the US during World World II. All along the way she stayed true and taught according to the Cherokee values she was raised with. Much of her work is still kept secret today. A timeline, notes about Cherokee Values, and a bibliography is included. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
About a fifteen to twenty minute read aloud that would be great for a biography unit, STEM, to highlight trailblazers, and World War II.
Written by Minh Lê, Illustrated by Dan Santat, Published by Little Brown Books for Young Readers, 2020 (picture book, ages 4-8)
I’ll be honest, this book was my default Christmas gift to friends and family last year. Not only is the story funny and imaginative, but it also has that quality to really connect with a large age range of kids. I’m talking about older grade school children to really young toddlers. I was also overjoyed to hear that this title has also become the recent favorite of one of my nephews who loves the book’s travel to distant and different landscapes.
BACKGROUND
Iris is light skinned with dark hair and she loves pushing buttons — elevator buttons that is. Things get interesting when her toddler little brother starts encroaching on her button pushing. When Iris finds an abandoned elevator button and brings it home the two siblings will find a new adventure with every single ding of the button.
BEST FOR
The literal reading aloud of the text would be about five minutes. However this can easily be extended by explaining the illustrations since they read like a graphic novel. Kids would also love to have a turn narrating as well. This book is ideal for inspiring out-of-the-box thinking, storytelling, imaginative play, and sibling relationships.
Written by Christine Day, Published by Heartdrum, 2021. (fiction, ages 9-12)
Christine Day is an author that I have been keeping an eye on and she did not disappoint. She has a talent of writing simplistic narratives that capture the complexity of issues and the emotions of her characters. In this particular title she addresses how protagonist Maise must deal with the loss of a dream and finding a new goal to work towards.
BACKGROUND
Native Maise Cannon lives for ballet, so when she suffers a knee injury the pain is more than physical. When her family takes her on a vacation to the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, Maise realizes her need to heal with the support of her community. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is great for readers that love to read about relationships, family, friendships, big life transitions, and dance.
Written and Illustrated by LeUyen Pham, Published by Roaring Brook Press, 2021. (fiction, ages 3-6)
It was only a matter of time before picture books about Covid and shut downs were going to emerge. I have read a few with varying levels of success, but this one is by far is my favorite. I loved how Pham was able to balance the seriousness of the subject while having an overall hopeful tone. I have always adored her illustrations so it was no surprise that the page spreads in this book are not only engaging and lively, but beautifully poignant as well.
BACKGROUND
Primarily told through the perspective of a young mixed-race girl, a community changes when “Something happened” and everyone who was outside is now staying inside. It didn’t mean that weren’t changes or growth. And it definitely didn’t mean there is any loss in love for one another.
BEST FOR
About a seven minute read aloud perfect for initiating discussions about Covid, shut downs, and the major changes in lifestyles and systems while still offering hope and love.
Written by Rita Lorraine Hubbard, Illustrated by Oge Mora, Published by Schwartz & Wade, 2020. (fiction, ages 5-9)
It’s interesting how we place barriers between us and our goals. We tell ourselves that we do not have time, or that it is too hard. Then when we do have the time we say, “I’m too old” or “it’s too late to start going for my dreams now.” This book really gave me the wake up call to always strive for what we want no matter how old, or how long it takes. Not to mention that the story is charming and a stunner since it’s based on the true story of Mary Walker who lived through twenty-six American presidents!
BACKGROUND
Mary Walker was born in 1848 and always wanted to learn to read. She was freed from slavery at the age of twenty and worked hard to provide for her family growing family. Finally at the age of 116 she decides that she will finally learn to read. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
About a fifteen minute read aloud that would be a perfect model of grit, perseverance, goal-setting, and hard work.
Written by Christian Trimmer, Illustrated by Melissa van der Paardt, Published by Simon & Schuster, 2016. (fiction, ages 3-5)
The Lunar New Year is approaching and while there are many books that talk about the celebration, there are even fewer that talk about the folktale that explain the animals in the zodiac. Based on the Chinese folktale, the Jade Emperor, or ruler of heaven, held a race for all the animals. The first twelve that crossed the finish line were included in the calendar in the order they placed. The rat was cunning and tricked its way to first place and managed to exclude the cat, hence the reason why the cat is not in the zodiac and why the two are natural enemies. It is important to note that the Lunar New Year is celebrated in numerous Asian countries and although the animals in the zodiac are similar, there are variations. For example, unlike the Chinese, the Vietnamese zodiac does include the cat, but does not include the rabbit.
BACKGROUND
A lighthearted version of the Chinese folktale. When Shu the rat receives the invitation to the Great Race it is up to his smarts and know how to make sure that he and his best friend Mimi the cat win the race. Mimi agrees to go along with Shu, although her focus is getting the promised cupcakes at the finish line.
BEST FOR
About a five minute read aloud that would be great for a Chinese New Year celebration. It would also be appropriate for a folktale unit, or just a silly and entertaining read aloud.
Written by Linda Sue Park, Published by Clarion Books, 2020. (historical fiction, ages 8-11)
This was the honor title for the APALA children’s literature award for 2020. Not only is it a fascinating read, but if you read the author’s note Park reveals that this story was personal. She grew up loving Laura Ingalls Wilder’s books but struggled with the racism towards Natives as well as the lack of representation of Asians in that setting. As a result she wrote the book that she wished she had as a girl.
BACKGROUND
Hanna and her Pa move to the Dakota Territory in 1880. She dreams of fulfilling her late mother’s wishes of finishing school and becoming a dressmaker. However when you are the only half White half Asian girl in the territory, she must carefully overcome the racism and distrust of the community in order to accomplish her dreams.
BEST FOR
An intriguing middle grade read for those that love the slice of life frontier genre.
Normally I would have another book trailer released and I’m still working on one for this week. However, the Youth Media Awards presented by the ALA (American Library Association) was announced this morning and I wanted to highlight a few titles! Also a special shoutout to all my peeps that served on the APALA Literature Award Committee on a job well done!
Illustrated by Michaela Goade, Illustrated by Carole Lindstrom, Published by Roaring Brook Press
This is the first time a Native has won the Caldecott Medal so a big thank you and a very hearty congratulations to Michaela Goade for your award and for paving the way for more Native creators!
Written by Tae Keller and published by Random House Children’s Books
Lily must navigate a new town when her family moves to be closer to her sick grandmother. This magical realism title touches on family relationships, grief, and Korean folklore.
Written by Saadia Faruqi & Laura Shovan and published by Clarion Books
Sixth graders Sara, a Pakistani American, and Elizabeth, a Jewish English American, find friendship through their school’s cooking class and their shared experience of their moms taking the US citizen test. This realistic fiction is great for readers who love food!
Written by Christina Soontornvat and published by Candlewick Press
Pong, an orphan in Thailand escapes from prison hoping to change his doomed fate. However he struggles to escape his past running from Nok, the prison warden’s daughter, and the dark and powerful governor. This fantasy is an action packed adventure.
Written by Ernesto Cisneros and published by Harper, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.
When Efren’s mother gets deported, he finds himself taking care of his younger siblings on very little funds while still balancing school life. While he and his Papa try to bring Mama back he struggles to hold everything together. This realistic fiction touches on immigration, family, activism, and friendships.
Written by Linda Sue Park and published by Clarion Books, an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Books for Young Readers
When Hanna moves to the Dakota territory in 1880 with her father, there is one thing she notices, she is the only half Chinese girl in the entire town and probably terrority. This historical fiction addresses racism, family dynamics, friendships, and never giving up on your dreams.
WINNER OF THE SCHNEIDER FAMILY BOOK AWARD FOR MIDDLE GRADES
Written by Ann Clare LeZotte and published by Scholastic Press, an imprint of Scholastic Inc.
Mary is deaf and has always felt safe in her largely deaf community on Martha’s Vineyard island in the 19th century. However things start changing when an outsider comes to study her community. This historical fiction talks about family relationships, Native history, Deaf history and sign language.
This is just a tasting (ha!) of the many wonderful titles honored today. Congrats to all the creators! Here is a link to the official Youth Media Awards including a full list of all winners.
Written by Angela Johnson, Illustrated by Eric Velasquez, Published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2005. (historical fiction, ages 4-7)
This Martin Luther King’s Day has brought a lot of reflection. This year brought into sharp focus the problems with inequality and racism that has never really been adequately addressed in our country. While there still is a lot of work to do, it is hopeful to see more parents having conversations and teaching lessons about race with their young children. It is also hopeful for me to see high school and college students being much more aware and active with politics both local and national. This particular picture book shows that children have and always will be involved in social change.
BACKGROUND
A pair of sisters, unable to resist the scent of roses and freedom, go out and join a march. Told through their perspective, the two are able to hear the words of Martin Luther King Jr. as they call for equal rights. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This two minute read aloud is ideal to open discussions about activism, marches, civil rights, and Martin Luther King Jr. It’s unique black and white illustrations with pops of red are also engaging for younger readers.
Written and Illustrated by Sang Miao, Published by Flying Eye Books, 2019. (fantasy, ages 5-8)
There are some big emotions going on right now, and even though every single person experiences them, feelings are still so hard to talk about. This book deals with grief from the loss of a loved one in such a beautifully unique way. The illustrations are also just captivating. If anything, the story not only models a way to remember a loved one, but gives permission to young readers to use their imaginations and natural wonder to find comfort.
BACKGROUND
While a boy and a grandfather draw together, the grandpa tells the boy about the immortal jellyfish. When it is about to die, it starts life again. When the grandfather passes, the young boy is overcome with grief and cries himself to sleep. It is in his dreams where his grandfather takes him to a fantastical land where souls get to create a new memory for their loved ones.
BEST FOR
About a ten minute read aloud that could be used to open discussions about loss, grief, coping mechanisms, and honoring the memory of loved ones.
Written and Illustrated by Jen Wang, Published by First Second, 2019. (Graphic Novel, ages 9-12)
Initially when I started this blog I thought that I would highlight picture books and feature middle grade novels by making book trailers. Pretty soon I realized that I simply cannot make book trailers fast enough, so I’ve decided to incorporate more children’s books sans trailers. (Don’t worry, I’m still making trailers!) It’s the new year so it’s the perfect time to try new things! I loved this graphic novel from Jen Wang. Not only did it remind me of my high school experiences with my friends, but I love how it shows diversity within an ethnic group and allowing all its characters live full authentic storylines.
BACKGROUND
When a new neighbor moves in, the normally reserved Christine is intimidated by the bubbly and gregarious Moon. When the two become unlikely friends, jealousy, secrets, and a medical emergency threatens their bond. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade read is perfect for readers hungry for everyday stories that deal with family, school drama, and friendships.
Written by Supriya Kelkar, Published by Aladdin, 2020. (Realistic fiction, ages 8-11)
I am not Desi but I did relate a lot to Lekha in this book. Those moments where she cannot go to school outings because of cultural obligations, being cautious about what to bring for lunch because the food at home can smell really strong, but it tastes oh so good! Also constantly balancing multiple cultures is such a familiar struggle. Kelkar balances a lot of themes and does it well while being very entertaining. A delightful read overall!
BACKGROUND
Lekha and her family are the only Desis in their small town just outside of Detroit. When she gets on the swim team and a new girl from India moves in, Lekha tries to figure out who she really is, especially when local politics get ugly. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is delightful while touching on serious issues such as race, xenophobia, colorism, friendships, activism, and being authentic.
Written by Pat Mora, Illustrated by Magaly Morales, Published by Clarion Books, 2009. (Fiction, ages 4-7)
Pat Mora is a great author if your collection does not already have her titles. I also love the vividness and color of Magaly Morales illustrations. Together the duo create a very festive and wondrous book that is perfect for a good holiday read aloud.
BACKGROUND
Taking inspiration from the carol, a young Latino girl goes through the twelve gifts of Christmas her parents have prepared for her. This time the gifts from Latino culture, and Spanish words are incorporated in the narrative. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This five minute read aloud is a great choice for the holidays, Latino culture, introduction to Spanish, family themed units, as well as a great counting book.
Written by Helena Ku Rhee, Illustrated by Pascal Campion, Published by Random House Children’s Books, 2020. (Realistic fiction, ages 4-8)
This particular story shows how hardworking families make good memories out of less than ideal situations. It also reminded me of my own story. My father owned a store when we were kids and I remember my brothers and I spending hours upon hours amusing ourselves along the shelves and hiding behind the counter. When I asked my dad later why we were there so much, he answered that he had to work weekends, but still wanted to spend time with the family. As a result, we have many fun memories even though it was at an unlikely place.
BACKGROUND
Daniel’s parents both work as night janitors. It just so happens that their babysitter has also cancelled. Reluctantly Daniel accompanies his parents their work, a huge corporate building. Just when he starts getting grumpy, his parents whisper the secrets of the paper kingdom. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
About a fifteen minute read aloud. A great way to highlight family, imagination, and resourcefulness.
Written by F. Isabel Campoy and Theresa Howell, Illustrated by Rafael Lopez, Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2016. (Realistic fiction, ages 4-7)
I am so thankful for the many talents of artists that are a saving light to dark days. If you ever want to brighten your Instagram and other media feed, follow artists, illustrators, and makers. I promise you it brings many unexpected smiles especially with what’s going on right now. That was the thought I had when I came across this title in my shelf. Based on a true story, it shows the power of art and how it can transform a community.
BACKGROUND
A young Hispanic/Latinx girl named Mira loves art and spreads her work throughout her grey neighborhood. Things take a turn for the brighter when she meets a muralist one day in the street.
BEST FOR
About a ten minute read aloud that can highlight the power of the individual to enact change, art, community and spreading joy.
Written by Janae Marks, Published by Katherine Tegen Books, 2020. (Realistc fiction, ages 8-11)
I’ll admit it, I’m a sucker for books about cooking/baking. While that played a part in me picking up this title, the story kept me engaged. Surprisingly I hear multiple requests for stories where a family member is incarcerated. It is even harder to find a middle grade novel that deals with this loaded subject with authenticity. Marks does it all tactfully and is still able to maintain a balance in tone in the overall story, an admirable feat!
BACKGROUND
Zoe is Black and is currently working towards a chance to audition for the TV show: Kid’s Bake Challenge. Everything comes to a halt when she gets a letter from her father who’s in jail. Now she must go back into the past to figure out the truth. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
An uplifting middle grade novel that deals with complicated family dynamics, incarceration of a family member, baking, and going for your dreams.
Written by Hanna Alkaf, Published by HarperCollins , 2020. (Dark Fantasy, 9-11)
I read across genres but I tend to avoid horror (I have a very active imagination so I scare very easily). A friend recommended this title and by the time I realized it was plenty creepy, I was already too caught up in the writing to stop. Trust me, you will be thoroughly creeped out and guessing until the very end!
BACKGROUND
Suraya, a young Malaysian girl gets an unexpected gift from her grandmother, a pelesit. This shape shifting ghost protects her, but also has a dark side which brings much trouble and revelations to Suraya’s life. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
A dark and thrilling middle grade novel that touches on Malaysian myths and folktales.
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