Leila in Saffron by Rukhsanna Guidroz

Written by Rukhsanna Guidroz, Illustrated by Dinara Mirtalipova, Published by Salaam Reads, 2019. (Picture Book, ages 4-8)

IMG_0818This book teems with vivid hues and intricate patterns that will have kids pouring over each and every page. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, it also explores how culture and family can help with self-acceptance.

BACKGROUND

A young girl celebrates her Pakistani culture at her family’s weekly dinners. Through interactions with her Naani and family does she comes to love every part of herself. #Ownvoices

BEST FOR

About a ten minute read aloud that explores the culture of a Pakistani Muslim family. Also a great prompt to discuss self-acceptance, and aspects that make up identities.

PAIR WITH

Yo Soy Muslim: A Father’s Letter to His Daughter by Mark Gonzales

Under My Hijab by Hena Khan

WHERE TO PURCHASE

If you have an interest in reading Leila in Saffron

Shop your local indie bookstore

The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes

Written by Derrick Barnes, Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton, Published by Penguin Random House, 2019. (Picture Book, ages 3-6)

IMG_0816For educators looking for a book that contains the infectious energy of the first day of school, this read aloud is for you! Many first day of school books portray students as anxious and worried, not this one. Each page overflows with confidence and courage.

BACKGROUND

A young African American boy is pumped as he prepares for his first day of school. Instead of worries he holds his head up high and walks straight in, he is the King of Kindergarten after all! #Ownvoices

BEST FOR

About a ten minute read aloud that obviously would be great for the first day of school. A great way to open discussions about confidence, empathy, establishing classroom routines, and making friends.

PAIR WITH

Keisha Ann Can! by Daniel Kirk

My Three Best Friends and Me, Zulay by Cari Best

WHERE TO PURCHASE

If you have an interest in reading The King of Kindergarten

Shop your local indie bookstore

A Friend for Henry by Jenn Bailey

Written by Jenn Bailey, Illustrated by Mika Song, Published by Chronicle Books, 2019. (Picture Book, ages 3-6)

A friend for HenryThis summer is going by quickly and I can already spot educators in line at Target and craft stores with their carts full of classroom supplies. To help with preparations I thought I would highlight a quiet read that addresses a worry that many students have going to school, making friends.

BACKGROUND

Henry is Asian and on the autism spectrum. Things have to be a certain way and the same goes for friends. His hopes of finding one starts to wane just when Katie comes along.

BEST FOR

About a seven minute read aloud that would be a great way to open discussions about friendships, anxiety at school, patience, empathy, and autism.

PAIR WITH

The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfeld

Benji, the Bad Day and Me by Sally Pla

WHERE TO PURCHASE

If you have an interest in reading A Friend for Henry

Shop your local indie bookstore

Ana Maria Reyes Does Not Live in a Castle by Hilda Eunice Burgos

Written by Hilda Eunice Burgos, Published by Tu Books, 2018. (middle grade, ages 8-12)

Dreams, sisters, and identities collide to make up this fun and multi-layered middle grade read! I loved Ana’s journey and especially the nuanced relationships with her sisters.

BACKGROUND

Ana has her eyes set on a private school in New York, she just has to perfect her piano recital and win a scholarship on top of convincing her busy family amid all their obligations. Will Ana find her way to her dream? #OwnVoices

BEST FOR

A great middle grade read that deals with family relationships, identity, and community while still maintaining a playful tone.

PAIR WITH

Front Desk by Kelly Yang

WHERE TO PURCHASE

If you have an interest in reading Ana Maria Reyes Does Not Live in a Castle

Shop your local indie bookstore