Bodega Cat by Louie Chin

Written and illustrated by Louie Chin, Published by Pow! 2019 (fiction, 6-9)

It is always great to find a title that shows the diverse interactions that happen in life everyday. Told through the perspective of a cat (who owns the place, obviously!) Readers are taken through the in and outs of running a Bodega (a neighborhood store in the East Coast). The bright illustrations are rich with so many snapshots of community.

BACKGROUND

An orange tabby is very proud of the Bodega that his Latino family runs. The tabby also offers a tour of the in and outs of running such a store and the wonderfully rich community that surrounds it.

BEST FOR

About a fifteen minute read aloud that is great for going over Latino/Hispanic culture and influences in New York City. Another way to start discussions on diversity, tolerance, empathy, and community.

PAIR WITH

Apple Pie Fourth of July by Janet S. Wong

Maybe Something Beautiful: How Art Transformed a Neighborhood by F. Isabel Campoy

WHERE TO PURCHASE

If you have an interest in reading Bodega Cat

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A Big Bed For Little Snow by Grace Lin

Written and Illustrated by Grace Lin, Published by Little, Brown and Company, 2019. (fantasy, 3-6)

Bbfls

Happy Holidays everyone! No matter if you are celebrating or not, or what you are celebrating if you are, I hope you enjoy a moment of peace and comfort! To be honest this week’s title was my go-to gift for many friends and family this year. A wonderfully whimsical tale of fun about a boy and a white flurry of snow!

BACKGROUND

It’s bedtime for Little Snow and Mommy warns him that beds are for sleeping not jumping. But how can you resist when you have a big blue cloud for a bed? Mommy and Little Snow are Asian. #Ownvoices

BEST FOR

About a seven minute read aloud that is perfect for bedtime, to talk about snowflakes or the winter seasons. It is also a great way to inspire creativity.

PAIR WITH

First Snow by Bomi Park

Goodby Summer, Hello Autumn by Kenard Park

WHERE TO PURCHASE

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Niko Draws a Feeling by Bob Raczka

Written by Bob Raczka, Illustrated by Simone Shin, Published by Carol Rhoda Books, 2017. (fiction, 5-9)

The number one topic that got requested while I worked in schools was emotional intelligence, even in the older grades. A lot of it was just being able to recognize the feelings that they were having. It is even more of a challenge to teach different coping options to manage them…heck even adults still have that problem including myself! I thought this title was great since Niko is able to express a singular feeling through his art.

BACKGROUND

biracial Niko loves to draw, but he doesn’t draw what he sees he draws what he feels. Although he is able to express himself it seems like no one else understands his art, will anyone?

BEST FOR

About a seven minute read aloud that is great to open up a creativity or art unit. Also a perfect discussion starter in emotional intelligence and offering a different method to cope.

PAIR WITH

Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall

Drawn Together by Minh Lê

WHERE TO PURCHASE

If you have an interest in reading Niko Draws a Feeling

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Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry

Written by Matthew A. Cherry, Illustrated by Vashti Harrison, Published by Kokila, 2019. (Picture book, 4-9)

Hair love Finally got a hold of this gem! Based on my own reading history I believe this is the second book I have seen that celebrates Black natural hair. Of course Vashti Harrison’s illustrations are perfectly adorable as well. An animated short of the title is available on YouTube. Make sure you have a tissue handy!

BACKGROUND

African American Zuri loves her hair but she was a very special hairstyle that requires a professional touch. Hopefully Daddy is up for it! #OwnVoices

BEST FOR

About a seven minute read aloud great for promoting self-acceptance. Also a wonderful choice for father’s day and imagination.

PAIR WITH

Don’t Touch My Hair! by Sharee Miller

Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o

WHERE TO PURCHASE

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Ho’onani Hula Warrior by Heather Gale

Written by Heather Gale, Illustrated by Mika Song, Published by Tundra, 2019. (fiction, 5-9)

Kudos to Tundra for publishing great picture books that focus on indigenous voices! I find it a challenge to find a lot of picture books about Hawaiian culture set in contemporary settings. This wonderful title is about a nonbinary youth who was featured in the documentary A Place In the Middle.

BACKGROUND

Young Hawaiian Ho’onani Kamai always felt she is more kane (boy) than wahine (girl). She wants to lead a traditional hula chant at her school, a role that is traditionally done by a kane. But will others accept her in that role?

BEST FOR

About a ten minute read aloud, great to open up discussions about Hawaiian culture, authenticity, empathy, tolerance, and gender fluidity.

PAIR WITH

Shark King by Kikuo Johnson

The Last Princess: The Story of Princess Ka’iulani of Hawai’i by Fay Stanley

WHERE TO PURCHASE

If you have an interest in reading Ho’onani Hula Warrior

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