21 children’s books to spark important discussions about race + tolerance

This poetic ode to celebrating our differences is a gentle way to introduce young children to the concepts of race and identity.

A beautiful children’s book celebrating diversity and reminding kids of all colors how beautiful they are.

An inspiring story about one family’s efforts to desegregate California schools in the late 1940s. A 2015 Pura Belpré Illustrator Honor Book.

The stunningly illustrated, heart-wrenching tale of a slave who mailed himself to freedom.

A celebration of the many shades of skin color, as told through the eyes of a seven-year-old girl trying to paint a picture of herself. Perfect for introducing the concept of race to even the youngest readers.

A sweet lesson in tolerance, acceptance, and inclusion for even the youngest readers.

A beautiful, accessible introduction to the life and words of Martin Luther King, Jr. Winner of the 2002 Caldecott Medal.

A funny, clever story that will help little ones down the path of finding joy in staying true to who you really are.

A playful look at diversity and the many ways to form a family.

A primer for social justice perfect for even the littlest activist.

The perfect conversation starter for any discussion about race, this lively picture books celebrate what makes us different yet all the same.

A critical moment in the civil rights movement— the 1963 March on Washington—told in clear, concise prose.

A longstanding classic about bridging the racial divide between two young friends, told through powerful prose and gorgeous watercolor illustrations.

The inspiring story behind the groundbreaking classic A Snowy Day, the first mainstream book to feature an African American hero.

The ultimate celebration of self and a vibrant, playful reminder to be proud of who you are and where you come from.

A charming, endearing friendship story that reminds us all there’s a place for everyone in this big, wide world. Winner of the 2015 Caldecott Medal.

The story of the youngest known civil rights protester in history will teach children that you’re never too small to stand up for what you believe in.

A silly, joyful celebration of being true to who you are. Catchy rhyming text makes this a perfect read-aloud.

This bus ride through a busy city showcases people of different skin colors, ages, and classes, and takes readers on a journey that will help them appreciate the beauty all around. Winner of the 2016 Newbery Medal and the 2016 Caldecott Honor.

Ideal for sparking conversations about race and gender with young children, the story of spirited Grace remains as important today as it was when it was first published 25 years ago.

Malala’s Magic Pencil, the first picture book from Nobel Prize winning Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai. It depicts the story of her childhood for a young audience.