While we might be divided about a lot of things, I think we can all agree that these are troubling times for humanity. Many of the issues we’re facing are just tough to talk about, but we believe that open communication and learning to see things from another’s perspective is the key to change.
Regardless of where you fall in your opinions on the issues facing the world today, we hope these books can help start or facilitate conversation about differences.
Be Kind, by Pat Zietlow Miller
While not directly about racial tension, Be Kind is about being kind and going out of your way to lend a hand to someone in need. Empathy, being able to look at a situation from someone else’s perspective, is a universally important skill for our students to learn and one that can be exercised liberally!
Breakout, by Kate Messner
How do beliefs, ethics, or values influence different people’s behavior? The characters in Breakout wrestle with this question. Because of the book’s epistolatory style, readers get to experience multiple perspectives from all sides of the racial division.
A Boy Called Bat, by Elena K. Arnold
This story addresses a different kind of difference, but continues to emphasize the importance of perspective and understanding. A Boy Called BAT helps readers step inside the shoes of a person with autism and see the layers of complexity that are present when a person with autism experiences seemingly “normal” situations and relationships.
Blended, by Sharon M. Draper
Blended is a beautifully constructed middle grade novel about a biracial girl whose parents are divorced. She deals with many typical “middle grade” issues, as well as her identity in relation to her race. This book also addresses police brutality against minorities, though the issue is handled very delicately.
Refugee, by Alan Gratz
Again, while Refugee isn’t directly about racial issues, it is about people from different countries being harshly treated based on some part of their heritage. It brings multiple perspectives and helps the reader develop empathy for other people who are not like them that are struggling with oppression.
The Hate U Give, by Angie Thomas
This is a hard read and has been banned at some schools, but it is a very in your face look at police and minority relations.
Freedom Over Me, by Ashley Bryan
This is a really unique picture book that investigates the hopes and dreams of 11 different slaves.
Diverse Book Finder – Use this site to look for books that better represent your student population.
This Book is Anti Racist – Help your students investigate racism, prejudice, and learn how to take a stand.
Hello Jessica, greetings from Barranquilla! I just want to say THANK YOU for this books recommendations. Is my first year teaching Kinder and I think is very important to start having conversations with the litte ones about acceptance.