Antiracist Children’s Literature

Antiracist Children’s Literature

We are all shaped by the stories we hear as children.

But children’s literature often reinforces the idea that “white” is the dominant or normative culture. Sharing books that reflect the diversity of our culture and tell the stories of people of color are essential to building an anti-racist culture.

Reading experiences that include representation of many cultures help children build resilience, kindness and critical thinking. Books by and about people of color help to nurture a deep interest in reading and learning, and enhance a child’s knowledge and sense of leadership, empathy and compassion for others.

Cambridge families can get recommendations and support at the Cambridge Public library. “The Cambridge Public Library serves an incredibly diverse community, and we’re always excited to share books that represent the experience of many different kinds of families,” said Julie Roach, Manager of Youth Services at Cambridge Public Library. “We want to help children discover stories where they can make personal connections as well as learn more about the world around them. We encourage children and families to talk with one of our youth services librarians for personal recommendations, including the latest children’s books!”  

BIPOC Children’s Literature Resources

To find additional high-quality reading options for children and teens, check out  these resources:

We Need Diverse Books started as a hashtag and ended up as one of the most extensive collections of diverse children’s literature around.

Diverse Bookfinder helps families and educators find high quality children’s literature representing many different cultures.

14 Antiracist Books for Kids and Teens Recommended by BIPOC Teachers and Librarians. A starting place to build a list for your family or library collection.

A wonderful personal collection complied by Sujei Lugo Vázquez (@sujeilugo) and Alia Jones (@readitrealgood). Read Alia Jones’s blog here.

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