All kids matter when it comes to character portrayal in children’s books. Multicultural Children’s Book Day (MCBD), a national non-profit was created to raise awareness about diversity in children’s literature and to put these books in the shelves of libraries and classrooms across the country. This year’s focus is on empathy and compassion. The book list for ages 4-12 aims to help in understanding immigration and refugees.
MCBD was founded by bloggers/authors and children’s reading advocates, Mia Wenjen (Pragmatic Mom) and Valarie Budayr (Jump into Books) in 2014. The Children’s Book Council/CBC Diversity partners with MCBD and features diverse book lists by authors throughout the month of January.
If you are an educator, parent, or librarian interested in finding out how to participate in the celebration, go to multiculturalchildrensbookday.com for details.
Here is a sample of picture books that helps children develop the traits of empathy, compassion, and kindness:
The Invisible Boy. Written by Trudy Ludwig. Illustrated by Patrice Barton.
Trudy Ludwig spins yet another heartwarming tale offering hope for parents of introvert children. The charming and creative pencil sketch painted illustrations play an important role in bringing out the invisible nature of the character come alive. With minimal text and relatable characters, this gentle story goes on to fulfill the author’s mission of helping a child navigate the social world.
Each Kindness. Written by Jacqueline Woodson. Illustrated by E.B. Lewis.
The new National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature Jacqueline Woodson lives up to her motto of bringing hope and change reading this moving story. The impressionistic watercolor illustrations help highlight the message. The tale gently reminds youngsters not to miss an opportunity to be kind and welcome new friendship at all times.
One Green Apple. Written by Eve Bunting. Illustrated by Ted Lewin.
Eve Bunting has done a great job of breaking down sensitive issues and presenting them in a simple picture book format. Words and pictures partner up to bring the child’s mind and an apple orchard to light right before your eyes. With a culturally diverse character and an irresistible writing style, this touching tale truly captures the feelings and emotions of all immigrants.
Sometimes Jokes Aren’t Funny – What to Do About Hidden Bullying. Written by Amanda F. Doering. Pictures by Simone Shin.
This engaging story walks us through different situations where someone experiences hidden bullying. The tale takes a lighthearted approach in handling sensitive topic by using digitally illustrated animal characters in a camp setting. An expert advice column accompanying each situation makes it easy to open the topic for discussion with children and provide them with possible solutions.
Children Just Like Me. Barnabas and Anabel Kindersley.
This comprehensive Dorling Kindersley title published in partnership with UNICEF takes us on a round trip around the world and gives us a glimpse into the family and school lives of children. The photographer and teacher spent two years traveling around the globe and getting to know the children so they could put together this amazing and authentic collection that celebrates the unity in diversity among the children of the world.