There are so many kinds of people in this world, so where do I belong? This month’s favorite book list focuses on the beauty and power of our varied individual identities. While each book empowers its reader to embrace their unique self, they also remind us to celebrate each other in meaningful, loving ways. Take a look!
Black Gold by Laura Obuobi, illustrated by London Ladd
This powerful story spins the legend of you, scooped by the universe from rich, dark soil, kissed by the sun and cradled by the moon, before being surrounded by love. With rich mixed media illustrations and empowering imagery, this story reminds readers that their creation is beautiful and intentional—that they are truly Black Gold.
Bilal Cooks Daal by Aisha Saeed, illustrated by Anoosha Syed
When Bilal’s dad tells him it’s time to make dinner at the beginning of the day, Bilal knows why—he’s making daal! And daal takes time. With his dad’s help, Bilal and his friends prepare the ingredients, then go outside to play. But will the bilal ever be ready to eat? And will Bilal’s friends like it? This sweet story celebrates Bilal’s cultural identity—and even includes a recipe for daal at the back of the book!
Molly’s Tuxedo by Vicki Johnson, illustrated by Gillian Reid
Molly’s mom wants her to wear an itchy, floofy dress for picture day—with no pockets! Molly begs to wear her brother’s old tuxedo, but Mom insists that the dress looks beautiful and just right for picture day. Still, Mom tells Molly she can make her own choice. What will Molly choose? This book reminds readers that there are lots of different ways to express yourself!
Eyes That Speak to the Stars by Joanna Ho, illustrated by Dung Ho
When the narrator is disappointed by a friend’s drawing of his eyes, Baba reminds him that his eyes rise to the skies and speak to the stars. His eyes are like Agong’s eyes, and like his little brother Didi’s eyes. He lets him know that he is powerful and loved. In this beautiful companion book to Eyes that Kiss in the Corners, lyrical imagery and beautiful illustrations help readers understand the power of heritage and love as they intertwine to create our personal identity.
Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal
Alma Sofia Esperanza Jose Pura Candela is way too long of a name!, thinks Alma. Then her father explains the stories of the people behind each name. As he introduces Alma to each of her ancestors, she realizes that they are all a part of who she is. With black & white illustrations sprinkled with color, this story inspires readers to connect with their ancestors and explore how they have shaped your personal identity.
Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison
Zuzu has hair that goes every which way, even though her daddy tells her it’s always beautiful. But one morning, Zuzu needs something special, and no puffs or braids or normal styles will do. Daddy is ready to help, but will he be up to the challenge? This story is a celebration of hair, identity, and love.
Julián is a Mermaid by Jessica Love
Julián dreams of being a mermaid like the people he saw dressed up on the train. So when he and Abuela get home, he dresses like a mermaid. And when Abuela sees him all dressed up, she takes him to a mermaid parade!
I Like Myself by Karen Beaumont, illustrated by David Catrow
In this sweet rhyming story, the narrator describes all the ways she likes herself! Fast or slow, wild or tame, from her nose to her ears, she likes who she is, no matter what anyone else thinks. This is a great reminder that each reader deserves lots of love, even from themselves!
The Box Turtle by Vanessa Roeder
When Terrance the turtle was born without a shell, his parents didn’t worry. They gave him a box for a shell, and Terrance liked it— until other turtles said it was weird! Despite a search for all kinds of other shells, Terrance finally realizes that his old box is just what he needs—and with a little work and help, he makes it his very own. This story reminds us that each person is more than what we can see on the outside!
Our Skin: A First Conversation About Race by Megan Madison & Jessica Ralli, illustrated by Isabel Roxas
Skin comes in all different shades! With simple text and illustrations, this book teaches why skin has different colors, while inviting readers to engage in conversation about their skin and their family’s skin. It also introduces what racism is and why it’s important to stand up to racism. As the title suggests, this book is a wonderful resource to help young readers better understand race and celebrate their individual identity.