Award-Winning Kids’ Books That Promote Diversity

“Nana Akua Goes to School” by Tricia Elam Walker, illustrated by April Harrison 

2021 Ezra Jack Keats New Writer Award Winner 

Zura’s elementary school is having Grandparent’s Day and she brings her Nana Akua who was raised in Ghana. Zura is worried that Nana’s facial tribal markings will scare her classmates, but Nana knows how to show what makes her unique. This story is a touching example of what it means to share cultural traditions. 

“Magnificent Homespun Brown: A Celebration” by Samara Cole Doyon, illustrated by Kaylani Juanita 

2021 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award Winner 

A poem-style story, "Magnificent Homespun Brown" is about being comfortable in your skin. This book is a beautiful description of what it means to feel at home in one’s body.  

“The Cat Man of Aleppo” by Karim Shamsi-Basha and Irene Latham, illustrated by Yuko Shimizu 

2021 Caldecott Honor Winner

"The Cat Man of Aleppo" is based on a true story about Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, who provided a home for stray cats in Aleppo during the Syrian civil war. The book describes how Alaa bonded with the abandoned cats of his city. 

“Sharuko: El Arqueologo Peruano Julio C. Tello (Peruvian Archaeologist Julio C. Tello)” by Monica Brown, illustrated by Elisa Chavarri 

2021 Pura Belpré Youth Illustrator Award Honoree 

This is the story of Julio C. Tello, a Peruvian archaeologist whose work helped uncover much of the country’s cultural history. The bilingual book serves as a window into the discovery of Peru’s lengthy history and ongoing cultural importance. 

“Ty’s Travels: Zip, Zoom!” by Kelly Starling Lyons, illustrated by Nina Mata 

2021 Theodor Seuss Geisel Award Honoree

Ty learns how to ride his new scooter with the help of his friend. A great book for reading practice and a fun adventure at the skate park!