8 Ways to Celebrate Diversity in August
With her new backpack and light-up shoes, Faizah knows the first day of school is going to be special. It's the start of a brand new year and, best of all, it's her older sister Asiya's first day of hijab--a hijab of beautiful blue fabric, like the ocean waving to the sky. But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong.
2. The Hike by Alison Farrell
The Hike is a plucky and sweet adventure story about three intrepid young female explorers who set out to conquer the outdoors in their local forest. This spirited picture book is filled with lyrical language that captures the majesty of the natural world, coupled with a fun narrative. The Hike celebrates how fun and rewarding it is to explore nature in your own backyard!
3. The Vanishing Lake by Paddy Donnelly
A captivating tale based in Ireland that celebrates a young girl's determination, a granddad's wisdom, and the fantastical wonders of the natural world. Something mysterious is happening at Lake Loughareema. There are days the lake is beautiful, shimmering, and full. And then there are other days when it's...empty!
4. Our Class is a Family by Shannon Olsen
“Our Class is a Family” is a book that will help build and strengthen that class community. Kids learn that their classroom is a place where it’s safe to be themselves, it’s okay to make mistakes, and it’s important to be a friend to others. When hearing this story being read aloud by their teacher, students are sure to feel like they are part of a special family.
5. Every Little Thing by Bob Marley & Cedella Marley
An uplifting board book that brings Bob Marley's popular song to life for a new generation: Families will relate to this universal story of a boy who won't let anything get him down as long as he has the help of three special little birds. This joyful book will bring a smile to faces of all ages - because every little thing's gonna be all right!
6. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
There are many reasons to feel different. Maybe it's how you look or talk, or where you're from; maybe it's what you eat, or something just as random. It's not easy to take those first steps into a place where nobody really knows you yet, but somehow you do it.
7. All of Us: Skin Tone Crayons by Sabine
Handmade beeswax skin tone crayons. The mission of All of Us Crayons, is to nurture the growth of the many seeds of inclusion that accompany us daily, as we navigate through this confusing world. I hope that All of Us Crayons can bring unity - in full consciousness - in support of the growth, creativity and acceptance of the magical children in our community.
8. What is GOD like? by Rachel Held Evans & Matthew Paul Turner
Through these pictures from the Bible, children see that God is like a shepherd, God is like a star, God is like a gardener, God is like the wind, and more. God is a comforter and support. And whenever a child is unsure, What Is God Like? encourages young hearts to "think about what makes you feel safe, what makes you feel loved, and what makes you feel brave. That's what God is like."