Hair Love
This is a great story for little girls to learn to love and show appreciation for their natural hair. It celebrates self-love and identity through something as personal as hair. Ther relationship between the father and daughter stands out because it shows care, patience, and growth in a realistic way. This story can teach little girls that confidence can come from embracing who you are and the people who support you.
Lesson Idea: Students can create a collage of things that they love about themselves or make them unique
Author Website: Vashti Harrison / Instagram
YouTube: Read Aloud
Front Desk
This story gives a realistic take on the realities of immigration of families and their support. It teaches students to stick up for others, no matter their circumstances.
Lesson Idea: Students can do a butterfly life cycle activity that has them label each stage
Author Website: Kelly Yang / Instagram
YouTube: Read Aloud
The Hate You Give
I would recommend this book for students who are in 6th grade and up because the topics in the book could be much for younger students. It does a good job at addressing racism, identity, and activism in a realistic way. Starr is a strong character who at first struggles with finding her voice, which many students can relate to.
Lesson Idea: Students can discuss the importance of voice and activism and write about an issue they care about.
Author Website: Angie Thomas/ Instagram
YouTube: Read Aloud
We are Water Protectors
This was my first time reading a story that's inspired by Native American culture. It focuses on Indigenous voices and environmental activism. I enjoyed learning about the connection the Indigenous community have to waterways. The message about protecting water feels urgent and meaningful and caring for the environment is both a responsibility and a form of activism.
Lesson Idea: Students can do a persuasive writing on a problem in the environment and what can be done to help.
Author Website: Carol Lindstrom / Instagram / Twitter
YouTube: Read Aloud
Under My Hijab
This book does a really good job celebrating the Muslim culture and identity. I like how it can help to educate others on Muslim culture and can help to dispute common misconceptions about the use of hijabs.
Lesson Idea: Students can research cultural clothing and traditions and share about their own.
Author Website: Hena Khan / Instagram / Twitter
YouTube: Read Aloud
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