Diverse Books
Pre-K
Growing Reader
Tween
Teen
13 Inspiring Illustrated Biographies That Introduce Kids to Diverse Heroes
Young readers can find much to consider, relate to, and celebrate in these transcendent biographies of people who’ve had an impact on our lives and culture.
Pre-K
Growing Reader
Julián Is a Mermaid: A Heartwarming Lesson in Identity and Unconditional Love
Julián Is a Mermaid, by Jessica Love, is an absolutely beautiful celebration of self-expression, unconditional love, and being your truest self.
Pre-K
Growing Reader
Tween
Black Girl Magic: 33 Picture Books Featuring Black Female Protagonists
There are so many wonderful picture books that feature strong, Black females. Here are 33 favorites that are great for all kinds of readers.
Pre-K
Growing Reader
Tween
Colorful Poetry: 31 Diverse Poetry Picture Books for Kids
These diverse poetry picture books are entertaining, beautiful, and meaningful — making them excellent picks for kids.
Pre-K
Growing Reader
Brightly Storytime: Carmela Full of Wishes
Read along to Carmela Full of Wishes, a poignant tribute to family, home, and hope from the creators of Last Stop on Market Street.
Tween
Teen
Diverse Books for Tweens and Teens Written by #OwnVoices Authors
If we want children to enjoy reading and be engaged, why not give them stories in which they see themselves being represented? A good place to start is by exploring diverse stories written by “own voices” authors.
Growing Reader
Author Kelly Starling Lyons on Daring to Shine Like Jada Jones
In a world where popularity can take center stage, we sometimes forget to remind kids of the shine they hold inside. Kelly Starling Lyons' Jada Jones series aims to show kids that they are rock stars, class acts, scientists, and dancing queens just like Jada.
Tween
The Importance of Queer Representation in Middle Grade Fiction
While the YA genre is burgeoning with queer representation, books for middle grade readers are still sadly lacking such characters, themes, and stories.
Pre-K
Growing Reader
Hands Up! Reminds Black Children That They Are Beautiful and Worthy of a Life Well-Lived
Throughout Hands Up! is the image of a Black girl who is life personified. She matters every single day, 24/7. Her pain, her joy, and her being are important.
Tween
Brightly’s Book Club for Kids: Harbor Me
Our new Book Club for Kids pick, Harbor Me by Jacqueline Woodson, is a beautifully written, timely middle grade book that packs a big emotional punch.
Pre-K
Growing Reader
Tween
Teen
Jacqueline Woodson’s Most Beautiful, Impactful Books for Young Readers
Jacqueline Woodson has made a career out of breaking down barriers and smashing glass ceilings for children and teens through her remarkable writing. Here are some of our favorite books written by the unparalleled author.
Growing Reader
Tween
Teen
Read Globally: Books to Introduce Kids and Teens to the History and Culture of Iran
We’ve gathered a few stories that we hope spark your interest in the people, history, fables, and food of Iran, as well as some contemporary narratives from Iranian authors.