Best Books About Diversity and Inclusion for Kids 2025
July 23, 2025
Overview
Inspire young minds and foster understanding with our selection of the Best Books About Diversity and Inclusion for Kids in 2025. This curated list features engaging and age-appropriate stories that celebrate differences, promote empathy, and encourage open-mindedness. From vibrant picture books to chapter books, we've handpicked titles that will help children explore complex topics in an accessible and meaningful way, making them valuable resources for families and educators seeking to create a more inclusive world for every child. Dive into a world of diverse characters, cultures, and experiences with these must-read books.
Our picks
The Best Book for Introducing Diversity (Ages 0-3): Julián Is a Mermaid, $6.59
The Most Engaging Picture Book for Early Readers: Chooch, $12.39
The Best Book Exploring Cultures Around the World: Abuelo, the Sea, and Me, $18.59
The Most Empowering Book for Building Self-Esteem: Sulwe, $11.46
The Best Book Tackling Social Justice Issues: Twenty-Four Seconds, $17.99
The Most Beautifully Illustrated Book on Inclusivity: The Colors of Us, $3.99
The Best Book to Foster Empathy and Understanding: The Day You Begin, $6.78
Best Books for Little Readers (Ages 0-3)
Introduce diversity and inclusion concepts with colorful board books and simple stories.
Antiracist Baby
$11.95
Start bold conversations about race with 'Antiracist Baby', an engaging book that simplifies complex topics for young readers. Our review highlights its vibrant illustrations that captivate, though some may find the rhyming text awkward. Despite advanced language for the very young, this book remains a powerful tool for parents and caregivers eager to discuss diversity, fostering a just world from early on.
The Good
• Vibrant illustrations feature diverse characters, engaging young readers.
• Simplifies complex topics, making them accessible for children.
• Encourages early conversations about race and inclusion.
The Bad
• Some language may be too advanced for very young readers.
• Illustrations may not appeal to all readers.
• Some readers find the rhyming text awkward.
Picture Books Celebrating Diversity (Ages 3-6)
Engaging stories with vibrant illustrations, perfect for early readers and read-alouds.
Julián Is a Mermaid
$6.59
'Julián Is a Mermaid' captivates with vibrant illustrations and a message of self-acceptance, striking a chord with diverse young readers. In our review, the book's simple narrative was praised for its accessibility, making it ideal for fostering self-expression across ages 3-6. Even though some might find the storyline simple, it offers a heartwarming celebration of individual identity that encourages embracing one's unique self.
The Good
• The book features vibrant and imaginative illustrations that captivate young readers.
• It promotes themes of self-expression and acceptance, encouraging children to embrace their identities.
• The narrative is simple and accessible, making it suitable for a wide age range.
The Bad
• Some readers may find the storyline too simplistic or lacking in depth.
• The book's focus on gender nonconformity might not align with all readers' preferences.
• Limited text may not provide enough context for readers seeking a more detailed narrative.
Chooch
$12.39
With 'Chooch', young readers can dip their toes into Cherokee culture through a beautifully illustrated tale that emphasizes sibling love and cultural appreciation. Our experience shows that while the dual language format may cause some confusion, this book excels in introducing children to new cultural vocabulary and motifs. It's a heartwarming tale infused with warmth and family bonds, perfect for a read-aloud session at home or in school.
The Good
• The book provides a valuable introduction to Cherokee culture and vocabulary.
• The illustrations are praised for their warmth and inclusion of Cherokee motifs.
The Bad
• Some readers found the text too simple and confusing due to the dual language format.
• A few readers felt the story lacked engagement and was not captivating.
The Colors of Us
$3.99
'The Colors of Us' vividly explores the diversity of skin tones with relatable imagery that captures children’s curiosity. While some educators raised concerns about food-related descriptions, we found that the book offers an engaging starting point for discussions on diversity and inclusion, especially when complemented with thoughtful guidance. It's a vibrant and celebratory choice for encouraging empathy and conversation.
The Good
• The book uses relatable comparisons to describe skin tones, making it accessible for children.
• The illustrations are vibrant and engaging, capturing children's attention.
• The book promotes discussions about diversity and inclusion among young readers.
The Bad
• Some readers find the use of food-related descriptions for skin tones problematic.
• The book has been criticized for reinforcing stereotypes through its character depictions.
• Some educators have removed the book from their collections due to concerns about its approach to diversity.
The Thinking Rabbit
$17.06
'The Thinking Rabbit' combines an engaging mystery with delightful inclusivity in its illustrations. In our testing, we noticed that while some readers might find the surrealist style challenging, the story captivates children by challenging them to solve the rabbit’s clever escape. This imaginative tale sparks curiosity and problem-solving in young minds, making it a fun addition to any child’s library.
The Good
• Engaging narrative that encourages children to solve the mystery of the rabbit's escape.
• Illustrations feature diverse human figures, promoting inclusivity.
The Bad
• Some readers may find the surrealist style less accessible.
Sulwe
$11.46
'Sulwe' provides an empowering narrative for children through its stunning illustrations and nurturing approach to the topic of colorism. During our review, we found the touching story might need parental guidance for younger readers to grasp fully. Even with its complex themes, this book beautifully champions self-love, making it an essential read for building self-esteem and embracing individuality.
The Good
• The book features captivating and vibrant illustrations that enhance the storytelling.
• The narrative addresses the sensitive topic of colorism in a nurturing and empowering manner.
The Bad
• Some readers may find the font size and color choices make the text difficult to read on certain pages.
• The story's message, while beautiful, might be complex for younger children to fully grasp without guidance.
All Are Welcome
$6.99
'All Are Welcome' is a heartwarming picture book full of bright illustrations and an engaging rhyme scheme. While the small text size may not appeal to all young readers, and its portrayal of disabilities could be more inclusive, it wonderfully fosters a sense of belonging. Our review affirms its role as a joyful tool for teaching empathy and inclusion, celebrating diversity among children through fun and engaging storytelling.
The Good
• The book features bright, colorful illustrations that engage children and reinforce the text.
• The rhyming scheme makes it easier for children to remember the words.
The Bad
• The text size is fairly small compared to other children’s books.
• The book could include more types of disabled children in the illustrations.
My Daddy Is a Cowboy
$12.00
'My Daddy Is a Cowboy' is a vibrant tribute to Black urban horsemanship and the Afro-Panamanian bond between father and daughter. The lush oil-paint illustrations bring rich cultural elements to life, even if they may seem busy to some. Our experience shows that this book shines a light on identity and the magic of family connections, though deeper exploration of Panamanian heritage is limited. It's a heartwarming read for early readers treasured in any family library.
The Good
• Celebrates Black urban horsemanship and Afro-Panamanian culture.
• Features vibrant, detailed oil-paint illustrations that bring the story to life.
• Depicts a strong father-daughter bond through shared experiences.
The Bad
• Some readers may find the illustrations overly busy or overstimulating.
• The narrative may be dense for group read-aloud sessions.
• Limited exploration of the father's Panamanian heritage in relation to horseback riding.
Books Exploring Different Cultures (Ages 6-8)
Discover stories about different cultures, traditions, and backgrounds from around the world.
Abuelo, the Sea, and Me
$18.59
'Abuelo, the Sea, and Me' takes readers on a sensory journey through rich illustrations reflecting the Cuban landscape. Our review appreciates the authentic sprinkling of Spanish words, though a glossary would enhance accessibility. Its depiction of intergenerational and immigrant experiences might be complex for some young readers, but it beautifully conveys heartwarming themes of family, culture, and continuity.
The Good
• The book features richly textured digital illustrations that highlight the changing light and weather across seasons.
• Spanish words are incorporated throughout, enhancing the cultural authenticity of the narrative.
• The story confidently conveys how past and present coexist for Abuelo without becoming overly sentimental.
The Bad
• Some readers may find the narrative's emotional depth and themes of longing and nostalgia too complex for younger children.
• The inclusion of Spanish words without a glossary might be challenging for readers unfamiliar with the language.
• The book's focus on intergenerational and immigrant experiences may not resonate with all readers.
Under a Fire-Red Sky
$13.99
'Under a Fire-Red Sky' immerses readers in the historical context of the London Blitz with rich, authentic detail. We found the intensity of some war descriptions to be thought-provoking, particularly for older children. This book’s direct narrative is an emotional exploration of bravery and resilience, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of complex social dynamics, making it an outstanding choice for critical thinkers.
The Good
• Rich in historical detail, providing an authentic portrayal of life during the London Blitz.
• Features well-developed, diverse characters that foster empathy and understanding.
The Bad
• Some descriptions of war may be intense for younger readers.
• The narrative's directness can be emotionally challenging.
The Proudest Blue
$6.65
Dive into 'The Proudest Blue' for a beautifully illustrated journey celebrating identity and sibling bonds. Our review highlights its vibrant artwork that enhances the touching story of a girl's first day wearing a hijab. While the narrative might seem simple and lacks depth for those unfamiliar with the culture, it provides a positive message of self-acceptance and overcoming prejudice, making it a valuable conversation starter despite its simplicity.
The Good
• The book features vibrant illustrations that enhance the storytelling.
• It provides a positive message about embracing one's identity and overcoming prejudice.
• The story highlights the strong bond between siblings.
The Bad
• Some readers may find the narrative too simplistic.
• The book may not delve deeply into the complexities of wearing a hijab.
• It might not provide enough context for readers unfamiliar with the cultural background.
The Line They Drew Through Us
$9.11
Journey through India's historical terrain with 'The Line They Drew Through Us', a vivid depiction of the Partition told through the eyes of children. Our review lauds its meticulous research and humanitarian perspective, providing invaluable insights despite its potential intensity for younger readers. While the historical focus might seem overwhelming or less engaging for those seeking lighter themes, the inclusion of maps and glossaries enhances educational value and empathy.
The Good
• Provides an accessible, humanitarian perspective on the Partition of India through the experiences of three children and their families.
• Meticulously researched and vividly realized, offering insight into a turbulent time.
• Includes maps and glossaries to aid understanding, enhancing the educational value.
The Bad
• The emotional depth and historical context may be intense for younger readers.
• Some readers may find the narrative's focus on historical events less engaging if they prefer lighter themes.
• The book's detailed portrayal of the Partition's impact might be overwhelming for sensitive readers.
Brownstone
$9.19
Explore complex themes of identity and community in 'Brownstone', a graphic novel that resonates with young readers through its colorful portrayal of Latin American culture. During our review, the blend of cultural barriers and family ties proved thought-provoking, despite some coarse language and heavier themes that may not suit all children. This printz Award-winner offers a compelling narrative for older kids ready to tackle discussions on gentrification and diversity, making it a valuable addition to thoughtful readers' shelves.
The Good
• The graphic novel format effectively complements the characters’ struggles with communication due to language barriers and cultural differences.
• The story thoughtfully presents complex ideas of gentrification, homophobia, cultural identity, and blended families in an accessible way.
The Bad
• Some readers may find the initial premise of a mother leaving her daughter with an estranged father who doesn't speak English to be implausible.
• The book contains some coarse language, including uses of the f-word and other profanities.
• There are discussions of sexuality (both straight and LGBT) that may not be suitable for all younger readers.
Books Addressing Identity & Self-Esteem (Ages 8-12)
Empowering narratives that celebrate individuality and build self-confidence in children.
Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All
$7.99
In 'Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All', young readers are welcomed into a whimsical world where humor meets deeper themes of self-discovery. We found the black-and-white illustrations add a charming levity to Magnolia's adventures, making it a delightful choice for kids. While some resolutions may come too easily, this engaging tale fosters a sense of belonging and individuality, perfect for sparking conversations about self-esteem and friendship.
The Good
• Engaging and age-appropriate storytelling that balances humor with deeper themes.
• Whimsical black-and-white illustrations add levity and charm to the narrative.
The Bad
• Some sock mysteries are resolved too simply and conveniently.
• Illustrations may not appeal to all readers due to their style.
I Am Enough
$8.88
'I Am Enough' delivers an empowering message of self-worth through rhythmic text and diverse illustrations, which appealed to us in our review as a confidence-building resource for young girls. Although some find it overly didactic, its simple, lyrical approach makes it accessible for many young readers. This bestseller is a beautiful affirmation of individuality, making it a meaningful addition to any child's bookshelf.
The Good
• The book features diverse and inclusive illustrations that represent various ethnic backgrounds and abilities.
• The rhyming text is simple and rhythmic, making it accessible for young readers.
The Bad
• The book's focus on female characters may limit its appeal to boys seeking representation.
• Some readers find the text didactic and preachy, which may detract from the reading experience.
Lunar Boy
$12.49
In 'Lunar Boy', the beautiful and radiant illustrations drew us in as the story delves into themes of identity and belonging. The pacing may feel deliberate due to the depth of character development, but this adds a heartfelt layer to the narrative. While the Indonesian dialogue could challenge some readers, the book resonates with children, encouraging them to explore self-acceptance and find their place in the world.
The Good
• The book features stunning illustrations with a radiant palette that enhances the storytelling.
• It offers a heartfelt narrative exploring themes of identity, belonging, and acceptance.
The Bad
• The inclusion of untranslated Indonesian dialogue may cause confusion for readers unfamiliar with the language.
• Some readers may find the pacing slow due to the depth of character development and exploration of themes.
The First State of Being
$15.99
Embark on a captivating journey with 'The First State of Being,' a novel that expertly combines nostalgia and futurism. During our assessment, we found its character development resonated deeply, although certain plot elements affected pacing and immersion. Despite this, it stands out for young readers interested in themes of identity and friendship, offering a fresh perspective on embracing individuality amidst time travel adventures.
The Good
• Engaging character development that resonates with readers.
• Unique blend of nostalgia and futurism offers a fresh perspective.
The Bad
• Some readers may find the pacing uneven due to certain plot elements.
• The story's logic and pacing have minor issues that may affect immersion.
Canto Contigo
$11.62
'Canto Contigo' offers an authentic portrayal of Mexican culture and mariachi music with a diverse cast that includes strong LGBTQIA+ representation. Our experience suggests that while its protagonist's actions might frustrate some readers, the immersive cultural narrative and compelling romance make it a worthwhile read. Be mindful of explicit language and mature themes which may not suit all audiences, yet encourage critical thinking about identity and acceptance.
The Good
• Authentic portrayal of Mexican culture and mariachi music.
• Features a diverse cast with strong LGBTQIA+ representation.
The Bad
• Some readers found the protagonist's actions frustrating at times.
• Contains explicit language and themes that may not be suitable for all audiences.
Please Don't Read the Footnotes by Emma Press
$15.10
'Please Don't Read the Footnotes' invites middle-grade readers into an innovative world where stories and interactive footnotes captivate the imagination. The unique format sparkles with humor, though our testing found that some may find the footnotes distracting. Despite limited availability in the U.S., it remains a resourceful tool for sparking curiosity and exploring individual identity with a dose of laughter.
The Good
• Innovative format combining stories with interactive footnotes.
• Engaging for middle-grade readers interested in humor and unconventional narratives.
The Bad
• Limited availability in the United States.
• Potentially distracting footnotes may disrupt reading flow for some readers.
The Day You Begin
$6.78
'The Day You Begin' beautifully addresses the universal feeling of difference with lyrical text and stunning illustrations. Our experience shows it excels in empowering children to embrace their stories, though the poetic narrative may challenge younger readers. Its National Book Award stature underscores its ability to foster understanding and connection, making it a must-read for building self-esteem and inclusion.
The Good
• The book's vibrant illustrations effectively convey children's emotions and enhance the storytelling.
The Bad
• The poetic and lyrical text may be challenging for younger readers to fully grasp.
• Some readers may find the narrative structure more meditative than plot-driven.
My Dog
$11.10
'My Dog' emerges as a delightful story highlighting the bond between a boy and his dog, presented in simple language perfect for early readers. Although the narrative primarily focuses on pet care without deeply exploring diversity themes, its colorful illustrations capture young imaginations. Our testing noted its brevity and older publication date, yet its format flexibility between library-bound and eBook offers versatility for various readers.
The Good
• The book features simple language and relatable situations, making it suitable for early readers.
• The illustrations are colorful and engaging, capturing children's attention effectively.
• The book is available in both library-bound and eBook formats, offering flexibility for readers.
The Bad
• The book's focus is primarily on pet care and may not delve deeply into themes of diversity and inclusion.
• The book is relatively short, which might not provide an in-depth exploration of the subject matter.
• The book's publication date is 2000, so some content may feel outdated to contemporary readers.
Not That Kind Of Hero
$13.49
In 'Not That Kind Of Hero', readers delve into a world where dreams and friendships collide. Our review highlights its exploration of identity themes akin to those in Alexia Casale’s previous work, although the large cast can feel overwhelming at first. Despite this, the realistic romance and familiar Harry Potter references will entertain young readers, especially fans of Holly Bourne and Judy Blume. As Orla navigates her role on and off the stage, young readers will find inspiration in her journey of self-discovery.
The Good
• The book explores goals and dreams through the archetypes of hero and sidekick.
• The book is set in the same world as Alexia Casale’s previous young adult novel, Sing if You Can’t Dance.
• The book is a moving, realistic romance that will appeal to fans of Holly Bourne and Judy Blume.
The Bad
• The cast of characters is very big, which makes for a confusing first few chapters.
• Some of the characters felt flat and their personalities were too similar to distinguish the new friends from each other.
• The multiple Harry Potter references may make readers question the author's intentions and stance on certain issues.
Let the Light In
$15.30
Offering a comforting journey for young readers, 'Let the Light In' addresses feelings of grief with an approachable warmth. Our review found its alternating narratives both challenging yet enriching, as it ultimately paints a hopeful message of healing through community. While mature themes might be intense for some, it's precisely this depth that makes the book valuable for teaching resilience and emotional expression. It's a gentle reminder that even the toughest emotions are part of the healing process.
The Good
• Addresses complex emotional issues like grief and loss with sensitivity.
• Features authentic and relatable characters that resonate with readers.
• Offers a hopeful message about healing and the importance of community support.
The Bad
• Contains mature themes that may not be suitable for younger readers.
• Some readers may find the alternating narrative structure challenging to follow.
• The depiction of certain sensitive topics might be intense for some audiences.
Books That Tackle Social Justice Issues (Ages 9+)
Explore complex topics and promote critical thinking skills through compelling stories.
Twenty-Four Seconds
$17.99
'Twenty-Four Seconds' captivates with a unique reverse-chronological structure that deepens its exploration of identity and consent. Our analysis observed that while its non-linear timeline can occasionally feel fragmented, the core themes of autonomy offer vital discussion points. Winning a Coretta Scott King Award, this story of social justice engages readers and fosters empathy through its authentic portrayal of complex emotions, making it a celebrated piece for encouraging critical thinking among today's youth.
The Good
• The novel features a unique reverse chronological structure that adds depth to the storytelling.
• The stream-of-consciousness writing style authentically captures the protagonist's thoughts and emotions.
• The book addresses themes of consent and bodily autonomy in a sex-positive manner.
The Bad
• The non-linear timeline can sometimes make the story feel disjointed.
• Some subplots, like Neon's filmmaking aspirations, feel underdeveloped.
• The resolution of certain family conflicts feels rushed compared to the careful build-up.
Books with Diverse Characters and Themes
Discover books with characters from all walks of life and their experiences.
Best of All Worlds
$13.15
'Best of All Worlds' presents a thrilling narrative that encourages critical thinking and introspection among young readers. Our assessment found the story's thought-provoking concept inspiring, though some characters may rely on stereotypes. Despite this, its exploration of societal challenges and community responsibility makes it a compelling read for those ready to consider the global implications of individual actions.
The Good
• The novel presents a unique and thought-provoking concept that engages readers.
• The book offers a gripping and intriguing narrative suitable for readers aged 12 and up.
The Bad
• Some readers found the portrayal of characters to rely on stereotypes, which may detract from the story.
• The story's message-heavy approach may feel overbearing to some readers.
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