Here's What We Found

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links These books capture the essence of Swift's music and persona, inviting young readers to embark on imaginative journeys that resonate with her spirit. Explore children's books that celebrate the excitement of Taylor Swift's music and message, igniting young hearts with joy and inspiration. For your convenience, we've included publisher's descriptions along with each book. This uplifting read-aloud is a heartfelt wish for all children and a timeless introduction to the Grammy Award-winning and multi-platinum singer and songwriter. YOU ARE FEARLESS presents Taylor Swift's inspirational journey, encouraging children to be fearless, defy limits, and follow their hearts. Perfect for Taylor Swift fans of all ages! BOOKSHOP Inspire kids with the glittering story of pop superstar Taylor Swift! This talented singer-songwriter started as a little country girl with a big dream to become a star. Little Taylor grew up on her family's Christmas tree farm in Pennsylvania. Then, at age six, she went to her first concert - she saw LeAnn Rimes, the country musician. At that moment, Taylor fell in love with country music! Some of the kids at school didn't understand but Taylor managed to shake it off! She took her first steps towards stardom by recording a demo of cover songs and sent it to record labels in Nashville, the home of country music. However, while, she enjoyed singing others' songs, she knew all too well that she had to express herself in her own words. So, she started writing her own lyrics and melodies and her natural talent for putting her feelings into words shone through. After signing with a record label, she started working on her first album. Called 'Taylor Swift', it became very popular, very quickly. She earned a number one single on the country music charts. Then, she released her second album, 'Fearless', which was country-pop instead of just country and suddenly, everyone knew her name. She won a Grammy for her work and started to write more and more pop music for her albums. She wrote heartfelt lyrics loved by millions around the world. Despite the obstacles in her way, Taylor has always stood up for what she believes in, and always believes in herself! This powerful book will never go out of style. It features quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Taylor's life. FIND IT HERE Help your little one dream big with a Little Golden Book biography about Taylor Swift, the Grammy Award-winning and multiplatinum artist. Little Golden Book biographies are the perfect introduction to nonfiction for young readers--as well as fans of all ages! This Little Golden Book about Taylor Swift--the singer and songwriter whose distinctive talent for storytelling has made her one of the biggest superstars in both country and pop music--is an inspiring read-aloud for young children as well as their Swiftie parents! FIND IT HERE Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists: How Oonuh Do? Books fuh Chillun That Celebrate Gullah Geechee Culture Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Muslim Culture Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Caribbean Culture and History Libro Love: Spanish Edition and Bilingual Children's Books Must-Read Indigenous Children's Books by Indigenous Creators Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Earth Day is an annual reminder to reflect on our impact on the planet and consider ways to contribute to its well-being. While it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of environmental issues facing our world, every small action counts, and children can play a significant role in protecting the environment. Teaching kids early and often about sustainability and encouraging eco-friendly habits from a young age not only benefits the planet but also instills valuable lessons that can last a lifetime. By using these twelve simple tips, our community can come together to protect the planet for future generations. 1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Teach children about the importance of reducing waste by reusing items whenever possible and recycling materials like paper, plastic, glass, and aluminum. Set up designated recycling bins at home and encourage them to sort their waste correctly. 2. Conserve Water: Encourage kids to turn off the tap while brushing their teeth, take shorter showers, and fix any leaks around the house. They can also help save water by watering plants with a watering can instead of using a hose. 3. Save Energy: Teach children to turn off lights, appliances, and electronics when they're not in use. You can also involve them in simple energy-saving practices like using natural light during the day and unplugging chargers when devices are fully charged. 4. Plant Trees: Planting trees is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change and support biodiversity. Get kids involved in tree-planting initiatives in your community or plant trees in your own backyard. It's a hands-on way for them to make a positive impact on the environment. 5. Create a Garden: Gardening not only teaches kids about the importance of plants but also provides them with a sense of responsibility and connection to nature. Help them plant a vegetable or herb garden and show them how to care for it without using harmful chemicals. 6. Use Eco-Friendly Transportation: Encourage walking, biking, or using public transportation instead of driving whenever possible. If you need to drive, carpooling with friends or family can help reduce carbon emissions. 7. Reduce Plastic Use: Plastic pollution is a significant environmental issue, but kids can help by reducing their use of single-use plastics like straws, bags, and utensils. Opt for reusable alternatives made from materials like stainless steel, glass, or bamboo. 8. Support Wildlife: Teach children about the importance of protecting wildlife habitats and biodiversity. You can set up bird feeders or create a butterfly garden to attract and support local wildlife in your area. 9. Practice Sustainable Eating: Encourage kids to eat more plant-based meals and reduce their consumption of meat and dairy products, which have a higher environmental impact. You can involve them in meal planning and cooking to make it a fun and educational experience. 10. Reduce Food Waste: Teach children about the importance of not wasting food and show them how to properly store leftovers. You can also compost food scraps to reduce methane emissions from landfills and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. 11. Learn About Environmental Issues: Educate kids about pressing environmental issues like climate change, deforestation, and pollution in an age-appropriate way. Watch documentaries, read books, and explore nature together to deepen their understanding of the world around them. 12. Be an Advocate: Encourage kids to speak up for the environment by writing letters to policymakers, participating in environmental clean-up events, or raising awareness in their schools and communities. Empowering them to be environmental advocates can inspire positive change on a larger scale. Find more books about protecting the planet in our bookshop: Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists: Children's Books by Indigenous Authors to Add to Your Bookshelf Today Multicultural Holiday Children's Books that Celebrate Diverse Traditions Baby Love: The 7 Best Baby Board Books to Read Right Now Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Gullah Geechee Culture Children's Books for Black Music Appreciation in our Bookshop Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links As March Madness sweeps the nation, it's the perfect time to share diverse children's books that highlight the sport's universal appeal. From inner-city playgrounds to suburban courts, these stories feature characters from various backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of the basketball community. Whether it's tales of teamwork, perseverance, or friendship, these books offer valuable lessons while capturing the excitement of the game. Young readers, sports enthusiasts, and families alike will delight in the vibrant illustrations and engaging narratives that bring these basketball adventures to life. Whether you're cheering for your favorite team during March Madness or simply looking for inspiring stories, these diverse children's books about basketball are sure to score big with readers of all ages. For your convenience, we've included publisher's descriptions along with each book. The inspiring true story of basketball phenom Tacko Fall--and his journey from West Africa to the NBA--will inspire young people to dream and do. Tacko Fall was always tall, even as a child, but he wasn't always a slam-dunk star. On his first official day of training as a boy in Senegal, running up and down the basketball court was exhausting. The first time he tried weight-lifting, he could barely lift the bar, even with no weights on it! The game had many rules that he didn't understand, but Tacko set aside frustration and found the courage to keep working. The more he practiced, the more his skills grew, and the more reachable his goals became. Touching on immigration, determination, hard work, and the long road to success, this picture-book biography of one rising basketball star will delight his many fans and introduce him to new ones. Coauthored with his sports agent and paired with engaging illustrations, Tacko Fall's relatable story will motivate readers to overcome obstacles and aim high--and higher still. FIND IT HERE This dynamic picture book biography introduces readers of all ages to Wataru Misaka, the first non-white athlete to play in the NBA Wataru "Wat" Misaka, a Japanese American boy born to immigrant parents, liked to play basketball under the glow of stars and a small street lamp in Ogden, Utah. America was home to Wat, but with the onset of World War II, many people thought he didn't belong. "Go home!" they would shout as he dribbled the ball down the hardwood court, but Wat continued on his chosen path, winning state tournaments in high school, becoming a national champion with the University of Utah, and even serving in the U.S. Army. The New York Knicks took notice, and in 1947, Wat became the first person of color to play in the NBA. During a time when nearly all of America mistrusted and mistreated Japanese Americans, Wataru Misaka embodied courage and strength, pursuing the game he loved and becoming a symbol of hope for Japanese Americans sent to incarceration camps. Lost in the annals of history for too long, this remarkable story of identity, belonging, and following one's own path is now illuminated through lyrical text and vivid illustrations. FIND IT HERE A Muslim American girl at the top of her game makes a difficult choice in this powerful and beautifully told true story about breaking barriers. Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir was born to play basketball. At three, she has her own hoop. By seventeen, she's the star player on her school's varsity team. On the day of the playoffs, though, the referee says she can't play while wearing her hijab. Her teammates refuse to play, the crowd shouts its support and the referee relents. With that game, Bilqis becomes the all-time lead scorer in Massachusetts State history and goes on to play college ball, where she is the first woman to play in a hijab in the NCAA - she even plays basketball with President Obama at the White House! The story follows Bilqis into adulthood and her heartbreaking decision to walk away from a professional basketball career when the rules once again won't allow her to wear a hijab. Bilqis becomes an activist, fighting for years on the international stage advocating for young Muslim women, and eventually the rule is overturned. Written in free verse in a voice that captures the cadence of the game, this picture book biography, coauthored by Bilqis and award-winning writer Judith Henderson, is both a love poem to the sport of basketball and an inspiring story about how one person can effect change. Richly colored illustrations by Katherine Ahmed add further emotional depth to the story. This book will spark discussions about respect, beliefs, values, culture and discrimination. Back matter includes biographical information, photos and a list of sources for further exploration. Lion on the Inside is the first book in the CitizenKid collection that is geared to younger readers ages 5 to 8. FIND IT HERE The true story of the high-flying Harlem Globetrotters -- the team that changed basketball forever. In this book you will find one-finger ball-spinning, rapid-fire mini-dribbling, and a ricochet head shot! You will find skilled athletes, expert players, and electrifying performers -- all rolled into one! You will find nonstop, give-it-all-you've-got, out-to-win-it, sky's-the-limit BASKETBALL! You will find The Harlem Globetrotters, who played the most groundbreaking, breathtaking ball the world had ever seen. With rhythmic writing and dynamic illustrations, Swish! is a celebration of the greatness, goodness, and grit of this remarkable team. FIND IT HERE Four-time NBA champion and superstar Stephen Curry makes a splash with his picture book debut inspiring young readers to unlock their very own superpower. Stephen Curry's journey to the NBA wasn't easy. Coaches and recruiters repeatedly told him he was too small to make it in the big leagues. But Stephen used their doubts to shape his ever-positive attitude and fuel his own underdog success story. Now, Curry pens an original story to inspire the next generation of go-getters and big dreamers. I Have a Superpower is the empowering story that teaches kids you don't have to be the strongest, fastest, or even tallest kid out on the court. So long as you have heart, any goal is achievable through hard work and determination--even without a cape! FIND IT HERE It's game day! In this action-packed picture book from Daria Peoples-Riley, the creator of the acclaimed This Is It, a young basketball player gets ready for a neighborhood pickup game. I Got Next encourages hard work and determination and celebrates the imagination and the joy of basketball. Fans of Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut, by Derrick Barnes, will devour this exuberant book. Time to play! Put your game face on, play to win. Fight, all the way to the end. A young basketball player practices on the playground, preparing for an upcoming pickup game while his shadow urges him to play hard and leave his heart on the court. As the boy dribbles and weaves, shoots and scores, his shadow gives him the encouragement he needs to overcome pregame jitters and join the competition. In the companion to her debut picture bookThis Is It, author-illustrator Daria Peoples-Riley praises hard work, dedication, and the love of the game. With vibrant artwork and a lively, rhythmic text,I Got Nextis an exceptional read-aloud. FIND IT HERE Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul--NBA All-Star and former Rookie of the year, community activist, and Olympic gold medalist--shares his inspiring story of overcoming impossible odds to achieve his dream of playing professional basketball. Everybody told Chris that he was too small to play basketball. But he ignored them all...because he had big dreams. FIND IT HERE Before there was Michael Jordan or LeBron James or Giannis Antetokounmpo, there was Elgin Baylor, shooting, passing, and soaring through the air like no basketball player before him. Here is the story of the basketball icon and African American civil rights advocate, told with beautiful artwork and poetic text: Hall-of-famer Baylor was one of basketball's greatest players--an innovative athlete, team player, and quiet force for change. One of the first professional African American players, he inspired others on and off the court. But when traveling for away games, many hotels and restaurants turned Elgin away because he was Black. One night, Elgin had enough and staged a one-man protest that captured the attention of the press, the public, and the NBA. With lyrical, moving text from an award-winning author and exquisite, slam-dunk illustrations from an award-winning artist, Above the Rim is a peek into the early days of the NBA, a poetic telling of the life of an under-recognized African American athlete, and a celebration of standing up for what's right. FIND IT HERE This biography of basketball superstar Jeremy Lin is an anthem of Asian American pride that speaks to any child who feels underestimated or misunderstood. If Lin can, you can! Have you ever been told that you CAN'T? Growing up in the Bay Area, Jeremy Lin heard that over and over again. People made fun of his size and his race and wouldn't give him a chance. But Jeremy persevered until he became the first Taiwanese American to play in the NBA. And when his big moment came, he seized it! Jeremy's meteoric rise, dubbed "Linsanity," inspired the world and a whole generation of young Asian Americans. As author Richard Ho puts it, "Jeremy's struggles were our struggles, so his triumphs were our triumphs. He made us believe that if he could succeed, so could we." FIND IT HERE Michael Jordan's mother and sister team up for this heartwarming and inspirational picture book about faith and hope and how any family working together can help a child make his or her dreams come true. Michael Jordan. The mere mention of the name conjures up visions of basketball played at its absolute best. But as a child, Michael almost gave up on his hoop dreams, all because he feared he'd never grow tall enough to play the game that would one day make him famous. That's when his mother and father stepped in and shared the invaluable lesson of what really goes into the making of a champion--patience, determination, and hard work. FIND IT HERE Olympic dreams come true in this inspiring picture book from Michael Jordan's mother, author of the New York Times bestselling Salt in His Shoes. Long before he became a professional All-Star basketball player, Michael Jordan had dreams of winning an Olympic gold medal--and with dedication and perseverance, that's exactly what he did. This heartwarming picture book, written by Michael's mother and illustrated by Barry Root, gives a rare glimpse into a sports hero's childhood and emphasizes the role that good values play in success. An ideal companion to the New York Times bestselling Salt in His Shoes, this is an inspirational story for sports fans, go-getters, and anyone with big dreams! FIND IT HERE From superstar author Derrick Barnes, here is a middle-grade celebration of the people and stories that helped shape the game of basketball, from unsung pioneers to unforgettable moments of the game. Capturing all the joy and energy that mark the sport of basketball, bestselling and award-winning superstar author Derrick Barnes shines a light on the amazing ballers, buzzer-beaters, and record-breakers who haven't always gotten the attention they deserve. Who Got Game? Basketball, the second book in his sports series, following Who Got Game? Baseball, weaves together great storytelling, lively illustrations, and a far-ranging selection of facts, stats, sidebars, and quotes. Middle-grade readers will discover the highest-scoring game in NCAA history. The influential center, George Mikan, who created the modern big man role, and 5'3" Muggsy Bogues, the shortest player ever to star in the pros. The pioneering Senda Berenson Abbott, creator of the women's game. The legendary Rucker Park b-ball court in Harlem, New York. Plus the first African American players and coaches, greatest comeback victories and earth-shattering slam dunks, longest winning streaks, and so much more. This book will hit you like a three-pointer from half-court! FIND IT HERE With this high-energy collection of poems and dynamic photos celebrating twelve pro ballers, Charles R. Smith Jr. scores another slam dunk. What's your game? Can you fly like Blake Griffin? Are you a lightning-fast force of nature like Russell Westbrook? Or are you a chameleon on the court, racking up nicknames like Steph Curry? From James Harden with his shimmy-shake-spin to "Lord of the Leap, Sir Alley of the Oop" Lebron James, here are a dozen profiles honoring the superb talents and skills of some of the best players in NBA basketball. With bold, graphic photographs and fun, accessible poems infused with his indomitable wordplay, Charles R. Smith Jr. captures the agility and finesse that each of these professionals brings to the game. Poem notes about each featured player offer further inspiration at the end. FIND IT HERE Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists: How Oonuh Do? Books fuh Chillun That Celebrate Gullah Geechee Culture Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Muslim Culture Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Caribbean Culture and History Libro Love: Spanish Edition and Bilingual Children's Books Must-Read Indigenous Children's Books by Indigenous Creators Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links As the holy month approaches, families often seek meaningful ways to engage with or learn about the traditions and values of Ramadan. These beautiful children's books that celebrate Muslim faith and culture are perfect for sharing during Ramadan and all year long. From heartwarming tales of family bonds strengthened during fasting to vibrant illustrations depicting the joyous spirit of Eid, these books serve as invaluable resources for both Muslim and non-Muslim readers alike. For your convenience, we've included publisher's descriptions along with each book. Join Raya and her mama and aba as they enjoy iftar, bake Ramadan cookies, do good deeds around their community and visit the mosque. Raya is celebrating Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr with her family and inviting you along to learn more! It's a time full of fun activities and celebrations, and a great opportunity to get closer to Allah. Learn about this special time as Raya makes Ramadan mubarak cards for her friends and has her hands decorated with henna! And when the month of Ramadan is over, Raya, her mama and aba, aunts, uncles and cousins have a magical Eid celebration, playing games, opening presents and eating delicious food. This bright and engaging picture book is the perfect way to introduce little ones to Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Author Sara Khan brings the celebrations to life, drawing on her own experiences with her daughter, also named Raya! This book also offers fun activities that parents and children can do together in the lead-up to the celebration, such as making a pop-up card and cookies. A fun fact file and colorful quiz follow the story, giving kids the opportunity to learn more about Allah, worship and the lunar calendar. FIND IT HERE Lailah solves her problem with help from the school librarian and her teacher and in doing so learns that she can make new friends who respect her beliefs. This gentle, moving story from first-time author Reem Faruqi comes to life in Lea Lyon's vibrant illustrations. Lyon uses decorative arabesque borders on intermittent spreads to contrast the ordered patterns of Islamic observances with the unbounded rhythms of American school days. FIND IT HERE With radiant and welcoming art, this debut picture book and modern holiday classic captures the magic and meaning of one of the world's most joyful and important celebrations. It's Ramadan, the month of peace, and Moon watches over Ramadan traditions with excitement and longing in this sweetly illustrated debut. In Egypt, India, Argentina and the United Arab Emirates, in Somalia, New Zealand and Indonesia, in Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States, children and their families do good deeds in honor of those who have less. Cleverly blending glimpses of different countries' celebrations with the corresponding phases of the moon, Moon's Ramadan makes Ramadan, one of the world's most widely celebrated traditions, accessible and exciting for all readers. Includes robust and easy-to-understand back matter. FIND IT HERE Ramadan is almost here! It's Zain's favorite time of the year. Well, it usually is. After a recent move and with no mosque or Islamic school in his new neighborhood, will Zain find a new Muslim friend to celebrate with him? Children will learn what makes the ninth Islamic month special from pre-Ramadan decorating, the importance of fasting and volunteering in the community, and the festivities and prayers that continue through the month, ending with Eid al-Fitr. Marzieh A. Ali and Najwa Awatiff join together to celebrate their respective cultures as Ramadan is observed by Muslims around the world. FIND IT HERE Celebrate the end of Ramadan with this luminous Muslim family story about faith, history, and delicious foods. On the night before Eid, it's finally time to make special sweet treats: Teita's famous ka'ak. Zain eagerly unpacks the ingredients from his grandmother's bulky suitcase: ghee from Khalo Karim, dates from Amo Girgis, and honey from Tant Tayseer--precious flavors all the way from Egypt. Together with Mama and Teita, Zain follows his family's recipe and brings to life Eid songs and prayers, pharaonic history, and the melodies and tastes of his Egyptian heritage. This Muslim holiday story, featuring a delicious ka'ak recipe, is a satisfying addition to a joyful and expansive Eid. FIND IT HERE From M. O. Yuksel and Hatem Aly, the acclaimed creators of the award-winning In My Mosque, comes Ramadan Kareem--a delightful, diverse celebration of Ramadan around the world. Don't miss this modern classic that celebrates the emotions and joy of this important holiday. Come in and experience the sacred traditions of Ramadan, the Islamic month of mercy and blessings, with children and families from across the globe. From waking up early for suhoor and fasting from dawn to dusk to praying and preparing an iftar meal to be shared, Ramadan is a time of increased spirituality, gratitude, charity, and empathy for all. With warm, lyrical text from M. O. Yuksel and richly detailed artwork from New York Times bestselling illustrator Hatem Aly, this is a must-have book that invites readers to enjoy the wonder of Ramadan. The book also includes easy-to-understand back matter and fun, interactive elements. FIND IT HERE A heartwarming celebration of Ramadan, food, and community Ramadan is coming, and as Abba and Ammi prepare for their month-long fast, Aliya hugs a secret to her chest: she's going to fast too! Ammi says she's still too young to fast, but Aliya is determined. At school, she refuses her snack, her lunch--even the cupcakes Sanjay's mom drops off for his birthday. But when she gets home, she can't resist Ammi's sweet, syrupy baklava. Before Aliya can stop herself, she reaches out and takes a big bite. Aliya is disappointed in herself, but Ammi explains that there are many other ways to celebrate Ramadan besides fasting, like performing acts of kindness! Together, Aliya and her parents spend the month preparing and delivering meals to people in need. This joyful look at Ramadan is based on the author's own childhood experiences and is rich with facts and details about the holiday. Readers familiar and unfamiliar with the holiest month in the Islamic calendar will get swept up in the festivities, and perhaps be inspired to share a meal with their community. FIND IT HERE The leaves whisper it. The birds sing it. It is Ramadan, the holy season of giving! But Adam and Alyha can't help wondering: what is the real meaning of Ramadan? Fortunately, wise Grandma Essi knows just what to do. With ruby pomegranates picked from Grandma Essi's magnificent tree, the two grandchildren set off to visit their friends and neighbors, share their blessings, and discover, as Grandma Essi no doubt intended all along, to feel the spirit of the holiest month of the year. Written by internationally bestselling author of Secrets of Divine Love, A. Helwa, and illustrated by Dasril Iqbal Al Faruqi, The Blessed Pomegranates is a timeless story to teach kids gratitude, generosity, and the real meaning behind Ramadan. FIND IT HERE Sophia wants to fast for the first time in this Ramadan tale. Sophia wants to fast for Ramadan this year. Her grandma tells her that fasting helps make a person sparkly--and Sophia loves sparkles. But when her attempt at fasting fails, Sophia must find another way to participate. This lovely multigenerational family story explores the many ways to take part in the Ramadan holiday. FIND IT HERE Zahra hugs her cherished teddy bear and prays that Ramadan will bring her a longed-for sister. When her bear subsequently goes missing, Zahra finds herself grappling with intense feelings of loss. Over the next few weeks, as she volunteers with her mother at a local shelter for asylum seekers, Zahra befriends a displaced child, resulting in a newfound sense of gratitude and an unexpected Ramadan blessing. FIND IT HERE Red shoes glowing--Perched on a pedestal in the shop window as if on a throne. "I want those, Nana," Malika says, as they pass the shop. "We'll see," Nana says with a wink. "Looks like you could use a new pair." Malika is delighted when Nana surprises her with a beautiful new pair of red shoes! And with a click-clack-click and a swish, swish, swish, Malika wears her wonderful new shoes everywhere she goes. But one day, the shoes begin to pinch Malika's toes. And alas, they don't let her forget that her feet have grown! Soon Malika and Nana are off to the Rare Finds Resale Shop, where the shoes can be resold -- so somebody else can enjoy them! Who will be the next to wear the red shoes? Malika wonders. Then Inna Ziya buys the shoes, and readers follow the shoes all the way across the world to Ghana in Africa, where Amina, another little girl, who has fasted her first time for Ramadan is about to get an amazing gift! Karen English and Ebony Glenn have crafted a satisfying and heartwarming story about a pair of shoes, two girls, and a connection they share across continents. FIND IT HERE Learn why and how Muslim families celebrate Ramadan with this beautifully illustrated Little Golden Book! Ramadan Mubarak! Teach children about the holy month of Ramadan--the tradition of fasting, what the Qur'an is, what kind of food is served between fasts, and how a modern family celebrates. Filled with colorful illustrations and simple, yet informative text, this Little Golden Book is perfect to share with your family this Ramadan! FIND IT HERE Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists: How Oonuh Do? Books fuh Chillun That Celebrate Gullah Geechee Culture Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Muslim Culture Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Caribbean Culture and History Libro Love: Spanish Edition and Bilingual Children's Books Must-Read Indigenous Children's Books by Indigenous Creators Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links This collection of children's books features Muslim protagonists, cherishes the richness of Muslim culture, and beautifully depicts Islamic traditions. These books are perfect for sharing during Ramadan and Eid or for year-round exploration and celebration. Dive into wonderful stories that celebrate culture, traditions, and the vibrant diversity of Muslim communities. For your convenience, we've included publisher's descriptions along with each book. From the critically acclaimed author of Your Name Is a Song and the bestselling illustrator of The Proudest Blue comes a story about a Muslim boy who receives a salat (prayer) rug on his seventh birthday and becomes empowered about his faith. In this beautiful story of community, family, and acceptance, a boy named Muhammad receives a special salat rug on his seventh birthday. Seven is the age when Muslim children are encouraged to pray, and Muhammad is determined to do all five daily prayers on time. But one salat occurs during the school day--and he's worried about being seen praying at school. His father parks his truck to worship in public places, and people stare at and mock him. Will the same thing happen to Muhammad? In the end, with help from his teacher, he finds the perfect place to pray. Salat in Secret, by two highly acclaimed Muslim creators, is a poignant and empowering look at an important facet of Islam that many observant children cherish but might be scared to share. FIND IT HERE With radiant and welcoming art, this debut picture book and modern holiday classic captures the magic and meaning of one of the world's most joyful and important celebrations. It's Ramadan, the month of peace, and Moon watches over Ramadan traditions with excitement and longing in this sweetly illustrated debut. In Egypt, India, Argentina and the United Arab Emirates, in Somalia, New Zealand and Indonesia, in Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States, children and their families do good deeds in honor of those who have less. Cleverly blending glimpses of different countries' celebrations with the corresponding phases of the moon, Moon's Ramadan makes Ramadan, one of the world's most widely celebrated traditions, accessible and exciting for all readers. Includes robust and easy-to-understand back matter. FIND IT HERE From the author of Not Quite Snow White comes a story about a young Muslim boy celebrating the many reasons he loves going to his local masjid in this jubilant and playful picture book perfect for fans of Mommy's Khimar and Abdul's Story. Friday is Kamal's favorite day of the week because he gets to go to the masjid for Jumu'ah prayer. The masjid is where he can be with his friends, hear the teachings of the imam, and pray with the community that he loves so dearly. He just can't help the bounce in his step, the smile on his face, or the joy bubbling up in his chest every time Friday rolls around! Inspired by the famous nursery rhyme "This Is the House That Jack Built," each spread in this buoyant picture book builds on the rhythmic list of things Kamal loves about the masjid. FIND IT HERE Celebrate the end of Ramadan with this luminous Muslim family story about faith, history, and delicious foods. On the night before Eid, it's finally time to make special sweet treats: Teita's famous ka'ak. Zain eagerly unpacks the ingredients from his grandmother's bulky suitcase: ghee from Khalo Karim, dates from Amo Girgis, and honey from Tant Tayseer--precious flavors all the way from Egypt. Together with Mama and Teita, Zain follows his family's recipe and brings to life Eid songs and prayers, pharaonic history, and the melodies and tastes of his Egyptian heritage. This Muslim holiday story, featuring a delicious ka'ak recipe, is a satisfying addition to a joyful and expansive Eid. FIND IT HERE The sequel to the acclaimed New York Times bestseller The Proudest Blue shows the power of friendship and kindness, from Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad. It's picture day and Faizah can't wait to wear her special red dress with matching hair ribbons, passed down from her mother and sister. Faizah's teacher starts the day by asking her students to envision the kind of world they want, inspiring Faizah and her friends to spend the day helping one another in ways large and small. But when it's time for sibling pictures, Faizah realizes that she and her older sister, Asiya, don't match like her classmates do with their siblings. With help from her classmates inspired by Asiya's hijab, Faizah finds that acts of kindness can come back to you in unexpected ways. From Olympic medalist Ibtihaj Muhammad and fellow bestselling, award-winning creators S.K. Ali and Hatem Aly comes a heartfelt exploration of friendship, faith, and the joy of spreading kindness wherever you go. FIND IT HERE A heartwarming celebration of Ramadan, food, and community Ramadan is coming, and as Abba and Ammi prepare for their month-long fast, Aliya hugs a secret to her chest: she's going to fast too! Ammi says she's still too young to fast, but Aliya is determined. At school, she refuses her snack, her lunch--even the cupcakes Sanjay's mom drops off for his birthday. But when she gets home, she can't resist Ammi's sweet, syrupy baklava. Before Aliya can stop herself, she reaches out and takes a big bite. Aliya is disappointed in herself, but Ammi explains that there are many other ways to celebrate Ramadan besides fasting, like performing acts of kindness! Together, Aliya and her parents spend the month preparing and delivering meals to people in need. This joyful look at Ramadan is based on the author's own childhood experiences and is rich with facts and details about the holiday. Readers familiar and unfamiliar with the holiest month in the Islamic calendar will get swept up in the festivities, and perhaps be inspired to share a meal with their community. FIND IT HERE Join Zain and his dad on a special visit to their local mosque to attend jumu'ah prayers in this heartwarming picture book from the author of Under My Hijab. Early Friday morning, Zain leaps out of bed ready to save the world from alien invaders! But his dad has other plans for Zain on this special day of the week. Dad takes Zain to the mosque and guides him through his first jumu'ah prayers. But Zain's quest for a superhero adventure leads to supersize distractions. Can Zain rein in his powerful impulses and appreciate this special experience with his dad and community? With spirited text by award-winning author Hena Khan and dynamic illustrations by artist Nez Riaz, Zain's Super Friday is a celebration of Muslim traditions, imagination, and the joy of community. FIND IT HERE This inspirational picture book from the author of Dear Black Child encourages Muslim children to take joy and pride in their Islamic faith. Perfect for fans of In My Mosque and The Proudest Blue. Dear Muslim Child, your story matters. In this lyrical ode to Islam, Muslim children all over the world are encouraged to celebrate their faith and traditions. FIND IT HERE Perfect for fans of The Day You Begin and Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away, author Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and illustrator Shahrzad Maydani's Sister Friend is a heartwarming new picture book celebrating the unique joy of cultivating friendships within your cultural community. Ameena feels invisible. It's been that way since she started at her new school. But now there is another new girl in class. Ameena sees her brownness and her hijab, even though the other kids do not. Ameena wants to be her friend, but she can't seem to find the right words or do the right things. Until one day, they find them together: "Assalamu Alaikum, Sister. Welcome." FIND IT HERE Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists: How Oonuh Do? Books fuh Chillun That Celebrate Gullah Geechee Culture Ramadan Children's Books: Books that Celebrate Muslim Faith and Culture Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Caribbean Culture and History Libro Love: Spanish Edition and Bilingual Children's Books Must-Read Indigenous Children's Books by Indigenous Creators Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. dreamed of a world free of hate, prejudice, and violence. He spent most of his life in service to others. One of the best ways to honor Dr. King is to give back to the community. There are many ways children can give back. These are just a few ideas to get you started. 10 Meaningful Ways Children Can Honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's Legacy 1. HOST A CANNED FOOD DRIVE Canned food drives encourage the community to get involved in helping one another. They also bring awareness to the needs of the community. Local stores will sometimes let you set up a box at the front of the store. Just reach out to a store manager for help. 2. CREATE CARE PACKAGES FOR THOSE IN NEED Pinterest is full of easy ideas for creating donation bags for those in need. Pack the bags with snacks, hygiene items, books, etc. Many hotels will give soaps, lotions, and shampoos. Local stores are often happy to contribute as well. 3. COLLECT BOOKS FOR CHILDREN We believe all children deserve access to high quality books. Unfortunately, all children don't have access to books. You could be the person that motivates others to get books to kids in need. Put a call out for books in your community and you're sure to find lots of people ready to participate. They just need a leader - YOU! 4. CREATE MUSIC OR SING FOR NURSING HOME RESIDENTS Do you have a musical spirit? Music can be very uplifting. Compose a song or do a cover of a song that already exists, if possible, perform in person, if not, make a cd or digital copy and share your talents to brighten someone's day. 5. INVITE A NEW STUDENT TO SIT WITH YOU At the time of this post the world is facing a pandemic, so a face-to-face lunch may not be ideal. In the meantime, virtual lunches can be great too. Finding ways to reach out to others who might otherwise be alone, is a wonderful thing to do. We never forget the people who reach out to us when we need it most. 6. LEARN ABOUT PEOPLE DIFFERENT FROM YOU We live in an excitingly diverse world. Learning about people from various backgrounds and cultures helps us understand one another and is an easy way to build empathy and understanding for one another. Books are one of our favorite ways to learn about people and cultures different from our own. Joining clubs, trying new restaurants, or just talking to others are all good choices too. 7. COLLECT BLANKETS FOR SHELTER ANIMALS Shelters are safe haven for many animals who would otherwise be homeless and starving. These shelters are often run with very little funds and through the kindness of volunteers. They're often in need of donations. Helping out builds character. 8. VOLUNTEER AT A FOOD BANK There are many families having a hard time making ends meet. They struggle to put food on the table. Food banks are a huge help to those families. Volunteering your time helps offset the costs of hiring staff, saving money for more food and other operating costs. It's another opportunity to build character and serve others. 9. DRAW PICTURES TO GIFT TO NURSING HOMES OR HOSPITALS Everyone wants to be loved and appreciated. By drawing pictures and sharing them with nursing home residents, you'd be sending the message that someone is thinking about them. That would mean a lot! 10. COLLECT TOYS FOR CHILDREN'S HOSPITALS What kid doesn't love a great toy? Having to go to the hospital can be scary. A new toy can be the perfect distraction and spirit lifter. ABOUT THE BOOK: Art from the book I Have a Dream by Kadir Nelson From Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s daughter, Dr. Bernice A. King: “My father’s dream continues to live on from generation to generation, and this beautiful and powerful illustrated edition of his world-changing “I Have a Dream” speech brings his inspiring message of freedom, equality, and peace to the youngest among us—those who will one day carry his dream forward for everyone.” On August 28, 1963, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington, Martin Luther King gave one of the most powerful and memorable speeches in our nation’s history. His words, paired with Caldecott Honor winner Kadir Nelson’s magnificent paintings, make for a picture book certain to be treasured by children and adults alike. The themes of equality and freedom for all are not only relevant today, 50 years later, but also provide young readers with an important introduction to our nation’s past. Order the book here. Click to join the almost 30,000 BOOK LOVERS in our Instagram community. #MLK #MartinLutherKing #BlackHistoryMonth #weneeddiversebooks

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links To celebrate Dr. King's life, America celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a federal holiday. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year. This date sometimes falls on Dr. King's birthday, which is January 15th. “Everybody can be great because everybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Many people choose celebrate Dr. King Day by serving their communities in honor of Dr. King's commitment to improving our nation and beyond. We've listed 10 ways for children to serve their community in this post: 10 Ways Children Can Honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The children's books listed here will inspire children to use their voices, take action, and work to keep Dr. King's dream and their own dreams alive. For your convenience, we've included publisher's descriptions for each book. The #1 New York Times Bestselling Who Was? series expands into the board book space, bringing age-appropriate biographies of influential figures to readers ages 2-4. The chronology and themes of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s meaningful life are presented in a masterfully succinct text, with just a few sentences per page. The fresh, stylized illustrations are sure to captivate young readers and adults alike. With a read-aloud biographical summary in the back, this age-appropriate introduction honors and shares the life and work of one of the most influential civil rights activists of our time. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP The littlest readers can learn about Martin Luther King, Jr., in this board book version of the New York Times bestselling Ordinary People Change the World biography. This friendly, fun biography series focuses on the traits that made our heroes great--the traits that kids can aspire to in order to live heroically themselves. In this new board book format, the very youngest readers can learn about one of America's icons in the series' signature lively, conversational way. The short text focuses on drawing inspiration from these iconic heroes and includes an interactive element and factual tidbits that young kids will be able to connect with. This volume tells the story of Martin Luther King, Jr., the civil rights leader. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP Martin Luther King Jr. led the American Civil Rights Movement. But do you know what he was like as a child? From roller skating to playing football and basketball, Martin was a fun-loving child. This playful story of his childhood will help young readers connect with a historic figure and will inspire them to want to achieve greatness. FIND IT HERE: AMAZON The granddaughter of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King delivers a stirring tribute to her grandparents that speaks to children everywhere about her hopes for a new future. In this stirring tribute to Coretta Scott King and Martin Luther King, Jr., their granddaughter, Yolanda - a national civil rights figure in her own right - is ready to lead in this powerful picture book text! With inspiration from Langston Hughes and deep love for her grandparents, Yolanda King shows the world that young people are strong enough to carry on their elders' legacy while creating a new path for themselves. Her words are meaningful and universal, painting an expressive tableau of the issues facing young people today - racial equality, bullying, gun violence, climate change, disease, community, empowerment, inclusion, and more. Yolanda's words will comfort and inspire the next generation of dreamers. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP Bestselling author and journalist Kitty Kelley combines her elegant storytelling with Stanley Tretick's iconic photographs to transport readers to the 1963 March on Washington, bringing that historic day vividly to life for a new generation in this nonfiction picture book. Martin Luther King Jr. was nervous. Standing at the foot of the Lincoln Memorial, he was about to address 250,000 people with what would become known as his "I Have a Dream Speech"--the most famous speech of his life. This day--August 28, 1963--was a momentous day in the Civil Rights Movement. It was the culmination of years spent leading marches, sit-ins, and boycotts across the South to bring attention to the plight of African Americans. Years spent demanding equality for all. Years spent dreaming of the day that black people would have the same rights as white people, and would be treated with the same dignity and respect. It was time for Martin to share his dream. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP From Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s daughter, Dr. Bernice A. King: "My father's dream continues to live on from generation to generation, and this beautiful and powerful illustrated edition of his world-changing I Have a Dream speech brings his inspiring message of freedom, equality, and peace to the youngest among us--those who will one day carry his dream forward for everyone." On August 28, 1963, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington, Martin Luther King gave one of the most powerful and memorable speeches in our nation's history. His words, paired with Caldecott Honor winner Kadir Nelson's magnificent paintings, make for a picture book certain to be treasured by children and adults alike. The themes of equality and freedom for all are not only relevant today, 50 years later, but also provide young readers with an important introduction to our nation's past. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP Two young girls not only witness but help to change history in this inspiring and urgent Civil Rights-era picture book by three-time Coretta Scott King Award winner Angela Johnson. There's a sweet, sweet smell in the air as two young girls sneak out of their house, down the street, and across town to where men and women are gathered, ready to march for freedom and justice. Inspired by the countless young people who took a stand against the forces of injustice, two Coretta Scott King Honorees, Angela Johnson and Eric Velasquez, offer a stirring yet jubilant glimpse of the youth involvement that played an invaluable role in the Civil Rights movement. FIND IT HERE: AMAZON You can be a King. Stamp out hatred. Put your foot down and walk tall. You can be a King. Beat the drum for justice. March to your own conscience. Featuring a dual narrative of the key moments of Dr. King's life alongside a modern class as the students learn about him, Carole Weatherford's poetic text encapsulates the moments that readers today can reenact in their own lives. See a class of young students as they begin a school project inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and learn to follow his example, as he dealt with adversity and never lost hope that a future of equality and justice would soon be a reality. As times change, Dr. King's example remains, encouraging a new generation of children to take charge and change the world . . . to be a King. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP A stunning picture book biography of the civil rights icon from the author of two Newbery Honor Books and six Coretta Scott King Awardees. Set against key moments of the civil rights movement, here is the story of the powerful, eloquent spiritual leader and his belief that nonviolence could be used as a tool to begin to address racial discrimination. Walter Dean Myers's moving narrative and Leonard Jenkins's compelling paintings convey a vivid and striking image of the man who moved American society closer to the ideals of freedom and fairness. FIND IT HERE: AMAZON This historical fiction picture book presents the story of nine-year-old Lorraine Jackson, who in 1968 witnessed the Memphis sanitation strike--Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s final stand for justice before his assassination--when her father, a sanitation worker, participated in the protest. In February 1968, two African American sanitation workers were killed by unsafe equipment in Memphis, Tennessee. Outraged at the city's refusal to recognize a labor union that would fight for higher pay and safer working conditions, sanitation workers went on strike. The strike lasted two months, during which Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was called to help with the protests. While his presence was greatly inspiring to the community, this unfortunately would be his last stand for justice. He was assassinated in his Memphis hotel the day after delivering his I've Been to the Mountaintop sermon in Mason Temple Church. Inspired by the memories of a teacher who participated in the strike as a child, author Alice Faye Duncan reveals the story of the Memphis sanitation strike from the perspective of a young girl with a riveting combination of poetry and prose. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP ThisCaldecott Honor, Coretta Scott King Honor, and New York Times Book Review Best Illustrated Children's Book picture book biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., brings his life and the profound nature of his message to young children through his own words. Martin Luther King, Jr., was one of the most influential and gifted speakers of all time. Doreen Rappaport uses quotes from some of his most beloved speeches to tell the story of his life and his work in a simple, direct way. Bryan Collier's stunning collage art combines remarkable watercolor paintings with vibrant patterns and textures. A timeline and a list of additional books and websites help make this a standout biography of Dr. King. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP With Martin's sermons and Mahalia's songs, folks were free to shout, to sing their joy. On August 28, 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, and his strong voice and powerful message were joined and lifted in song by world-renowned gospel singer Mahalia Jackson. It was a moment that changed the course of history and is imprinted in minds forever. Told through Andrea Davis Pinkney's poetic prose and Brian Pinkney's evocative illustration, the stories of these two powerful voices and lives are told side-by-side -- as they would one day walk -- following the journey from their youth to a culmination at this historical event when they united as one and inspiring kids to find their own voices and speak up for what is right. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP A picture-book tribute to the legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. In this inspirational story about Martin Luther King Jr.--told from the perspective of his niece, Angela--readers learn how King used words of love and peace to effectively fight for African Americans' civil rights. The book focuses on words and phrases from King's speeches, such as justice, freedom and equality. Angela Farris Watkins, PhD demonstrates the importance of her uncle's language in bringing about changes during the Civil Rights Movement, from his "I Have a Dream" speech to the peace march in Alabama. Including a timeline and a glossary, this stirring and poignant book is a wonderful introduction to Martin Luther King Jr. and his powerful message of nonviolence. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP A moving portrait of civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr. from his niece My Uncle Martin’s Big Heart is a story about love: love between a young girl and her uncle, and all the love she sees her uncle share—with his family members, with his church congregation, and with all people. In this inspiring narrative about Martin Luther King Jr.—told by his niece—young readers will discover the story of the man behind the civil rights hero and activist, one of the most influential figures of the twentieth century. As Angela Farris Watkins, PhD, introduces children to her uncle, she presents them with a rare glimpse into his life at home, including special family moments. What unfolds is a story of character and service to God, family, and mankind, and of how one man’s extraordinary love changed the history of the United States and the world. FIND IT HERE: AMAZON The niece of Martin Luther King, Jr. reveals six timeless and universal principles that encompass the civil rights leader’s greatest legacy: Love will see you through. Growing up as the niece of Martin Luther King Jr., Angela Farris Watkins witnessed firsthand the principles and values that “Uncle M.L.” practiced and lived by throughout his fight for equality. Drawing from experiences and episodes both personal and well-known, Dr. Watkins artfully details the guiding beliefs of one of the greatest men in history. Including “have courage” and “love your enemies,” these six hallmarks of virtue and nonviolence reinforce the truth that “the universe honors love” and will inspire readers of all ages. FIND IT HERE: AMAZON I couldn't play on the same playground as the white kids. I couldn't go to their schools. I couldn't drink from their water fountains. There were so many things I couldn't do. In 1963 Birmingham, Alabama, thousands of African American children volunteered to march for their civil rights after hearing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speak. They protested the laws that kept black people separate from white people. Facing fear, hate, and danger, these children used their voices to change the world. Frank Morrison's emotive oil-on-canvas paintings bring this historical event to life, while Monica Clark-Robinson's moving and poetic words document this remarkable time. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP In a rich embroidery of visions, musical cadence, and deep emotion, Andrea and Brian Pinkney convey the final months of Martin Luther King's life -- and of his assassination -- through metaphor, spirituality, and multilayers of meaning. Andrea's stunning poetic requiem, illustrated with Brian's lyrical and colorful artwork, brings a fresh perspective to Martin Luther King, the Gandhi-like, peace-loving activist whose dream of equality -- and whose courage to make it happen -- changed the course of American history. And even in his death, he continues to transform and inspire all of us who share his dream. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP Learn about the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with this inspiring children's book, perfect for reading together as a family. From acclaimed artist Faith Ringgold, the Coretta Scott King and Caldecot Honor winning creator of Tar Beach. Faith Ringgold brings her own voice and artistic vision to the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and the history of the civil rights movement. Illustrated with the dramatic folk-modern paintings for which Faith Ringgold is renowned, this inspiring story begins with her dream of Dr. Martin Luther King and ends with the promise of peace and hope. This beautifully illustrated and heartfelt story is followed by a list of important dates in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and the civil rights movement. Includes two pages of activities to help kids explore and reflect on what they've learned! FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP Much has been written about Martin Luther King, Jr. and the 1963 March on Washington. But there's little on his legendary speech and how he came to write it. Martin Luther King, Jr. was once asked if the hardest part of preaching was knowing where to begin. No, he said. The hardest part is knowing where to end. It's terrible to be circling up there without a place to land. Finding this place to land was what Martin Luther King, Jr. struggled with, alongside advisors and fellow speech writers, in the Willard Hotel the night before the March on Washington, where he gave his historic, I Have a Dream speech. But those famous words were never intended to be heard on that day, not even written down for that day, not even once. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP Renowned educator Christine King Farris, older sister of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., joins with celebrated illustrator Chris Soentpiet to tell this inspirational story of how one boyhood experience inspired a movement that would change the world as we know it. Mother Dear, one day I'm going to turn this world upside down. Long before he became a world-famous dreamer, Martin Luther King Jr. was a little boy who played jokes and practiced the piano and made friends without considering race. But growing up in the segregated south of the 1930s taught young Martin a bitter lesson--little white children and little black children were not to play with one another. Martin decided then and there that something had to be done. And so he began the journey that would change the course of American history. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP For Black History Month, Ana & Andrew join a research group at the Community Center. They learn many interesting things about Martin Luther King Jr.! Later, with the help of some other children, they make one of Martins famous dreams come true. Aligned to Common Core standards and correlated to state standards. FIND IT HERE: AMAZON In this book from the critically acclaimed, multimillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Martin Luther King Jr., the inspiring minister and civil rights activist. Little Martin grew up in a family of preachers: his dad was a preacher, his uncle was a preacher, his grandfather was a preacher…so maybe he’d become a great preacher too. One day, a friend invited him to play at his house. Martin was shocked when his mother wouldn’t let him in because he was black. That day he realized there was something terribly unfair going on. Martin believed that no one should remain silent and accept something if it's wrong. And he promised himself that—when he grew up—he’d fight injustice with the most powerful weapon of all: words. This moving book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the inspiring activist’s life. FIND IT HERE: AMAZON Discover the life of Martin Luther King Jr-a story for kids ages 6 to 9 about standing up for civil rights Martin Luther King Jr became one of the most important civil rights leaders in America by fighting for equality for black people. Before he made history with his powerful speeches and peaceful protests, Martin was a dedicated, smart kid who loved to learn. He challenged racism and overcame hardships to follow his passion and do the right thing. Of all the Martin Luther King Jr books for kids, this one really helps you explore how Martin went from being a kid with a dream to an outstanding leader who made America a better place for everyone. How will his life inspire you to do what's right? If you've been searching for Martin Luther King Jr books for kids that have beautiful illustrations and easy-to-read chapters, look no further-this one has it all. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP Using colorful infographics, this book presents over 250 facts about Martin Luther King, a minister who campaigned for the rights of African Americans during America’s Civil Rights Movement. This graphic retelling of his story gives children a visual snapshot of his life and the world he grew up in, while educating them on everything from civil rights to the power of words. It includes an overview of his life, a timeline spread, a family outline, and a geographical summary of important places. It also features ‘Did You Know’ facts and inspiring quotes. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP This brilliant memoir-in-verse tells the moving story of how a nation learned to celebrate a hero. Through years of protests and petition, Kathlyn's story highlights the foot soldiers who fought to make Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday a national holiday. Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'Round is a deeply moving middle grade memoir about what it means to be an everyday activist and foot solider for racial justice, as Kathlyn recounts how, drawn to activism from childhood, she went from attending protests as a teenager to fighting for Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday to become a national holiday as an adult. A blueprint for kids starting down their own paths to civic awareness, it shows life beyond protests and details the sustained time, passion, and energy it takes to turn an idea into a law. Deftly weaving together monumental historical events with a heartfelt coming-of-age story and in-depth information on law making, Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'Round is the perfect engaging example of how history can help inform the present. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP Raw, captivating, and undeniably real, Nic Stone joins industry giants Jason Reynolds and Walter Dean Myers as she boldly tackles American race relations in this stunning #1 New York Times bestselling debut, a William C. Morris Award Finalist. Justyce McAllister is a good kid, an honor student, and always there to help a friend--but none of that matters to the police officer who just put him in handcuffs. Despite leaving his rough neighborhood behind, he can't escape the scorn of his former peers or the ridicule of his new classmates. Justyce looks to the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for answers. But do they hold up anymore? He starts a journal to Dr. King to find out. Then comes the day Justyce goes driving with his best friend, Manny, windows rolled down, music turned up--way up, sparking the fury of a white off-duty cop beside them. Words fly. Shots are fired. Justyce and Manny are caught in the crosshairs. In the media fallout, it's Justyce who is under attack. FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous blog posts: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Most Inspiring Motivational Quotes Multicultural Holiday Children's Books that Celebrate Diverse Traditions 10 Meaningful Ways Children Can Honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's Legacy Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Gullah Geechee Culture 28 Amazing Picture Book Biographies by Black Authors to Celebrate Black History All Year Long RESOURCES FOR LEARNING ABOUT AND HONORING DR. KING BRAINPOP Jr.: “I have a dream...” Who began one of America’s greatest speeches with those words? In this BrainPOP video, you'll learn about life of the civil rights activist and nonviolent protester, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (YouTube) KID PRESIDENT: Once upon a time, there was a man named Martin Luther King, Jr. He taught us that things won't always be awesome, but your response can be. Remember, things don't always have to be they are. We can change them! Kids can change them. This Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, celebrate the promise of change with Kid President. (YouTube) MORE RESOURCES ON PINTEREST: Hundreds of books and activities can be found in this Pinterest Post Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox. #MLK #MartinLutherKing #BlackHistoryMonth #CommunityService

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links These festive tales featuring Black Santa Claus bring the spirit of the holiday season to life in a way that excites children of all backgrounds. Books like the ones featured here can help shape a more inclusive and imaginative world for young readers. Let's celebrate the magic of Black Santa Claus with these fabulous and festive children's books. For your convenience, we've included publisher's descriptions along with each book. A little girl's belief in Santa is restored in this ode to the magic of Christmas. This is a holiday gift readers will treasure for years to come! It's two weeks before Christmas, and Deja is worried that Santa might not be able to visit her--after all, as a city kid, she doesn't have a chimney for him to come down and none of the parking spots on her block could fit a sleigh, let alone eight reindeer! But with a little help from her family, community, and Santa himself, Deja discovers that the Christmas spirit is alive and well in her city. With bold, colorful illustrations that capture the joy of the holidays, this picture book from award-winning author Tiffany D. Jackson and illustrator Reggie Brown is not to be missed. FIND IT HERE Join one Black family on their journey to discover what the real Santa looks like in this joyous tale celebrating identity, family and holiday cheer, from the New York Times bestselling author of Bedtime Bonnet. It's not Christmas without Santa! But what does Santa truly look like? Does he match the figurines on the mantel, or the faces on our favorite holiday sweaters? Does he look like you or like me? Find out in this joyous and cozy celebration of family, representation, and holiday spirit! Destined to be a new classic, and perfect for any child looking to see some of themself in Santa Claus. FIND IT HERE We all know that Santa Claus is one cool dude! But how is he as a houseguest? Find out in this hilarious picture book by bestselling author Derrick Barnes! The number one thing on Monte and Mabel's Christmas wish list is the chance to hang out with Santa Claus. So when his sleigh breaks down in their yard as he's finishing up his last delivery, they couldn't be more delighted--Santa's gonna stay with them while he waits for spare parts to be delivered! It's a dream come true . . . or is it? It turns out Santa doesn't have a lot of experience being a houseguest, and likes to rock out late at night and swigs spaghetti sauce from the jar. But when he messes with Dad's motorcycle and Mabel's computer tablet, he's gone a step too far and the whole family agrees--Santa's gotta go! But how on earth do you kick out Santa Claus? Readers will get a kick out of this hilarious holiday tale by New York Times bestselling author Derrick Barnes, with its funny reminder to be careful what you wish for and to remember that sharing the holiday spirit can take a lot of goodwill. FIND IT HERE Explore the sights and sounds of the holiday season in this feel-good picture book illustrated by award-winning artist Frank Morrison. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and a mother and daughter are enjoying the sights and sounds of the holiday season. The little girl hears sleigh bells ringing and carolers singing—RING-A-LING! She smells chestnuts roasting—CRUNCH! CRUNCH! CRUNCH!—and sees the flashing lights of the department store windows—BLING! BLING! BLING! She spreads the spirit of giving wherever she goes. And when she reaches Santa, she tells him her Christmas wish—for peace and love everywhere, all the days of the year! In the same feel-good style of I Got the Rhythm, this text celebrates the joys of the holiday season, once again illustrated by award-winning artist Frank Morrison. FIND IT HERE You Might Also Enjoy: Multicultural Celebrations: 9 Diverse Children's Books to Get Excited about this Holiday Season Step inside the magical world of Little Santa's Workshop! Shining bright from above. Hot cocoa and so much love. Santa's workshop is lots of fun. HoHoHome to everyone! Discover the magical world of Little Santa's Workshop! Step inside the toy workshop, feed candy canes to the reindeer, and taste a sugary sweet in the kitchen. Full of joy and good vibes, Lala Watkins' bright illustrations are completely charming and totally irresistible. So pack your snow boots and travel to the North Pole, and get ready to fall in love with the whimsical, magical world of Little Santa's Workshop! The first book in a new series from author-illustrator Lala Watkins, bringing joy and sunshine to babies and toddlers! FIND IT HERE Unicorn best friends Magical, Unique, and Divine are getting ready to welcome Santa in this Christmas picture-book adventure. Celebrate your inner unicorn with the first holiday book in the Afro Unicorn line! Includes countdown calendar and stickers. December is finally here, and all the unicorns in the kingdom of Afronia are excited to meet Santa. But when Santa gets lost on the way, the unicorns fear that Christmas will be ruined. It's up to Magical, Unique, and Divine to use their superpowers of love and kindness to save Christmas. Let the Christmas countdown begin in this tale of love and hope for the holidays! FIND IT HERE Amalia the Elf loves everything about making teddy bears . . . Watching Grandma and Mama sew! Feeling the soft, velvety fur! Imagining the bears in their new homes! . . . except the bear-making part. Worried about disappointing her family, Amalia goes straight to Santa for advice. But it's Mrs. Claus who knows how to solve Amalia's problem--and who needs help with a secret of her own. From #1 New York Times bestselling author Meena Harris, The Truth About Mrs. Claus is an empowering story about being true to yourself, honoring family traditions, and believing in Christmas magic. FIND IT HERE In this heartwarming tale inspired by her childhood, superstar chef and TV host Carla Hall shares the story of young Carla, who eats a sugar cookie meant for Santa on the night before Christmas and tries to make things right. Christmas is Carla's favorite holiday of the year. She goes to her grandparents' house and eats grandma's special recipe--a perfectly delicious cornbread. She listens to her grandpa Doc's marvelous stories about traveling the world. And, best of all, she spends lots of time with her family. But when Carla accidentally takes a bite out of Santa's sugar cookie, she thinks she's ruined Christmas. How will Santa know to stop at their house if they don't leave him a midnight snack? With her grandmother's help, Carla comes up with a plan, but will it be enough to save Christmas? FIND IT HERE Femi and her friends plan to leave traditional Caribbean treats for Santa, including Black Cake. The children share warm wishes for their favourite dishes while enjoying winter activities at the Christmas fair. FIND IT HERE Have you ever wondered what happens after Santa delivers the last gift? In this story you can join Santa, and his family, as they celebrate their traditions in the North Pole. Help Santa's nieces and nephews as they cook up an amazing pancake feast. Bundle up and head outside to help them plant their future Holly-day After trees. After all, the traditions we start today can live on forever! Cozy up with your loved ones and enjoy this beautiful story each and every year. FIND IT HERE Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists: Multicultural Celebrations: Diverse Children's Books to Get Excited about this Holiday Season Baby Love: The 7 Best Baby Board Books to Read Right Now Exploring Culture: Children's Books That Celebrate Gullah Geechee Culture Children's Books About Mental Health and Neurodiversity Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Get ready to ignite your imagination with these fabulous forthcoming children's books. From captivating tales that celebrate cultural diversity to heartwarming stories that teach important life lessons, these books offer something special for every reader. By preordering these books, you're not just reserving your copy; you're joining a community of early supporters who contribute to the success of these authors by signaling to publishers that these stories are in high demand. You might also like: How Preorders can Make a Huge Impact We've read advance copies of these books and are excited for everyone to experience the adventure, joy, and heartwarming tales that they share. Don't miss out on the chance to be among the first to experience and support these stories – preorder now and be part of the excitement. For your convenience, we've included publisher's descriptions along with each book. The author of Nigel and the Moon, delivers a tender intergenerational story inspired by his childhood in the rural south. Here's a farm stand that represents the importance of family, community, and hope. Every stand has a story. This one is mine. Saturday is for harvesting. And one little boy is excited to work alongside his Papa as they collect eggs, plums, peppers and pumpkins to sell at their stand in the farmer's market. Of course, it's more than a farmer's market. Papa knows each customer's order, from Ms. Rosa's pumpkins to Mr. Johnny's peppers. And when Papa can't make it to the stand, his community gathers around him, with dishes made of his own produce. Heartwarming illustrations complement the lyrical text in this poignant picture book that reveals a family's pride in their work, and reminds us to harvest love and hope from those around us. FIND IT HERE A celebration of childhood from an award-winning author, this upbeat day-in-the-life of a bunch of friends was inspired by the #BlackBoyJoy meme that spurred a movement. From sunrise to sunset, a group of young Black boys joyously spend the day together as they live their best lives freely in their community. ­With confidence and a touch of swag, these friends do everything with one another: build a time machine, tend to the community garden, roleplay in the park, read, take a group selfie, and play basketball. With simple, spare text from celebrated author Carole Boston Weatherford and colorful, playful art from Reggie Brown capturing the pleasures of boyhood and friendship, Bros affirms the truth that Black boys deserve and are worthy of a childhood full of joy and free of risk, just as much as anyone. Timely and buoyant, it's a story sure to be enjoyed by anyone who knows what it is to be surrounded by friends with a day of adventure ahead of you. FIND IT HERE A young Black child waits for—and worries about—her father while he's away from home in this lyrical picture book from two breakout Black picture book creators. A sensitive, poignant portrayal of a family's worries, joys, and comforts to sit alongside books by Jacqueline Woodson and Christian Robinson. Every night when Daddy gets home from work, Olivia soaks him in a big hug and knows that the evening will be full of love—and fun. Together, she, Daddy, and Momma will make a feast for dinner, clean up, dance to old-school tunes, and read stories. But every morning when Daddy goes to work, Olivia worries, worries, worries. Be safe, she and Momma tell him. But what if he isn’t? Sometimes other people aren't, like the one on Momma's phone. Thud, thud, thud, goes Olivia’s heart, thump, thump, thump, all through the long day, until she hears the jangle of Daddy's keys, announcing he’s home. Brittany Thurman’s poetic text deftly explores the day-to-day life of a young Black child and her family—their joys and their fears—with a rhythm and musicality perfect for reading aloud. Shamar Knight-Justice's expressive artwork sings with color, texture, and warmth. Forever and Always respects the deep emotions of young readers, while offering comfort and reassurance to any child waiting for a loved one to come home. For readers of Saturday; Nigel and the Moon; and The Year We Learned to Fly. FIND IT HERE In a story full of style, sass, and significance, a young boy goes on a quest for the perfect Easter church outfit, inspired by elders from his community. Along the way learns about the importance of Easter traditions to his family, his ancestors, and the Black church. Elijah is on a mission to find the perfect church outfit for Easter. But when failed attempts at his town's stores leave Elijah disappointed, an important conversation with Deacon Brown and Mother Green about tradition, culture, and clothing gives him the courage to create his own Easter masterpiece: a patchwork of perfection that tells his story with style. Families at Easter will appreciate seeing the themes of church and Black culture throughout Elijah's quest, in this sweet yet important story about a young boy's journey toward an understanding of those who came before him. An afterword from the author delves into the traditions and culture of Black communities at Easter and the historical importance and significance of Easter clothing and style. FIND IT HERE The granddaughter of Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King delivers a stirring tribute to her grandparents that speaks to children everywhere about her hopes for a new future. In this stirring tribute to Coretta Scott King and Martin Luther King, Jr., their granddaughter, Yolanda - a national civil rights figure in her own right - is ready to lead in this powerful picture book text! With inspiration from Langston Hughes and deep love for her grandparents, Yolanda King shows the world that young people are strong enough to carry on their elders' legacy while creating a new path for themselves. Her words are meaningful and universal, painting an expressive tableau of the issues facing young people today - racial equality, bullying, gun violence, climate change, disease, community, empowerment, inclusion, and more. Yolanda's words will comfort and inspire the next generation of dreamers. FIND IT HERE A love letter to the hustle, the bustle, the joy, and the grit of city life by debut author and Bronx native, Janelle Harper, and two-time Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award winner, Frank Morrison. "My block looks like a collision of cultures a melting pot of cool a burst of life my favorite groove . . .No matter what happens I've seen it for myself my block looks like the coolest place I've ever been." A lyrical and proud picture book that recognizes the beauty of the bodegas, subways, and playgrounds that characterize everyday life in the Bronx and pays homage to the ways that its residents have shaped pop culture through music, visual art, and dance. Perfect for fans of I Am Every Good Thing and Last Stop on Market Street, My Block Looks Like offers kids a reaffirming message to celebrate and uplift their communities in an energetic text that begs to be read aloud. FIND IT HERE Browse the list below for more new diverse children's books headed our way in 2024. Looking for more great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists: Gigantic List of Children's Books Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Buying a book can have a huge impact on the book's success, but supporting your favorite authors doesn't always mean spending money. Did you know that many authors are tasked with promoting their own books? It's true. Not every author is afforded marketing budgets to make sure the world sees their works of art. Community support matters! Why Your Support Matters When you support your favorite authors, you're showing them and the publishing industry just how much their books are needed. You're showing that their work is in demand, which can be helpful the next time the author seeks a publishing deal. Ten Ways to Support Your Favorite Authors Show your favorite authors some love and help to give their books a boost with these simple tips ...and be sure to download and share the printable below to inspire others to do the same. Share a picture of their book online: Show your support by snapping a photo of their book and sharing it on your social media to let the world know about this captivating read. Follow them on social media: Stay connected with their author journey. Follow them on social media to receive updates on new releases, events, and insights into their creative process. Like, share, and comment on their posts: Engage with their content by liking, sharing, and leaving thoughtful comments. Your interaction helps boost their visibility and encourages more readers to discover their work. Borrow their book from your local library: Accessible to everyone, borrowing their book from the local library not only supports them but also introduces their story to a wider audience. Subscribe to their newsletter: Stay in the loop by subscribing to their newsletter. Receive exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, and be the first to know about their upcoming projects. Nominate their book for an award: Recognize their exceptional storytelling by nominating their book for awards. Your endorsement can bring their work to the attention of literary enthusiasts and industry professionals. Share their newsletter with others: Spread the word by sharing their newsletter with fellow book lovers. Your recommendation can extend their reach and connect them with more readers. Tell your friends about their book: Personal recommendations are invaluable. Let your friends know about their book, sharing your excitement for the characters and adventures within its pages. Suggest their book for your book club: Elevate your book club discussions by suggesting their book as the next captivating read. Your recommendation can lead to enriching conversations and a broader audience for their work. Shout them out on your social media pages: Celebrate their literary achievements by giving them a shoutout on your social media platforms. Your endorsement can inspire others to explore their stories and support their journey. Download and share these graphics to inspire others to support authors too. Looking for more great reads? Visit these fabulous book lists: How Preorders Can Make a Huge Impact for Your Favorite Authors Library Love: Children's Books That Celebrate Libraries Social Media for Authors: Do This Before Getting Started on Social Media 7 Tips for Avoiding Social Media Burnout for Authors Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links In today's digital age, social media has become an essential tool for authors to connect with their readers, build their author brand, and promote their work. If you're an author looking to dive into the world of social media but don't know where to begin, this blog post is for you. Here are seven tips to help you get started and make the most of social media as an author. Social Media for Authors: Do This Before Getting Started on Social Media Define Your Goals Before jumping into social media, take a moment to define your goals. What do you hope to achieve by using social media as an author? Is it to connect with readers, promote your books, share writing tips, or build a community? Understanding your objectives will guide your social media strategy and help you create meaningful content. Choose the Right Platforms With numerous social media platforms available, it's crucial to choose the ones that align with your target audience and goals. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn are popular options for authors, but it's not necessary to be on all platforms. Pick a few that resonate with your writing style and engage with your desired readership. Consistency Across Platforms Developing a consistent author brand across social media platforms is essential. Use the same profile picture, handle, and bio across all your accounts. Incorporate elements that reflect your writing genre or personal style. Consistency helps readers recognize and connect with you, building trust and familiarity. Set boundaries Social media can be a time drain. If you go online without a clear time limit or purpose, you might find that hours have passed before you look up from your device. Set social media time limits and do your best to stick to it. That might look like 15 mins in the morning and 15 minutes again in the evening. Do what works best for you but definitely set a boundary to help manage your time. Engagement Matters Social media is all about engagement, so make an effort to interact with your followers. Respond to comments, messages, and mentions promptly. Show genuine interest in your readers and their opinions. Engaging with your audience helps foster connections and can lead to loyal fans and potential book sales. Share Valuable Content Create a balance between promotional and value-added content. While it's important to promote your books, don't make every post a sales pitch. Share valuable content such as writing tips, behind-the-scenes glimpses into your writing process, book recommendations, or relevant articles. Providing value to your audience strengthens your author brand and keeps readers engaged. Post Consistently Consistency is crucial when it comes to social media. Develop a posting schedule that works for you and stick to it. Whether it's daily, a few times a week, or weekly, regular content keeps your audience engaged and ensures that you stay on their radar. Consider using scheduling tools like Hootsuite or Buffer to plan and automate your social media posts. You've got this! Social media presents an incredible opportunity for authors to connect with readers and grow their author brand. By defining your goals, choosing the right platforms, creating a consistent brand, engaging with your audience, sharing valuable content, utilizing visuals, and maintaining consistency, you can make a meaningful impact on social media as an author. Embrace the digital world, build relationships, and share your passion for writing with a wider audience. Remember, social media is a journey, and it's okay to start small and gradually expand your presence. Experiment, learn from your audience's feedback, and adapt your strategy accordingly. Enjoy the process, connect with fellow authors and readers, and watch your online author platform thrive. Happy social media journey, authors! Looking for more great reads? Visit these fabulous book lists: How Preorders Can Make a Huge Impact for Your Favorite Authors Library Love: Children's Books That Celebrate Libraries Ten Easy Ways to Support Your Favorite Authors 7 Tips for Avoiding Social Media Burnout for Authors JOIN US: Sign up for the Helping Kids Rise Newsletter to have the latest book releases sent to your inbox! CLICK HERE

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links You've written and published your book. Congratulations! Now it's time to get your book into the hands of eager readers. But how? If you don't have a large marketing budget, (and sometimes even if you do) you'll need to use the power of social media. But for all the power that social media wields, it can be equally overwhelming. Creating graphics, posting, engaging, and the dreaded algorithm. It can all be a lot! There are things you can do to reduce the stress of social media and the burnout (exhaustion) it can cause. Here are seven tips to help: 7 Tips for Avoiding Social Media Burnout for Authors Find your audience Figure out WHO your audience is and then find out WHERE (which platform) your audience is on. It's a waste of time to post on Instagram, if your audience is on Facebook. Find out where the people who need your messaging are and put your energy into that platform. Trying to manage multiple platforms is a lot of work and often ends up with inconsistent posting and lackluster results...and that can cause social media burnout too. Strategize, strategize, strategize Have a content strategy. Social media is a tool. Figure out your purpose for using that tool, create content that aligns with that purpose, then post - consistently. It's just that simple. Once that's done, just keep an eye on your post performance and adjust your strategy as needed for the results you want. Plan it out Reduce stress by setting aside time to plan your posts. Jot down ideas for the message you want your posts to convey to your audience, then create posts based on those ideas. You can even use the scheduling feature included on most social media apps to cut down on time spent posting throughout the week. Planning ahead rather than putting pressure on yourself to be creative in the moment, can make things run a lot more smoothly. Use auto reply Set up auto reply... but don't make it boring or generic. Let auto reply work for you by including information that would be valuable to your audience. Share your links (website, link to buy your book, or a link to your newsletter). You could also auto reply in a FAQ (frequently asked questions) style to answer some of the requests you get most often. Remember to let the person who sent the message know when to expect to hear back from the "real" you. Set boundaries Social media can be a time drain. If you go online without a clear time limit or purpose, you might find that hours have passed before you look up from your device. Set social media time limits and do your best to stick to it. That might look like 15 mins in the morning and 15 minutes again in the evening. Do what works best for you but definitely set a boundary to help manage your time. Don't compare Comparison is the thief of joy! While it can be helpful to keep an eye on the happenings in your industry, getting caught up in comparing likes and followers can be discouraging. Make your plan, focus on your audience, and let the algorithm do the rest. Create a community This one is important! If you hop on social media to only post about your book, your happenings, or your stuff and never engage with others, you may find yourself struggling to get seen online. Connect with others in your industry. Celebrate their wins. Share their posts (if it's relevant to your audience). Building an online community helps keep things interesting which can help to avoid burnout. Make it fun While social media is an important part of getting your book seen, don't take it too seriously. Have fun with it. Participate in trends when they resonate with you. Let your personality shine through and do what's comfortable for you. A positive mindset will shine through in your posts and make it easier to connect with your audience. You've got this! As you can see, there are a number of ways to avoid social media burnout. Use some or all of these tips to make the most of social media without the overwhelm. Remember, social media is a tool - "Use social media, don't let social media use you." Looking for more great reads? Visit these fabulous book lists: How Preorders Can Make a Huge Impact for Your Favorite Authors Library Love: Children's Books That Celebrate Libraries Social Media for Authors: Do This Before Getting Started on Social Media Ten Easy Ways to Support Your Favorite Authors Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.