Here's What We Found

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Happy New Year! The start of a new year is a time for celebration, reflection, and a time to maybe set a few goals or two. If one of your goals for this year is to read more diverse books, this list of twenty-five books publishing in January is just what you need! January came out swinging with dozens of beautiful new children's books headed our way. There are books that represent a variety of communities and cultures. Lift Every Voice and Change, a new sound book from author Charnaie Gordon will literally speak to its readers! The picture book includes sound clips of the actual voices of the Black leaders featured in the book. Little Golden Book has partnered with Ebony Jr. on a mission to ignite a love of reading with a new series of books, including two that publish this month, Harry Belafonte: A Little Golden Book Biography and Beyoncé: A Little Golden Book Biography. This resource list is a labor of love that includes publisher's descriptions along with links for more information. Publishing dates may change for a variety of reasons. These books were submitted to us by publishers, authors, and the Helping Kids Rise community. If you notice a book that fits our mission that is not featured here, please send us an email to let us know. We'll be happy to add them to our Bookshop. Related Reading: Check out our previous lists here: Gigantic List of Diverse Books Published The bestselling illustrator of I Am Enough brings to life the story of a boy whose mirror gives him a whole new way of seeing himself. Chris loves his long, curly hair, so why do his classmates tease him about it? When he looks for answers in his mirror, something wonderfully wild and weird happens: a lady appears with wise words that make him feel like a king! But when he starts acting like a king at school, it's time for another visit to the mirror. Actor Marchánt Davis's uplifting picture book debut encourages us all to look beyond hairstyles--reminding us that styles come and go--and to celebrate one another for who we are. #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Keturah A. Bobo's stunning art brings Chris and his mirror to vibrant life. 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 An affecting picture book from Tameka Fryer Brown and #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Nikkolas Smith (The 1619 Project: Born on the Water) that challenges the meaning behind the still-waving Confederate flag through the friendship of two young girls who live across the street from each other. Bianca is Keira's best friend. At school, they are inseparable. But Keira questions their friendship when she learns more about the meaning of the Confederate flag hanging from Bianca's front porch. Will the two friends be able to overlook their distinct understandings of the flag? Or will they reckon with the flag's effect on yesterday and today? In That Flag, Tameka Fryer Brown and Nikkolas Smith graciously tackle the issues of racism, the value of friendship, and the importance of understanding history so that we move forward together in a thought-provoking, stirring, yet ultimately tender tale. A perfect conversation starter for the older and younger generations alike, this book includes back matter on the history of the Confederate flag and notes from the creators. FIND IT HERE With the English and Spanish text side by side on the page, this bilingual edition of the vibrant picture book celebrating the strength of community and the versatility of plátanos is ideal for bilingual readers as well as Spanish speakers learning English and vice versa. Paletero Man meets Fry Bread in this vibrant and cheerful ode to plátanos, the star of Dominican cuisine, written by award-winning poet Lissette Norman, illustrated by Sara Palacios, and translated by Kianny N. Antigua. Platanos are Yesenia's favorite food. They can be sweet and sugary, or salty and savory. And they're a part of almost every meal her Dominican family makes. Stop by her apartment and find out why platanos go with everything--especially love! Perfect for reading aloud and shared story time! FIND IT HERE Powerful sound clips from twelve Black leaders amplified by bold illustrations and background facts illuminate pivotal moments of Black history in America. With the touch of the button, hear impactful quotes spoken by inspiring Black Americans in primary source audio files. Aimed at children ages 7-12, a succinct profile of the speaker alongside an explanation of the significance of the quote and moment provide the context for each audio clip. A vibrant illustration of the speaker completes the picture. Through the included quotes, kids gain an age-appropriate understanding of the strides made in the ongoing journey for equality, from the early days of sound recording to modern day. Lift Every Voice and Change features the voices of: Booker T. Washington Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr John Lewis Stokely Carmichael James Baldwin Stacey Abrams Toni Morrison Katherine Johnson Jay-Z Gladys Mae West Faith Ringgold Ayo Tometi The voices chosen represent an equal number of men and women, historical and modern figures, across a variety of disciplines. Some are household names and others may very well be introduced to children for the first time! Inspire the next generation of leading voices by inviting them to listen to and learn from the Black leaders of yesterday and today. Manufacturer's note: Please pull the white tab out of the back of the book before use. Sound buttons require a firm push in the exact location to work, which may be hard for young children. Sound clips range in length but are an average of 12 seconds long. FIND IT HERE A picture book biography about the barber shop of woodcarver Elijah Pierce, recipient of the highest folk art honor in the United States. Creeeeak! goes the screen door to self-taught artist Elijah Pierce's barbershop art studio. A young boy walks in for an ordinary haircut and walks out having discovered a lifetime of art. Mr. Pierce's wood carvings are in every corner of the small studio. There are animals, scenes from his life, and those detailing the socio-political world around him. It's this collection of work that will eventually win Elijah the National Heritage Fellowship in 1982 just two years before his death. But the young boy visiting the shop in the 1970s doesn't know that yet. All he knows is: You gotta meet Mr. Pierce! Based on the true story of Elijah Pierce and his community barber shop in Columbus, Ohio, this picture book includes cleverly collaged museum-sourced photos of his art and informative backmatter about his life. With engaging text by Pierce to the Soul! playwright Chiquita Mullins-Lee and Christopher Award-winning author Carmella Van Vleet, it's illustrated with striking Japanese woodblock by Jennifer Mack-Watkins. A new addition to vital Black art history! FIND IT HERE It's almost Lunar New Year, and Chloe can't wait to celebrate! But first, Chloe and her family must prepare for the new year. They buy new shoes, lay out good-luck oranges in a bowl, decorate the red envelope, and make a crispy turnip cake. Everyone comes together to cook a fantastic feast, saving a plate for A-má, of course. Chloe enjoys the festive celebration and yummy food, but most of all, she loves spending time with her family. Lily LaMotte and Michelle Lee have created a tender, warm, and uplifting holiday story about tradition and the importance of being with those you love. The backmatter contains educational facts about the Lunar New Year celebration in Taiwan and a fun recipe for a yummy fortune cake! FIND IT HERE This bright, joyful picture book celebrates a community at play! It's a sunny spring day, and the tic tac tic tac sound of jump ropes hitting the ground floats through the wind. "Jump in!" Everyone lines up for a turn. The Delancy twins, double dutch divas. Leroy Jones with the hip-hop tricks. Even Ms. Mabel, showing the youngstas how it's done. And after a day of fun, when the street lights start to flicker, it's time to . . . jump out! With a bold graphic style, read-aloud enhancing gatefolds, and an exuberance that leaps off the page, acclaimed artist Shadra Strickland's author/illustrator debut will make readers of all ages get up on their feet! FIND IT HERE A young boy learns that he is walking in the footsteps of greatness through a vibrant, lyrical retelling of Black history--both a love letter to Black children and an anthem empowering them to know their God-given worth. You came bustling into the world, a mighty bundle of energy, ready to do great things. And no wonder. You stand on the shoulders of those who came before, and you, too, were born to shine. Starting with his birth, the boy's father lays out the history of his son's ancestry: from the love and warmth of a big family to the change makers and status shakers, the inventors and engineers, the astronomers, philosophers, and storytellers, the leaders and the doctors. The father details the legacy and impact of Black ancestors whose determination, strength, dedication, creativity, and leadership contributed to making the world better. Throughout the story, the boy discovers the rich heritage of those that have gone before him and learns how he embodies that same greatness. He, too, has the power to change the world by embracing exactly who God made him to be. You Come from Greatness includes illustrations of Black historical figures such as Wangari Muta Maathai, Ellie Mannette, Rebecca Lee Crumpler, and more, with twenty short biographies at the end of the book. FIND IT HERE This gorgeous picture book shows how one little girl's careful tending of a pecan tree creates the living center of a loving, intergenerational Black family. For Earth Day and every day! Perfect for fans of Matt de la Peña and Oge Mora. Before her grandchildren climbed the towering tree, explored its secret nests, raced to its sturdy trunk, read in its cool shade, or made pies with its pecans... Nell buried a seed. And just as Nell's tree grows and thrives with her love and care, so do generations of her close-knit family. Inspired by the pecan trees of the creators' own childhoods, Anne Wynter's lyrical picture book, brought to life with breathtaking illustrations by Daniel Miyares, brims with wonder and love. FIND IT HERE An exciting ABC board book featuring Black women musicians whose artistry and activism globally changed the way we hear and interact with music, one song at a time. Spotlighting 26 Black women in music, A is for Aretha is a celebration of the contributions they made not only within their industry but also of the social causes that often underpinned their music. Within these pages are women whose music encouraged joy and self-love, advocated for racial justice, buoyed civil rights protests, and trailblazed paths for Black creatives that are still felt to this day. This board book is a perfect gift for a baby shower or the youngest music fan. FIND IT HERE In this lyrical picture book by Kim Rogers (Wichita), with illustrations by Boston Globe-Horn Book Honoree Julie Flett (Cree-Métis), Becca watches her grandma create, play, and dance--and she knows that she wants to be just like Grandma. Becca loves spending time with Grandma. Every time Becca says, "Let me try," Grandma shows her how to make something beautiful. Whether they are beading moccasins, dancing like the most beautiful butterflies, or practicing basketball together, Becca knows that, more than anything, she wants to be just like Grandma. And as the two share their favorite activities, Becca discovers something surprising about Grandma. Features an author's note and glossary. FIND IT HERE Perfect for fans of Hidden Figures and Mae Among the Stars! To Boldly Go tells the true story of Nichelle Nichols and how she used her platform on Star Trek to inspire and recruit a new generation of diverse astronauts and many others in the space and STEM fields. As Lieutenant Uhura on the iconic prime-time television show Star Trek, Nichelle Nichols played the first Black female astronaut anyone had ever seen on screen. A smart, strong, independent Black woman aboard the starship Enterprise was revolutionary in the 1960s when only white men had traveled to outer space in real life and most Black characters on TV were servants. Nichelle not only inspired a generation to pursue their dreams, but also opened the door for the real-life pioneering astronaut Sally Ride, Dr. Mae Jemison, and more. This empowering tribute to the trailblazing pop culture icon reminds us of the importance of perseverance and the power of representation in storytelling. You just might be inspired to boldly go where no one like you has ever gone before! FIND IT HERE A powerful story about the mixture of pride and pain that one Black family finds in the American flag, and an invitation for each of us to choose how we relate to America, its history, and the flag that means so many things to so many people. What does the American flag mean to you? For some, it's a vision of hope and opportunity. For others, it represents pain and loss. And for many, it's more complicated than that--a symbol of a nation where the basic ideas of freedom and equality are still up for debate. From slavery and segregation through Rosa Parks and Barack Obama, the history of Black people in America is a mixture of pride and pain. And while the flag might mean different things to different people, with some choosing to kneel and others to salute, ultimately, it is up to each of us to decide: the American flag is ours to see and relate to as we choose. In this powerfully validating story that showcases many facets of Black American history through the eyes of a young Black boy in conversation with his grandfather, we are all invited to choose how to relate to America, and to the flag that means so many things to so many people. FIND IT HERE From the author of Lailah's Lunchbox and Unsettled comes a powerful picture book biography about Maryam Faruqi, the founder of the Happy Home Schools, which provided education to thousands of girls across Pakistan at a time when girls weren't encouraged to go to school. Maryam was a trailblazer for women's education and the author is her granddaughter, creating a personal, inspiring tale. Perfect for fans of Malala's Magic Pencil and She Persisted! Milloo lives in a time when school is considered unnecessary for girls. But to Milloo, education is essential. When Milloo reads, her thoughts dance. Milloo courageously dreams of becoming a teacher, but in fifth grade her parents tell her she has had enough school. Milloo is heartbroken but finds a way to achieve her educational goals, graduating high school and college with honors. When she's married, Milloo's husband tells her to stay home, but she does not let that stop her. She decides to open a school in her house and later opens more schools around Karachi, Pakistan, fulfilling her dreams. FIND IT HERE Discover the inspiring story of Augustus Jackson, an African American entrepreneur who is known as the father of ice cream, in this beautifully illustrated picture-book biography. Augustus Jackson was born in 1808 in Philadelphia. While most African Americans were enslaved at that time, in Pennsylvania, slavery was against the law. But while Augustus and his family were free, they were poor, and they depended on their garden and their chickens for food. Augustus enjoyed helping his mom prepare meals for their family. He dreamed of becoming a professional cook, and when his mom suggested he may be able to make meals for the president one day, Augustus didn't waste any time in making that dream a reality. In 1820, when he was only twelve years old, he set off for Washington, DC. He applied to work in the White House, where the head cook offered him a job as a kitchen helper. After five years of working hard, Augustus, or Gus, was promoted to cook. He went on to serve presidents James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, and Andrew Jackson. During his time at the White House, Augustus became an expert at making a popular egg-based dessert. He soon made an eggless version--known to us today as ice cream--and left the White House determined to make and sell the frozen treat to everyone, not just the wealthy. Gus headed back home to Philadelphia, and in 1830, he opened his very own ice cream parlor. He devised a way to keep the ice cream frozen so that it could be shipped and sold to other businesses. Gus also began adding rock salt to the ice that he used to make his ice cream, which made the mixture freeze more quickly. This allowed him to speed up his production process. He created more ice cream with new flavors, and soon he was shipping product via train to places like New York City, which was 100 miles away. Gus's dream had come true, and better yet, he had brought smiles to many faces. Shining a light on a little-known visionary, this inspiring picture-book biography includes an afterword, a list of sources, and an easy-to-follow recipe so readers can make their own delicious ice cream! FIND IT HERE Based on Theresa Wilson's (a.k.a. Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D.'s) beautiful, viral spoken word poem of the same name, You So Black is a picture book celebration of the richness, the nuance, and the joy of Blackness. Black is everywhere, and in everything, and in everyone--in the night sky and the fertile soil below. It's in familial connections and invention, in hands lifted in praise and voices lifted in protest, and in hearts wide open and filled with love. Black is good. Accompanied by powerful yet tender illustrations by award-winning illustrator London Ladd, Theresa tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. has adapted her poem, full of gorgeous lyricism and imagery, to show readers the love, joy, resilience, and universality in the beauty of Blackness. FIND IT HERE In this powerfully written and beautifully illustrated picture book by award-winning author and illustrator team Carole Boston Weatherford and E. B. Lewis, Mother Africa addresses her offspring of all colors in all corners of the earth, reminding us of our timeless bond. Written in the voice of Mother Africa, who speaks to her children--human beings--this stunning picture book thrums with the love between mother and child as it celebrates humanity's common roots. Before words or tools or fire, Mother Africa's caves sheltered us and her forests fed us. She could not protect us from all dangers, but, like mothers everywhere, she gave her children all she could and sent us into the world with confidence and love. Told in the ringing, singing language of a creation story, this book is a love letter from mother to child that honors our shared history. Includes back matter with nonfiction information about human evolution and about the migration of Homo sapiens from Africa around the globe. FIND IT HERE An empowering follow-up to New York Times bestselling picture book All Because You Matter that celebrates the rich history of Black and brown men and women throughout history with soaring language and stunning illustration. Lyrical, affirmational, and bursting with love, We Are Here is a poignant story about Black and brown heritage and community. Full of assurance, tenderness, and triumph, this much-anticipated follow-up to the New York Times bestselling picture book All Because You Matter offers an equally inspirational and arresting ode to all of the Black women and men throughout history who have made momentous contributions from the beginning of time. Tami Charles shares the beauty and excellence in the history of the Black community, assuring Black and brown children of the extraordinary legacy from which they come. Charles's powerful and empowering text is accompanied with illustrations by renowned artist Bryan Collier, a four-time Caldecott Honor recipient and a nine-time Coretta Scott King Award winner or honoree. We Are Here celebrates readers with pride, joy, and love, reminding them of their roots, inviting readers to imagine a future that shines ever bright, and strengthening them for their triumphant days to come! FIND IT HERE Bill Withers's celebrated hit song "Lovely Day" comes to life in this beautifully illustrated picture book! "'Lovely Day' is a positive and uplifting song that comforts the soul. I'm thrilled to see my husband's beautiful words come to life in this stunning picture book." Marcia Withers. Bill Withers's "Lovely Day" is famous for bringing listeners joy. This beautiful picture book adapted from the song's timeless lyrics follows the story of a brother and sister who always find a way to make each other smile, no matter the challenges the day may bring. From discovering new ways to play when the playground is closed, to laughing out loud as they run through the rain, these siblings can count on each other to find the joy in any situation. Because when you're with the ones you love, every day is a lovely day! FIND IT HERE From NBA All-Star Chris Paul comes an inspirational and uplifting picture book about chasing your basketball dreams and the lessons he learned both on and off the court from his beloved grandfather Papa Chilly. Growing up, young Chris Paul dreamed of playing professional basketball. But he knew it would take more than dedication and practice, so Chris looked to his grandfather Papa Chilly as a shining example of the values he could apply both in basketball and in life. Papa taught him about respect, faith, kindness, generosity, and the determination to succeed, just as Papa had succeeded as the first Black business owner of a service station in North Carolina. Serving as a beacon of inspiration for Chris, Papa Chilly and his lessons propelled Chris to become the star NBA player--and person--he is today. FIND IT HERE #1 New York Times Bestselling and award-winning author of The Undefeated, Kwame Alexander, pens a powerful picture book that tells the story of American slavery through the voice of a teacher struggling to help her students understand its harrowing history. From the fireside tales in an African village, through the unspeakable passage across the Atlantic, to the backbreaking work in the fields of the South, this is a story of a people's struggle and strength, horror and hope. This is the story of American slavery, a story that needs to be told and understood by all of us. A testament to the resilience of the African American community, this book honors what has been and envisions what is to be. With stunning mixed-media illustrations by newcomer Dare Coulter, this is a potent book for those who want to speak the truth. Perfect for family sharing, the classroom, and homeschooling. FIND IT HERE New York Times bestselling and award-winning duo Andrea Davis Pinkney and Brian Pinkney create a joyful and beautiful ode to all bright brown baby boys -- the fifth title in our acclaimed Bright Brown Baby series! Baby boy. Precious boy. Yes! You're a STAR! A joyful, poetic celebration and ode to all bright brown baby boys. With bouncing, rhythmic text from New York Times bestselling author Andrea Davis Pinkney and tender, charming illustrations from Caldecott Honor and Coretta Scott King Award-winning illustrator Brian Pinkney, this tender affirmation is the perfect way to rejoice and teach your child that they truly are a star! This board book is part of the Bright Brown Baby publishing program, a celebration of Black and brown joy, babies, and families. And if you're looking for a gift-able picture book, be sure to also check out the beautiful picture book treasury, Bright Brown Baby, to read "Baby Boy, You're a Star!" alongside four more poems. Just-right for new and expectant parents, baby showers, birthdays, graduations, and more! This is a perfect addition to every child's growing Bright Brown Baby bookshelf! FIND IT HERE Expert quilter Kim Taylor shares a unique and powerful story of the celebration of the first Juneteenth, from the perspective of a young girl. On June 19, 1865, in Galveston, General Gordon Granger of the Union Army delivered the message that African Americans in Texas were free. Since then, Juneteenth, as the day has come to be known, has steadily gained recognition throughout the United States. ln 2020, a powerful wave of protests and demonstrations calling for racial justice and equality brought new awareness to the significance of the holiday. A Flag for Juneteenth depicts a close-knit community of enslaved African Americans on a plantation in Texas, the day before the announcement is to be made that all enslaved people are free. Young Huldah, who is preparing to celebrate her tenth birthday, can't possibly anticipate how much her life will change that Juneteenth morning. The story follows Huldah and her community as they process the news of their freedom and celebrate together by creating a community freedom flag. Debut author and artist Kim Taylor sets this story apart by applying her skills as an expert quilter. Each of the illustrations has been lovingly hand sewn and quilted, giving the book a homespun, tactile quality that is altogether unique. FIND IT HERE This joyously affirming picture book follows a young boy throughout his day as he plays, paints, and bakes, making positive associations with the color of his skin. To Benny, brown is more than just a color. Brown is his Gram's coffee and his Gramp's morning kiss. Brown is the wooden spoon he uses for mixing and baking. It's the ground that grows the tomatoes he loves and it's the log he plays on. Brown is the fuzzy blanket he takes to his room at the end of the day. Brown is him and brown is love. In tender, lyrical text and warmly exuberant illustrations, What Does Brown Mean to You? celebrates all the brilliant and beautiful shades of brown, encouraging children to explore and see the beauty of their skin reflected in their families, communities, and the world around them. FIND IT HERE FREE JANUARY BOOK BINGO PRINTABLE If you know someone who loves to read, they’re going to love this fun Book Bingo game. And if you know someone who doesn’t love to read, this free Book Bingo game can help make reading fun. Not only is this Book Bingo tons of fun, it's also full of great prompts to help little readers diversify their reading. Reading diverse children's books can introduce children to worlds outside of their own and can also foster a spirit of empathy, kindness, and acceptance. Get your free download by clicking the button below: Join our community of BOOK LOVERS on Instagram.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links The Author's Nook is a series on the Helping Kids Rise blog that introduces authors (and their books) to our amazing book loving community. We've supplied the featured authors with nine optional prompts to answer and have shared their responses below. We hope this series helps our readers discover new authors to support and new books to enjoy. Without further ado, please welcome Author Stephanie Perry Moore to the Author's Nook. When did you realize you wanted to become a published author? So fun fact, in middle school was when I knew I wanted to write for television and film. I wrote an episode of the Cosby Show, and I wrote Grease III. These were just me playing around, but the tug and pull to be a writer was born. What is your favorite part of the writing process? Imagining the story is my favorite part of the writing process. I see the story in my mind, then I just go to town with an outline. Finding the best beginning to hopefully reel people in gets me excited. Share about your latest project. What inspired it? I'm excited about my new Magic Strong series. This book was a tough one to get out there. After writing seventy-five books without stop for twenty years, I've gone five years without having a new book published. There are lots of reasons for that... Covid, personal, moving, empty nesting, lots of loss... and sales numbers. I realize that publishing is a business, so I'm now committed to not just writing the books but marketing them as well. I was inspired to write this series by the large number of elementary schools with low academic scores. This series was written to help change that. Magic Strong is the main character in the series. He loves learning new things. The problem is that Magic does not pick-up subjects as easy as others. Thanks to his cool small group teacher, Mr. Gray, Magic is able to use his wild imagination to take him to fun places where he is able to better understand the skills he needs to succeed. Each adventure is a time for the students to explore and have a blast while reading. Magic Strong aims to let nothing stop him from being all he can be. Part of the Helping Kids Rise mission is to empower young readers. How does your work exemplify that mission? Many students who don't read on grade level, need high interest books that are written on a lower grade level. The Magic Strong series was created to be uplifting, but easy to read and understand as well. When students read the books and master the concepts taught in them, they will feel more empowered to continue reading and achieving. What goals or dream collaborations do you have for your books/writing career? Turning my books, and especially the Magic Strong series is something that I am currently working on. Read about the Magic Strong series Stephanie is working on in collaboration with several partners including PBS (SCETV). How do you spend your time when you’re not writing? I'm a huge fan of Asian dramas. If I'm not watching those programs, I'm listening to gospel music and watching some SEC football. Share a favorite quote or words of wisdom that inspire you. "It's great when those that CAN... DO!" Stephanie Perry Moore Do you have any tips for children who want to become writers? My advice would be to remember these concepts: YOU CAN, THINK BIG, WORK HARD, DO MORE & NEVER QUIT. More about the Magic Strong series: Magic Strong is a third grader who likes to learn about new subjects. In these wonderfully illustrated stories, he and his buddies, twins Rex and Reva, love coming to Mr. Gray's class. This inspiring teacher takes them on magical journeys that help them understand subjects better. Each book also includes a page for caregivers and teachers that suggests guiding questions to help aid in reading comprehension. Downloadable Teacher Notes available. Magic Strong Titles and Focus Areas: Circus Web (English) Aquarium Clock (Math) Space Rocket (Science) Capital Wand (Social Studies) Park Paint (Art) Stephanie Perry Moore has over 75 titles with over 1,000,000 copies sold. She is the trailblazing author of the Payton Skky Series, the first African American Christian teen series. She is a graduate in Marketing from Auburn University. Also, she has a certificate in film from Georgia Film Academy and has worked on several TV projects. Mrs. Moore has co-written titles with her husband, Derrick Moore, who is a former NFL player and current Executive Director of Player Development for the University of South Carolina. They have three new adults. She enjoys speaking in schools across the country and writing to make a difference in young lives. Where you can find Stephanie Perry Moore: Website | Instagram | Twitter Join our community of BOOK LOVERS on Instagram.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Encourage children to read and make it fun with this free diverse Book Bingo printable. Grab a book because it’s time for Book Bingo! If you know someone who loves to read, they’re going to love this fun Book Bingo game. And if you know someone who doesn’t love to read, this free Book Bingo game can help make reading fun. Not only is this Book Bingo tons of fun and free, it's also full of great prompts to help little readers diversify their reading. Reading diverse children's books can introduce children to worlds outside of their own and can also foster a spirit of empathy, kindness, and acceptance. So, head to your local library, favorite bookshop, or grab an audiobook for some of the best diverse children's books like A Boy and His Mirror and Lift Every Voice and Change then you're all set to start reading! And if you need a little help finding books to fill the spaces, check out these posts for some fun ideas: Eighteen More Picture Book Biographies that Celebrate Black Life Written by Black Authors Eight Inclusive Children's Books About Self-Acceptance and Loving Who You Are Thirteen Delicious Picture Books that Celebrate Food, Family, and Culture Visit our Bookshop Page to Search our Booklists for ideas. A few tips for using this Book Bingo printable 1. Help little readers set a reading/game completion goal. 2. Visit the library or browse online catalogs often so that books are available when kids are ready to read. 3. Read, read, read. The more kids read, the more reward they get from filling their charts. 4. If you choose to, you could give prizes. You could give a small prize for getting BINGO (5 across or 5 down) and an extra special prize for filling in the entire card. It's completely up to you. 5. However you choose to use this printable, remember to celebrate your little reader! Here are some of the themes that are celebrated in this month's book bingo game: Dr Martin Luther King, Jr Day Lunar New Year New Year's Day The Emancipation Proclamation Michelle Obama's Birthday Coretta Scott King Winter/Snow Which days/themes are you celebrating this month? Try to find a book that coincides with it. DOWNLOAD THE PRINTABLE BY JOINING OUR DIVERSE BOOKS FACEBOOK GROUP (CLICK BELOW) NO FACEBOOK ACCOUNT? Click the button below to subscribe to our newsletter and get the download immediately! Join our community of BOOK LOVERS on Instagram.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Reading has numerous benefits. It increases vocabulary, reduces stress, and it can be very entertaining too. But sometimes it's hard to find time to actually pick up a book and read. That's why we love audiobooks. Audiobooks are a great way to add more reading to you and your child's life. Turn on an audiobook during your daily commute, while cooking dinner, or while taking a walking around the neighborhood and watch the reading time add up! This list includes some of the best-selling audiobooks for kids to add to your listening library. This collection of diverse children's books shares stories that every child will enjoy. We are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom, Narrated by Carole Lindstrom FIND IT ON: LIBRO.FM Your Name is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, Narrated by Jeanette Illidge FIND IT ON: LIBRO.FM Nigel and the Moon by Antwan Eady, Narrated by Anthony Cloyd FIND IT ON: LIBRO.FM Tomatoes for Neela by Padma Lakshmi, Narrated by Padma Lakshmi FIND IT ON: LIBRO.FM Twelve Dinging Doorbells by Tameka Fryer Brown, Narrated by January LaVoy FIND IT ON: LIBRO.FM Tia Fortuna's New Home by Ruth Behar, Narrated by Ruth Behar FIND IT ON: LIBRO.FM Hundred Years of Happiness by Thanhhà Lai, Narrated by Quyen Ngo FIND IT ON: LIBRO.FM Boogie Boogie, Yall by C.G. Esperanza, Narrated by C.G. Esperanza FIND IT ON: LIBRO.FM Eyes that Speak to the Stars by Joanna Ho, Narrated by Justin Chien FIND IT ON: LIBRO.FM Change Sings by Amanda Gorman, Narrated by Amanda Gorman FIND IT ON: LIBRO.FM Looking for more books? Be sure to check out our list of 50 Notable Children's Books Published in 2022 That Everyone Should Read. This list of fabulous children's books has something everyone will love. Join our community of BOOK LOVERS on Instagram.

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.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Reading has numerous benefits, but with our busy lives, finding time to pick up a book can be hard. If you find yourself adding books to your to be read list, but never actually carving out time to read the books, audiobooks can help. 5 Ways to Use Audiobooks to Help You Reach Your Reading Goals Going walking/exercise Just imagine how many books you can listen to while exercising or out walking! It would be difficult to read a hard copy book while walking, but audiobooks make reading a breeze while you move your body. Car rides and road trips We spend a lot of time in our cars and listening to audiobooks during those commutes (long or short) can really help you rack up the reading minutes. Get a free audiobook from Libro.FM *with trial membership Bedtime reading Let your audiobook lull you to sleep. Most apps have an option to set sleep timers so that you don't miss much of the book, when you fall asleep. By adding nightly reading to your routine, you'll rack up the reading minutes and be well on your way to reaching your goals. While cleaning How much time do you spend cleaning? Turning on an audiobook while you clean can take your mind off the task and help you crush your reading goals. If you're someone who doesn't care for cleaning, with the help of audiobooks, you might find yourself not minding the task so much. While waiting Life is full of waiting. You wait at the doctor's office, the grocery store, and sometimes at a restaurant. Reading is a great way to spend that time - it helps to pass the time quickly and is an opportunity to reach those reading goals fast. Where to Find Audiobooks Most libraries offer free access to audiobooks through their partnerships with companies like Hoopla and Libby. Contact your local library for details. Audible is a popular choice for many audiobook listeners, but we use Libro.Fm (we're an affiliate). Libro.fm encourages people to read while supporting local, independent bookstores. Learn more about their mission here. Just do it! Choose one of the many ways to access audiobooks and start crushing your reading goals today! Looking for great read aloud ideas? Visit these fabulous book lists: How Preorders Can Make a Huge Impact for Your Favorite Authors How Oonuh Do? Books fuh Chillun That Celebrate Gullah Geechee Culture Juneteenth: 6 Children's Books by Black Authors that Honor Juneteenth The Power of Libraries and Why Everyone Should Have a Library Card Join our community of BOOK LOVERS to get book news delivered to your inbox.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Reading is one of the best ways to expand a child's world. Reading helps children explore their imagination and encourages them to dream big. Here are simple ways to expose your child to more reading each day. 5 Simple Tips for Adding More Reading to Your Child's Day Read while you wait Life is full of waiting. You wait at the doctor's office, the grocery store, and sometimes at a restaurant. Reading is a great way to spend that time. It helps pass the time quickly and is an opportunity to share a great book too. Listen to your books Audiobooks count! Turn on an audiobook while riding in the car, cleaning the house, or taking a walk. Visit the library often Most local libraries have a large variety of free activities and resources for the community. Consider getting a library card to gain access to books that can be checked out in person and online for most libraries (using apps like Hoopla and Libby). Make it fun Books offer tons of opportunity for fun and when reading is fun, children are encouraged to read more. Act out the stories or make fun sound effects that keep your child engaged. You can even extend the learning by doing an activity based on the story you read. Keep books nearby There is no shortage of great books to explore. Grab one, two, or three and keep them nearby (in places like your bag, car, or bathroom). Make reading an easy choice by always having a book in reach. The Stories Children Read Matters Too Reading diverse stories opens a child's mind to different people, places, and cultures. It can help build empathy and understanding. We live in a beautifully diverse world and books can help children appreciate the similarities and differences that make living in it an exciting adventure.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Black History Month is right around the corner and these new picture book biographies, written by Black authors, are perfect for celebrating the accomplishments of Black people. (Complete with publisher's descriptions) This autobiographical picture book by the multiple Grammy Award-winning singer Roberta Flack recounts her childhood in a home surrounded by music and love: it all started with a beat-up piano that her father found in a junkyard, repaired, and painted green. Growing up in a Blue Ridge mountain town, little Roberta didn't have fancy clothes or expensive toys...but she did have music. And she dreamed of having her own piano. When her daddy spies an old, beat-up upright piano in a junkyard, he knows he can make his daughter's dream come true. He brings it home, cleans and tunes it, and paints it a grassy green. And soon the little girl has an instrument to practice on, and a new dream to reach for--one that will make her become a legend in the music industry. Here is a lyrical picture book--perfect for aspiring piano players and singers--that shares an intimate look at Roberta Flack's family and her special connection to music. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Created in partnership with Ebony Jr., this captivating Little Golden Book biography celebrates Beyoncé's rise from a shy little girl to a world-famous superstar. Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Beyoncé performed in various singing and dancing competitions as a child. She rose to fame in the late 1990s as the lead singer of Destiny's Child, one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. Beyoncé continues to inspire and demonstrate that dreams--no matter how big--can be achieved through hard work and determination. Michelle Obama has called her a role model for us all. Since 1945, Ebony magazine has shined a spotlight on the worlds of Black people in America and worldwide, telling their stories. Ebony Jr! was created in 1973 to give Black children a magazine that was all their own. The magazine included stories, comics, puzzles, and cartoons centering Black children. Its mission was to ignite a love of reading and a love of self in Black kids, and we're continuing that with our branded LGB program. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Created in partnership with Ebony Jr., this Little Golden Book biography celebrates the life and legacy of singer, performer, and activist Harry Belafonte. When Harry Belafonte was a little boy, he moved from Harlem, New York, to live with his grandmother in Jamaica. There, Harry fell in love with Calypso music. It was the seed that blossomed into a life dedicated to inspiring people through music. This moving biography chronicles his life and career--as an actor, a singer, and a civil rights activist who has always sought to make a difference while encouraging people to treat each other with respect and kindness. Since 1945, Ebony magazine has shined a spotlight on the worlds of Black people in America and worldwide, telling their stories. Ebony Jr! was created in 1973 to give Black children a magazine that was all their own. The magazine included stories, comics, puzzles, and cartoons centering Black children. Its mission was to ignite a love of reading and a love of self in Black kids, and we're continuing that with our branded LGB program. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP A celebration of twelve Black women who were pivotal to the civil rights movement and the fight for justice and equal rights in America. You've heard the names Rosa Parks and Coretta Scott King, but what about the many other women who were crucial to the civil rights movement? Told through twelve short biographies, this book celebrates just some of the many Black women--each of whom has been largely underrepresented until now--who were instrumental to the nation's fight for civil rights and the contributions they made in driving the Movement forward. An empowering, eye-opening look at how one person can impact greater change, this book is both a conversation starter and much-needed history lesson for our modern world. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP A picture book biography about the barber shop of woodcarver Elijah Pierce, recipient of the highest folk-art honor in the United States. Creeeeak! goes the screen door to self-taught artist Elijah Pierce's barbershop art studio. A young boy walks in for an ordinary haircut and walks out having discovered a lifetime of art. Mr. Pierce's wood carvings are in every corner of the small studio. There are animals, scenes from his life, and those detailing the socio-political world around him. It's this collection of work that will eventually win Elijah the National Heritage Fellowship in 1982 just two years before his death. But the young boy visiting the shop in the 1970s doesn't know that yet. All he knows is: You gotta meet Mr. Pierce! Based on the true story of Elijah Pierce and his community barber shop in Columbus, Ohio, this picture book includes cleverly collaged museum-sourced photos of his art and informative backmatter about his life. With engaging text by Pierce to the Soul! playwright Chiquita Mullins-Lee and Christopher Award-winning author Carmella Van Vleet, it's illustrated with striking Japanese woodblock by Jennifer Mack-Watkins. A new addition to vital Black art history! FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Perfect for fans of Hidden Figures and Mae Among the Stars! To Boldly Go tells the true story of Nichelle Nichols and how she used her platform on Star Trek to inspire and recruit a new generation of diverse astronauts and many others in the space and STEM fields. As Lieutenant Uhura on the iconic prime-time television show Star Trek, Nichelle Nichols played the first Black female astronaut anyone had ever seen on screen. A smart, strong, independent Black woman aboard the starship Enterprise was revolutionary in the 1960s when only white men had traveled to outer space in real life and most Black characters on TV were servants. Nichelle not only inspired a generation to pursue their dreams, but also opened the door for the real-life pioneering astronaut Sally Ride, Dr. Mae Jemison, and more. This empowering tribute to the trailblazing pop culture icon reminds us of the importance of perseverance and the power of representation in storytelling. You just might be inspired to boldly go where no one like you has ever gone before! FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Related reading: 22 Notable Picture Book Biographies of 2022 Discover the inspiring story of Augustus Jackson, an African American entrepreneur who is known as the father of ice cream, in this beautifully illustrated picture-book biography. Augustus Jackson was born in 1808 in Philadelphia. While most African Americans were enslaved at that time, in Pennsylvania, slavery was against the law. But while Augustus and his family were free, they were poor, and they depended on their garden and their chickens for food. Augustus enjoyed helping his mom prepare meals for their family. He dreamed of becoming a professional cook, and when his mom suggested he may be able to make meals for the president one day, Augustus didn't waste any time in making that dream a reality. In 1820, when he was only twelve years old, he set off for Washington, DC. He applied to work in the White House, where the head cook offered him a job as a kitchen helper. After five years of working hard, Augustus, or Gus, was promoted to cook. He went on to serve presidents James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, and Andrew Jackson. During his time at the White House, Augustus became an expert at making a popular egg-based dessert. He soon made an eggless version--known to us today as ice cream--and left the White House determined to make and sell the frozen treat to everyone, not just the wealthy. Gus headed back home to Philadelphia, and in 1830, he opened his very own ice cream parlor. He devised a way to keep the ice cream frozen so that it could be shipped and sold to other businesses. Gus also began adding rock salt to the ice that he used to make his ice cream, which made the mixture freeze more quickly. This allowed him to speed up his production process. He created more ice cream with new flavors, and soon he was shipping product via train to places like New York City, which was 100 miles away. Gus's dream had come true, and better yet, he had brought smiles to many faces. Shining a light on a little-known visionary, this inspiring picture-book biography includes an afterword, a list of sources, and an easy-to-follow recipe so readers can make their own delicious ice cream! FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP From NBA All-Star Chris Paul comes an inspirational and uplifting picture book about chasing your basketball dreams and the lessons he learned both on and off the court from his beloved grandfather Papa Chilly. Growing up, young Chris Paul dreamed of playing professional basketball. But he knew it would take more than dedication and practice, so Chris looked to his grandfather Papa Chilly as a shining example of the values he could apply both in basketball and in life. Papa taught him about respect, faith, kindness, generosity, and the determination to succeed, just as Papa had succeeded as the first Black business owner of a service station in North Carolina. Serving as a beacon of inspiration for Chris, Papa Chilly and his lessons propelled Chris to become the star NBA player--and person--he is today. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Meet Diane Nash, a civil rights leader who worked alongside Martin Luther King Jr. and John Lewis, in this illuminating nonfiction picture book that "highlights major moments in Nash's life" (The Horn Book, starred review). Diane grew up in the southside of Chicago in the 1940s. As a university student, she visited the Tennessee State Fair in 1959. Shocked to see a bathroom sign that read For Colored Women, Diane learned that segregation in the South went beyond schools--it was part of daily life. She decided to fight back, not with anger or violence, but with strong words of truth and action. Finding a group of like-minded students, including student preacher John Lewis, Diane took command of the Nashville Movement. They sat at the lunch counters where only white people were allowed and got arrested, day after day. Leading thousands of marchers to the courthouse, Diane convinced the mayor to integrate lunch counters. Then, she took on the Freedom Rides to integrate bus travel, garnering support from Martin Luther King Jr. and then the president himself--John F. Kennedy. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Powerful sound clips from twelve Black leaders amplified by bold illustrations and background facts illuminate pivotal moments of Black history in America. With the touch of the button, hear impactful quotes spoken by inspiring Black Americans in primary source audio files. Aimed at children ages 7-12, a succinct profile of the speaker alongside an explanation of the significance of the quote and moment provides the context for each audio clip. A vibrant illustration of the speaker completes the picture. Through the included quotes, kids gain an age-appropriate understanding of the strides made in the ongoing journey for equality, from the early days of sound recording to modern day. Lift Every Voice and Change features the voices of: Booker T. Washington Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr John Lewis Stokely Carmichael James Baldwin Stacey Abrams Toni Morrison Katherine Johnson Jay-Z Gladys Mae West Faith Ringgold Ayo Tometi The voices chosen to represent an equal number of men and women, historical and modern figures, across a variety of disciplines. Some are household names and others may very well be introduced to children for the first time! Inspire the next generation of leading voices by inviting them to listen to and learn from the Black leaders of yesterday and today. Manufacturer's note: Please pull the white tab out of the back of the book before use. Sound buttons require a firm push in the exact location to work, which may be hard for young children. Sound clips range in length but are an average of 12 seconds long. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP An evocative picture book biography about the prolific life of Jackie Ormes, whose groundbreaking cartoons became some of the first empowering depictions of Black women in America! Jackie Ormes made history. She was the first Black woman cartoonist to be nationally syndicated in the United States. She was also a journalist, fashionista, philanthropist, and activist, and she used her incredible talent and artistry to bring joy and hope to people everywhere. But in post-World War II America, Black people were still being denied their civil rights, and Jackie found herself in a dilemma: How could her art stay true to her signature "Jackie joy" while remaining honest about the inequalities Black people had been fighting? Rising stars Traci N. Todd, author of the Coretta Scott King Honor Book Nina: A Story of Nina Simone, and Shannon Wright, co-creator of the bestselling graphic novel Twins, have crafted a gorgeous and heartfelt tribute to the indelible legacy of Jackie Ormes, whose life and work still influences illustrators and cartoonists today. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP (BOARD BOOK) An exciting ABC board book featuring Black women musicians whose artistry and activism globally changed the way we hear and interact with music, one song at a time. Spotlighting 26 Black women in music, A is for Aretha is a celebration of the contributions they made not only within their industry but also of the social causes that often underpinned their music. Within these pages are women whose music encouraged joy and self-love, advocated for racial justice, buoyed civil rights protests, and trailblazed paths for Black creatives that are still felt to this day. This board book is a perfect gift for a baby shower or the youngest music fan. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Looking for more great books? Be sure to check out our list of 50 Notable Children's Books Published in 2022 That Everyone Should Read. This list of fabulous children's books has something everyone will love. Join our community of almost 30,000 BOOK LOVERS on Instagram

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links A new year means new books and January 2023 is bringing tons of books to get excited about. Here are twelve children's books to add to your book list today. (Complete with publisher's descriptions) 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 ON: BOOKSHOP With the English and Spanish text side by side on the page, this bilingual edition of the vibrant picture book celebrating the strength of community and the versatility of plátanos is ideal for bilingual readers as well as Spanish speakers learning English and vice versa. Paletero Man meets Fry Bread in this vibrant and cheerful ode to plátanos, the star of Dominican cuisine, written by award-winning poet Lissette Norman, illustrated by Sara Palacios, and translated by Kianny N. Antigua. Platanos are Yesenia's favorite food. They can be sweet and sugary, or salty and savory. And they're a part of almost every meal her Dominican family makes. Stop by her apartment and find out why platanos go with everything--especially love! Perfect for reading aloud and shared story time! FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP An affecting picture book from Tameka Fryer Brown and #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Nikkolas Smith (The 1619 Project: Born on the Water) that challenges the meaning behind the still-waving Confederate flag through the friendship of two young girls who live across the street from each other. Bianca is Keira's best friend. At school, they are inseparable. But Keira questions their friendship when she learns more about the meaning of the Confederate flag hanging from Bianca's front porch. Will the two friends be able to overlook their distinct understandings of the flag? Or will they reckon with the flag's effect on yesterday and today? In That Flag, Tameka Fryer Brown and Nikkolas Smith graciously tackle the issues of racism, the value of friendship, and the importance of understanding history so that we move forward together in a thought-provoking, stirring, yet ultimately tender tale. A perfect conversation starter for the older and younger generations alike, this book includes back matter on the history of the Confederate flag and notes from the creators. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP This bright, joyful picture book celebrates a community at play! It's a sunny spring day, and the tic tac tic tac sound of jump ropes hitting the ground floats through the wind. "Jump in!" Everyone lines up for a turn. The Delancy twins, double dutch divas. Leroy Jones with the hip-hop tricks. Even Ms. Mabel, showing the youngstas how it's done. And after a day of fun, when the street lights start to flicker, it's time to . . . jump out! With a bold graphic style, read-aloud enhancing gatefolds, and an exuberance that leaps off the page, acclaimed artist Shadra Strickland's author/illustrator debut will make readers of all ages get up on their feet! FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP #1 New York Times Bestselling and award-winning author of The Undefeated, Kwame Alexander, pens a powerful picture book that tells the story of American slavery through the voice of a teacher struggling to help her students understand its harrowing history. From the fireside tales in an African village, through the unspeakable passage across the Atlantic, to the backbreaking work in the fields of the South, this is a story of a people's struggle and strength, horror and hope. This is the story of American slavery, a story that needs to be told and understood by all of us. A testament to the resilience of the African American community, this book honors what has been and envisions what is to be. With stunning mixed-media illustrations by newcomer Dare Coulter, this is a potent book for those who want to speak the truth. Perfect for family sharing, the classroom, and homeschooling. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP It's almost Lunar New Year, and Chloe can't wait to celebrate! But first, Chloe and her family must prepare for the new year. They buy new shoes, lay out good-luck oranges in a bowl, decorate the red envelope, and make a crispy turnip cake. Everyone comes together to cook a fantastic feast, saving a plate for A-má, of course. Chloe enjoys the festive celebration and yummy food, but most of all, she loves spending time with her family. Lily LaMotte and Michelle Lee have created a tender, warm, and uplifting holiday story about tradition and the importance of being with those you love. The backmatter contains educational facts about the Lunar New Year celebration in Taiwan and a fun recipe for a yummy fortune cake! FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Related reading: 22 Notable Picture Book Biographies of 2022 The bestselling illustrator of I Am Enough brings to life the story of a boy whose mirror gives him a whole new way of seeing himself. Chris loves his long, curly hair, so why do his classmates tease him about it? When he looks for answers in his mirror, something wonderfully wild and weird happens: a lady appears with wise words that make him feel like a king! But when he starts acting like a king at school, it's time for another visit to the mirror. Actor Marchánt Davis's uplifting picture book debut encourages us all to look beyond hairstyles--reminding us that styles come and go--and to celebrate one another for who we are. #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator Keturah A. Bobo's stunning art brings Chris and his mirror to vibrant life. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP New York Times bestselling and award-winning duo Andrea Davis Pinkney and Brian Pinkney create a joyful and beautiful ode to all bright brown baby boys -- the fifth title in our acclaimed Bright Brown Baby series! Baby boy. Precious boy. Yes! You're a STAR! A joyful, poetic celebration and ode to all bright brown baby boys. With bouncing, rhythmic text from New York Times bestselling author Andrea Davis Pinkney and tender, charming illustrations from Caldecott Honor and Coretta Scott King Award-winning illustrator Brian Pinkney, this tender affirmation is the perfect way to rejoice and teach your child that they truly are a star! FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP In this lyrical picture book by Kim Rogers (Wichita), with illustrations by Boston Globe-Horn Book Honoree Julie Flett (Cree-Métis), Becca watches her grandma create, play, and dance--and she knows that she wants to be just like Grandma. Becca loves spending time with Grandma. Every time Becca says, "Let me try," Grandma shows her how to make something beautiful. Whether they are beading moccasins, dancing like the most beautiful butterflies, or practicing basketball together, Becca knows that, more than anything, she wants to be just like Grandma. And as the two share their favorite activities, Becca discovers something surprising about Grandma. Features an author's note and glossary. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP A young boy learns that he is walking in the footsteps of greatness through a vibrant, lyrical retelling of Black history--both a love letter to Black children and an anthem empowering them to know their God-given worth. You came bustling into the world, a mighty bundle of energy, ready to do great things. And no wonder. You stand on the shoulders of those who came before, and you, too, were born to shine. Starting with his birth, the boy's father lays out the history of his son's ancestry: from the love and warmth of a big family, to the change makers and status shakers, the inventors and engineers, the astronomers, philosophers, and storytellers, the leaders and the doctors. The father details the legacy and impact of Black ancestors whose determination, strength, dedication, creativity, and leadership contributed to making the world better. Throughout the story, the boy discovers the rich heritage of those that have gone before him and learns how he embodies that same greatness. He, too, has the power to change the world by embracing exactly who God made him to be. You Come from Greatness includes illustrations of Black historical figures such as Wangari Muta Maathai, Ellie Mannette, Rebecca Lee Crumpler, and more, with twenty short biographies at the end of the book. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP "Schooltrain! Schooltrain! Don't be late! The school bell rings at half past eight!" Then it's on to great adventures with her teacher's books -- and her own imagination! But lately, someone named Jim Crow has been making trouble for folks in Vacherie. Aunt Bea and Uncle Ed have already moved away. When Thelma's best friend also has to leave, Thelma wonders, who is Jim Crow and why does he have to be so mean? Will he make trouble for Pop, too? FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP In this powerfully written and beautifully illustrated picture book by award-winning author and illustrator team Carole Boston Weatherford and E. B. Lewis, Mother Africa addresses her offspring of all colors in all corners of the earth, reminding us of our timeless bond. Written in the voice of Mother Africa, who speaks to her children--human beings--this stunning picture book thrums with the love between mother and child as it celebrates humanity's common roots. Before words or tools or fire, Mother Africa's caves sheltered us and her forests fed us. She could not protect us from all dangers, but, like mothers everywhere, she gave her children all she could and sent us into the world with confidence and love. Told in the ringing, singing language of a creation story, this book is a love letter from mother to child that honors our shared history. Includes back matter with nonfiction information about human evolution and about the migration of Homo sapiens from Africa around the globe. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Looking for more books? Be sure to check out our list of 50 Notable Children's Books Published in 2022 That Everyone Should Read. This list of fabulous children's books has something everyone will love. Join our community of BOOK LOVERS on Instagram.

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 and in pursuit of justice, equity, and equality for all. There are numerous children's books about Dr. King that teach little readers about Dr. King's legacy. Those picture books also serve as a reminder of ways that we can continue and honor Dr. King's legacy. Dr. King gave many speeches and interviews to spread his message and to educate the masses. Because of those speeches and interviews, we're left with inspirational quotes that can guide us in our efforts to continue his legacy. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Most Inspiring Motivational Quotes 1. "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'" 2. "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." 3. "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy." 4. "If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward. 5. "Intelligence plus character, that is the goal of true education." 6. “The time is always right to do what is right.” 7. "The moral arc of the universe bends at the elbow of justice." 8. "Power without love is reckless and abusive, and love without power is sentimental and anemic. Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice, and justice at its best is power correcting everything that stands against love." 9. "True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice." 10. "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter." 11. "I have decided to stick with love. Hate is too great a burden to bear." 12. "...a riot is the language of the unheard." 13. "Forgiveness is not an occasional act. It is a permanent attitude." 14. In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends. 15. “The time is always right to do what is right.” 16. "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly." 17. "Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope." 18. "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." How will you celebrate Dr. King's legacy? Take a peek at some of the children's books that celebrate Dr. King's life. We've created a list of 10 Meaningful Ways Children Can Honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's Legacy. Share this post to help others discover how they can help to realize Dr. King's dream. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. relaxes at home with his wife Coretta and first child Yolanda in May 1956 in Montgomery, Alabama. (Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images)

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Any book lover understands the internal struggle that happens when trying to choose "the best of" books for an entire year. It feels impossible. We started with a goal of choosing 22 books for 2022, but that list quickly escalated to 50 Notable Children's Books of 2022. In a perfect world, these books would have a permanent place on every bookshelf, but we know that's not possible for a myriad of reasons. So, please buy a few, gift a few, and borrow some from your local library. They certainly all deserve a read. Find all of these books in the Notable Picture Books of 2022 list in the Helping Kids Rise Bookshop. Happy reading! Click on the covers for details on all of these books. Click on the covers for details on all of these books. CLICK THE COVER THEN SWIPE FOR CLOSE UPS OF EACH OF THE BOOKS Find all of these books and more in our bookshop: VIDEO READ ALONG Author Alicia D. Williams reads aloud from her picture book THE TALK. As a little boy grows into a bigger boy, ready to take on the world, he first must have that very difficult conversation far too familiar to so many Black and Brown Americans in this gentle and ultimately hopeful picture book. Get your copy here. Join our community of BOOK LOVERS on Instagram.

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links Random House Children’s Books will publish a new line of books within the Little Golden Books imprint, in partnership with Ebony Media Publishing’s Ebony Jr. imprint. The books will be packaged by Lavette Books and written and illustrated by Black creators. Titles will be geared toward children ages 2 to 5 and include nonfiction and fiction. Trailblazer John H Johnson of the Johnson Publishing Company created Ebony Jr! in 1973 to give Black children a magazine that was all their own. The magazine remained in print until 1985 and featured stories, comics, puzzles, and cartoons centering Black children with a mission to ignite a love of reading. “We’re very excited to be partnering with such an iconic brand on stories for young readers and look forward to continuing to collaborate with Ebony Jr! together with Lavaille Lavette on additional publishing in the future,” says Fry. “The Ebony brand has had a tremendous impact on American culture, and these new books provide such important representation for young Black readers and their families.” The first two Little Golden Books titles are Harry Belafonte: A Little Golden Book Biography and Beyoncé: A Little Golden Book Biography. Both of the books publish January 3, 2023, and are written by bestselling editor and author Lavaille Lavette, with illustrations by Anastasia Magloire Williams. Two more titles that will be released later in 2023, Jayylen’s™ Juneteenth Surprise (May 2, 2023) and Jayylen’s™ Christmas Wish (Sept. 12, 2023), feature a fictional character named Jayylen™, a six-year-old boy with dreams to become an engineer. Both books are written by Lavaille Lavette and illustrated by David Wilkerson. Check out the book covers and the publisher's descriptions below. Which ones are you looking forward to reading? Created in partnership with Ebony Jr., this captivating Little Golden Book biography celebrates Beyoncé's rise from a shy little girl to a world-famous superstar. Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Beyoncé performed in various singing and dancing competitions as a child. She rose to fame in the late 1990s as the lead singer of Destiny's Child, one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. Beyoncé continues to inspire and demonstrate that dreams--no matter how big--can be achieved through hard work and determination. Michelle Obama has called her a role model for us all. Since 1945, Ebony magazine has shined a spotlight on the worlds of Black people in America and worldwide, telling their stories. Ebony Jr! was created in 1973 to give Black children a magazine that was all their own. The magazine included stories, comics, puzzles, and cartoons centering Black children. Its mission was to ignite a love of reading and a love of self in Black kids, and we're continuing that with our branded LGB program. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Created in partnership with Ebony Jr., this Little Golden Book biography celebrates the life and legacy of singer, performer, and activist Harry Belafonte. When Harry Belafonte was a little boy, he moved from Harlem, New York, to live with his grandmother in Jamaica. There, Harry fell in love with Calypso music. It was the seed that blossomed into a life dedicated to inspiring people through music. This moving biography chronicles his life and career--as an actor, a singer, and a civil rights activist who has always sought to make a difference while encouraging people to treat each other with respect and kindness. Since 1945, Ebony magazine has shined a spotlight on the worlds of Black people in America and worldwide, telling their stories. Ebony Jr! was created in 1973 to give Black children a magazine that was all their own. The magazine included stories, comics, puzzles, and cartoons centering Black children. Its mission was to ignite a love of reading and a love of self in Black kids, and we're continuing that with our branded LGB program. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Created in partnership with Ebony Jr., this inspiring Little Golden Book tells the story of one young boy's first experience celebrating Juneteenth. When Jayylen's grandfather, Paw Paw Jimmy, begins preparing for a big Juneteenth celebration, Jayylen has a lot of questions. Most importantly, what is Juneteenth? His mother and Paw Paw Jimmy explain that the holiday marks the anniversary of when enslaved African Americans found out that they were free. Paw Paw Jimmy plays some zydeco for him, which is the type of music they will dance to at the celebration. Jayylen practices every day so that he will be able to play the frottoir (a percussion instrument similar to a washboard) for everyone. But will he be able to pull off an even bigger surprise for the day? Since 1945, Ebony magazine has shined a spotlight on the worlds of Black people in America and worldwide, telling their stories. Ebony Jr! was created in 1973 to give Black children a magazine that was all their own. The magazine included stories, comics, puzzles, and cartoons centering Black children. Its mission was to ignite a love of reading and a love of self in Black kids, and we're continuing that with our LGB program. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Created in partnership with Ebony Jr., this inspiring Little Golden Book tells the story of one young boy's wish to have his whole family together for Christmas. Jayylen is extra excited for Christmas this year. His brother Manuel, who is serving in the Army, will be home for the first time in three years! But when Momma gets the call that Manuel won't be able to make it because he's needed on base in Alaska, Jayylen doesn't know what to do. Can he figure out a way for the whole family to be together? Since 1945, Ebony magazine has shined a spotlight on the worlds of Black people in America and worldwide, telling their stories. Ebony Jr! was created in 1973 to give Black children a magazine that was all their own. The magazine included stories, comics, puzzles, and cartoons centering Black children. Its mission was to ignite a love of reading and a love of self in Black kids, and we're continuing that with our LGB program. FIND IT ON: BOOKSHOP Looking for more great books? Join our community of almost 30,000 BOOK LOVERS on Instagram.