Little Hands, Big Hearts: The Best Reads for Spurring Childhood Equality
By: Holly Johnson/Arab America Contributing Writer
We’ve all seen them. The sarcastic memes floating around social media poking fun at the erratic events of this bizarre year. From the death of a basketball legend (along with his teenage daughter and passengers) to tragic wildfires, a pandemic, the senseless death of George Floyd, worldwide protesting and social unrest, it is no secret that 2020 has been a tumultuous year (and that’s putting it mildly). However, despite the seemingly continual flood of negativity, tiny seeds of hope have begun to spring forth like the bulbous hues of a lavender tulip glimmering lightly in the dew of a bright April morn. Although this uncertainty has provided immense suffering, it has simultaneously opened the door for a period of reformation in not only the pace of everyday life but in the beliefs and attitudes of those who might have otherwise turned a blind eye to such blistering injustice.
The death of George Floyd in May sent shockwaves through an already fragile world grappling with the enormity of the cessation of life as we know it. Although unexpected, thanks to the increasing lightning-speed connectivity of modern media, society was bombarded with the heartbreaking facts of the events that followed. Within days, numerous cases of similar senseless acts of violence against minorities were streaming across our television sets and computer screens. Why now, many questioned? Why is such hatred spewing forth out of nowhere at a time when we desperately need love and unity?
Sadly, the answer is not straightforward, however, as more tales of violence come to light, it is evident that this hatred has been a long occurring trend, festering quietly in the backbone of society like a sore on the soles of one’s feet. Most often, hatred stems from an inaccurate understanding of a divergent ethnic, religious, racial, or cultural background. Contributed to by unrealistic stereotypical prejudices, such close-minded intercultural competence is a learned behavior. As evidenced by the TikTok video of two toddlers with opposing skin colors enjoying a hearty embrace taking the world by storm, we are born with an enormous capacity to love and accept our brethren. It is only when the repugnant attitudes of those we admire seep into our values that we begin a cycle of disrespect.
How can we prevent this, you might ask? As is the case with most of life’s lessons, start early. One of the best ways to educate oneself, or those younger, is through literature that not only promotes equality and acceptance but delves into the positives that occur when one is open to new perspectives. Whether you are the parent (or caregiver) or educator of a youngster, consider incorporating the titles below in your weekly reading.
An ABC of Equality
An educational yet colorful portrayal of the importance of equality, author Chana Ginelle Ewing has a way of entertaining even the youngest of readers. Introducing complicated concepts in simple story format, this is the perfect read for teaching children how to not only navigate this diverse world that we call home, but also how to celebrate the very differences that make each of us so unique, and beautiful in our special way.
My First Book of Feminism
According to author Julie Merberg, “equality starts early, and it begins at home.” A simplistic yet fascinating book of illustrations and clever rhyming text, this seeks to encourage girls to love themselves and others by reminding them that everyone has beauty and power emanating from them, regardless of their differences. In the words of the inspirational philanthropic personality Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, “girls do not need help with finding their voices, as they already have them. They simply need to be encouraged to use them.”
Made by Raffi
Although this book does not revolve around racial or ethnic, it does follow the story of a boy who is uniquely spirited. Following the experiences of a boy who is ostracized because of what society deems his “anti-male” qualities, Raffi finds comfort in embracing his individuality and receives the affirmation he desires when he begins to truly love himself. Authored by Craig Pomranz, this is a summer must-read.
Hue Boy
Small for his age and simply different from many of the other children, Hue Boy, the protagonist in this visionary treat takes a lot of ribbing from his peers. Determined to find out the reason for his size, his path to discovery takes him on a journey of self-realization that leads to the emergence of pride in his uniqueness. Perfect for tiny tots and bouncing bundles alike, we recommend giving this gem a go.
Unique and Wonderful
The moral of this story is perfectly summed up in the title ‘Unique and Wonderful’. Penned by avid storyteller Dee Smith, this is a charming little book that teaches the importance of recognizing everyone’s importance.
It’s Okay To Be Different
From bestselling author Todd Parr comes a reassuring book about being who you are. Told with wit and wisdom, Parr cleverly delivers the important messages of acceptance, understanding, and confidence in an accessible, child-friendly format.
The Other Side
A story of friendship across a racial divide, Woodson packs a striking literary punch in this pint-sized picture book illustrated by E.B. Lewis. Moving readers with her lyrical narrative, The Other Side follows the friendship of Anna (the white daughter of prominent town members), and Clover. Separated by the segregation that permeates their small town, the girls connect by sitting atop the fence that physically and figuratively divides them. A 2018-2019 Ambassador For Young People’s Literature, Jacqueline Woodson’s colorful tale is a must-read for every family.
The Skin You Live In
Recipient of the prestigious Mom’s Choice Award, this lively story delivers an important message of social acceptance to young readers. With the ease and simplicity of a nursery rhyme, themes associated with child development and social harmony (friendship, acceptance, self-esteem, and diversity) are promoted in straightforward prose.
The Sandwich Swap
Inspired by her own story, Queen Rania of Jordan tells the riveting story of two girls (Lily and Salma), who are best friends and share everything they do – except their lunch. Disagreeing over favorite foods, each is introduced to a new culture after trading sandwiches, in a tale that promotes diversity and acceptance.
Mommy’s Khimar
Selected as a Best Book of 2018 by NPR, a young Muslim girl spends a busy day wrapped up in her mother’s colorful headscarf in this sweet and fanciful picture book from debut author and illustrator Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow and Ebony Glenn.
Let The Children March
Let the Children March is a 2018 children’s picture book written by Monica Clark-Robinson and illustrated by Frank Morrison. Set during the Birmingham Children’s Crusade in 1963, this literary masterpiece wraps historical significance around the spirit of activism, inspiring children to utilize their voices for change.
I Am Human: A Book of Empathy
From the picture book dream team behind I Am Yoga and I Am Peace comes the third book in their wellness series: I Am Human. A hopeful meditation on all the great (and challenging) parts of being human, I Am Human shows that it’s okay to make mistakes while also emphasizing the power of good choices by offering a kind word or smile or by saying “I’m sorry.” At its heart, this picture book is a celebration of empathy and compassion that lifts up the flawed fullness of humanity and encourages children to see themselves as part of one big imperfect family—millions strong.
If you’re looking for more books, here, here, here and here are other lists.
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