Social–Emotional Learning, Courage & Personal Growth
The Day You Begin
By Jacqueline Woodson, Illustrated by Rafael Lopez
There are many reasons to feel different. Maybe it's how you look or talk, or where you're from; maybe it's what you eat, or something just as random. It's not easy to take those first steps into a place where nobody really knows you yet, but somehow you do it.
Jacqueline Woodson's lyrical text and Rafael López's dazzling art reminds us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes-and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. And that sometimes, when we reach out and begin to share our stories, others will be happy to meet us halfway.
Each Kindness
ByJacqueline Woodson, Illustrated by E.B Lewis
Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson is a poignant picture book about a new student, Maya, who is excluded by her classmates, particularly Chloe, and her subsequent departure from school, leaving Chloe to reflect on her missed opportunity to show kindness, a theme reinforced by the book's powerful message about how small acts can change the world.
The Proudest Blue
By Ibtihaj Muhammad, Illustrated by S. K. Ali Hatem Aly
With her new backpack and light-up shoes, Faizah knows the first day of school is going to be special. It's the start of a brand new year and, best of all, it's her older sister Asiya's first day of hijab--a hijab of beautiful blue fabric, like the ocean waving to the sky. But not everyone sees hijab as beautiful, and in the face of hurtful, confusing words, Faizah will find new ways to be strong.
Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem
By Amanda Gorman, Illustrated by Loren Long
In this stirring, much-anticipated picture book by presidential inaugural poet and activist Amanda Gorman, anything is possible when our voices join together. As a young girl leads a cast of characters on a musical journey, they learn that they have the power to make changes—big or small—in the world, in their communities, and in most importantly, in themselves.
Nana Akua Goes to School
By Tricia Elam Walker, Illustrated by April Harrison
It is Grandparents Day at Zura's elementary school, and the students are excited to introduce their grandparents and share what makes them special. Aleja's grandfather is a fisherman. Bisou's grandmother is a dentist. But Zura's Nana, who is her favorite person in the world, looks a little different from other grandmas. Nana Akua was raised in Ghana, and, following an old West African tradition, has tribal markings on her face. Worried that her classmates will be scared of Nana--or worse, make fun of her--Zura is hesitant to bring her to school. Nana Akua knows what to do, though. With a quilt of traditional African symbols and a bit of face paint, Nana Akua is able to explain what makes her special, and to make all of Zura's classmates feel special, too.
Harlem Renaissance: A Picture Book About Black History―Meeting Langston Hughes and Icons of the 1920s
By Faith Ringgold
Lonnie and his uncle go back to Harlem in the 1920s. Along the way, they meet famous writers, musicians, artists, and athletes, from Langston Hughes and W.E.B. Du Bois to Josephine Baker and Zora Neale Hurston and many more, who created this incredible period. And after an exciting day of walking with giants, Lonnie fully understands why the Harlem Renaissance is so important.
The Invisible Princess
By Faith Ringgold
Born as a slave, a beautiful princess was made invisible by the Powers of Nature and whisked away by the Prince of Night even before her parents, Mama and Papa Love, could name her. She tells them of her magical and free life and that now is the time to fulfill the destiny given her by the Great Lady of Peace, who promised that she would one day grow up to bring freedom to the slaves on the plantation. Mama and Papa Love and all the slaves are made invisible, and together with the Invisible Princess they prosper in the Invisible Village of Peace, Freedom, and Love. An original African-American fairy tale set during the time of slavery, this beautiful, astonishing book from Coretta Scott King winner and Caldecott Honor winner Faith Ringgold will prove to be a treasure for years to come.
Talking to Faith Ringgold
By Faith Ringgold, Linda Freeman and Nancy Roucher
In her own words, here is a conversational account of Faith Ringgold's life and work--in an innovative, interactive format. Presented in short sections, such as "Introducing Myself," "Growing Up," and "Being an Artist," the author and illustrator comments on her achievements, how she developed her style, and what some of her works mean to her
