2018 was a rollercoaster of a year, with so many opportunities for growth and learning all over the place! We launched this site as a passion project, and we have been so lucky to connect with many people from all over the globe, sharing our mutual love of diverse literature!
We have no idea what 2019 will bring,
but we resolve to fight injustice,
to spread love and liberation,
and to lift up the voices of those most marginalized.
In 2019, we will educate to empower!
Without further ado, here are the Top 5 books we read in 2018:
5) A Day With Yayah
Words by Nicola I. Campbell, Pictures by Julie Flett
Click here for more about Indigenous Voices!
Why We Loved This Book:
-It promotes multilingualism & discusses the cultural significance of certain traditions
-Teaches about respecting and revering natural resources
-Julie Flett’s illustrations are stunning
4) Captain Starfish
Written by: Davina Bell, Illustrated by: Allison Colpoys
Click here for more about Neurodiversity!
Why We Loved This Book:
-The protagonist Alfie learns about himself from the natural world-the aquarium is the place for him!
-Alfie learns to manage his anxiety on his own timeline, with his parent’s support
-Anxiety is described in a very understandable way, so children can identify times that they may have felt anxious
3) Life Doesn’t Frighten Me
Poem by Maya Angelou, Paintings by Jean-Michel Basquiat
Click here for more about POC-Centric Narratives!
Why We Loved This Book:
-It introduces poetry and art to readers at the same time
-It highlights two incredible artists of color and brings them together in a way that appeals to children
– It’s easy to use this book in a variety of ways in the classroom as well as the home (see our full review for ideas!)
2) Neither
Written & Illustrated by: Airlie Anderson
Click here for more about Gender Identity!
Why We Loved This Book:
– The imaginative illustrations draw the reader in, where they then encounter a lovable cast of characters
-Diversity and individuality is celebrated in a simple way that effectively communicates what can be a complex topic
-It opens the door for further conversation and self-reflection about identity!
#1 : Interstellar Cinderella
Written by: Deborah Underwood, Illustrated by: Meg Hunt
Click here for more about Social Emotional Development!
Why we loved this book the most:
-It has a strong female protagonist who thinks for herself, and an interracial friendship
– Cinderella is a STEM-loving role model for young girls who beats the odds
– It switches up the typical fairy tale ending of marriage being the ultimate goal- Cinderella gets the job of her dreams and a new best friend who understands her!