If children do not see diversity in the books they read, how can they connect to other cultures?  A good friend,  who also happens to be a published author of children’s books, recently sent me Katrina Schwartz’s article with 20 Books Featuring Diverse Characters to Inspire Connection and Empathy.  Schwartz suggests books can “… provide both mirrors and windows so they {children} subconsciously build an image of who and what they could be, while building empathy and understanding for the lives of others.”

Not just for children, children’s books can send a strong message.  Here are two from the list I plan to read soon:

• Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Pena – the 2016 Newbery Award Winner
• Listen Slowly by Thanhhà Lai

Related Review:  Inside Out and Back Again