Books About Diversity And Inclusion

The Best Diversity And Inclusion Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about diversity and inclusion? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Diversity And Inclusion

New Kid
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$2279
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

New Kid

By Jerry Craft · Book #1 in the New Kid series

A young artist navigates two worlds, struggling to fit in at a new school.

Newbery Medal (2020)Coretta Scott King Award (2020)Cybils Award (2019)
249 pages· 14,169 words· Est. 2.5 hour read
5.8/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 62,950 ratings
$23.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Seventh grader Jordan Banks dreams of art school, but his parents send him to a prestigious academy where he's one of the few kids of color. Torn between his diverse neighborhood and the elite school, Jordan must find a way to fit in without losing himself. Can he balance these worlds and stay true to his passion for drawing? Discover the challenges and triumphs of a young artist caught between two cultures in this compelling graphic novel.
We're All Wonders
Sale price
$1899
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2017

We're All Wonders

By R. J. Palacio

A child who feels like they don't fit in embarks on an imaginative journey to explore their identity.

32 pages· 223 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
5.8/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 9,689 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Meet Auggie Pullman, a boy with an extraordinary face, and his dog Daisy. In a world where he feels like any other kid, Auggie's journey reveals the universal longing to belong and be seen for who we truly are. 'We’re All Wonders' invites young readers to explore empathy and kindness, sparking conversations about acceptance and understanding. Will Auggie find his place in a world that often sees him differently? This beautifully illustrated picture book offers a heartfelt glimpse into Auggie's world, encouraging children to embrace differences and choose kindness.
A Poem for Peter
Sale price
$1899
Picture Book · Ages 7–10 · 2016

A Poem for Peter

By Andrea Davis Pinkney, Steve Johnson (Illustrator), Lou Fancher (Illustrator)

An artist's dream defies odds, creating a groundbreaking children's book.

Sydney Taylor Book Honor (2017)
52 pages· 2,327 words· Est. 18 min read-aloud
5.4/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 2,052 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Ezra Jack Keats, born to struggling immigrants in Brooklyn, defied the odds to become an artist. Despite his father's doubts, Ezra's determination led him to success with the WPA and Marvel comics. His dream culminated in 'The Snowy Day,' featuring Peter, a boy in a red snowsuit, exploring the snow. This Caldecott Medal-winning book was the first to feature an African American child in mainstream literature. Discover how Ezra's journey from humble beginnings inspired generations of dreamers in this captivating narrative.
Stacey's Remarkable Books
Sale price
$1899
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2022

Stacey's Remarkable Books

By Stacey Abrams, Kitt Thomas (Illustrator) · The Stacey Stories series

A library visit unites students through shared stories, transforming challenges into friendships.

32 pages· 968 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud
4.4 Goodreads · 704 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Every Thursday, Stacey escapes into books at the library. When she meets Julie, a new student struggling with English, they start reading together. Their group grows, and soon, books lead them on magical adventures, revealing new worlds and cultures. But the greatest journey is the friendship they build. Based on a true story, this tale celebrates the transformative power of books and the bonds they create.
Not Quite Snow White
Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2019

Not Quite Snow White

By Ashley Franklin, Ebony Glenn (Illustrator)

A young girl auditions for a school play and faces self-doubt and criticism from her peers.

32 pages· 571 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud
4.4 Goodreads · 1,623 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Tameika loves the stage, singing, and dancing. When her school announces a Snow White musical, she auditions for the lead. But whispers and snickers suggest she's not right for the role. Will Tameika's confidence falter, or will she rise above the doubts and let her magic shine? This inspiring tale explores the power of self-belief in the face of adversity.
The 57 Bus
Sale price
$1899
Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2017

The 57 Bus

By Dashka Slater

A bus ride turns tragic, intertwining two teens' lives in a complex tale of justice and identity.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (2018)Stonewall Book Award – Children's & Young Adult Literature (2018)
320 pages· 47,344 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 45,915 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: In Oakland, two teens' lives collide on the 57 bus. Sasha, an agender teen, is set on fire by Richard, a fellow student. This reckless act thrusts them into a legal and moral spotlight, challenging perceptions of justice and identity. As the world watches, the lines between victim and perpetrator blur, revealing a deeper, more heartbreaking story. Can understanding emerge from tragedy?
Hands Are Not for Hitting
Sale price
$1139
Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2000

Hands Are Not for Hitting

By Martine Agassi, Marieka Heinlen (Illustrator) · Toddler Tools series

Discover the power of hands for kindness, not harm.

40 pages· 587 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud
4.1 Goodreads · 645 ratings
$11.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Explore how hands can create joy and connection, not conflict. This engaging book helps children understand that hands are for playing, learning, and helping, not hitting. With activities for adults, it encourages positive behavior and emotional growth. What will your hands do today?
What Does It Mean to Be American?
Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2019

What Does It Mean to Be American?

By Rana DiOrio, Elad Yoran, Nina Mata (Illustrator) · What Does It Mean to Be series

Explore what it truly means to be American beyond fireworks and apple pie.

40 pages· 243 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
4.0 Goodreads · 135 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Dive into a vibrant exploration of American identity, where children learn that being American transcends politics and traditions. This picture book invites young readers to discover the essence of unity and pride, celebrating the diverse tapestry that defines America. Through engaging illustrations and thought-provoking questions, it challenges the notion of identity, encouraging kids to embrace their heritage and values. Perfect for any day of reflection, this story fosters a sense of belonging and understanding, reminding us all that being American is about shared experiences and dreams, not just holidays or symbols.
Mascot
Sale price
$1697
Chapter Book · Ages 10–+ · 2023

Mascot

By Charles Waters, Traci Sorell

A school mascot sparks a heated debate, challenging students to confront identity and tradition.

American Indian Youth Literature Honor (2024)Jane Addams Children's Book Honor (2024)
256 pages· 22,878 words· Est. 3 hour read
3.9 Goodreads · 2,320 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: In Rye, Virginia, a school assignment ignites a fierce debate over a potentially racist mascot. Six diverse middle schoolers find themselves at the heart of the controversy, each grappling with their beliefs and the community's divided stance. As tensions rise, they must navigate identity, tradition, and the courage to advocate for change. Will they unite to challenge the status quo, or will the conflict tear them apart? This novel in verse explores the power of young voices in the fight for justice, inspiring readers to question and engage with the world around them.
All About Diversity
Sale price
$1498
Picture Book · Ages 4–6 · 2024

All About Diversity

By Felicity Brooks, Mar Ferrero (Illustrator)

A joyful look at how people differ and why everyone deserves kindness.

32 pages
4.3 Goodreads · 93 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: This picture book explores the many ways people differ, including size, age, ability, gender, ethnicity, beliefs, language and culture, through topics such as clothes, food, homes, festivals and families. It helps young children talk about what makes each person unique and how to treat everyone kindly and fairly.
Ages 3–6Picture Book Club

Great books for ages 3–6, every month.

Two hardcover picture books a month, perfect for reading aloud, with coordinated spines for a beautiful shelf.

See the Picture Book ClubFrom $19.95 a box
Books from the Picture Book Club in a Bookroo box
Keep exploring
Books about drawingBooks about prejudice and racismBooks about private schoolsBooks about self-discovery