Books About Race And Ethnicity · 664 titles considered

The Best Race And Ethnicity Books for Kids

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Looking for excellent children's books about race and ethnicity? 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.

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The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Race And Ethnicity

Sale price

$1900

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 1960

To Kill a Mockingbird

By Harper Lee · Book #1 in the To Kill a Mockingbird series

A lawyer defends an innocent man in a town gripped by prejudice.

323 pages· 99,820 words· Est. 9.5 hour read

7.0/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 7,078,697 ratings

$20.00Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: In a Southern town seething with prejudice, a young girl witnesses her father's courageous stand as he defends a black man falsely accused of a heinous crime. As tensions rise, will justice prevail, or will hatred triumph? This poignant tale explores the depths of human morality and the innocence of youth amidst societal turmoil.

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

Orange for the Sunsets

By Tina Athaide

Two friends face a regime's ultimatum, testing their bond and redefining home.

336 pages· 49,862 words· Est. 7 hour read

6.8/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 964 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In Uganda under Amin's rule, Asha and Yesofu's friendship transcends cultural divides. But when Indians are ordered to leave, their world shatters. As tensions rise and soldiers patrol, Asha clings to the familiar, while Yesofu is torn between loyalty and a hopeful future. With their friendship on the line, can they find the courage to let go?

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 1976

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

By Mildred D. Taylor · Logan Family Saga series

A family's land is their lifeblood amidst racism and turmoil.

Newbery Medal (1977)Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (1977)Coretta Scott King Honor (1977)Jane Addams Children's Book Honor (1977)

276 pages· 65,468 words· Est. 7.5 hour read

6.0/7 Bookroo·3.9/5 Goodreads · 131,566 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In Depression-era Mississippi, young Cassie Logan learns the true value of her family's land amidst racial tensions and social injustice. As night riders threaten and humiliation looms, the Logans' land becomes their source of pride and resilience. Can Cassie find strength in her heritage and dignity in herself to face the challenges ahead? Discover the power of family and the unyielding spirit of independence in this gripping tale of courage and identity.

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 · 62,526 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.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13

Island of the Blue Dolphins

By Scott O'Dell, Ted Lewin (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Island of the Blue Dolphins series

Alone on a desolate island, a girl battles nature and wild dogs for survival.

Newbery Medal (1961)

177 pages· 40,023 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

5.4/7 Bookroo·3.9/5 Goodreads · 354,299 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: On a remote island off California, Karana faces the ultimate test of survival. Alone for eighteen years, she must fend off wild dogs, evade hunters, and secure food. Her journey transforms isolation into a tale of resilience and spirit. Can she find strength in solitude, or will the island's challenges prove too great? Discover the haunting adventure of courage and self-reliance in this timeless classic.

Sale price

$2089

Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2017

The Hate U Give

By Angie Thomas · Book #1 in the The Hate U Give series

A teen witnesses a friend's shooting, facing a choice that could change her community and risk her life.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (2017)Coretta Scott King Honor (2018)Michael L. Printz Honor (2018)Odyssey Award (2018)

454 pages· 95,550 words· Est. 9 hour read

4.5/5 Goodreads · 1,038,087 ratings

$21.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Starr Carter navigates life between her poor neighborhood and elite prep school. Her world shatters when she witnesses her unarmed friend Khalil's fatal shooting by a police officer. As Khalil's death becomes a national headline, Starr faces pressure from all sides. What she reveals about that night could ignite change or put her in danger. Will she speak out or stay silent?

Sale price

$2089

Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2021

Firekeeper's Daughter

By Angeline Boulley

A Native teen uncovers deadly secrets while investigating a new drug in her community.

American Indian Youth Literature Honor (2022)Michael L. Printz Award (2022)

494 pages· 130,001 words· Est. 12 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 211,057 ratings

$21.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Daunis Fontaine, caught between her hometown and Ojibwe roots, faces a life-altering choice after witnessing a murder. Drawn into an FBI probe of a dangerous drug, she must navigate hidden truths and old wounds. As deception and danger escalate, Daunis must decide how far she'll go to protect her community and embrace her identity as an Anishinaabe kwe. Will she uncover the truth before it destroys everything she holds dear?

Sale price

$1797

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2020

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You

By Jason Reynolds, Ibram X. Kendi

Uncover the roots of racism and the path to an antiracist future.

Odyssey Honor (2021)

294 pages· 36,733 words· Est. 3.5 hour read

4.5/5 Goodreads · 55,126 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Explore the journey of race in America with Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi. This gripping narrative reveals how racist ideas have shaped society and offers hope for an antiracist future. Discover how these ideas began, spread, and can be dismantled. Can we change the narrative and build a better tomorrow?

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

A Good Kind of Trouble

By Lisa Moore Ramée

A rule-following girl faces a choice: stay silent or stand up for justice.

368 pages· 62,699 words· Est. 8.5 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 8,036 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Twelve-year-old Shayla wants to avoid trouble and keep her friendships intact. But when her school questions her identity and a protest opens her eyes, she must decide if breaking the rules is worth it. As tensions rise over a controversial trial, Shayla's choice to wear an armband in support of Black Lives Matter divides her world. With an ultimatum looming, Shayla must confront her fears and decide if standing up for what's right is worth the risk. Will she find her voice or remain silent?

Sale price

$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 9–13 · 2019

Genesis Begins Again

By Alicia D. Williams

A girl battles self-doubt and family turmoil to find self-love.

Newbery Honor (2020)Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award (2020)

370 pages· 76,058 words· Est. 8.5 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 9,035 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Thirteen-year-old Genesis struggles with self-hatred and a chaotic home life. Her father's gambling leads to eviction, and her family's harsh words deepen her insecurities. At a new school, Genesis discovers her singing talent, but can she overcome her doubts and embrace her true self? As she nears the end of her list of self-loathing, Genesis must decide if she can rewrite her story and find the courage to love herself.

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Race And Ethnicity Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about race and ethnicity for the youngest readers and listeners.

Sale price

$1295

Little You

Ages 0–3 · 2013

Celebrate the boundless potential of every child in this tender board book.

Series

Sale price

$999

Our Skin

Ages 2–5 · 2021

Start vital conversations on race with young children through engaging stories and vivid art.

Sale price

$1095

The People Shall Continue

Ages 1–8 · 1977

A timeless tale of resilience and unity amid land usurpation and cultural survival.

#2 in Series

Sale price

$895

Skin Like Mine

Ages 1–12 · 2016

Celebrate diversity with a delightful tale that will make you smile and hungry.

Sale price

$1295

May We Have Enough to Share

Ages 0–3 · 2019

Discover gratitude through nature, family, and endless love.

Sale price

$899

Shades of People

Ages 2–5 · 2009

Discover the vibrant diversity of skin tones in everyday life.

Series

Sale price

$695

Global Babies

Ages 0–3 · 2007

Discover the diverse world of babies through vibrant photos and cultural glimpses.

Sale price

$799

Whoever You Are

Ages 0–3 · 1997

Discover the universal bond that unites children worldwide.

Series

Sale price

$1599

Mahatma Gandhi

Ages 0–3 · 2019

A rebellious youth becomes a symbol of peace, uniting a nation.

Series

Sale price

$799

Yo! Yes?

Ages 2–4 · 1993

Two strangers meet on a street, sparking an unexpected friendship.

Sale price

$1295

My Heart Fills with Happiness

Ages 0–3 · 2016

Discover the simple joys that fill your heart with happiness.

Sale price

$1099

Little Heroes of Color

Ages 2–4 · 2019

Discover 50 trailblazers who changed the world against all odds.

View all race and ethnicity board books

Browse by age

Race And Ethnicity Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about race and ethnicity for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Series

Sale price

$1189

Sacagawea and the Bravest Deed

Ages 5–7 · 2002

A young girl discovers unexpected bravery when faced with danger.

Sale price

$1799

Manjhi Moves a Mountain

Ages 4–8 · 2017

A man carves a mountain path, transforming his village's future.

Sale price

$1899

Watercress

Ages 4–7 · 2021

A roadside discovery reveals a family's hidden heritage and unites past and present.

Sale price

$899

The Story of Ruby Bridges

Ages 4–8 · 1995

A young girl integrates a white elementary school in New Orleans in the 1960s.

Sale price

$1799

Alma and How She Got Her Name

Ages 4–8 · 2018

A young girl learns the story behind her long name and the ancestors it represents.

Series

Sale price

$1599

Rosa Parks

Ages 4–8 · 2017

A brave act on a bus ignites a movement for equality.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1899

Amazing Grace

Ages 4–8 · 1991

A young girl dreams of playing the lead role in her school play despite others doubting her.

Sale price

$2095

Where Wonder Grows

Ages 4–7 · 2022

Discover nature's secrets with a curious grandmother and her granddaughters.

Sale price

$1999

A Ride to Remember

Ages 6–9 · 2020

A carousel ride becomes a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights movement.

#3 in Series

Sale price

$1799

Love by Sophia

Ages 4–8 · 2020

Can Sophia's art change her family's perspective on love before it reaches the fridge gallery?

Sale price

$1899

Black Is a Rainbow Color

Ages 4–8 · 2020

A child explores the profound meaning of Black beyond the rainbow's colors.

Series

Sale price

$1699

I am Rosa Parks

Ages 5–8 · 2014

Discover how one woman's courage sparked a movement for equality.

View all race and ethnicity picture books

Browse by age

Race And Ethnicity Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about race and ethnicity for developing and independent readers.

Series

Sale price

$1099

The Land

Ages 10–13 · 2001

A boy of mixed heritage seeks his own land in a divided post-Civil War world.

Sale price

$899

The Diary of a Young Girl

Ages 11–15

A young girl hides from Nazis, documenting her life in a secret attic, revealing courage and humanity's frailty.

Sale price

$899

Blended

Ages 8–12 · 2018

Isabella navigates a divided family and racial identity, facing a life-altering encounter with police.

Sale price

$999

Jasper Jones

Ages 12–18 · 2009

A secret discovery binds two boys in a town gripped by fear and suspicion.

Sale price

$899

Save Me a Seat

Ages 8–12 · 2016

Two boys unite against a school bully, discovering unexpected friendship.

Sale price

$1099

The Astonishing Color of After

Ages 14–18 · 2018

A girl seeks her mother's spirit in Taiwan, uncovering family secrets and confronting her grief.

Sale price

$1299

The Black Kids

Ages 14–18 · 2020

A teen's life unravels amid the chaos of the 1992 LA riots.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2099

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Ages 12–18 · 2007

A Native American teen seeks a new future at an all-white high school.

Sale price

$1599

My Year in the Middle

Ages 8–12 · 2018

In 1970 Alabama, Lu's running talent challenges racial divides and tests her friendships.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1695

The Marrow Thieves

Ages 14–18 · 2017

In a world where dreams are stolen, survival means staying hidden.

Sale price

$1899

Everything, Everything

Ages 12–18 · 2015

A girl allergic to the world risks everything for a forbidden love next door.

Sale price

$1299

Harley in the Sky

Ages 12–18 · 2020

A teen defies her family to chase her circus dreams, facing harsh truths and sacrifices.

View all race and ethnicity chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about prejudice and racism Books about race relations Books about abuse Books about civil rights Books about coping with death Books about death, grief, and bereavement Books about drawing Books about drugs, alcohol, and substance abuse

Our 10 Favorite Books About Race And Ethnicity

Great books, picked for their age.

Race And Ethnicity Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Race And Ethnicity Picture Books

Race And Ethnicity Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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