Asia, the most populous continent on earth, spans 50 countries. The incredible diversity and richness of these countries and the cultures within them has, through many waves of immigration, shaped and enriched the fabric of American culture. And yet, historically, children's books about Asians or Asian-Americans have been filled with stereotypes, inaccuracies or simplistic characters. Thankfully, that's changing.
Six hardcovers and one paperback. Age group 4-8 years.
June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, raise visibility, and push for continued acceptance and equal rights. Children's books are a crucial part of that effort. They teach children to understand and respect the LGBTQ+ people in their communities. And readers who are LGBTQ+, or whose family members are LGBTQ+, deserve to see themselves in their own children's books! We're so happy that there has been a large increase in the number of LGBTQ+ books available for children over the past 10 years, including trans or gender-fluid books in the most recent years.
There's a reason that STEM grew into STEAM, reflecting the addition of "Art" as we think about how to foster learning. The arts are fundamental in helping students to apply themselves across academic disciplines. They enable hands-on inquiry and creative thinking. And their benefits are far more than academic: They give us ways of expressing ourselves, ways to feel good about ourselves, and ways to feel soothed. These are especially worthy pursuits in the education of young children!
Six hardcovers and one board book. Age group: 4-8 years.