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children's books

31 Days of Women’s History: Download this Printable To Celebrate Women (and Girls) Who Persisted


March is Women’s History Month – a time to celebrate the accomplishments of women trailblazers and also inspire a new generation of young women and men. How do you plan to celebrate Women’s History Month this year? I hope some of you will take time this month to post about women on social media, share women’s stories with family and friends, and ensure that women’s impact on history and society is valued and commemorated.

I love collaborating with talented women to create beautiful printable coloring sheets for kids and families to use. To create this printable, I collaborated with Chasity Hampton, a talented illustrator. You can  in touch with Chasity, give her a follow on Instagram, and support her as she continues to build up her art portfolio. It’s always was such a pleasure to work with her and help support her at the same time.

This coloring printable is a fun way to celebrate 31 days of diverse, inspirational, female leaders. It features women and girls who are strong and brave leaders, authors, politicians, inventors, humanitarians, women’s rights activists, and activists for other causes. You can enjoy this coloring page printed in various sizes from 8.5 X 11 up to 24 X 36 if you’d like jumbo poster size.

Each day during the month of March (or any time of the year), color in one woman until the whole poster is complete. If there are books written about any the women, feel free to read them on your own or with your little readers. Otherwise, take time to research any of the women you may not be familiar with.

Here is a list of the featured women (and girls):

    • Bessie Coleman: First African American woman pilot, broke aviation barriers.
    • Patsy Mink: Hawaiian politician, first woman of color in Congress, co-authored Title IX.
    • Mamie Tape:  Chinese American activist, fought for her daughter’s right to attend an integrated school.
    • Katherine Johnson: Mathematician, calculated trajectories for NASA’s space missions.
    • Serena Williams: Tennis icon, shattered racial and gender barriers in sports.
    • Michelle Obama: Former First Lady, advocate for education and health, Let’s Move! campaign.
    • Dolly Parton: Country music icon, philanthropist, champion for literacy.
    • Claudette Colvin: Civil rights activist, refused to give up her bus seat before Rosa Parks.
    • Indira Gandhi: First female Prime Minister of India, influential political leader.
    • Dolores Huerta: Labor leader, co-founder of the United Farm Workers.
    • Misty Copeland: Ballet dancer, broke racial barriers in classical ballet.
    • Mae Jemison:  Astronaut, first African American woman in space, STEM education advocate.
    • Sylvia Rivera: LGBTQ+ activist, key figure in the Stonewall Uprising.
    • Anna May Wong: Chinese American actress, first Chinese-American Hollywood star.
    • Yi So-Yeon: South Korean scientist and astronaut, first Korean in space.
    • Harriet Tubman: Led others to freedom via the Underground Railroad.
    • Laverne Cox: Transgender actress, advocate for transgender rights.
    • Greta Thunberg: Climate activist, sparked global youth movement for environmental action.
    • Zora Neale Hurston: Author and anthropologist, key figure in the Harlem Renaissance.
    • Leontyne Price: Operatic soprano, broke racial barriers in classical music.
    • Emma Gonzalez: Survivor of the Parkland school shooting, gun control activist.
    • Marley Dias: Founder of #1000BlackGirlBooks, advocating for diverse book representation.
    • Eartha Kitt: Singer, actress, and cabaret star. Best known for her song “Santa Baby” and her role as Catwoman in the Batman TV series.
    • Shirley Chisolm: First black woman elected to the U.S. Congress, trailblazer in politics.
    • Maya Angelou: Poet and civil rights activist, celebrated for her memoir “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.”
    • Sally Ride: Astronaut, first American woman in space, inspired girls in STEM.
    • Helen Keller: Deafblind author and activist, overcame disabilities, inspired others.
    • Marie Curie: Pioneering physicist and chemist, first woman to win a Nobel Prize.
    • Anne Frank: Holocaust diarist, posthumously became an enduring symbol of resilience.
    • Amelia Earhart: Aviation pioneer, first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic.
    • Malala Yousafzai: Pakistani advocate for girls’ education, survived Taliban attack, Nobel laureate.

Happy Reading & Researching!

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE 8.5 X 11 PRINTABLE!

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE 18 X 24 PRINTABLE!

CHECK OUT MORE OF MY RESOURCES ON MY TEACHER’S PAY TEACHERS WEBSITE AND GIVE ME A FOLLOW OVER THERE TOO.

AS ALWAYS, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

children's books

Picture Books to Read On Grandparent’s Day

I’ll be honest and say I didn’t even know National Grandparent’s Day existed until my adult years. This is probably because it didn’t originate in the United States until the year 1978. It’s often one of those holidays that can be easily overlooked, especially since it’s right around back-to-school, Labor Day and adjusting to new routines for both kids and adults.

Of course, one way the kids and I will be celebrating Grandparents Day is by reading lots of grandparent-related books like the ones listed below.  I’ve categorized some fantastic books for you to enjoy with your little readers. Hopefully you find at least one book from this list that resonates with you. Enjoy!

happy

African-American/Black

Grandad Mandela by by Ambassador Zindzi Mandela, Zazi and Ziwelene Mandela, illustrated by Sean Qualls

Grandad Mandela is a beautiful and important story told from the perspective of Mandela’s two youngest great-grandchildren and daughter.  The story begins with little Zazi and Ziwelene approaching their grandmother (Mandela’s youngest daughter, Zindzi) to tell them about their great-grandfather after finding a photograph of him around the house.  Mandela’s daughter goes on to her grandchildren the story of why Mandela went to jail when she was just eighteen months old.

Grandaddy’s Turn: A Journey to the Ballot Box by Michael S. Bandy

Based on the true story of one family’s struggle for voting rights in the civil rights era.  A  powerful and touching true-life story shares one boy’s perspective of growing up in the segregated South.

Time Together: Me and Grandma by Maria Catherine

Time with grandma is always special, and these special moments are captured in this picture book using beautiful illustrations and minimal text. From biking to bird watching, these small moments are the ones that create big memories and show the importance of family.

When Grandmama Sings by Margaree King Mitchell
whengrandmamasings
When Grandmama Coles gets a big chance, Belle gets one, too. Belle’s going to spend the summer touring the South with Grandmama and a swing jazz band! Belle’s never been outside Pecan Flats, Mississippi, and she can’t wait to go on the road with Grandmama, helping her read signs and menus and hearing her sing. There are so many new things to see on their travels through the Deep South. But some things aren’t new. Everything is segregated, just like at home. But Grandmama stands up for what’s right. And when she sings, Belle knows that Grandmama’s song can bring everyone together.

Grandmother and I by Helen E. Buckley
grandmotherandi
Grandmother and I are sitting on the big chair, rocking. We rock back and forth, and back and forth.  Other people have laps for sitting on and backs for riding on. But when you have a cold or lighting is coming, nothing feels quite as right as rocking on Grandmother’s lap, listening to the little tunes that she hums.

Grandfather and I by Helen E. Buckley
grandfatherandi
Everybody is in such a hurry these days–mothers and fathers and sisters and brothers. About the only people who aren’t in a hurry are grandfathers. With them there is always time to stop…and look…just as long as you like.  This gentle story about the warm, happy relationship between the oldest and youngest ones in the family was originally published in 1959 with illustrations by Paul Galdone.

15 Things Not to Do With a Grandma by Margaret McAllister and Holly Sterling
15thingsnottodowithagrandma
The hilarious follow-up to 15 Things Not to Do with a Baby has all the warmth and humor of its predecessor, focusing on the relationship between children and their granny. DON’T hide an elephant in Grandma’s bed. DON’T send Grandma up to the moon in a rocket, or wear her pants on your head, or give her squashed jelly beans on toast for breakfast. But do… dance with Grandma, listen to Grandma’s stories, hug her and love her lots. She loves you!

Don’t Call Me Grandma
dontcallmegrandma
Great-grandmother Nell eats fish for breakfast, she doesn’t hug or kiss, and she does NOT want to be called grandma. Her great-granddaughter isn’t sure what to think about her. As she slowly learns more about Nell’s life and experiences, the girl finds ways to connect with her prickly great-grandmother.

Bigmama’s by Donald Crews
bigmamas
Four African American children travel with their mother, and when the train arrives in Cottondale, Florida, the summer at Bigmama’s house begins! Donald Crews brilliantly evokes the sights, sounds, and emotions of a memorable childhood experience.

Grandma in Blue with Red Hat by Scott Menchin
grandmabluewithredhat
When a young boy learns about what makes art special—sometimes it’s beautiful, sometimes it’s funny, sometimes it tells a story—he realizes that these same characteristics are what make his grandmother special, too. As a result, he finds the inspiration to create his own masterpiece that’s one of a kind.

The Baby on the Way by Karen English
thebabyontheway
In an urban rooftop garden, a young African American boy named Jamal initiates an intriguing conversation with his grandmother when he asks her if she was ever a baby. Turns out Grandma was even once ?the baby on the way,? and she proceeds to tell the story of her birth, the tenth child in a poor farming family. As she discusses the events and traditions that accompanied her welcome to the world, from the fetching of the midwife to a folkways ritual of drinking water from a thimble, vivid, expressionistic paintings from a talented new illustrator evoke the past.  A gentle and satisfying book that will inspire young readers to gather other stories about being the baby on the way.

Grandpa’s Face by Eloise Greenfield
grandpasface
Seeing her beloved grandfather making a mean face while he rehearses for one of his plays, Tamika becomes afraid that someday she will lose his love and he will make that mean face at her.

Grandma Lena’s Big Ol’ Turnip by Denia Lewis Hester
grandmalenasbigolturnip
Grandma Lena takes good care of the turnips she plants in her garden. One turnip grows so big that Grandma can’t pull it out of the ground! Even when Grandpa, Uncle Izzy, and the dog help Grandma yank and tug, the big ol’ turnip doesn’t budge.

Asian
Mei-Mei Loves the Morning
meimeilovesthemorning
Set in a contemporary city in China, depicts a typical morning in the life of young Mei-Mei and her grandfather. The warm and engaging watercolor illustrations bring this intergenerational story to life.

Grandfather Counts by Deborah J. Short
grandfathercounts
When Helen’s grandfather, Gong Gong, comes from China to live with her family, he’s shocked to find that none of his grandchildren speak Chinese. How will he communicate with them? At first he keeps to himself. Then one day he joins Helen to watch the trains. He starts counting the train cars in Chinese, and she repeats the words. Then Helen says the numbers in English. They continue to teach each other, and Helen even learns her Chinese name, which means “flower.” In this luminously illustrated intergenerational story, the devotion between a young girl and her grandfather helps them overcome barriers of age and language. Grandfather Counts was selected as one of the 50 Multicultural Books Every Child Should Know by the Cooperative Children’s Book Center (CCBC).

A Morning with Grandpa by Sylvia Liu
amorningwithgrandpa
Mei Mei’s grandpa is practicing tai chi in the garden, and Mei Mei is eager to join in. As Gong Gong tries to teach her the slow, graceful movements, Mei Mei enthusiastically does them with her own flair. Then Mei Mei takes a turn, trying to teach Gong Gong the yoga she learned in school. Will Gong Gong be able to master the stretchy, bendy poses?

Dear Juno by Soyung Pak
dearjuno
Juno’s grandmother writes in Korean and Juno writes in drawings, but that doesn’t mean they can’t exchange letters. From the photo his grandmother sends him, Juno can tell that she has a new cat. From the picture he makes for her, Juno’s grandmother can tell that he wants her to come for a visit. So she sends Juno a miniature plane, to let him know she’s on the way.

Caribbean (Cape Verde)
Seaside Dream by Janet Bates
seasidedream
Tomorrow is Grandma’s birthday, and the house is overflowing with family and friends. Hugs, laughter, and the smells of delicious food fill the air as everyone gets ready for a beach party. Cora is excited, but she is also worried because she still does not have a present for Grandma. Cora cannot think of anything special enough. Cora knows her grandmother misses her home country, Cape Verde. After a nighttime walk on the beach with Grandma, Cora finally comes up with an idea for the perfect gift. It is one that both of them will always remember and a way to help Grandma reconnect with faraway family.

Indian

Indian Shoes by Cynthia L Smith

What do Indian shoes look like, anyway? Like beautiful beaded moccasins…or hightops with bright orange shoelaces?  Ray Halfmoon prefers hightops, but he gladly trades them for a nice pair of moccasins for his Grampa.

Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji by F. Zia
hothotroti
Aneel’s grandparents have come to stay, all the way from India. Aneel loves the sweet smell of his grandmother s incense, and his grandfather, Dada-ji, tells the world s best stories. When he was a boy, adventurous, energetic Dada-ji had the power of a tiger. Hunh-ji! Yes, sir! He could shake mangoes off trees and wrangle wild cobras. And what gave him his power? Fluffy-puffy hot, hot roti, with a bit of tongue-burning mango pickle. Does Dada-ji still have the power? Aneel wants to find out but first he has to figure out how to whip up a batch of hot, hot roti Overflowing with family, food, and a tall stack of fun, Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji is sure to warm the heart and tickle the tummy.

Grandfather Gandhi by Arun Gandhi
grandfathergandhi
One thick, hot day, Arun Gandhi travels with his family to Grandfather Gandhi’s village.  Silence fills the air—but peace feels far away for young Arun. When an older boy pushes him on the soccer field, his anger fills him in a way that surely a true Gandhi could never imagine. Can Arun ever live up to the Mahatma? Will he ever make his grandfather proud?

In this remarkable personal story, Arun Gandhi, with Bethany Hegedus, weaves a stunning portrait of the extraordinary man who taught him to live his life as light.

Be the Change: A Grandfather Gandhi Story by Arun Gandhi
bethechange
At Grandfather Gandhi’s service village, each day is filled, from sunrise to sunset, with work that is done for the good of all. The villagers vow to live simply and non-violently. Arun Gandhi tries very hard to follow these vows, but he struggles with one of the most important rules: not to waste.

How can throwing away a worn-down pencil hurt anyone? How can wastefulness lead to violence? With the help of his grandfather, Arun learns how every wasteful act, no matter how small, affects others. And in time he comes to understand the truth of his grandfather’s words: “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

Italian
A Picnic in October by Eve Bunting
apicnicinoctober
Tony thinks it’s dumb to go all the way to Liberty Island for a birthday picnic. But that’s before he understands what the Statue of Liberty means to Grandma.

Latino/Latina

A Gift from Abuela by Cecilia Ruiz

Abuela can’t help thinking how much she’d like to give Nina a very special treat, so she saves a little bit of her money every week — a few pesos here, a few pesos there. When the world turns upside down, Abuela’s dream of a surprise for Nina seems impossible. Luckily, time spent together — and the love Abuela and Nina have for each other — could turn out to be the very best gift of all.

Abuela by Arthur Dorros
abuela
Dive into Spanish text and fly high over beautiful New York City with Rosalba and her grandmother in Arthur Dorros’ enchanting Abuela.

Mango, Abuela, and Me by Meg Medina
mangoabuelaandme
Mia’s abuela has left her sunny house with parrots and palm trees to live with Mia and her parents in the city. The night she arrives, Mia tries to share her favorite book with Abuela before they go to sleep and discovers that Abuela can’t read the words inside. So while they cook, Mia helps Abuela learn English (“Dough. Masa“), and Mia learns some Spanish too, but it’s still hard for Abuela to learn the words she needs to tell Mia all her stories. Then Mia sees a parrot in the pet-shop window and has the perfectoidea for how to help them all communicate a little better.

Grandma’s Records by Eric Velasquez

grandmasrecords
Every summer, Eric goes to live with his grandmother in El Barrio (Spanish Harlem) while his parents work. Through the long hot days, Grandma fills her apartment with the blaring horns and conga drums of Bomba y Plena, salsa, and merengue-the music she grew up with in Puerto Rico-sharing her memories and passions with Eric.

But Eric sees Grandma in a new light when she gets them tickets to hear their favorite band in concert. The music sounds so different than it does at home on their scratchy records. And then the lead singer serenades Grandma right in front of the whole audience!

Multicultural
Ladder to the Moon by  Maya Soetoro-Ng
laddertothemoon
From Maya Soetoro-Ng, sister of President Obama, comes a lyrical story relaying the loving wisdom of their late mother to a young granddaughter she never met.

Little Suhaila wishes she could have known her grandma, who would wrap her arms around the whole world if she could, Mama says. And one night, Suhaila gets her wish when a golden ladder appears at her window, and Grandma Annie invites the girl to come along with her on a magical journey. In a rich and deeply personal narrative, Maya Soetoro-Ng draws inspiration from her mother s love for family, her empathy for others, and her ethic of service to imagine this remarkable meeting. Evoking fantasy and folklore, the story touches on events that have affected people across the world in our time and reaffirms our common humanity.

Other
Grandad’s Island by Benji Davies
granddadsisland
At the bottom of Syd’s garden, through the gate and past the tree, is Grandad’s house. Syd can let himself in any time he likes. But one day when Syd comes to call, Grandad isn’t in any of the usual places. He’s in the attic, where he ushers Syd through a door, and the two of them journey to a wild, beautiful island awash in color where Grandad decides he will remain. So Syd hugs Grandad one last time and sets sail for home. Visiting Grandad’s house at the bottom of the garden again, he finds it just the same as it’s always been — except that Grandad isn’t there anymore. Sure to provide comfort to young children struggling to understand loss, Benji Davies’s tale is a sensitive and beautiful reminder that our loved ones live on in our memories long after they’re gone.

Joone by Emily Kate Moon
joone
oone likes the color orange, ice-cream sandwiches, and playing outside. She lives in a yurt with her grandfather and her pet turtle, Dr. Chin, who rides around on her hat. Grandpa teaches Joone something new every day. Sometimes Joone teaches him something new, too, like how to make a daisy chain. Together they enjoy life’s small joys—sunsets, tree houses, and most of all, each other.

Grandpa Green by Lane Smith
grandpagreen
Grandpa Green wasn’t always a gardener. He was a farmboy and a kid with chickenpox and a soldier and, most of all, an artist. In this captivating new picture book, readers follow Grandpa Green’s great-grandson into a garden he created, a fantastic world where memories are handed down in the fanciful shapes of topiary trees and imagination recreates things forgotten.

Grandma’s Gloves by Cecil Castellucci
grandmasgloves
A child who loses a beloved grandparent finds comfort in carrying on the activities they shared in this sweet, genuine look at a universal rite of passage.

Grandma is always on her knees in the dirt, with her gardening gloves on, talking to her roses and laughing with the birds-of-paradise. Her home brims with plants and blossoms, and on hot days, she waters her granddaughter, her “most special flower of all,” with the garden hose. But a day comes when Grandma is no longer there to care for the little girl, who feels sad and small and alone until she remembers all that her grandmother taught her — and all that she now has to teach. Full of light and life and the solace of green growing things, this moving and beautifully illustrated picture book explores a timeless bond with warmth and joy.

Nana in the City by Lauren Castillo
nanainthecity
In this magical picture book, a young boy spends an overnight visit with his nana and is frightened to find that the city where she lives is filled with noise and crowds and scary things. But then Nana makes him a special cape to help him be brave, and soon the everyday sights, sounds, and smells of the city are not scary—but wonderful. The succinct text is paired with watercolor illustrations that capture all the vitality, energy, and beauty of the city.

Our Granny by Margaret Wild
ourgranny

Two children compare their granny with others. Some grannies have thin legs, fat knees, crinkly eyes, or big soft laps. Their granny has a wobbly bottom and wears an old red sweater that was grandpa’s. She has a style all her own–and to the children who love her, this granny is perfect. Full of warmth and good humor.

Llama Llama Gram and Grandpa by Anna Dewdney
llamallamagramandgrandpa
It’s an exciting day for Llama Llama; he’s going to visit Gram and Grandpa Llama and spend the night! His first night away from home….and from Mama. But he makes sure to pack everything he needs. And there are so many fun things to do with Gram and Grandpa. It’s not until he gets ready for bed that he realizes that he’s forgotten something important. Fuzzy Llama! Fortunately, Grandpa Llama has a wonderful solution and soon Llama Llama is having sweet dreams.  May you rest in peace, Anna Dewdney.

Baking Day at Grandma’s by Anika Denise
bakingdayatgrandmas
Three bouncing little bear siblings, wrapped tight in their winter clothes, can’t wait to tromp through the snow for Baking Day at Grandma’s!  In a rhyming text that begs to be sung, the bears and their grandma pour and mix and stir–with breaks for hot cocoa and dancing–to create the perfect wintry treat. Then they wrap it up in ribbons to show that sweets are even better when they’re shared. With a recipe in the back, this is a perfect family feel-good story for the fall, winter, and any holiday spent with grandparents.

Grandpa and Me by Karen Katz
grandpaandme
Let’s make a pizza with Grandpa! You can help. Lift the large, sturdy flaps to find everything you need.

Grandma and Me by Karen Katz
grandmaandme
This lift-the-flap book continues Katz’s board book series, following Where is Baby’s Mommy?, with this celebration of spending time with a special grandmother.

How to Babysit a Grandpa by Jean Reagan
howtovisitagrandpa
Written in a how-to style, the narrator gives important tips for “babysitting” a grandpa, including what to eat for snack (anything dipped in ketchup, ice cream topped with cookies, cookies topped with ice cream) what to do on a walk (find lizards and dandelion puffs, be on the lookout for puddles and sprinklers), and how to play with a grandpa (build a pirate cave, put on a scary play).

Filled with humor, energy, and warmth, this is a great gift for or from a grandparent, and perfect for lap reading when Grandpa comes to visit!

How to Babysit a Grandma by Jean Reagan
howtobabysitagrandma
When you babysit a grandma, if you’re lucky . . . it’s a sleepover at her house! And with the useful tips found in this book, you’re guaranteed to become an expert grandma-sitter in no time. (Be sure to check out the sections on: How to keep a grandma busy; Things to do at the park; Possible places to sleep, and what to do once you’re both snugly tucked in for the night.)

Miss Rumphius by Barbara Cooney
missrumphius
When Alice Rumphius was a little girl, she lived with her grandfather, an artist, by the sea.  During the day, he let her help him with his paintings. In the evening, he talked about his childhood in a faraway land.

Barbara Cooney’s story of Alice Rumphius, who longed to travel the world, live in a house by the sea, and do something to make the world more beautiful, has a timeless quality that resonates with each new generation. The countless lupines that bloom along the coast of Maine are the legacy of the real Miss Rumphius, the Lupine Lady, who scattered lupine seeds everywhere she went.

Time Together: Me and Grandpa by Maria Catherine

Small moments between a grandpa and child are chronicled in this picture book using beautiful illustrations and minimal text. From taking a nap to reading the newspaper, these small moments are the ones that create big memories and show the importance of family.

Your turn:  How will you be celebrating Grandparent’s Day with your little ones?  Feel free to share in the comments below.

Board Books (0-3years)

The 2022 Ultimate List of Diverse Children’s Books

What books are you and your kids looking forward to reading in 2022?  We’re entering this new year with another epic list of diverse reads to share with you.  Ready?

Most of the books listed here are recommended either for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary readers since my children fall within those groups and so do the little readers in my core target audience. However, I’ve also included a few middle grade and young adult books for slightly older readers to enjoy as well.  The best part is all these books are available for pre-order now so you can get a head start on your shopping.

Rest assured, I’ve selected what I think will be the “best of the best” in terms of diverse books.  I know other amazing books will be released throughout the year, but these are the ones that were on my radar right now.  As other books are released, I will come back and make changes to this post throughout the year so be sure to check it periodically or bookmark it to read later.

I’m looking forward to sharing most (if not all) of these books with my little readers.  As always, I tried to target books that will likely have: stunning illustrations, read aloud appeal, a kid-friendly theme – or all three!  Enjoy!

Note: ** Since other countries have different release dates, some of these books may be released earlier or later internationally than the months I have listed as publication dates do sometimes change. **

Check out our lists from previous years: 2021 2020, 2019201820172016

Let me know in the comments if you enjoyed this list.  Feel free to subscribe to my mailing list if you’re not already.  Let’s stay in touch!

Your turn:  What books from this list are you most looking forward to?  What books should I add to the list?  Feel free to share in the comments.

Book Reviews

Eyes That Speak to the Stars by Joanna Jo (A Book Review)

This is a beautiful story that should be in every home and school library. Books like this may help to have productive discussions about self-acceptance, racism, and anti-bullying from an early age. Teaching children to accept people for who they are and what they look like may help mold young, impressionable minds to be more accepting and empathetic of others.

Unfortunately, many Asian Americans are still facing racist attacks, both verbal and physical – just for being Asian.  How sad is it that the shape of someone else’s eyes (or the color of their skin) is enough to make some people dislike them immediately?  When others reduce your entire identity to a simple facial feature like your eyes, it can have lasting and harmful psychological effects.   No one likes feeling left out, especially kids who are learning to discover where they fit into the world.

To every Asian who has ever been bullied, you are not alone.  You are seen, heard, and worthy.  People should not be ridiculed for the shape of their eyes, the color of their skin, or for any other reason.  Forgive yourself if you’ve let negative remarks make you think you needed to “fix” everything that bullies said was ugly and weird.  Understand that you don’t need to look like the Eurocentric standard of beauty to be liked or loved or to “fit in”.  Ignore the hateful remarks and hurtful comments.  Continue to hold your head high and look to the stars. For your eyes are magical, powerful, and beautiful.  “Your eyes rise to the skies and speak to the stars.”

Eyes That Speak to the Stars is recommended for ages 4 – 8 and up.  This book publishes on February 15, 2022, but can be pre-ordered now.

Read my review of Eyes That Kiss in the Corners here!

Have you read the companion book, Eyes That Kiss in the Corners?  Sound off in the comments!

new release tuesday

New Release Tuesday: New Books Published November 16, 2021

It’s another New Release Tuesday!  Tuesday is the day of the week when most books are typically published and available for purchase online or wherever books are sold.

Below are a few of the books released today that you should add to your TBR or holiday wish list.  These books include traditionally published books in different genres by authors and illustrators from around the world.  Support some of your favorite authors, independent bookstores, and quality literature by purchasing any of these books that catch your eye.  Spy any of your favorites in this list?  Which ones are you most excited about?

Please note: The book descriptions listed are the publishers, unless otherwise noted. Happy Reading!

children's books

New Release Tuesday: New Books Published November 9, 2021

It’s New Release Tuesday!  Tuesday is the day of the week when most books are typically published and available for purchase online or wherever books are sold.

Below are a few of the books released today that you should add to your TBR or holiday wish list.  These books include traditionally published books in different genres by authors and illustrators from around the world.  Support some of your favorite authors, independent bookstores, and quality literature by purchasing any of these books that catch your eye.  Spy any of your favorites in this list?  Which ones are you most excited about?

Please note: The book descriptions listed are the publishers, unless otherwise noted. Happy Reading!

By Age Range

New Release Tuesday: New Books Published November 2, 2021

It’s New Release Tuesday!  Tuesday is the day of the week when most books are typically published and available for purchase online or wherever books are sold.

Below are a few of the books released today that you should add to your TBR or holiday wish list.  These books include traditionally published books in different genres by authors and illustrators from around the world.  Support some of your favorite authors, independent bookstores, and quality literature by purchasing any of these books that catch your eye.  Spy any of your favorites in this list?  Which ones are you most excited about?

Please note: The book descriptions listed are the publishers, unless otherwise noted.

Additional book releases from today can be found HERE on Bookshop and HERE on Amazon.  Happy Reading!

children's books

One Step Further Blog Tour by Katherine Johnson with Her Daughters

Welcome to the One Step Further Blog Tour!

To celebrate the release of One Step Further by Katherine Johnson and her daughters Joylette Hylick and Katherine Moore, and illustrated by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow on January 5th, blogs across the web are featuring exclusive photos and stories from the life of NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson, plus 5 chances to win a hardcover copy!

Music and Math
A never-before-seen interview with Katherine and her daughters that didn’t end up in the final book
 
Joylette and Kathy in 1954
 
Joylette: Our whole family was also very musical. We played instruments: piano, organ, violin, cello. Music is a lot like math. One beat, two beats, three beats, four.
Kathy: Our home was full of music. Music and math.
Joylette’s violin

Katherine: We found joy with each other and in music.

Joylette: Mom directed the church choir and each of us sang in one choir or another. I also joined and played piano for the glee club at school. In 8th grade, I learned the violin. Our school orchestra conductor warned the other kids not to laugh when—
Kathy: At first, their orchestra sounded like cats!
Joylette: Did you snicker?
Kathy: I smiled.
 
Katherine: In the meantime, Jimmie started getting hammering headaches. The doctors said he needed surgery.
Joylette: Daddy kept getting weaker and weaker while I was in high school.
Kathy: His sickness was scary. “Lower your voices. Try to help.”
Joylette: Playing music comforted me. Four beats to a measure. Half notes. Quarter notes. I understood music’s symphonies and rhythms, unlike life’s. I conducted the student choir, performed Handel’s “Messiah” and learned the organ.  
Kathy: Taking care of Daddy made me dream of being a physical therapist.
Joylette: That summer we spent our days with him at the hospital.
 
Katherine: Every generation pushes the next one forward, just as each note propels the next.

Some of the family’s sheet music
Joylette: My parents’ passion for music had helped me find mine.
Kathy: Their love of education made our brilliant minds shine.
Joylette: In 1958, Hampton University offered me a partial music scholarship. I majored in math, but played piano and organ, sang, and helped conduct the choir.
Kathy: In high school, I sang and played piano. Since Joylette and Connie had played violin, I moved to my own rhythm. I found the cello mellow and soothing. 
Joylette: Eventually, I played the 9-foot grand piano and the big organ in Hampton’s Ogden Hall.

*****

Blog Tour Schedule:

February 22nd – Multicultural Children’s Book Day Blog

February 23rd – Here Wee Read

February 24th – Make a Way Blog

February 25th – BookHounds

February 26th – Frantic Mommy

 

Buy: Amazon | Indiebound | Bookshop

 
 
Follow National Geographic Kids: Website | Twitter | Books Twitter | Facebook | Youtube
 
This inspirational picture book reveals what is was like for a young black mother of three to navigate the difficult world of the 1950s and 60s and to succeed in an unwelcoming industry to become one of the now legendary “hidden figures” of NASA computing and space research.
 
Johnson’s own empowering narrative is complemented by the recollections of her two daughters about their mother’s work and insights about how she illuminated their paths, including one daughter’s fight for civil rights and another’s journey to become a NASA mathematician herself. The narrative gracefully weaves together Johnson’s personal story, her influence on her daughters’ formative years, her and her daughters’ fight for civil rights, and her lasting impact on NASA and space exploration. Filled with personal reflections, exclusive family archival photos, and striking illustrations, readers will be immersed in this deeply personal portrayal of female empowerment, women in STEM, and the breaking down of race barriers across generations. Historical notes, photo/illustration notes, and a time line put the story into historical and modern-day context.
 
The inspirational tale of Johnson’s perseverance is both intimate and global, showcasing the drive of each generation to push one step further than the last. With its evocative family album-style format and novel approach to storytelling, One Step Further is sure to inspire the next generation of rising stars.
 
“Engaging, collage-style art augments the text, with speech bubbles, archival family photographs, and Barlow’s child-friendly illustrations. Concurrently accessible and intimate, this book will both inform readers and inspire them to reach for the stars.” 
Publishers Weekly
 
“A concise, engaging story of a Black family in the South during the Civil Rights era.” 
Booklist
 
“The blend of Johnson’s and her daughters’ voices is intimate and inspiring.” 
Horn Book 
 
 
Joylette (L), Kathy (R), Katherine (F) 
 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Katherine Johnson was an American mathematician whose calculations of orbital mechanics as a NASA employee were critical to the success of the first and subsequent U.S. crewed spaceflights. She calculated and analyzed the flight paths of many spacecraft during her more than three decades with the U.S. space program, and her work helped send astronauts to the moon. She died on February 24, 2020. 

 
ABOUT THE CO-AUTHORS: Joylette Goble Hylick and Katherine “Kathy” Goble Moore grew up during the space race of the 1960s but never fully grasped their mother’s role in it until years later. Hylick graduated from Hampton University and received a Master’s at Drexel University. She followed in her mother’s footsteps, working at NASA as a mathematician before taking a job with Lockheed Martin as a Senior Requirements Engineer. She lives today in Mount Laurel, New Jersey. After attending Bennett College and Hampton University, and receiving a Masters of Science in Information Systems from Montclair State University (formerly Montclair State College), Moore spent 33 years working in public education as an educator and guidance counselor in New Jersey. She currently resides in Greensboro, North Carolina. 

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATORCharnelle Pinkney Barlow, granddaughter of Caldecott-winning illustrator Jerry Pinkney, was surrounded by art as a child. Her passion for illustration grew after being introduced to the world of watercolors. She received her BFA in Illustration from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia and her MFA in Illustration as Visual Essay from the School of Visual Arts in New York City.
 
Follow Charnelle: Facebook | Instagram
 
 
 
GIVEAWAY
 
  • One (1) winner will receive a SIGNED hardcover copy of One Step Further.  The book will be signed by Katherine Johnson’s daughters and co-authors Joylette Hylick and Katherine Moore.
  • Check out the other four stops for more chances to win
  • US/Canada only
  • Ends 3/7/2021 at 11:59pm ET

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Board Books (0-3years)

Keeping the Dream Alive: Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. + Lakeshore Learning People Shapes Kit

This week marks the 92nd birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. and next week we celebrate a federal holiday in his honor. Even if you do nothing to celebrate or acknowledge Dr. King, I think the holiday is a great opportunity to talk to children about racism, diversity, equality, kindness, friendship, and peace.

Since his death in 1968, many have stepped up to carry on his legacy including: Stacey Abrams, Bryan Stevenson, Tamika D. Mallory and others. It has truly been inspiring to see so many new activists and politicians continuing to stand up and speak out against injustices the same way Dr. Kig did years ago.


Dr. King’s birthday allows me time to reflect on the words from the iconic “I Have a Dream” speech that took place at the March on Washington. When I listen to the speech, I begin to think about my own dreams for my children.  As parents and educators, we all want the best for our children, right?  In essence, we want them to be kind, smart, successful and to achieve all their life goals.

In celebration of Dr. King’s birthday, we enjoyed using our People Shapes™ Project Kit to create a banner of people from diverse backgrounds all joined together in unity holding hands.  One of my favorite things about products from Lakeshore Learning is they allow my kids to imagine, create and learn as they play and sometimes have open dialogue about real world issues.  While working on our banner we read a couple of books about Martin Luther King Jr., talked about the March on Washington and ways Dr. King’s work and sacrifice has had a lasting impact on our lives.

The People Shapes™ Project Kit can be used to create self-portraits, favorite storybook characters and more! You get 24 chipboard People Shapes in 12 People Colors®, plus cute felt outfits, craft hair, wiggly eyes, spangles, sequins, glue, craft sticks and more.

Cheers to you, Dr. King on your birthday in heaven!  Thank you for the opportunity to meditate on your message and your legacy. How are you keeping Dr. King’s dream alive with your family? Feel free to share in the comments.

You can use my Lakeshore Learning coupon code to get 25% off any single non-sale item. My coupon code is 6383. It can be used for purchases in-store or online.

Valid ‪through 1/31/21 for one-time use in stores or online. Limit one coupon per customer. Not valid on items with shipping restrictions. Other exclusions may apply. Visit http://bit.ly/3bRGxeZ for details.

Book Cover Reveals

Exclusive Cover Reveal: Maya and the Robot by Eve L. Ewing

Publisher: Kokila
Publication Date: July 13, 2021 (Available for pre-orders now!)
Pages: 224
Age Range: 6 – 9 years
Grade Level: 1 – 4

Today I’m thrilled to share with you the cover of a new book by award-winning author Eve L. Ewing!  In addition to her work as a writer, Ewing is a sociologist of education whose research is focused on racism, social inequality, and urban policy, and the impact of these forces on American public schools and the lives of young people.

MAYA AND THE ROBOT is an illustrated middle grade novel about a forgotten homemade robot who comes to life just when aspiring fifth-grade scientist Maya needs a friend—and a science fair project. The cover and interior art are by Christine Almeda, a Filipina American freelance illustrator and character designer.

Synopsis
Maya’s nervous about fifth grade. She tries to keep calm by reminding herself she knows what to expect. But then she learns that this year won’t be anything like the last. For the first time since kindergarten, her best friends Jada and MJ are placed in a different class without her, and introverted Maya has trouble making new friends.

She tries to put on a brave face since they are in fifth grade now, but Maya is nervous! Just when too much seems to be changing, she finds a robot named Ralph in the back of Mr. Mac’s convenience store closet. Once she uses her science skills to get him up and running, a whole new world of connection opens up as Ralph becomes a member of her family and Maya begins to step into her power.

“It’s hard for me to look at Christine’s cover without tearing up. I’m so excited for the world to get a first look at Maya and Ralph and for the ways the cover gives little glimpses into the story to come!” – Eve L. Ewing

Eve L. Ewing is the award-winning author of Electric Arches1919, and Ghosts in the Schoolyard. She also wrote the acclaimed Ironheart and Champions series for Marvel Comics. Her work has appeared in many venues, including the New York Times, the New Yorker, the Washington Post, and Vanity Fair. Born and raised in Chicago, she was a middle school teacher before completing her doctorate at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Currently she is an assistant professor at the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration.

Christine Almeda is a Filipina American freelance illustrator, character designer, and lover of sunshine. She graduated from Montclair State University with a BFA focused on character design and children’s media. She believes in the power of creativity, diverse storytelling, and that art can make life more beautiful.

children's books

The Picture Books That Helped Me Through: The Best Diverse Picture Books of 2020

Looking for the best picture books of 2020? Here my top 50 favorites from the year (in no particular order).

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase items. Thank you in advance for supporting by shopping my links which allows me to keep providing this type of content for you.

Did you find yourself reading more in 2020 than you had in previous years? I know I did! One of the best bookish lessons 2020 taught me is to always keep your home library stocked with a few good books.

When your library closes for several weeks or months, you return to your own bookshelves for reading materials, right? I was grateful to have several favorite reads on hand and several books that I hadn’t gotten around to reading yet. I was also grateful to have a pretty decent inventory for my bookworm children to select from.

While 2020 has certainly been an interesting and challenging year, it has taught me SO many lessons and reaffirmed other things which I already knew.

Here are some of the other lessons 2020 has taught me:

  • I am capable of so much more than I thought. And so are YOU!
  • Black lives matter. Today, tomorrow, yesterday and ALWAYS.
  • Self-care is a priority, not a privilege. I need to take care of myself and ensure I fill up my own cup so I can be fully present for others.
  • To prioritize my health and build up my immune system.
  • Time is a limited resource, don’t waste it on people or things that don’t add value to your life. Period.
  • Our attention is one of our most important resources. Remember to redirect your attention from others to YOURSELF and avoid being distracted from real life by giving people or things your attention that don’t deserve it.
  • Change is inevitable. Be willing to roll with it and go with the flow.
  • Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about. Don’t be judgmental. Be kind. Always.
  • To count my blessings each and every day and take NOTHING for granted.
  • To keep learning, be flexible and think outside the box.
  • Evening family walks are my favorite.
  • Busyness can no longer be an excuse. The people that are supposed to be in my life will be there. Period.
  • When used correctly social media is an amazing tool that connects us. I am grateful for technology as a means of staying connected with people.
  • Be authentically me. Life is too short to worry about what others think.
  • I don’t need much to be happy. Really, I don’t.
  • Never leave the house angry. Kiss your loved ones and tell them you love them daily.
  • Practice gratitude.
  • Invest in your business (if you have one) and your personal growth.
  • Take time to appreciate the little things each day.

This year has also brought us some excellent children’s picture books. Here, I’ve listed my top 50 favorite picture books of 2020. These are the picture books that helped me through in 2020. Spy any of your favorites here?

Swashby and the Sea


Black is a Rainbow Color


All Because You Matter

You Matter

Outside In


Fauja Singh Keeps Going: The True Story of the Oldest Person to Ever Run a Marathon

The Arabic Quilt: An Immigration Story

If Dominican Were a Color

A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer!


Above the Rim: How Elgin Baylor Changed Basketball

I Am Every Good Thing


A Place Inside of Me


We Are Water Protectors

What Color is My Hijab?


The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read


Ten Ways to Hear Snow

Federico and the Wolf

Antiracist Baby

Bedtime Bonnet

A Ride to Remember: A Civil Rights Story

I Promise

Just Like Me

Me & Mama


Harlem Grown


An ABC of Equality


And The People Stayed Home


She Was the First: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm

R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, Queen of Soul


Digging for Words: José Alberto Gutiérrez and the Library He Built

Nana Akua Goes to School


Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea


A Girl Like You

The Starkeeper


Your Name is a Song


The Little Mermaid

Vote for Our Future

Our Favorite Day of the Year


Freedom, We Sing

Sometimes People March

V is for Voting

Patricia’s Vision: The Doctor Who Saved Sight

Magnificent Homespun Brown

Exquisite: The Poetry of Gwendolyn Brooks

I Am Brown


I Am a Promise


The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne


Red Shoes

Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice

No Voice Too Small: Fourteen Young Americans Making History

The Teachers March: How Selma’s Teachers Changed History

If you enjoyed this list, you may also want to check out my 2020 Ultimate List of Diverse Children’s Books linked here.

Your turn: What were some of your favorite picture books from 2020? Feel free to share in the comments.

Board Books (0-3years)

Habbi Habbi Bilingual Education at Home + Reading Wand & Bilingual Books Giveaway!

Disclaimer: I was gifted the Habbi Habbi Reading Wand and bilingual books in exchange for an honest review and to host this giveaway. As always, all opinions are my own.

Are you looking for an easy, screen-free and interactive way to raise bilingual kids? If so, you may want to check out a company called Habbi Habbi. Started by two moms, Hanna and Anne-Louise, these women value being intentional parents. As stated on their website:

We aspire to have our kids … express CREATIVITY, be SELF RELIANT, be GRITTY, feel WORTHY, show EMPATHY, engage GLOBAL COMMUNITY, exercise SELF CARE. 

Habbi Habbi bilingual books are are such a great way to introduce kids to a new language and major bonus points for them being so easy to use!

Once your books and reading wand arrive, take them out of the box and turn the reading wand on. It comes fully charged and ready to use right out of the box. This is HUGE for anxious and curious kids like mine who are always ready to just “dive right in”. Every inch is of the book is tappable – text, image, even white space! Our family was gifted a set of English-Spanish books to try.

Also, you’ll only need one want to use with ANY book in the Habbi Habbi series, regardless of language. E.g. one wand accesses Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, and any future title / language that is released. The reading wand is also re-chargable and comes with a USB cord for easy charging.

The bilingual books are matte hardcover board books with thick and sturdy pages, perfect for even the tiniest readers! They also have rainbow colored book spines which make them aesthetically pleasing to look at all together on your bookshelf.

I can’t recommend the Habbi Habbi reading wand and bilingual books enough for anyone who wants to learn Spanish or Mandarin Chinese with their children. Have you tried Habbi Habbi with your little readers yet? Feel free to share in the comments.

THE GIVEAWAY!
Our friends at Habbi Habbi want to give one (1) lucky winner a Starter Set (Wand + 5 books) – in your choice of Spanish-English or Chinese-English.

Entry rules: Open Worldwide at everyone ages 18 and over. (If it is an international winner – you are required to pay shipping on your own). There will be no shipping costs for U.S. or Canadian residents. Good Luck!

Habbi Habbi Bilingual Education at Home + Reading Wand & Bilingual Books Giveaway!

hereweeread