Our 10 Current Fav Inclusivity Books (Ages Womb to Infinity)
Updated: Aug 25, 2022
Heck yes! We love to read books and listen to books. We love to learn more about ourselves and our innermost workings, and we love to learn how we can advocate for a world that holds equitable space for all.
At Inclusive We, we think that the road towards inclusivity, understanding it, and advocating for it is a necessary journey for all and should absolutely begin at a young age. So here's some of our current favorite reads that discuss inclusivity, diversity, and belonging.
Ages 1-6 + everyone else
1. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold & Illustrator Suzanne Kaufman
Follow along with a group of children as they make their way through a school day where everyone is treated equally as well as welcomed and embraced for their unique qualities and various life backgrounds. This text explores & celebrates inclusivity, diversity, and belonging in a school setting that emulates a beautiful example of what safe space should look like for all people.
2. Antiracist Baby by Ibram X Kendi & Illustrator Ashley Lukashevsky
An epic introduction via a beautifully illustrated picture book for ages 1-6, and honestly all age groups, to the concept, understanding, and implementation of antiracism. Follow the Antiracist Baby's nine easy steps for empowering communities to uproot racism and build a world with equity for all. We must begin the journey towards inclusivity at a young age, so this is the perfect read to introduce these concepts at a young age with heart warming imagery.
3. The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad & Illustrator Hatem Aly
Follow Faith and Asiya on a journey through their first day of school AND Asiya's first day of hijab. This incredibly illustrated book sheds light on the perspective and experience of wearing one's hijab and the criticism and exclusivity faced due to a lack of acceptance. The love between these siblings and the strength displayed amongst them will absolutely warm the soul whilst magnifying the immense need for and importance of representation and inclusion for all and absolutely what NOT to do when we interact with people from all walks of life. This book is a sweet reminder to teach your teens at a young age to choose inclusivity and understanding over judgment and criticism.
Teens
4. And She Was by Jessica Verdi
A riveting portrayal of teen Dara's relationship with her mom and journey to discovering herself upon finding out that her mother is transgender. This is a coming-of-age story that is as much about Dara’s mother as it is about Dara.
A front row view into the life and mental health of Sparrow, a gifted African American girl, that explores the complexities of trauma, adolescence, belonging, and inclusion. Follow Sparrow as she reveals her innermost thought cycles and feelings and discovers news ways in which to approach and express those.