Universal Childhood Experience

Be a Maker, by Katey Howes, Illustrated by Elizabet Vuković
Carolrhoda Books, 2019
How many things can you make in a day? A tower, a friend, a change? Rhyme, repetition, and a few seemingly straightforward questions engage young readers in a discussion about the many things we make―and the ways we can make a difference in the world. This simple, layered story celebrates creativity through beautiful rhyming verse and vibrant illustrations with a timely message.

A Friend for Henry, by Jenn Bailey and Mika Song
Chronicle Books, 2019
Henry is looking for a friend who shares, who listens, maybe even someone who likes things to stay the same and all in order. With insight and warmth, this story, told from the perspective of a boy on the autism spectrum, celebrates the everyday magic of friendship. On a day full of too close and too loud, Henry finds a friend, or maybe the friend finds him!

Here and Now, by Julia Denos, Illustrated by E.B. Goodale
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2019
You may be reading a book while the phone is ringing, a baby is growing, and the Earth is spinning in space; at the same time you are changing and growing in remarkable ways. This poetic book shows readers how to appreciate the here and now and celebrate our very connected world. A lovely celebration of mindfulness and a meditation on slowing down and enjoying the moment.

Marwan’s Journey, by Patricia de Arias, Illustrated by Laura Borras
Midedition, Michael Neuberger Publishing, 2018
Marwan is a young boy forced to leave his home. He relies on memories of his native land to buoy him up. He travels with thousands of people, crossing deserts and seas, fleeing war and hunger in search of safety. This beautiful heartfelt and accessible story gives a human face to the plight of refugees all over the world. Marwan’t journey is everyone’s journey.

Ojiichan’s Gift, by Chieri Uegaki, Illustrated by Genevieve Simms
Kids Can Press, 2019
Mayumi’s Ojiichan (Grandpa) built her a rock garden when she was born. Every summer, during her visits to Ojiichan in Japan, they tended the garden together. When Ojiichan is no longer able to take care of the garden and he has to leave it behind, Mayumi finds a way to for him to take the garden with him. This lovely story illuminates a child’s thoughtfulness.

Tallulah the Tooth Fairy CEO, by Tamara Pizzoli, Illustrated by Federico Fabiani
Macmillan, 2019
This modern take on the classic tooth fairy story is perfect for powerful little leaders ready to take on the world―one tooth at a time. Tallulah, the Tooth Fairy CEO, knows practically everything, how to collect teeth, dispense money and train other fairies. Complete instructions are in the Teeth Titans Incorporated Employee Manual. But when something isn’t covered in the manual, what’s a fairy to do?

Under My Hijab, by Hena Khan, Illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel
Lee & Low Books, Inc., 2019
Written in sprightly rhyme and with bright, inviting images this story illustrates the many ways the women in one family express individual style in their hijabs. Most importantly it shows how familiar and normal these women and their lives are underneath their hijabs. This positive gallery of faces, hair styles and occupations, demystify and normalize a symbol often mistaken as alien and frightening.

Want to Play Trucks?, by Ann Stott, Illustrated by Bob Graham
Candlewick Press, 2018
Two boys at play. One likes trucks, the other likes dolls. But they both like each other and ice cream! This lovely, low key story illustrates how two boys can learn how to compromise and weave their interests together to have a great time at the playground. It happens that one is white and one is black but it’s incidental to the story.

When Aidan Became a Brother, by Kyle Lukoff, Illustrated by Kaylani Juanita
Lee & Low Books, Inc., 2019
When Aidan was born, everyone thought he was a girl. But he soon realized how much happier he was when everyone understood, he was really a boy. With loving parents and supportive teachers the transition was without fanfare. When Aidan realizes a sibling is on the way he wants to give that child the same freedom to be who they really are, that he received. This story shows how simple this path could be if the child’s best interests were paramount for everyone.

Where Are You From?, by Yamile Saied Méndez and Jaime Kim
HarperCollins, 2019
When a girl is asked where she’s from—where she’s really from—none of her answers seems to be the right one. She turns to her loving abuelo for help. With themes of self-acceptance, identity, and inclusion, this powerful, lyrical picture book will resonate with readers young and old, from all backgrounds and of all colors—especially those who have been made to feel they don’t belong.