19 Unforgettable Children's Books That Celebrate Diversity

This African-American princess goes on adventures all kids can relate to in these books which feature mellifluous rhymes and attractive illustrations.

The acclaimed filmmaker (Do The Right Thing, Malcolm X) and his wife wrote this book about a pair of energetic toddlers who meet an even more energetic puppy. The duo also wrote the companion book, Please, Baby, Please.

This clever twist on the classic fairy tale features adorable illustrations and a good lesson.

An Indian-American boy's grandfather shares with his grandson his adventures as a boy in India (trying to tie cobras in knots!) and his love of Indian cuisine.

Set in the 1920s, Rifka is the daughter of actors in the Yiddish Theater who one day finds herself center stage.

Newbery Medal winner Park has woven a delightful tale about a modern Korean-American family and the delicious food they enjoy.

When Unhei moves to America from Korea, she vows to change her name because she worries that her new classmates won't be able to pronounce it. The sweet twist is that, when her classmates learn of her name's meaning, they urge her to keep it.

Set in the spring during the centuries-old Basant Festival, King For A Day tells the story of Malik, a boy who uses a wheelchair, as he competes with other kids in the traditional sport of kite fighting.

This quirky tale introduces the world to Niño, a wrestling-loving Mexican kid who takes on and defeats a series of increasingly formidable foes.

Deftly mixing words in both Spanish and English, this beautifully-illustrated book dramatizes the making of a heaping pot of arroz con leche.

A little girl — anthropomorphized as a cat — worries that she might not win a part in the school play because she's "a little on the round side," but when she embraces who she is she impresses at the audition.

This book is a starkly honest portrayal of a homeless boy and his father who live in an airport terminal.

Written by a tattooist, this alternative bedtime story is about a little girl who visits a tattoo parlor with her mother and learns about the beauty — and lasting consequences — of body art.

This poignant story is about Gracie, a girl whose best friend is her Aunt Roo. However, when Gracie grows older and realizes her aunt is mentally challenged, she worries about what people will think about her.

Abenaki author Bruchac dramatizes the childhood of legendary Native American hero, Crazy Horse, back when he was known as "Curly" because of his curly hair.

Susan is a little girl who can do everything her peers do. On the last page, however, it is revealed that Susan uses a wheelchair.

These books follow a pair of toddlers as their loving same-sex parents take care of them.

A little boy who is teased for being different learns to appreciate his uniqueness thanks to his parents and best friend.

Co-author Jazz Jennings tells the story of her real-life experiences as a transgender child.