Books which help with conversations about race

This important non-fiction book explores the concept of racism for a young audience, explaining what it is and why it is always wrong. With colourful pages and engaging illustrations, this picture book carries an essential message that nobody should be disadvantaged because of their race. 

Kamara is strong and fast. But negative words from her friends make her doubt herself. Can she find a way to celebrate her strength? This heart-warming picture book celebrates the many ways to be strong, and to be yourself.  

In this stunning picture book that brims with vitality, movement and joy, a mother and child meditate on what it is to be free.

In this bold and vibrant picture book, John Agard’s touching poem Windrush
Child is brought to life for young readers.

Split into eight sections, this addition to Usborne’s appealing lift-the-flap nonfiction series of books tackles a weighty and yet important issue: racism.

Shortlisted for the 2004 Nestlé Smarties Book Prize (age 6–8 category), an exploration of an unlikely friendship between two very different boys.

This is the story about how four classmates have a massive impact on the life of Ahmet, a boy that comes to their school as a refugee from Syria. An inspiring and sweet tale that should help children be the best they can be and realise the power of kindness.

In this unusual book, we follow a young man as he packs his bags and leaves his family to go and start a new life in another country

This interactive guide for children offers practical tips and inspiring stories about compassion, empathy, and how we can all make the world a better place through acts of kindness.

Mia is a secret superstar musician, writing song lyrics that her friends love. But in real life she’s bullied for being different. Is Mia ready to show the world who she really is?

Omar doesn’t know much about politics, nor does he care, however, when his older brother, Musa, throws his lot in with the student opposition to the government, everything changes.

Rosen and Young explain what might make people leave their homes and journey to other countries, the rights that refugees and migrants have and the ways that they travel, as well as discussing wider relevant ideas. A fascinating and well-presented book. 

This beautiful and useful picture book is a mine of information on the subject of human migration, which is sadly so topical and which many children will have questions about. Altarriba is very thorough on the subject, making sure that he asks the right questions in the right order as he progresses from explaining how humans have always migrated for various reasons, to explaining what might cause this to happen now and reminding children that when people leave their own countries, it’s only for the most dire of reasons.

Zed’s dad is the First Hunter of Demons. But when Zed meets a Demon, he discovers that they​’renot as terrifying as the myths say. Exciting and full of heart.  

Sammy wants a new life in Europe, while Natalie wants to escape the realities of her life in the UK. A powerful and hard-hitting verse novel for older readers.

Callum is a Nought but his best friend Sephy is a Cross – the daughter of one of the most influential politicians in the country.

This is the true story of Omar Mohamed’s childhood in a refugee camp. Searing and poignant, with themes of equality, disability, and the value of education, it’s moving and sad and hopeful, all at the same time.