Books which help with conversations about race
Introducing children to the concept of race and racism through books can be a powerful way to foster empathy and understanding from a young age. We have carefully selected the following titles because they address themes of racial identity, migration and multiculturalism in thoughtful, age-appropriate ways. We hope that these books will help to encourage reflection and generate discussions on these important themes.
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Lift-the-flap Questions and Answers about Racism
Author: Jordan Akpojaro Illustrator: Ashley Evans
Publisher: Usborne
Interest age: 6-8
Reading age: 6-8Split into eight sections, this addition to Usborne’s appealing lift-the-flap nonfiction series of books tackles a weighty and yet important issue: racism.
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The Boy at the Back of the Class
Author: Onjali Q Raúf
Publisher: Orion
Interest age: 7-11
Reading age: 10+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.
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My Skin, Your Skin
Author: Laura Henry-Allain MBE Illustrator: Onyinye Iwu
Publisher: Ladybird Books
Interest age: 4-8
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.
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When Stars are Scattered
Author: Omar Mohamed Illustrator: Victoria Jamieson
Publisher: Faber and Faber
Interest age: 12-14
Reading age: 9+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.
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Noughts and Crosses
Author: Malorie Blackman
Publisher: Penguin
Interest age: 12+
Reading age: 12+Callum is a Nought but his best friend Sephy is a Cross - the daughter of one of the most influential politicians in the country.
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Strong Like Me
Author: Kelechi Okafor Illustrator: Michaela Dias-Hayes
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 4-5
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.
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John Agard’s Windrush Child
Author: John Agard Illustrator: Sophie Bass
Publisher: Walker
Interest age: 4-6
Reading age: 4+In this bold and vibrant picture book, John Agard’s touching poem Windrush
Child is brought to life for young readers. -
Freedom, We Sing
Author: Amyra Leon Illustrator: Molly Mendoza
Publisher: Flying Eye Books
Interest age: 4-8
In this stunning picture book that brims with vitality, movement and joy, a mother and child meditate on what it is to be free.
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Who are Refugees and Migrants? What Makes People Leave Their Homes? And Other Big Questions
Author: Michael Rosen & Annemarie Young
Publisher: Wayland Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+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.
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Migrants
Author: Eduard Altarriba
Publisher: Button Books
Interest age: 9-11
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 …
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The Boy Who Fell from the Sky
Author: Benjamin Dean
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 8+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.
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Speak Up!
Author: Rebecca Burgess
Publisher: Quill Tree Books
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+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?
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Hope on the Horizon
Author: Onjali Q. Raúf
Publisher: Wren & Rook
Interest age: 8-11
Reading age: 8+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.
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Welcome to Nowhere
Author: Elizabeth Laird
Publisher: Pan Macmillan
Interest age: 9-11
Reading age: 9+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.
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The Crossing
Author: Manjeet Mann
Publisher: Penguin Books
Interest age: 12-14
Reading age: 10+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.
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Cloud Busting
Author: Malorie Blackman
Publisher: Random House
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: 8+Shortlisted for the 2004 Nestlé Smarties Book Prize (age 6-8 category), an exploration of an unlikely friendship between two very different boys.
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On The Move
Author: DK Braille
Publisher: Dorling Kindersley
Interest age: 7+
Reading age: Young braille readersOne of a new series of books developed in consultation with the RNIB, this particular title focuses on transport. The board book features everything from trains and cars to cranes and unicycles, supported by a range of interesting facts.
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The Arrival
Author: Shaun Tan
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 8-9
Reading age: 8+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
