Happy Children’s Book Week 2023! From May 1st through 7th this year, Every Child a Reader is determined to get young readers to seek out the written word and revel in all things books. To celebrate, we here at BookTrib are bringing you a week of reads that will not only support children’s reading but also support the readers themselves!
This year’s theme is “Read Books. Spark Change.” But before we can spark change for those around us, we have to tend to the spark within ourselves. These seven books encourage children to love themselves for who they are, regardless of what peer pressure or outside judgment may tell them. And when kids understand the inherit value of our own selves, they’re given the tools to see the value of all those around them, as well.
The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
If you don’t recognize this book from its time on the NYT bestseller list or from its multiple awards, maybe you’ve spotted it on the Netflix original show Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices. From its very first line — “There will be times when you walk into a room and no one there is quite like you” — The Day You Begin is here for the kids who stand out from those around them. Whether it’s their appearance, the way they talk or even the food they eat, it’s easy for children to feel as though they don’t fit in with their peers. What’s not easy is the fear that comes with sticking out. Author Jacqueline Woodson and illustrator Rafael López reassure young readers that with a little bit of courage, putting themselves out there opens the door for connection with their peers. It might just turn out that someone else is looking to make a friend, too.
Chrysanthemum: A First Day of School Book for Kids by Kevin Henkes
You can’t go wrong with this classic. The staple of many a childhood (mine included!), Kevin Henkes’s Chrysanthemum celebrates being proud of what makes you you, regardless of what others may say. In this beloved story, it’s the first day of school and our titular mouse in question has a problem. According to her new classmates, Chrysanthemum’s name is weird! It’s a flower and a mouthful and it’s so long that it doesn’t even fit on her nametag. Chrysanthemum wilts — until someone helps her see that there’s nothing wrong with a name that makes her feel beautiful and special. Handily tackling the subject of bullying, Henkes reminds us that there’s nothing wrong with a name that stands out among the rest.
Perfectly Imperfectly YOU by Jamie James, illustrated by Yogesh Mahajan
The drive to “be normal” is a challenge that all of us face. For kids especially, societal expectations to fit in can feel overwhelming. But oftentimes, conforming can come at the cost of their authentic selves. Besides, what even is “normal,” anyway?
From big feet and sticky-out ears to sour singing voices, Perfectly Imperfectly YOU hones in on common insecurities that make children feel vulnerable to outside judgment. This heartfelt book reassures children that all of us have unique traits that make up who we are as individuals, and that there really is no such thing as true normal — so why strive for it? Rather than covering up what makes them special, kids are encouraged to own their truths and embrace the weird! This confidence-boosting read imparts an essential lesson on young readers, helping them feel secure in the face of pressure to “be normal.”
Read our full review of Perfectly Imperfectly YOU! here.
Giraffe Problems by Jory John, illustrated by Lane Smith
Edward the giraffe is feeling awfully self-conscious about his neck. Yes, his giant neck, the number one most noticeable aspect of his appearance. He’s tried just about everything to distract others from looking at it, even hiding it behind bushes, but nothing’s working. If only he had the dramatic stripes of a zebra, or the graceful speed of a cheetah, rather than an absolutely, positively ridiculous neck! But it’s this neck that Cyrus the turtle compliments Edward on. After all, it’s a great tool to reach for the high-up leaves on trees — and it looks great in a bowtie!
Overflowing with silliness, Giraffe Problems is a hilarious read-aloud that still imparts valuable advice on its young readers. While kids may laugh over Edward’s antics, it’s clear as day that he has nothing at all to be ashamed about. Whether you’re a giraffe or a human, hiding your uniqueness does you a disservice, when you can instead celebrate what makes you special.
Nigel and the Moon by Antwan Eady, illustrated by Gracey Zhang
Every night, Nigel whispers his dreams to the moon. He pictures himself becoming a dancer, an astronaut or even a superhero. But while his nighttime imaginings are full of wonder and promise, Nigel feels much less self-assured during the day. As the only dark-skinned student in his class, he feels alone and struggles to find a sense of belonging. This tender story captures the self-consciousness and shyness that children — and especially children of color — experience when they feel out of place. But that only means that it’s all the more important to assure them of their bright futures. Nigel and the Moon does just that, ensuring that young readers know they’re capable of anything they set out to achieve. Supporting them and encouraging them to dream big is an essential part of a child’s growth and self-confidence, and this heartwarming read is the perfect tool to use.
Check out what other books we think go well with Nigel and the Moon.
Rock What Ya Got by Samantha Berger, illustrated by Kerascoët
This imaginative, meta story bends reality to teach the very real lesson of embracing your appearance and identity. When a young artist draws a picture of a little girl, she sighs and readies her eraser. According to her, the drawing didn’t come out quite right — the eyes are dots, the hands are squiggles and her mane of hair is simply too wild. But just as she’s about to be edited, this drawing, aptly named Viva, comes to life! She refuses to be erased, proclaiming that she likes herself the way she is, end of discussion. This playful and creative narrative encourages everyone to “rock what ya got,” embracing the qualities you have rather than erasing what you may wish to change. Kids are sure to love Viva, just as she respects and values her own self!
You Matter by Christian Robinson
A star in the world of children’s publishing, award-winning author and illustrator Christian Robinson tells a poignant and gentle story of cherishing everyone around us — as well as ourselves. You Matter uses lyrical prose and a sweeping scope to drive home its lesson of acceptance and valuing oneself. From the littlest microorganism to our big blue planet, the book shows us how we all have a place in the universe. To respect the world around us an essential lesson in respecting ourselves, and vice versa. Named Best Book of the Year by Barnes & Noble, this NYT bestseller uses its playful illustrations to pare down the essential, philosophical lesson into an easily absorbed read. “For anyone who isn’t sure if they matter,” Robinson writes, “you do.”
