Picture Books That Promote Acceptance and Tackle Anti-Racism

In this episode of the *Picture Book Podcast*, host Chris Marland explores the role picture books play in promoting anti-racism and acceptance. He discusses several impactful books that address themes of diversity, unity, and empathy, highlighting how they can shape young readers' understanding of the world.

Here is the complete list of all the books Chris mentions in this episode 

1. Here We Are
   Author:Oliver Jeffers  
Illustrator: Oliver Jeffers  

2. Begin Again
   Author: Oliver Jeffers  
   *Illustrator:* Oliver Jeffers  

3. People Need People  
    Author: Benjamin Zephaniah  
    Illustrator: Nila Aye  

4. Let's All Say Yes 
   Author: Nia Roberts  
   Illustrator: Nia Roberts

5. The Other Side
    Author: Jacqueline Woodson  
    Illustrator: E.B. Lewis  

6. This is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from Around the World 
   Author: Matt Lamothe  
   Illustrator: Matt Lamothe  

7. The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family
   Authors: Ibtihaj Muhammad and S.K. Ali  
   Illustrator: Hatem Aly  

8. Momma, Did You Hear the News?
   Author: Sanya Whittaker Gragg  
   Illustrator: Kim Holt  

9. Come With Me 
   Author: Holly M. McGhee  
   Illustrator: Pascal Lemaître  


Here’s a bit more detail about the books in case you need it for your podcast:

Here We Are  by Oliver Jeffers: This book beautifully introduces young readers to the concept of our world and the people who inhabit it, emphasizing acceptance and understanding of diverse cultures.

Begin Again  by Oliver Jeffers: Though not specifically about anti-racism, this book includes elements that discuss acceptance and the interconnectedness of all humans.

People Need People by Benjamin Zephaniah, illustrated by Nila Aye: This book is a poetic exploration of how we rely on one another, showcasing diverse interactions across various ethnicities.

Let's All Say Yes by Nia Roberts: This book focuses on accepting differences, using simple illustrations to convey that love and friendship can transcend color.

The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by E.B. Lewis: A story about two girls from different racial backgrounds who find friendship across a physical and metaphorical fence, promoting unity and understanding.

This is How We Do It: One Day in the Lives of Seven Kids from Around the World by Matt Lamothe: This book highlights the cultural differences and similarities between children around the world, fostering an appreciation of diverse lifestyles.

The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad and S.K. Ali, illustrated by Hatem Aly: This story portrays the strength and pride in cultural identity, emphasizing resilience against prejudice.

Momma, Did You Hear the News? by Sanya Whittaker Gragg, illustrated by Kim Holt: This book addresses the challenging topic of racial bias and safety for Black children, aiming to educate young readers about real-world issues.

Come With Me by Holly M. McGhee, illustrated by Pascal Lemaître: This book shows how small acts of kindness and understanding can make the world a more inclusive and compassionate place.