17 diverse picture books to read with kids: Recommendations for parents and educators

Exposing kids to diversity and people who are different from them is one of the best ways to help them develop empathy, respect, and curiosity about the world. Diverse picture books are a great way to introduce young learners to different cultures, identities, and experiences.

In this post, we're sharing some of our favorite diverse picture books that have unique stories and lessons to spark thoughtful conversations at home or in the classroom. These books are perfect for nurturing open-mindedness and understanding in young readers.

At Little Justice Leaders, we've worked with thousands of parents, caregivers, and educators to help educate kids about topics of social justice. Diverse picture books are one of the best ways to engage kids in issues of justice!

Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or someone who shapes little minds, these diverse picture books will help you open their worldview.

Let’s dive in.

Indigo Dreaming by Dinah Johnson
In this picture book, a young girl explores the beautiful diverse world around her as she dreams of the color indigo. She sees how this special shade appears in nature, from the sky to the ocean and even in her imagination. Through her journey, she learns about the wonders of colors and how they can inspire our dreams and creativity.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780063080201

Sulwe by Lupita Nyong'o and Vashti Harrison
A girl named Sulwe has skin that is darker than everyone else's, which makes her feel different and lonely. She goes on a magical journey that helps her discover the beauty of her unique skin, the importance of loving who she is, and the value of diversity. Through her adventure, Sulwe learns that true beauty comes from within and that everyone is special in their own way.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9781534425361

Mango, Abuela, and Me by Meg Medina and Angela Dominguez
A young girl loves spending time with her abuela, who has just come from a different country. Together, they share the joy of a special mango tree in their backyard. As they bond over their love for mangoes, the girl helps her abuela learn English, and they discover the importance of family, love, diversity, and understanding each other’s cultures.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780763669003

Whoever You Are by Mem Fox
This story celebrates diversity and the idea that, even though people around the world may look different or live in different places, they share many things in common. It reminds us that everyone laughs, cries, and feels love just like we do, showing that deep down, we're all connected no matter who we are or where we come from.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780152060305

Eyes that Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho
A child notices that her eyes look different from her classmates’, but she learns to see the beauty in her unique features. Inspired by her family’s love and warmth, she embraces her eyes that “kiss in the corners,” celebrating her heritage and the special connection she shares with her family.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780062915627

Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña and Christian Robinson
A boy named CJ rides the bus with his grandmother after church, noticing how different his life is from others along the way. Through her gentle wisdom, his grandmother helps him see the beauty and kindness in his surroundings, teaching him to appreciate the diversity of the world around him.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780399257742

Song in the City by Daniel Bernstrom
In this story, a girl explores her busy city and discovers a hidden "song" in the everyday sounds around her—the beeping cars, chirping birds, and bustling streets. With each sound, she learns that music can be found everywhere if you just listen closely. The story centers love, diversity, understanding, and joy.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780063011120

The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad and S. K. Ali
This picture book tells the story of a girl who watches her sister wear a hijab for the first time, a beautiful blue that reminds her of the sky and the ocean. As they navigate the reactions of others, the sisters learn about strength, pride, diversity, and the beauty of embracing one’s culture.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780316519007

Same, Same But Different by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw
Two boys from different countries become pen pals and discover both their similarities and differences. As they share stories about their lives, they realize that even though they live in different places, they have a lot in common.
https://www.amazon.in/Same-But-Different-Jenny-Kostecki-Shaw/dp/0805089462

If You’re a Kid Like Gavin by Gavin Grimm and Kyle Lukoff
This picture book follows Gavin, a kid who knows who he is but faces challenges because of it. He learns to stand up for himself and his rights, showing bravery in the face of obstacles. Through his journey, Gavin teaches us about the importance of being true to ourselves and standing up for fairness and acceptance.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780063057562

Lailah’s Lunchbox: A Ramadan Story by Reem Faruqi
Lailah is excited to be fasting for Ramadan for the first time, but she's also nervous about how to explain it to her classmates. With the help of her teacher and friends, she finds a way to share her tradition with pride in this sweet picture book.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780884484318

All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman
In a diverse and welcoming school, kids from all backgrounds come together to learn, play, and celebrate each other’s differences. They are reminded that no matter who they are or where they come from, they belong. This story highlights kindness, acceptance, and the joy of being in a community where everyone is welcome.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780525579649

Where Are You From? by Yamile Saied Méndez
A child is asked, "Where are you from?" and finds herself unsure of how to answer. She turns to her abuelo, who explains that her identity is shaped by the places, stories, and people that came before her. Through his words, she learns the beauty of diversity and that she belongs wherever she feels loved.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780062839930

Just Ask! by Sonia Sotomayor
In this picture book, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor shares her experience of feeling different as a child, emphasizing that just like a variety of plants enrich a garden, diverse abilities make our world vibrant. The story follows kids who, while working together to create a community garden, learn to appreciate each other's diverse challenges and strengths.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780525514121

In My Mosque by M. O. Yuksel
This beautiful picture book celebrates a mosque as a welcoming space for gathering and community. It highlights moments of connection, such as grandmothers reading the Qur'an, the imam sharing stories, and friends helping each other, showing that mosques are centers of diversity, love, and community.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780062978707

Ali and the Sea Stars by Ali Stroker
A spirited girl in a wheelchair dreams of putting on her own show after her neighbor encourages her. With the help of family and friends, she navigates auditions, rehearsals, and design. When a storm threatens their plans, she uses her creativity to adapt and ensure the show goes on, celebrating the magic of theater and community in this beautiful picture book.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9780063015715

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures by Julia Finley Mosca
This story is about young Temple Grandin, who is diagnosed with autism but surprises everyone by using her unique way of thinking to become a powerful voice in science. As a visual thinker, she connects with animals in special ways, leading her to invent groundbreaking improvements for farms worldwide.
https://bookshop.org/a/96153/9781943147618

This is just the start! There are so many great diverse picture books to use with young learners. For many more diverse kids' book recommendations, grab our Big List of Diverse Picture Books.