Books about identity to use this school year

Starting the year with a focus on identity shows students that you value who they are as people. If you're teaching elementary students, use these picture books to center identity in your classroom this year:

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
This book encourages learners to embrace their uniqueness and bravely connect with others, even when they feel different or alone. It reminds us that sharing our stories can help bridge gaps and create understanding.

I Am Enough by Grace Byers
This book is a powerful celebration of self-worth, encouraging learners to embrace their identity and believe in their inherent value. It emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance, respect for others, and kindness in all interactions.

Becoming Vanessa by Vanessa Brantley-Newton L
Vanessa starts her first day of school eager to make friends, but her fancy outfit and unique name make her feel out of place. After learning the meaningful story behind her name, she gains the confidence to embrace her true self and proudly introduces herself to her classmates.

I Like Myself by Karen Beaumont
This lively story celebrates self-esteem by encouraging kids to embrace everything about themselves, from their quirks to their flaws. It delivers a joyful message about self-acceptance and confidence, showing that what truly matters is loving yourself just as you are.

I Am Perfectly Designed by Karamo Brown and Jason Brown
This uplifting story follows a boy and his father as they explore the city together, reflecting on their shared memories and the unique bond they share. Through their journey, they celebrate the idea of loving yourself just as you are, highlighting that each person is perfectly designed to be who they are meant to be.

The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad
Faizah is excited for the first day of school, especially because it marks her older sister Asiya’s first day wearing a beautiful blue hijab. However, when others don't see the hijab's beauty and respond with hurtful words, Faizah learns to find strength and pride in who she is and the bond she shares with her sister.

The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
Unhei, the new kid at school, worries that her Korean name will be too difficult for her classmates to pronounce, so she decides to choose a new, more American name. Her classmates get involved by filling a jar with name suggestions. However, after one of them learns the special meaning of her real name, Unhei gains the confidence to embrace it.

Magnificent Homespun Brown by Samara Cole Doyon
This book is a tribute to the beauty and diversity of brown skin. It celebrates the richness and warmth of hues, honoring both the unique stories of individual shades and the collective pride of those who share this color.

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