Every family is different. And there are lots of great children’s books about diverse families that represent the many ways you can create a family. Today I wanted to share some of the newest kid’s books about families that we are enjoying.
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What Is a Family?
Written by Annette Griffin and illustrated by Nichola Cowdery
This colorful padded board book uses rhyming text and fun illustrations to introduce kids to the names of different animal families. The book reminds the reader that families can all look different, but the love and care between it’s members is what makes them a family. Adults will love the sweet message of the book, while little ones will love all of the funny details in the pictures.
Lulu the One and Only
Written by Lynnette Mawhinney and illustrated by Jennie Poh
Luliwa Lovington is a young girl who goes by the name Lulu. She and her brother come from a half white, half black family and they constantly face the question “What are you?”. The story touches on situations that may be familiar for kids in biracial families as the two kids discuss the ways that they deal with the questions they receive from others. The author shares her experiences in the back of the book, as well as advice for parents on talking to their kids.
Related Post: Children’s Books about Diversity
Florence and Her Fantastic Family Tree
Written by Judy Gilliam and illustrated by Laura Addari
Florence is a young girl whose teacher instructs her class to create a family tree. But Florence is worried, because her family tree isn’t as simple as a trunk and some branches. Her family tree includes lots of “extras”. As she walks the reader through all the members of her family, her experiences may reflect the experiences of many other children. In the end, she shows off her large, interconnected family tree, and celebrates the fact that all of these people love her. The story will connect with other kids whose families are complicated. It may also help them see their family tree through new eyes.
No Matter What: A Foster Care Tale
Written by Josh Shipp with David Tieche and illustrated by Yuliya Pankratova
This story follows a young squirrel named Josh who doesn’t have a family. When Grace the stork finds him, she flies him around to different animal families. But Josh finds a problem with each family and does his best to scare them off. Finally, Grace finds a family that can stand up to Josh’s antics and show him the love and support that he needs. The author uses his experience in the foster care system to share the message that one caring adult can make the difference for a struggling young child.
Related Post: Celebrating Families of All Kinds
Our World is Whole
Written by Gail Bush and illustrated by Jennie Poh
This colorful book follows one little girl as she explores the ways that her family and loved ones are connected. The simple text reminds the reader that we are all connected, and that our families reach across distances and relationships. The story is paired with adorable illustrations that highlight the little girl’s friendships and relationships.
Ivy and Bean: One Big Happy Family
Written by Annie Barrows and illustrated by Sophie Blackall
This early chapter book follows the adventures of two young girls named Ivy and Bean. Ivy starts to worry about becoming “spoiled” as an only child. So she decides to come up with ways to get a baby sister. The silly antics of the young girls will have kids laughing along, while the concerns that Ivy faces may be familiar to other only children.