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This back-to-school season, there’s a lesson we all can learn about diversity and culture.
In our walks of life, we will meet so many different people from so many different backgrounds and it’s never too early (or too late) to start learning how to love and respect each other, no matter our beliefs or our differences. Fostering understanding and tolerance in children is more important than ever.
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Books can be great resources for both children and their parents who are ready to learn more about the rich religious diversity that exists all over the world. From tales of ancient traditions to colorful stories of faith and understanding, these seven children’s books celebrate religious diversity and help children feel proud of their own beliefs. Add them to your library!
1. “I See You, Buddha” by Josh Bartok
Based on the Lotus Sutra– an influential text in Buddhism–”I See You, Buddha” will help children see the good in everyone, especially themselves. This book offers examples of being compassionate, enlightened, and of service to all that even little children can understand and act upon.
2. “All Are Welcome” by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman
“Our classroom is safe, our classroom is sound. Fears are lost, hope is found.” So reads The New York Times bestselling picture book about a school where everyone is welcomed and all differences are celebrated. A must-read for both children and parents.
3. “My First Ramadan” by Karen Katz
Follow along with a young boy who’s finally old enough to participate in Ramadan, a holy month of prayer and fasting in Muslim culture. This storybook introduces young children to the practices and significance of Ramadan in an engaging and simple way.
4. “Hats of Faith” by Medeia Cohan-Petrolino
This colorful picture book explores how many religious people wear a variety of head coverings to show their love of God. Complete with details and pronunciation of each hat, this book fosters a sense of diversity and understanding in young children.
5. “Latkes and Applesauce: A Hanukkah Story” by Fran Manushkin
A classic for any growing library, this beloved story follows the Menashe family as they celebrate the joyous Jewish festival of Hanukkah. The book also includes recipes for making latkes and rules for playing dreidel that the whole family can enjoy!
6. “Amma, Tell Me About Diwali!” by Bhakti Mathur
Join two brothers, Klaka and Kiki, as they get answers to all of their many curious questions about Diwali, the Indian festival of lights. Filled with rhymes and vibrant illustrations, “Amma, Tell Me About Diwali!” is an excellent resource on Hindu culture and religion, appropriate for kids (and grown ups) of all ages!
7. “What Is God Like?” by Beverly Lewis
A heartwarming story of a dad having a conversation with his kids about their heavenly Father, a God who is powerful, loving, everywhere, all-knowing, perfect, merciful, unchanging, creator, and a Father who wants to be known, talked to, obeyed, and worshiped. This book provides a gentle introduction to Christian concepts about God, tailored for just for little ones.
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