The History of We by Nikkolas Smith

5 stars A stunning book both for its lyrical exploration of human history and for its magnificent visuals. The book flows through the history of humanity, touching on human’s development of language, art, music, dance, inventions, exploration, medicine, and more. The backmatter contains more information on the history presented on each page, pairing the topics…

Read More

A Kids Book About Being Nonbinary by Hunter Chinn-Raicht

4 stars I really enjoy this series and the way it breaks down complex topics to introduce to young readers. This one focuses on the fluidity of gender and how nonbinary can mean different things to different people. Includes information on the traditional gender binary, gender versus biological sex, and what to do if you…

Read More

The Secret of the Jade Bangle (The Nguyen Kids #1) by Linda Trinh

Illustrated by Clayton Nguyen 4 stars A heartwarming story of family, tradition, loss, and connection. In the first book in The Nguyen Kids series, we follow Anne, the eldest Nguyen sibling. After the passing of her beloved grandmother, Anne inherits her iconic jade bracelet. But this bracelet has a secret. Follow Anne as she uncovers…

Read More

Becoming a Ballerina: The Story of Michaela Mabinty DePrince

by Laura Obuobi Illustrated by Olivia Duchess 4 stars An absolutely stunning picture book biography of Michaela Mabinty DePrince. The story follows DePrince’s life from her time at an orphanage in Sierra Leone, her adoption and moving to the US, her passion for ballet growing up, and her success as a ballerina. It also explores…

Read More

Sarai and the Meaning of Awesome (Sarai Gonzalez #1)

by Sarai Gonzalez and Monica Brown Illustrated by Christine Almeda 4 stars A nice, upbeat chapter book about working together, helping others, and what it means to be awesome. When she learns her grandparents will have to move from their home, Sarai Gonzalez uses her skills in baking, dance, and problem-solving to help them. I…

Read More

Bella Ballerina by Sharon M. Draper

Illustrated by Ebony Glenn 3 stars A cute, rhyming picture book following a young ballerina’s first recital. Gorgeous illustrations with lovely movement. I love that the dancers include both girls and boys with different skin tones and hair textures. At the back there is a glossary of the terms used in the book including different…

Read More

Aloha Everything by Kaylin Melia George

Illustrated by Mae Waite 5 stars A poetic celebration of hula and Hawaiian culture and history. Follow a young girl’s journey to become a hula dancer, learning about her heritage, culture, folklore, and the natural world of her island home through dance. Absolutely gorgeous. The artwork is breathtaking. Each page is packed with color, emotion,…

Read More

Bhangra Baby by Kabir Sehgal & Surishtha Sehgal

Illustrated by Ani Bushry 4 stars A vibrant picture book told in catchy rhymes and an infectious beat. Bhangra Baby wants to join in the fun of the Punjabi folk dance. With the help of his family and friends, he learns the moves and spends the night dancing and celebrating. Bold, colorful illustrations. An adorable…

Read More