On identity, belonging and community
RABIA KHOKHAR
Back to school is a busy time of year and this September is a different experience for everyone. Even during these challenging times, books can help us make sense of things by naming them and allowing us to be relevant and responsive to the times we are living in. We must think critically about the books we share and ensure they allow us to centre conversations around identity, belonging, community, inclusion, allyship and anti-racism. I hope these recommendations can help us in our journey of doing this very important and necessary work with children. I Promise By Lebro n James, Nina Mata, illus., HarperCollins, 40 pages, $24.99
“I Promise” explores themes of belonging and community. The book shares affirmations like “I promise to be open and try new things” that set a foundation for a caring learning community where all belong. Readers will learn that they are capable, competent and can work toward goals they set. Your Name is a Song By Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, Luisa Uribe, illus., The Innovation Press, 40 pages, $21.95
“Your Name is a Song” is a powerful story that explores identity and the importance of names. In the story, the girl is disheartened when her name is mispronounced at school. Her mother reminds that one way to create an inclusive community is to celebrate, respect and honour all names. Speak Up By Miranda Paul, Ebony Glenn, illus., Houghton, Mifflin, Harcourt, 40 pages, $24.99
“Speak Up” expands ideas around ways to speak up to make a difference. Readers learn to speak up by becoming critically conscious members of their communities. The book shows readers that speaking up is action-based and can be loud and quiet. APlace Inside of MeBy Zetta Elliott, Noa Denmon illus., Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 32 pages, 24.50 “A Place Inside of Me” is an important poem that can springboard discussions around current events. It explores the different feelings a Black boy experiences as his community is affected by a police shooting. This exploration is affirming, healing and centres on self-love and the Black Lives Matter movement.
The Train By Jodie Callaghan, Georgia Lesley, illus.,
Second Story Press, 32 pages, $17.95
“The Train” is a vital story that helps readers learn about residential schools and intergenerational trauma. In the story, a girl learns about the unfair and cruel schooling experiences many Indigenous children experienced. Readers learn they can have a powerful role to play in working toward Truth and Reconciliation. I Am Every Good Thing By Derrick Barnes, Gordon C. James, illus., Penguin Young Readers, 32 pages, $23.99
“I Am Every Good Thing” is a story about the importance of seeing all children through an asset based lens. Readers see this through the experiences and positive affirmations a Black boy shares. A timely reminder to reinforce that all children have passions, expertise and are “every good thing.”