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Culturally Diverse Poetry for Kids

Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets, by Kwame Alexander, Chris Colderley and Marjory Wentworth is a splendid cross-cultural collection of poetry. Original poems celebrate the work of a wide group of classic and contemporary poets. This book is an excellent way for families to explore famous poets and their impact on readers.

Feel the Beat: Dance Poems that Zing from Salsa to Swing by Marilyn Singer. I absolutely adore this book. Children will love this collection of short snappy poems about dance. Each one holds the rhythm of the music, and the collection includes a variety of cultures and traditions. The text comes with a CD of music because no doubt the poems will make everyone want to get up and dance!

What Are Little Girls Made Of? by Jeanne Willis is an utterly delightful, and often hilarious, collection of feminist re-imaginings of traditional nursery rhymes. Isabelle Follath's illustrations depict girls from all backgrounds and abilities.

Thanku: Poems of Gratitude, edited by Miranda Paul, illustrated by Marlena Myles is an inclusive collection of poems about being thankful. The huge variety of poetic forms even includes a math poem!

A Full Moon Is Rising by Marilyn Singer. This collection of poems celebrates the magic of a full moon as it is experienced around the globe. There are poems set it the city, the country and across the world from Africa to China to Colombia. Different religious and ethnic traditions are represented, including Sukkot, moon watching in Canada and a Chinese Moon Festival. End papers include notes and a map of all the locations that appear throughout the book.

Fresh-Picked Poetry: A Day at the Farmers' Market by Michelle Schaub is such a fun collection of poems about diverse kids and their families exploring an urban farmers' market. I love how upbeat the poems are, and who knows, maybe reading these poems will encourage your children to finish their beets. (Dare to dream.)

Jazz by Walter Dean Myers. Fifteen gorgeously rhythmic and evocative poems encourage kids to delight in all the different forms of jazz music. Readers will enjoy a journey through the history of the uniquely American music like bebop, boogie, and ragtime. Christopher Myers' dynamic illustrations shine!

MORE: The poetry bedtime routine your kids will cherish

A Stick Is an Excellent Thing: Poems Celebrating Outdoor Play is another collection by award-winning poet Marilyn Singer. Poems celebrate kids playing in the great outdoors, from the monkey bars at the playground to urban sidewalks to backyard sprinklers. Every single page features a diverse group of faces and almost every child will see someone who looks like them in this book. I only wish the collaborators had thought to illustrate a child with a physical disability in the book (they like to play, too!); then it would be perfect.

Looking Like Me. I love the upbeat tempo of Walter Dean Myers' poetry in this book! A young boy, Jeremy, narrates this poem/picture book. It starts as he looks in the mirror, declaring, "That's who I am." He then meets friends and family in his city neighborhood, all of whom describe him differently.  He is a brother, artist, runner, writer, and more. The poem is an infectious, joyful celebration of one boy's self-esteem and identity. This is a wonderful poem to read with your kids and then have a conversation about all the different aspects of who they are.

A Poke in the I by Paul B. Janeczko is a collection of "concrete poems." Concrete poems are poems in which the visual arrangement of the words on the page are as essential to the meaning as the text itself.  For example, the text of the poem "Giraffe" is printed out in the shape of a giraffe. "Tennis Anyone" will have your eyes bouncing back and forth across the page. Kids love concrete poems for their playful nature, and creating their own concrete poems is a wonderfully fun writing exercise. Raschka's stylized illustrations feature characters in every color.

MORE: Concrete Poetry Books for Kids

Can I Touch Your Hair?: Poems of Race, Mistakes, and Friendship by Irene Latham and Charles Waters. Poems in two voices tell the story of a white girl and a black boy becoming friends at school while working on a class poetry project. The poems (written by a white woman and a black man) dive into topics of race, family life, friendship and school experiences in a very accessible way. The illustrations are a great accompaniment.

Confetti: Poems for Children by Pat Mora is a joyful collection of short poems sprinkled with Spanish words. Pat Mora has done a wonderful job composing poems that will appeal to very young children on a range of subjects like colors, nature, counting and everyday moments. One of my favorites is "Leaf Soup."

MORE: 8 Ways To Use Poetry to Calm Your Kids

One Leaf Rides the Wind is a collection of counting poems in the haiku style. The poems follow a young girl as she explores a traditional Japanese garden. This is a great introduction to haiku and also includes information about gardens, haikus, and their place in Japanese culture.

MORE: Haiku Books for Kids

Each poem in The Blacker the Berry by Joyce Carol Thomas is named after a color, like "Golden Goodness," "Cranberry Red," or "Coffee Will Make You Black" to celebrate a wide range of skin tones. I love the acknowledgement that "black" is not a single shade. Illustrator Floyd Cooper's cheerful faces peer up at the reader from the pages of the book.

Iguanas in the Snow: And Other Winter Poems / Iguanas en la Nieve: Y Otros Poemas de Invierno by Francisco X. Alarcón is a bilingual collection of poems that is part of a four book series spanning the seasonal year. Each short poem in free verse is in both Spanish and English, presenting snapshots of a diverse group of children enjoying wintery life to the fullest. Be sure to read the poetry collections for every season!

Family Poems for Every Day of the Week: Poemas Familiares Para Cada Dia de la Semana. Francisco X. Alarcón's joyful poems about family activities—like visiting, celebrating, working and playing—during the week are fun to read aloud. This collection of diverse poetry is presented in both English and Spanish.

MORE: Classic poems for kids to memorize

In Daddy's Arms I Am Tall is a collection of poems by different authors honoring fathers, specifically African-American fathers, but of course children of all races and cultures will be able to relate to the feelings and attitudes expressed in the poems. Some of the poetic imagery and language is sophisticated, for ages 7 and up, but there is something for everyone here. (Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award )

Meet Danitra Brown is a collection of exuberant poems narrated by a young girl, Zuri Jackson, about her best friend, Danitra. I've never read a poetry book like this; it's a joyful ode to a friend and I love the idea. It would be a great writing project for kids, too–have them write poems about their friends! (Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award)

Thirteen Moons on Turtle's Back: A Native American Year of Moons by Joseph Bruchac and Jonathan London. I've always loved the idea of naming all the moons of year. This beautiful book of diverse poetry celebrates the Native American year through each of the thirteen moons.

I love Javaka Steptoe's collages that illustrate Nikki Grimes' haiku in A Pocketful of Poems. Tiana has a pocketful of words and each word inspires a delightful short poem. I'm especially fond of haiku as "poetry for beginners" and its short form makes it easy to share with even the youngest kids.

MORE: Practice writing haiku during week 4 of the Poetry Writing Challenge

Tan to Tamarind: Poems about the Color Brown by Malathi Michelle Iyengar. This classic poetry book is sadly out of print, so check your library for a copy. It's a collection of poems about all the gorgeous skin colors in the world.

Once Around the Sun by Bobbi Katz. Each month gets its own poem capturing the type of childhood moments we might look back on with nostalgia. In the background, a diverse group of children romp and play through the seasons and around their city.

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What is Book Spine Poetry?

A spine poem is a poem created by stacking books, spine side out, so that the titles create a poem when read in succession. The poems can be long or short, depending on how many books in the stack.

These "found poems" are delightful, and are freed from the conventions and rules of standard poetic forms. They need not rhyme (indeed, they rarely do) or conform to any preordained rhythmic structures.

MORE: 14 Poetry Writing Promps

How to Create a Spine Poem

1. Peruse the bookshelves for book titles that catch your eye. Choose as many books as you want and bring them over to a table.

2. Pick out a title that you want to be the first line of your poem. Place that book flat on the table. Next place more books underneath the first book. These will serve as lines in the poem.

3. Experiment with the order of the books, taking time to decide on how you want your poem to flow and what story you want it to tell. Do any of the book titles make a good ending to the poem?

4. Once you have decided on the final order of the spines, share your poem with someone. You may want to give your spine poem a title, or copy down the lines on a separate piece of paper. Don't forget to take a photo to save your spine poetry for posterity!

Tip: If you are having writer's block, choose book titles around a common theme or interest such as nature, animals or a color.

MORE: Poetry Bingo is a great way to make learning about poetry fun!

Spine Poem Examples

Being a bird enthusiast, my son had to create his first spine poem with a book theme.

Today at the Bluebird Cafe
Cooking for the Birds
Bird Talk
Birdsongs
Cook-A-Doodle-Doo!

MORE: Classic Poems for Kids to Memorize

And his next spine poem celebrated his second favorite topic: transportation!

Along A Long Road
Go! Go! Go!
Five Trucks
Cars Galore

MORE: Funny Poems for Kids

I had a great fun creating spine poems, too!

Because Amelia Smiled
The Composer Is Dead
A Beasty Story
Some Things Are Scary

Admittedly, I had a little subversive fun with this activity!

MORE: Concrete Poetry for Kids

One the Day You Were Born
Something Special
Ten Little Fingers and Ten Little Toes
Children Make Terrible Pets

Balloons Over Broadway
Rainstorm
Pop!
Kapow!
The Terrible Plop

MORE: 8 Ways Poetry Calms Kids and Brings Joy to Families

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Picture Books

The Fog Catchers' Daughter by Marianne McShane. Eily's father is a Fog Catcher. Every year at midsummer he rows out to the isle of Lisnashee to collect the magic from the fog. Throught the year the Fog Catcher's magic fog water is used by the villagers and farmers for protection. This year Eily's father loses the charm that protects him from fairies on his journey to Lisnashee, and Eily must find a way to save him.

Too Many Fairies: A Celtic Tale. My 4-year-old loved this tale from master storyteller, Margaret Read MacDonald. When a little old lady grumbles over her chores a group of fairies come to relieve her, but they do not turn out to be as much help as they promised to be! The narrative contains some lovely repetitive devices that encourage listeners to interact with the story and I love that the moral of the tale is "Don't complain about your housework!"

Fiona's Luck by Teresa Bateman. In this popular Irish folktale picture book, Fiona is a clever, witty heroine who makes her own luck instead of relying on magic. She outsmarts the Leprechaun King who has locked all the luck in Ireland away in a chest. I particularly like the illustrations.

MORE: 50 folktales from around the world

O'Sullivan Stew by Hudson Talbott. Kate's village has been put under a curse by the witch of Crookhaven! Not to worry, this feisty, imaginative and clever Irish heroine manages to rescues them all with her smart, surprising and very humorous storytelling skills.

Rónán and the Mermaid: A Tale of Old Ireland by Marianne McShane. Irish storyteller McShane draws upon a medieval chronicle of Irish history for this tale. On the shore of Ireland, a monk finds a mysterious boy in a circle of seals. The boy speaks of being rescued by a golden-haired singing woman. As he regains his health, the boy plays a harp by the shore, longing to hear the mermaid's song again. When he meets the mermaid again, she has an unusual request.

MORE: Scottish Folktales

Tim O'Toole and the Wee Folk by Gerald McDermott. Poor Tim is shunned by his neighbors, but when he gets a magic gift he lets the McGoons trick him out of it. Fortunately, there is a group of leprechauns to help him change his fortune.

MORE: Picture books about Fairies and Wee Things

The Irish Cinderlad by Shirley Climo. In this Irish folktale version of Cinderella, an Irish lad with enormous feet runs away from his step family in order to slay dragons, giants and magical bulls! But after he rescues a princess he leaves behind one of his huge boots. Will the princess ever find him? Kids familiar with the classic Cinderella tale will love this Irish fairy tale.

Fin M'Coul: The Giant of Knockmany Hill. Tomie dePaola has several wonderful picture books that draw upon Irish legends and folklore such as Jamie O'Rourke and the Big Potato, but I will highlight only one here and you can get the rest from your library to round out your St. Patrick's Day book collection! When Fin the giant hears the fiercest giant in all the land is coming to fight him, he runs to his wife who concocts a clever plan. A tale full of gigantic humor.

MORE: Leprechaun Coloring Page

I see the world through Irish eyes, and they are smiling. --Denise Morrison

Anthologies

Tales from Old Ireland (with CD) by Malachy Doyle. I looked at a number of story collections for this list, but many of them had illustrations which were too scary for my kids. That was not the case with this Barefoot Books publication which also comes with 2 CDs. The second year we checked it out from the library we were sad that one disc was missing because the boys loved listening to the tales!

Sally Go Round The Stars: Favourite Rhymes from an Irish Childhood by Claire Ranson and Sarah Webb. I really love the illustrations in this book of Irish nursery rhymes, which is a great choice for younger kids. Many of the selections are familiar even to non-Irish children but others, like the one with a cat named Pangur Bán, will be new.

Tales from Celtic Lands by Caitlin Matthews. This collection of Celtic mythology, not only from Ireland, but also from Scotland, Wales and Brittany, and another good choice if you want to avoid scary illustrations.  It also comes with 2 CDs. I love collections which come with audio files because generally my kids want me to read these thick books straight through!

A Pot o' Gold: A Treasury of Irish Stories, Poetry, Folklore, and (of Course) Blarney by Kathleen Krull. I appreciated that this Irish folktales anthology contains not just stories, but poems, historical facts, recipes, Irish blessings, and other interesting tidbits It's also heavily illustrated.

The Happy Prince and Other Stories. Did you know Irish playwright Oscar Wilde also wrote tales for children? Younger children will certainly not understand much of the social commentary and satire in these stories and protective parents may wish to delay reading them until their children are older but whatever you decide, the stories will get conversations started, and that is always a good thing. 

Leprechauns and Irish Folklore by Mary Pope Osborne and Natalie Pope Osborne. The non-fiction companion guides to Magic Tree House are filled with fascinating information and will be irresistible to fans of Jack and Annie.

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When Mischief Came to Town by Katrina Nannestad is one of our family's favorite read aloud books! In early 20th century Denmark, an orphan girl meets her grandmother for the first time when she goes to live with her after the death of her mother. Inge Maria is a free spirit and even though trouble seems to follow her wherever she goes (hilarious trouble, to be sure) the townspeople and her grandmother can't help but fall utterly in love with her. I thought Nannestad masterfully handled Inge Maria's grief over her mother's death, her joyous attitude towards new experiences, and her headstrong imagination. If you are a fan of Anne of Green Gables, you will love this book.

The Adventures of Miss Petifour by Anne Michaels is a delightful collection of stories about the winsome Miss Pettifour and her sixteen cats, "Minky, Misty, Taffy, Purrsia, Pirate, Mustard, Moutarde, Hemdela, Earring, Grigorovitch, Clasby, Captain Captain, Captain Catkin, Captain Clothespin, Your Shyness and Sizzles." (My son loved reciting the names during their frequent appearances.) Miss Pettifour travels from place to place with the help of a large tablecloth and a burst of wind. Her cats go with her, hanging on in line formation.  Each of the quirky stories, such as the search for a missing postage stamp, or a trip to the jumble sale stand alone, for a satisfying read aloud session. The content is appropriate for all ages and lovely little drawings will charm everyone.

Firstborn is by Tor Seidler, the author of The Wainscott Weasel, one of our favorite read alouds of the year. Initially my 11 year old read this book and afterwards he pronounced it "awesome!", his younger brother insisted I read it. We actually ended up listening to it on audiobook, and my 7 year old and I agreed with the "awesome" assessment. Maggie the Magpie narrates the story of how she leaves her familiar home and meets a group of wolves. Maggie is impressed with the wolves and decides to cast her lot with them. Her description of the wolves' behavior is fascinating, as well as her admiration for one the the firstborn wolves, Lamar, who exhibits non-wolf like interests. This is a truly wonderful book for kids who are interested in the natural world, but the story also abounds in examples of the harsh realities of the natural world. So if you don't want to read about eating prey, premature death or the thrill of the hunt, this is not the book for you.

MORE: Animal themed novels (told from the animals' POV) for kids

The Penderwicks in Spring is the final installment in Jeanne Birdsall's The Penderwicks series. Start at the beginning if you haven't already done so, but if you have read the first three books you will enjoy this story, told primarily through the eyes of the youngest sister, Batty, and her brother, Ben. There is a new sibling, Lydia, the return of a few favorite friends, like Nick, Jeffery, and–at last–Tommy, as well as some light romantic developments. Batty starts a dog walking business to earn money for voice lessons, and comes to terms with secret feelings held by her sister, Skye. As I've said previously, The Penderwicks books are for those of you who like

MORE: Modern children's novels with old-fashioned charm

Hickory by Palmer Brown is a short and sweet novel that will be enjoyed by the youngest in your family as well as the oldest. Hickory, his brothers Dickory and Dock live with their parents in a grandfather clock. Hickory, however, longs to experience the outdoors. When spring comes he decides to explore the meadow and meets Hop the grasshopper. The two form a friendship and yet Hop tells Hickory that when the warm weather fades, so will the grasshopper's song. Hickory convinces Hop to set out with him so that they will always be warm, thus thwarting inevitable mortality. The ending is ambiguous but not scary, and instead provides fodder for conversation with the kids.

The Little Water Sprite is another sweet, relatively unknown classic from German author, Otfried Preussler (who was born in Czechoslovakia). The book begins with the birth of the Little Water Sprite and each chapter tells of a new adventure he has while learning and exploring in his little mill pond home. At first I thought my son would find this book dull, but he actually loved listening to the Water Sprite's pranks and his friendship with Cyprian the Carp. The roles played by Mother and Father Water Sprite are quite dated but no more than in any other classic tale.

Adventures with Waffles by Maria Parr. Trille and Lena are best friends in this Norwegian import. Or at least Trille thinks Lena is his best friend. He does frequently worry about that. But it doesn't stop the pair of them from getting into mischief. Lena has her own insecurities, especially her desire for a father. One of the things I especially enjoyed was the emphasis on intergenerational relationships, and–of course–Auntie Granny's delicious waffles.

Blue Mountain by Martine Leavitt is the story of Tuk, a bighorn sheep who has a vision of a blue mountain. When the valley where his tribe feeds in winter grows bare and domesticated sheep bring disease, Tuk decides to lead his fellow bighorn to the blue mountain. Some are doubtful of Tuk's promise of success and stay behind, but a small group of travelers set out to traverse a path beset with predators and dangers. Tuk manages to outwit bears and wolves and lead his followers in his hero's quest. With its poetical text and interesting characters, Blue Mountain is a great read aloud.

Twig by Elizabeth Orton Jones. This classic children's novel was a favorite of mine when I was a girl. With a few found objects, Twig transforms her corner of Chicago into an imaginary, fairytale world. A little Elf comes out of a book and shrinks her down to size so she can join the fairies for a while. So sweet and charming, it's hard not to love this book. A great read aloud for fairy-loving kids.

MORE: Classic Children's Books You Haven't Read–Yet!

The Birthday Ball by Lois Lowry. Princess Patricia Priscilla is bored with her life, and a bit spoiled. She is horrified at the idea of her impending 16th birthday ball, at which she she will be required to choose a husband. She swaps clothes with her maid and spends the next several days attending the local school. This is a highly entertaining story in which everyone seems to have a good time; there is lots of delightful word play and plenty of quirky characters to keep the family laughing. When I read The Birthday Ball aloud to my 7-year-old, he got quite a kick out of it and had a grand time laughing at the foibles of the characters, especially the ridiculous suitors.

MORE: 100 of the Funniest Funny Chapter Books for Kids

The Story of Diva and Flea by Mo Willems and illustrated by Tony DiTerlizziis a delightfully charming story, if you need a short chapter book to read to younger kids. In Paris, the adventurous Flea convinces the intimidated Diva to take a trip around the city to explore the wonder of life outside on the streets. Then Diva assures Flea that inside an apartment isn't so scary and the two friends embrace how much greater their world is now, for knowing each other.

The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame is a a classic which needs little introduction from me. We have always enjoyed reading chapters from this book outside in the summer, but if you have a garden head outside with a copy when the weather loses the last of the winter chill.

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MORE: Big List of Picture Book Biographies of Women Who Changed History: scientists, performers, writers and more! Read these books during Women's History Month, and all year long.

Picture Books about Women's Suffrage

Learn about the women who fought for the right to vote.

Miss Paul and the President: The Creative Campaign for Women's Right to Vote by Dean Robbins, illustrated by Nancy Zhang. Alice Paul, a suffragette and activist organized a protest outside the White House during Wilson's administration. She led parades, went to jail and even met with the president himself. Her creative tactics helped pave the way for the 19th amendment.

I Could Do That!: Esther Morris Gets Women the Vote by Linda Arms White, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter. Introduce your daughters and sons to the spunky Esther Morris, who from her childhood never forgot that "she could do that, too." Not a lot is known about the personal life of Morris, who was an important figure in Wyoming suffrage politics and eventually became a judge, but this picture book gives an entertaining take on what it might be like to be an outspoken female in the 19th century.

Around America to Win the Vote: Two Suffragists, a Kitten, and 10,000 Miles by Mara Rockliff, illustrated by Hadley Hooper. A fun picture book about two women, Nell Richardson and Alice Burke, who travelled across the country with a kitten, and a typewriter to spread the message that women should have the right to vote.

Elizabeth Started All the Trouble by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Matt Faulkner. The book starts with a sort of prologue starring Abigail Adams who issues a warning to her husband that if women were not included in the new laws for the United States they would start their own revolution. The story then skips ahead to 1840 when Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott start that very revolution.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Women Performers

Picture Books about Women Activists

These tireless women could not tolerate sitting idly by in the face of injustice. They are roll models any child can look up to.

Yours for Justice, Ida B. Wells: The Daring Life of a Crusading Journalist by Philip Dray, illustrated Stephen Alcorn. In post-Civil War America, anti-lynching activist Wells was one of the first successful Black Americans to win a legal battle in court. She wrote tirelessly against Jim Crow laws and refused to back down, even in the face of threats to her life.

The Mother of a Movement by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Sam Kalda. Jeanne Manford was a true mama bear! In 1972, after her son was beaten by police for handing out leaflets calling for gay rights, Manford wrote a letter to the New York Times professing unconditional support for her child. She organized a march and founded PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) to help motivate others to support the LGBTQ community.

MORE: Picture Books about LGBTQ History

Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer: The Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Ekua Holmes. Poems tell the story of Fannie Lou Hamer's life, from her childhood as a sharecropper to her life as an activist. The text is emotional and doesn't gloss over Fannie's hardships; the collage illustrations are stunning.

Malala Yousafzai: Warrior With Words by Karen Leggett Abouraya, illustrated by L. C. Wheatley is a biography of the young Nobel Peace Prize recipient. Malala has become an inspiring voice for peace and education and even though her story is frightening at times, this is a good, age appropriate picture book.

Malala is one of the fearless women on our printable women card coloring pages. Check out all 8 of our featured women cards!

Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909 by Michelle Markel, illustrated by Melissa Sweet. Clara comes to NYC dirt poor but full of grit. She works a miserable, backbreaking job at a garment factory. An extraordinary individual, she taught herself to read and led the largest walkout of women workers in U.S. History, despite being beaten and jailed for participating in labor strikes. Markel tells a valuable story of the history of women workers and the importance of fair labor practices, a story which still resonates today.

MORE: Picture Books about Protest and Civil Disobedience

Coretta Scott by Ntozake Shange, illustrated by Kadir Nelson. Here is a wonderful, lyrical recounting of the civil rights leader and wife of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Shange's words remind the reader of Scott's individuality, and the addition of Kadir Nelson's illustrations bring the story to life. An important addition to any classroom study of King.

MORE: Books about the Civil Rights Movement

Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers by Sarah Warren, illustrated by Robert Casilla. Warren portrays Huerta in her many roles as teacher, parent, protester and more. Her strength and determination to help the farmworkers led her to help organize a strike so they could achieve better working conditions and fair treatment under the law. The book includes great supplemental information in the afterward.

MORE: Books about the History of Labor

Stand as Tall as the Trees, Patricia Gualinga and Laura Resau, illustrated by Vanessa Jaramillo. As a child, co-author Patricia Gualinga lived in Sarayaku, inside the Ecuadorian rainforest. Her mother taught her that humans are connected to nature and to the forest. She describes how, as an adult, she and members of the Indigenous Kichwa went to the Court of Human Rights as part of their campaign to stop oil companies from taking over parts of the rainforest. Spoiler alert: they win. This is a gorgeous, well-written book about a crucial and timely issue.

MORE: Picture Books about the Environment

Write On, Mercy!: The Secret Life of Mercy Otis Warren by Gretchen Woelfle, illustrated by Alexandra Wallner. I love the story of Mercy because not only did she become an accomplished writer and political thinker before, during and after the American Revolution, she was surrounded by men who encouraged and valued her contributions, despite the prevalent belief that woman's role was to cook and sew.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Women Writers

Harlem's Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills by Renée Watson, illustrated by Christian Robinson is the story of singer Florence Mills, who used her fame to fight for civil rights in the 1920s. She was well-known for her compassion for the less fortunate and for helping to advance the careers other African-American performers who faced profound racism.

Red Bird Sings: The Story of Zitkala-Sa, Native American Author, Musician, and Activist by Q. L. Pearce, illustrated by Gina Capaldi. Zitkala-Sa, left her home on the Yankton Sioux reservation in South Dakota to go to school in Indiana where she found solace in music. This picture book biography tells her story from her struggles due to being separated from her traditional culture, discovering her love of music as a child, to her activism on behalf of Native Americans.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Women Musicians

Jovita Wore Pants: The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter by Aida Salazar, illustrated Molly Mendoza. Growing up in rural Mexico in the 1910s, Jovita hated being forced to wear big skirts. So she fashioned her skirts into a pair of pants and went exploring with her brothers. When her father and brothers joined the Cristeros as part of the Mexican revolution, Jovita longed to join them. She eventually becomes involved, but the revolution brings tragedy to Jovita's family. Jovita does not back down, dressing "as Juan" and leading an army of peasants against the government. Back matter includes a lengthy and informative author's note.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Hispanic and Latino Luminaries

Aani and the Tree Huggers by Jeannine Atkins, illustrated by Venantius J Pinto. Atkins was inspired to write this book by events that took place in 1970, in India. Villagers protested the cutting down of their venerated trees by holding on to them. In this story, Aani, a young girl, leads the fight to protect the trees from tree-cutters who have official orders to cut them down. The trees are a source of food, shelter and comfort for the villagers. This is an interesting book to talk to kids about the many forms of protest. It's not always a march or a strike. It could be—literally—tree-hugging.

Picture Books about First Ladies

First ladies of the United States did not sit idly by while their husbands conducted business. Whether their contributions were political, social or cultural, many first ladies expressed a fierce devotion to making their country better for everyone.

Kids' Guide to America's First Ladies by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Anna DiVito. This is not a picture book, but I found it an excellent resource and goes beyond the dry facts of each women's life as first lady. Each woman's section can be read with your child as a discreet unit if you prefer. Includes first ladies through 2017.

Amelia and Eleanor Go for a Ride by Pam Muñoz Ryan, illustrated by Brian Selznick. I love this book which captures Eleanor Roosevelt's adventurous, convention-defying spirit. In 1933, two risk-loving women sneak away from a stuffy dinner party and go for the ride in the sky! Brian Selznick's black and white pencil illustrations capture the era perfectly.

Dolley Madison Saves George Washington  by Don Brown. Dolley was a popular first lady, whom many underestimated and lazily wrote off as a "socialite." It was Dolley, however, who stepped up to the plate as the soldiers fled the White House during the War of 1812 and rescued valuable state papers from the mansion, as well as the now-famous portrait of the first Commander-in-Chief. This book is great fun but also a serious look at the importance of courage.

Miss Lady Bird's Wildflowers: How a First Lady Changed America by Kathi Appelt, illustrated by Joy Fisher Hein. A picture book biography of Lady Bird Johnson's life and dedication to bringing the beauty of nature to America, including her role in the Highway Beautification Act.

When Jackie Saved Grand Central: The True Story of Jacqueline Kennedy's Fight for an American Icon by Natasha Wing, illustrated by Alexandra Boiger. Jackie Kennedy may have been a style icon, but she had grit and determination to make the world beautiful. This biography focuses onJackie Kennedy Onassis' role in the campaign to keep Grand Central from going the way of Penn Station.

Picture Books about Women Candidates and Legislators

Women run for office, serve the public as representatives and senators. This sampling of biographies tell the stories of these trailblazing politicians.

She Was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm by Katheryn Russell-Brown, illustrated by Eric Velasquez. Russell-Brown's engaging biography of Chisholm narrates her journey from a young child with a talent for leadership to her life in politics. Readers will learn about how her experiences growing up in Barbados and New York influenced her desire to make change and fight on behalf of others. With the growing diversity in high political offices, this is an important read for children to learn about the long trajectory of the fight for representation and justice.

Hillary Rodham Clinton: Some Girls are Born to Lead by Michelle Markel, illustrated by LeUyen Pham. There are several picture book biographies about Hillary Clinton, I like this one as it offers an inspiring and positive message in the way it focuses on Hillary's journey in leadership, service and activism as a girl, young adult and grown woman in education, the law and politics. I also love Pham's appealing illustrations, especially the final pages which show Hillary in a group of her fellow inspiring female leaders.

Ballots for Belva: The True Story of a Woman's Race for the Presidency by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, illustrated by Courtney Martin. A fun biography of a woman who ran for president in 1884. Belva Lockwood was a determined woman. When her law degree was denied she appealed directly to President Grant and won. She argued a case before the Supreme Court, and she had the audacity to run for the highest office at a time when women couldn't even vote.

Sharice's Big Voice: A Native Kid Becomes a Congresswoman by Sharice Davids & Nancy K. Mays, illustrated by Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley. Sharice Davids, a member of the Ho-Chunk nation, became one of the first female Native American representatives in the U.S. Congress. In this memoir picture book, Davids describes her path growing up as a person who always looked for ways to serve others. After a time where she studied martial arts, worked in customer service and gave back to her community, she went to law school, eventually deciding to run for congress in the state of Kansas.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Native Americans

Phemonenal AOC: The Roots and Rise of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez by Anika Aldamuy Denise, illustrated by Loris Lora. While she may be a lighting rod for political arguments with your neighbor, this thoughtful and inspiring biography of Ocasio-Cortez, or "AOC" brings her humanity to the foreground. Growing up in suburban New York, AOC quickly noticed how few people in the community looked like her family, and that there were strong disparities of resources between neighborhoods, depending on the wealth of their inhabitants. She worked hard to succeed in school, got involved in activism and politics, and eventually became the youngest elected member of the House of Representatives.

Madam President: Five Women Who Paved the Way by Nichola D. Gutgold, and Abigail S. Kennedy, illustrated by Jane Ramsey. The book includes the stories of Margaret Chase Smith, Shirley Chisholm, Patricia Schroeder, Elizabeth Dole, and Hillary Clinton.

Picture Books about Women Lawyers and Judges

I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley. I love this charming book about how Ginsburg never stopped disagreeing with ideas that put women and other underprivileged persons at a disadvantage.

Sonia Sotomayor: A Judge Grows in the Bronx / La juez que crecio en el Bronx by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Edel Rodriguez. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor's story will inspire everyone. The book follows Sonia as she grows up in poverty in the Bronx and gets an education. The book has a great, positive message and emphasizes how important it is to be surrounded by supportive friends and family.

When Esther Morris Headed West, Women, Wyoming and the Right to Vote by Connie Nordhielm Woldridge, illustrated by Jacqueline Rogers. If you made it to the end of this list congratulations, you probably noticed this is the second book about Ester Morris. I didn't know if I should include her under suffragettes or judges (women never stay in pat little boxes, do they?) so I thought what the heck, I'll just do both. This book focuses more on Morris in Wyoming rather than her childhood, but both books are worth reading.

The post Children's Books about Women in Politics and Women Activists appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

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MORE: Big List of Picture Book Biographies for Women's History Month - includes biographies of women in the arts, social sciences and more!

Natural Scientists and Biologists

Read and learn about women trailblazers who worked as doctors, naturalists, oceanographers, environmentalists and biologists.

The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath by Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated y Daniel Rieley. This is a wonderful biography Dr. Bath, who made significant contributions to medicine, including a treatment for blindness. Written in rhyme, the narrative flows well and the illustrations are engaging. End material, including a letter from Dr. Bath, photographs, a timeline and further details about Dr. Bath's life and work make this biography extra special.

Who Says Women Can't Be Doctors?: The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell by Tanya Lee Stone, illustrated by Marjorie Priceman. This fun picture biography brings to life a woman who persistently followed her goals and broke 19th century barriers to be allowed into medical school, faced the rejection of her fellow students and then her colleagues, all the while proving she was smarter than they were. I love the vibrant, energetic illustrations.

Just Wild Enough: Mireya Mayor, Primatologist by Marta Magellan, illustrated by Clémentine Rocheron. Cuban-American Mireya Mayor grew up in Miami with a passion for animals and dance. Eventually becoming a primatologist, she struggled to be taken seriously when others judged her based on her appearance. She became the first woman wildlife TV reporter for National Geographic and discovered a new species of lemur in Madagascar. I particularly loved how this biography emphasized that scientists can have lots of different interests.

MORE: Biographies of Latinx and Hispanic Luminaries

Life in the Ocean: The Story of Oceanographer Sylvia Earle by Claire A. Nivola. This book starts out with the quiet "investigations" of a girl watching a pond. When her family moves to Florida, Slyvia Earle starts her investigations of the Gulf of Mexico. Earle's love for the ocean and its life drift off the page, and this is a surprisingly moving book with lovely detailed illustrations that invite explore. It's a wonderful book to start a conversation with your kids, not only about the importance of ocean life to the planet, but how one's own interest can lead to a greater purpose.

MORE: Nonfiction Books about the Ocean and Marine Life

The Watcher: Jane Goodall's Life with the Chimps by Jeanette Winter. Winter's picture book biographies, with her spare but deliberate illustrative style, are very readable. Winter describes the out-of-the-box research and life of Jane Goodall and kids will come away with a richer understanding of what being a primatologist (and "a watcher") really is. For another Goodall biography, read Me . . . Jane by Patrick McDonnell.

The Tree Lady: The True Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever by H. Joseph Hopkins, illustrated by Jill McElmurry. In 1881, Katherine Olivia Sessions was the first woman to graduate from the University of California with a degree in natural science. After moving to a nearly tree-less city in San Diego, she advocated and spearheaded a campaign that transformed the area to a lush green land. I hope Sessions's story inspires other kids to make a difference in their community.

MORE: Books about Women in Politics and Women Activists

Summer Birds: The Butterflies of Maria Merian by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Julie Paschkis. One of the first known female naturalists, 13-year-old Maria has to catch and study insects in secret otherwise her 17th Century neighbors will accuse her of witchcraft. The metamorphosis of butterflies and moths, or “summer birds,” was not well-understood at the time and such creatures were considered “beasts of the devil.”

Rachel Carson and Her Book That Changed the World by Laurie Lawlor, illustrated by Laura Beingessner. Rachel Carson's groundbreaking book, Silent Spring, was a wake up call about the impact our use of chemicals has on the environment. Lawlor's biography looks at Carson's life from the beginning through the publication of her iconic work.

MORE: Books to Inspire Care for the Environment

Mama Miti: Wangari Maathai and the Trees of Kenya by Donna Jo Napoli, illustrated by Kadir Nelson. In 2004, Wangari Maathai was the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition for her work restoring trees to Kenya. Maathai’s story emphasizes the importance and cooperation of an extended community of women, and will make kids aware of the power of individuals to bring positive, long-lasting global change. As always, Kadir Nelson’s illustrations are stunning.

Wangari is one of the fearless women on our women cards coloring page! Click here to print the women cards coloring page for free!

The Elephant Scientist by Caitlin O'Connell and Donna M. Jackson, photography by Caitlin O'Connell and Timothy Rodwell. This book is a text-heavy book suitable for kids 8 and up, or for younger kids who may have an intense interest in elephants. Scientist Caitlin O'Connell studied elephants in Africa and made important discoveries about their behavior and how they communicate with each other. This is actually a really fascinating book, full of information not just about O'Connell, but about elephants and their habitat.  Adults will enjoy reading it just as much as the kids.

MORE: Middle Grade Books for Women's History Month

Women Inventors and Engineers

In addition to the selected books below, view our full list of biographies of women inventors, and inspire your kids with these fiction picture books about little inventors.

Classified: The Secret Career of Mary Golda Ross, Cherokee Aerospace Engineer by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Natasha Donovan. Guided by her Cherokee heritage and principles, Mary Golda Ross spent her life striving to excel. In school, she was the only female in her math class, which simply spurred her on even more. During WWII she worked on aircraft design and afterwards she was instrumental in developing secret projects at Lockheed. I hope this children's biography of Mary Golda Ross becomes part of every classroom's STEM curriculum!

The World is Not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid by Jeanette Winter. Born in Iraq, and educated in London, Hadid designed intriguing buildings around the world. As a Muslim woman, the road was not easy and she had to overcome the hurdle of prejudice. This biography is written simply, making it a great choice for the early elementary set. Make sure to look at photographs of Hadid's beautiful buildings, too.

Maya Lin: Artist-Architect of Light and Lines by Jeanne Walker Harvey, illustrator Dow Phumiruk. This beautifully illustrated picture book tells the story of Chinese-American Maya Lin, the architect and artist who created the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. It traces her journey from a girl who was fascinated by nature, building and learning about the art of structures to the college student who enters a contest to design the Memorial. An author's note gives further information.

Marvelous Mattie: How Margaret E. Knight Became an Inventor by Emily Arnold McCully. Mattie started inventing things when she was just a girl. She figured out how to make faster sleds, better kites and when she was twelve, she invented a device to protect loom workers. She also invented a machine to manufacture paper bags. The illustrations in this book are wonderful, flowing watercolors are accompanied by blueprint like drawings of Mattie's inventions.

Girls Think of Everything: Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women by Catherine Thimmesh, illustrated by Melissa Sweet is actually not a 32 page picture book biography but I am sneaking it onto the list anyway. This book is a collection of stories about fascinating women and their inventions. Ages 8 and up.

Women Mathematicians, Physicists and Chemists

Nothing Stopped Sophie: The Story of Unshakable Mathematician Sophie Germain by Cheryl Bardoe, illustrated by Barbara McClintock. Despite the efforts of others, Sophie Germain was determined to pursue her interest in mathematics. Nothing, not even the French Revolution, could stop her. Her resilience and perseverance paid off and her work led to predicting vibration patterns, used later in architectural design.

Listening to the Stars: Jocelyn Bell Burnell Discovers Pulsars by Jodie Parachini, illustrated by Alexandra Badiu. This lyrical biography of Irish astrophysicist tells the story of how Burnell fought back against educators who insisted women couldn't study physics and went on to a successful career, leading to her discovery of how pulsing sound wave comes from a neutron star.

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly, illustrated by Laura Freeman. This is the story of four amazing mathematicians, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden, who contributed to NASA's success by providing important calculations. But it wasn't easy and they had to overcome strong racial and gender barriers to succeed.

How to Hear the Universe by Patricia Valdez, illustrated by Sara Palacios. This is a fun biography about Gabby González that also introduces young kids to Albert Einstein’s theory about ripples in space-time (bet you didn't see that coming)! Decades after Einstein, González immigrated to the U.S. from Argentina, became fascinated by Einstein's theory, and set out to prove it.

Look Up!: Henrietta Leavitt, Pioneering Woman Astronomer by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Raúl Colón. This book focuses on the intellectual life of woman who is now considered one of the most important astronomers. After she graduated, she got a job at Harvard Observatory, where–with other women–she counted stars for the male astronomers. However, Leavitt made discoveries about star brightness and distance calculations that made the other astronomers realize her value. Colon's illustrations are top notch, as usual.

Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine by Laurie Wallmark, illustrated by April Chu. I love this illustrated biography of a woman who has recently been "discovered" as the first computer programmer. The daughter of the notorious poet, Lord Byron, Ada's math-loving mother raised her away from her. Ada has an inquisitive, curious mind and when she meets Charles Babbage (who invented the first mechanical computer), it is Ada who figures out how to program it. A fascinating and gorgeous book with fun details that will fascinate children.

Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code by Laurie Wallmark, illustrated by Katy Wu. From and early age, Hopper loved to figure out how things worked. Encouraged by her parents to study math and science, despite the domination of the field by men, Hopper's curious mind helped her persevere and her strength of mind led her to enlist in WAVES, the women’s division of the Naval Reserve, during WWII. Hopper remained in the Navy until she was 80 (!) solving incredibly complex computer programming problems.

Margaret and the Moon: How Margaret Hamilton Saved the First Lunar Landing by Dean Robbins, illustrated by Lucy Knisley. Margaret Hamilton grew up from being a curious girl who loved to solve problems to an MIT graduate who worked for NASA. She wrote a computer code that could solve any problem a spacecraft would encounter (which sounds like an impossible feat to me!)

MORE: Books about the Moon Landing

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed, illustrated by Stasia Burrington. Not as text heavy as many picture book biographies, this is a wonderful book about the first African-American in space, Mae Jemison. The narrative focuses on the young Mae and her dreams to see the earth from space. When she learns she needs to be an astronaut to go into space, she learns as much as she can about the stars and what it takes to be an astronaut. Her parents encourage her to dream big, even in the face of others' skepticism.

MORE: Nonfiction Books about Space

Of Numbers and Stars: The Story of Hypatia by D. Anne Love, illustrated by Pam Paparone. In the 4th century Egypt, Hypatia, the daughter of a mathematician, received the kind of education most women were denied. The story follows Hypatia from childhood as her father dedicates himself to teaching her everything he knows, from activities like fishing, to the importance of grammar. When she grew up, men and women alike sought her advice on many topics. Fortunately, Hypatia's death at the hands of a mob is relegated to the author's note so that kids can focus on her learning and accomplishments.

The post Picture Books about Women Scientists and Women in STEM appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

Be sure to check out the companion list, middle grade books by black authors. You can read more about the diversity gap in children's literature here.

(Note: this post contains affiliate links that earn from qualifying purchases.)

Crown: Ode to the Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James

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I absolutely love this book and its energetic illustrations. A strong, rhythmic text describes a boy going into the barbershop and the experience of getting a new, fresh haircut, and all the excitement that surrounds the possibilities of what a new haircut might bring–like a glance from a girl, or acing an exam.

My Block Looks Like by Janelle Harper, illustrated by Frank Morrison

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This buoyant, poetic book reads like a musical celebration of neighborhood joys like street art, corner stores, playgrounds and spontaneous, friendly meet-ups. A great read aloud choice, this book will prompt your kids to head outdoors to explore their own communities.

Max and the Tag-Along Moon by Floyd Cooper

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This story reminds me so much of my childhood, when I would watch the moon from the car window just like Max! After he says goodbye to his Grandpa, Max watches the moon following him during the car ride home. The moon passes behind trees, over bridges, along the ridge of hills. He wonders if the moon will always be there for him, just like his Grandpa told him it would be. Floyd Cooper's illustrations are gorgeous.

MORE: Imaginative picture books starring the moon

Tar Beach by Faith Ringold

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One hot summer evening, a family picnics on the roof of their Harlem apartment. A young girl imagines coasting through the starry sky on a blanket with her brother over the George Washington Bridge, which her father helped build. The girl optimistically dreams of her own future and the possibilities ahead. Ringgold’s gorgeous illustrations are quilts come to life.

The World Belonged to Us by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Leo Espinosa

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I love this joyous book about the pleasures of an old fashioned summer in the city. Fire hydrants spray water in the streets, kids play tag, jump rope, and get treats from the ice cream truck. Set in Brooklyn, the bouncing refrain and the smiles on the children's faces are pure delight.

MORE: Delightful Summertime Picture Books

Nigel and the Moon by Antwan Eady, illustrated by Gracey Zhang

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Nigel loves to look at the moon and imagine the person he could become, but he fears that he might not be able to achieve all that he hopes. With career day on the horizon, Nigel worries that his parents' jobs aren't glamorous enough. However, he is pleasantly surprised when his classmates show a keen interest in his parents' jobs and Nigel gains the confidence to share his own dreams with others. A wonderful, wonderful book!

Meet Danitra Brown by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Floyd Cooper

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These exuberant poems are narrated by a young girl, Zuri Jackson, about her best friend, Danitra. It's a joyful ode to a friend. It would be a great writing project for kids, too -- to have them write poems about their friends.

MORE: Diverse Poetry Picture Books

Rocket Says Look Up! by Nathan Bryon, illustrated by Dapo Adeola

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I adored this picture book about a girl named Rocket who aspires to be the universe's greatest astronaut. Rocket is especially enthusiastic about the upcoming Phoenix meteor shower. She invites the community and prepares for the event, sharing astronomical information with the reader. When the big day comes, her brother is charged with looking after her, but he spends most of his time during the story looking down at his phone. Will he ever look up from the enticing device?

MORE: Picture Books about Screen-Free Play

Keep Your Head Up by Aliya King Neil, illustrated by Charly Palmer

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I was blown away by this book. The narrative teaches kids that even when we have extra lousy days and our moods seem to control us, we can show ourselves grace and forgive ourselves. D is having a bad day. Everything seems to be going wrong and his frustrations eventually leads to a meltdown at school. But D reminds himself to "keep his head up" because everyone can have a bad day. A fantastic book for social emotional learning. Truly wonderful and a must for every child’s bookshelf. 

Looking for Bongo by Eric Velasquez

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This book, featuring an Afro-Latino family, is absolutely delightful. A boy is looking for his missing stuffed toy and he asks everyone around him for help. His family's answers are sprinkled with Spanish words and the decor of the house reflects the cultural background of the family. Preschoolers will love spotting clues to find the real culprit of Bongo's disappearance.

MORE: 42 Books about Strong and Gentle Boys

Just Us Women by Jeannette Caines, illustrated by Pat Cummings

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I love this book so much. The story follows a girl and her aunt making a road trip, just the two of them. The girl describes the joyful experience of being about to make stops and see the sights on their own schedule. They can buy all the "junk" they want at flea markets, and eat dinner at the restaurant of their choosing. The pace of the book is leisurely and it may just make your kids want to head out on the road.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies about African-American Women

My Hair is a Garden by Cozbi A. Cabrera

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Mackenzie's classmates tease her about her unruly hair, but she finds comfort and direction from her neighbor, Miss Tillie. I love the way Mackenzie learns to treasure her black hair. In the endnotes, there is even a hair care guide and recipes for natural hair products.

MORE: Children's Books about Hair

Mommy's Khimar by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, illustrated by Ebony Glenn

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A young girl admires the scarves her mother wears. She takes joy in looking through the closet, dancing with them, trying them on and imagining the possibilities of how she will wear her own. No matter what the reader's background, every child will see themselves in the young narrator as she celebrates the khimar and the loving relationship she has with her mother.

MORE: Picture books with Muslim characters

Shortcut by Donald Crews

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Crews is best known for his iconic Freight Train book. I love this picture book about a group of kids who decide to take a shortcut by the train tracks on their way home. They have fun playing along the tracks, all the while acknowledging that they perhaps should have gone the usual way!

Max Found Two Sticks by Brian Pinkney

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Show your kids than anyone can create a rhythm. A boy starts to beat out musical patterns with two sticks he finds during a breezy day. He taps out the sounds he hears around him in rhythmic patterns. Read it aloud to kids and encourage them to tap out or voice their own musical patterns. Pinkney is primarily known as an illustrator and often partners with his author wife Andrea Davis Pinkney who has many several spectacular history picture books (her books are on the lists featured below).

Note: Most, but not all, of these books also have Black illustrators. I wrestled over whether or not to include the ones with non-Black illustrators, but just loved them too, too much not to put them on the list. It wouldn't have been a list of favorites without them.

The post 15 Favorite Children's Picture Books by Black Authors appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

This list includes a variety of journals that encourage young writers, from journals where they can explore their creativity to journals with prompts that encourage mindfulness and build emotional intelligence.

(Note: this post contains affiliate links that earn from qualifying purchases.)

Q & A a Day for Kids: A Three-Year Journal. I first saw this in the New York Public Library's gift store (a dangerous place for my wallet) and fell in love. It might be my favorite of all the journals collected here. Each page features a question with space below designated for a child to write his answer for three consecutive years. It will be so much fun to see the different answers as time passes, and children will get a sense of how their tastes, interests and lives have changed and grown.

TIP: I had one writer and one pre-writer when I first got this book. For the pre-writer I wrote down his answers myself. I love looking back at them!

Wreck This Journal. This one is not specifically for kids, but I they will love it, and is great for active kids who may not want to "sit down and write." Each page has instructions to get journalists to be destructively productive! Creative prompts include things like, "poke holes in this page with a pencil", "figure out a way to attach these two pages together", "draw a line while in motion." This journal would be great fun for kids who are full of restless energy.

Choose Kind Journal: Do One Wonderful Thing Every Day. Drawing on the popularity of the book, Wonder, this journal encourages children to write down their thoughts about showing compassion for others. Each day asks a question about showing kindness, or how the child has being on the receiving end of another's kind deed, and provides quotes from Wonder as inspiration.

642 Things to Write About: Young Writer's Edition. This is a writing journal that will last a long time! It is also a great choice for voracious writers. Creative writing prompts encourage kids to let their imagination run wild and the space allowed for writing varies from full to quarter pages.

Me: A Compendium: A Fill-in Journal for Kids This is an excellent writing journal for children who are daunted by the idea of writing large amounts of text. The journal's bold graphic design invites the young writer to answer simple, but creative questions, giving them the option to expand upon their thoughts or to illustrate their ideas. It is also a good choice for very young writers.

Reading Journal for Kids (Who Love to Read). This stellar reading journal is from Melissa Taylor, the educator and literacy specialist behind the blog, Imagination Soup. What sets this journal apart from other reading journals, and the reason why I've included it on this list of writing journals that encourage self-reflection, is the inventiveness and variety of the writing prompts which encourage kids to think creatively and critically about the books they have read. We know that reading builds emotional intelligence and being able to think critically about books can help kids understand their own emotional reactions to stories.

My Stuffed Animal Journal. Does your child have a huge collection of stuffed animals? The Stuffed Animal Journal is a clever way to keep track of soft friends and for kids to harness their imagination to write stories starring their favorite plushies. Each stuffed animal gets a dedicated two pages with space for kids to draw a portrait, record vitals, favorites and give a little background about the lives of their favorite friends.

This Smash Mini Folio is such a fun idea and a perfect way for kids to keep all those oh-so-important souvenirs and bits of ephemera they seem to be so good at collecting. Kids "smash" objects between the pages for safe keeping with the special glue tipped marker. It doesn't include extensive prompts like many of the other journals on this list, but it is great for kids who may prefer scrapbooking over writing.

My Travel Journal. If your children have trouble writing about their travel adventures without specific writing prompts, this is a good travel journal option.

Rip the Page!: Adventures in Creative Writing contains writing prompts and inspiration to get kids writing in unusual and creative ways. I highly recommend it for kids ages 7 and up (the publisher recommends ages 9 and up). The author also  wrote a companion book, Leap Write In!: Adventures in Creative Writing to Stretch and Surprise Your One-of-a-Kind Mind.

Journal Sparks: Fire Up Your Creativity with Spontaneous Art, Wild Writing, and Inventive Thinking. This is not actually a journal but a companion book to encourage journalist to combine writing with art to explore how to express themselves. The book contains extensive how-to instructions for interactive journaling, using poetry, collage, watercolor, free writing and more.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention the economy standby composition book. You can buy the traditional black, ruled book for under $5, or you can even get 100% Recycled Paper version. If your kids decorate it with stickers, collage items or cover it with their art, it gives them a sense of ownership and encourages them to crack the spine and start writing.

I shall leave this post with a page from my son's journal from age 4. Its insanity still makes me smile.

The post Journals for Kids that Develop Emotional Intelligence appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

Whether your children's interest lies in science and invention, or they prefer arts and crafts, or if playing games has captured their hearts, you will find the perfect book on this list of unique kids activity books.

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General Activity Books

The Toddler's Busy Book: 365 Creative Games and Activities to Keep Your 1 ½- to 3-Year-Old Busy by Trish Kuffner. This toddler activity book has been a lifesaver for parents (including me!) ever since it was published. As this book demonstrates, you don't need elaborate activity ideas to keep toddlers content.  There is also a preschool version of the book!

Amazing Leonardo da Vinci Inventions: You Can Build Yourself by Maxine Anderson. Mix history and boredom-busting with this unique activity book that inspires kids to imagine themselves as the greatest inventor of all time: Leonardo da Vinci! Will they build shoes that walk on water, a flying machine, paint a timeless portrait? They can do all that and more while at the same time examining da Vinci's drawings and learning about his life.

What Can I Do?: Inspiring Activities for Creative Kids by Mary Richards. This pint-sized book has over 70 activities for bored kids. What I like best is the variety of options. There are ideas for kids who need quiet time, activities for play, and choices for kids who want to spend time with friends and family.

The Highlights Book of Things to Do: Discover, Explore, Create, and Do Great Things by Highlights. If your kids won't be overwhelmed by being presented with 500 things to do, this is a great book from the activity experts at Highlights. Indoor, outdoor, arts, crafts, science, cooking and more categories will keep your kids busy for years.

Play with Us: 100 Games from Around the World by Oriol Ripoli. You'll probably have to get this out-of-print gem from the library, but it's worth it! If you love our DIY traditional games, you will get tons of use out of this activity book. Kids will learn how to play games from around the world. Many can be played indoors or outdoors so no matter what kind of weather you are having your children won't be bored!

MORE: If you can't find Play with Us at the library, visit the hub of our traditional games from around the world to make and play your own!

Exploring Books Through Play: 50 Activities Based on Books About Friendship, Acceptance and Empathy. This book is a collaboration by a group of educators who strongly believe that play is the foundation of learning. For each of 10 picture books focusing on values such as taking care of one another, or how to be a good friend, the authors provide playful activities as a point of entrance into talking about the books' themes. Bonus: learn how to use books to inspire kids to serve others!

Science Activity Books

STEAM Kids. I helped write a book! My co-authors and I have gathered 52 STEAM projects for kids ages 4-10. The book focuses on ideas that can easily be done at home. There are math art ideas, nature studies, technology explorations and more. Be wowed by magically inventive, wild and wonderful projects with clear instructions and colorful how-to photos.  BUY: eBook |  Amazon Print | UK/EU customers only: eBook

STEAM Play & Learn: 20 fun step-by-step preschool projects about science, technology, engineering, arts, and math! by Ana Dziengel. I adore the projects in this book, and they are truly for preschoolers. Preschoolers learn best through play but that doesn't mean they can't explore STEAM subjects like science, math and engineering! There are 20 projects, ranging from ideas with little parental involvement to experiments that require more supervision. Best of all, they all have that WOW factor that is oh-so-important to keep preschoolers happy!

MORE: The best science project books for preschool

The Curious Kid's Science Book: 100+ Creative Hands-On Activities for Ages 4-8 by Asia Citro. Maybe you think you don't know how to do science projects at home. I mean, aren't they complicated and require lots of specialty items? No! This book is chock full of ideas that don't require a PhD to do and understand. Plus, the author gives a clear explanation of how to use the scientific method to encourage kids to ask lots of questions as they explore scientific principals in entertaining ways.

Art Activity Books

Tangle Art and Drawing Games for Kids: A Silly Book for Creative and Visual Thinking by Jeanette Nyberg. Oh how I love this book. Truth be told, the title should be "for Kids and Grown-Ups" because I have used this book so many times as inspiration for my art journal! This drawing book is such a great boredom buster because kids can play-draw together. There are lots of suggestions for multiple person drawing games, like synchronized drawing. Nyberg also sparks creativity with suggestions for mixed media drawing whimsical prompts.

MORE: See one of the ideas from Tangle Art in action!

Art Play!: Activities for Preschoolers by Meredith Magee Donnelly. Art Play is full of amazingly creative, developmentally appropriate activities that focus on process art.  All of the projects invite children to freely explore art materials in an open-ended fashion and require basic art supplies. Photographic instructions featuring a diverse group of children make the ideas a snap to replicate, and unique ideas like spin art blocks and clay self-portraits will delight everyone. Art Play makes the perfect gift for any caregiver or teacher who values nurturing their child’s creativity. Highly recommended!

Cardboard Creations by Barbara Rucci. Got a full recycle bin? You will never have to recycle your shipping boxes again! Cardboard art projects range from whimsical giant eyewear to calming yarn wraps, to fairy houses. Who would have thought cardboard could be so alluring? My favorite aspect of this art activity book is that Rucci focuses on the process–letting your kids explore the satisfying experience of making something from scratch.

Creative Adventures in Cursive: Write with glue, string, markers, paint, and icing! by Rachelle Doorley. So many schools are no longer teaching cursive, but this unique activity book will help you find creative ways to help your kids learn the handwriting skill!

MORE: Puzzle books for kids

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Peaceful Fights for Equal Rights by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Jared Andrew Schorr

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In alphabetical order from A to Z, the author-illustrator team describes actions that thoughtful citizens can take to improve their communities, large and small. There are some allusions to historical protests like sports players taking a knee, but the simple direct text offers many opportunities to discuss the wide variety of ways people take action for what is right. Ages 4 and up.

MORE: Picture Books about Responsible Citizenship

We Shall Overcome by Bryan Collier

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Collier's gorgeous illustrations adorn the pages next to the lyrics of the protest song, "We Shall Overcome." The illustrations depict historical events as well as scenes of the present. Endnotes give further information about essential protests that changed the course of history. Essential reading. Ages 3 and up.

The Boston Tea Party by Russell Freedman, illustrated by Peter Malone

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Let's not forget that the United States was founded in the spirit of protests and civil disobedience. Freedman's text and Malone's illustrations will teach kids about this important historical moment. I like how Freedman's choice of words and his attention to detail give an urgency to the events and the reader is reminded again and again that the Boston Tea Party was a result of anger over a perceived injustice. Ages 7 and up.

Rocket Says Speak Up! by Nathan Bryon, illustrated by Dapo Adeola

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Is there any cause more important than your local library? Rocket reminds us that when a library is threatened, we must do something! Rocket is a cheerful, determined protagonist. Spurred by reading a book about Rosa Parks, Rocket organizes a peaceful protest against library closures, and others rally to her cry. Ages 4 and up.

Noodlephant by by Jacob Kramer, illustrated by K-Fai Steele

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Elephant loves noodles and likes having his animal friends over for pasta parties! But the kangaroos, who make all the rules and thus hold all the power declare that pasta is only to be eaten by kangaroos. They declare that the other animals should eat sticks and branches instead. This simply won't do! In protest, Elephant and his friends invent a machine that turns ordinary objects into pasta! I love the clever wordplay and the sneaky subversiveness of the non-kangaroo animals to protest the unjust law. Of course, the marvelous conclusion reaffirms that injustice and inequality must always be challenged. Be sure to read the sequel, Okapi Tale! Ages 5 and up.

We March by Shane W. Evans

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This is one of my favorite books about protest marches. The spare text and brilliant illustrations make this a wonderful book for children as young as 3 years old. The light, first person narrative tells the story of a family getting ready to participate in the March on Washington. Illustrations depict crowds of people from all walks of life and celebrate the excitement the event generated, and the power of peaceful protest. Ages 3 and up.

MORE: Children's Books about Martin Luther King, Jr.

Swimmy by Leo Lionni

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Swimmy is a classic picture book and you might be surprised to see it on a list of books about protest, but it fits right in. The tale is about how little fish join forces to fight off the big bully fish. However, the story also demonstrates that one can still be an individual, even when banding together with others in pursuit of a common goal. Ages 3 and up.

Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909 by Michelle Markel, illustrated by Melissa Sweet

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Clara came to NYC dirt poor but full of grit. She worked a miserable, backbreaking job at a garment factory. An extraordinary individual, she taught herself to read and led the largest walkout of women workers in U.S. History, despite being beaten and jailed for participating in labor strikes. This is a valuable story of the history of women workers and the importance of fair labor practices and will still resonate today. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies about Women Activists

A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara

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A board book that's not just for babies! With a fun sense of humor, this alphabet book introduces kids to the idea that life may not be all about acquiring the latest Thomas Train. The book teaches generosity, compassion, consideration for others. Use the book as a starting point for further discussions about the topics. Counting on Community is the companion book which turns a simple counting book into an inspiring call to action. Ages 2 and up.

Harvesting Hope: The Story of César Chávez by Kathleel Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morale

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This picture book biography begins with Chávez as a young boy, who was "not a fighter," and follows him as his family leaves Mexico during the drought. When they arrive in California ,the family experiences the hardship, racism and brutal treatment rained down on migrant workers. Chávez was roused to take action and organized a 340 mile peaceful protest march on behalf of farmworkers. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Books about the History of Labor

Smoky Night by Eve Bunting, illustrated by David Diaz

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Even Bunting wrote Smoky Night in response to the Los Angeles protests and riots in the wake of the Rodney King trials. It is a sensitive story about the effects of urban violence, but the real emphasis in on the importance of seeing the value of one's neighbors as individuals. Diaz's illustrations are gorgeous and evocative. Ages 7 and up.

MORE: Social Justice Picture Books for Kids

Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers by Sarah Warren, illustrated by Robert Casilla

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Warren portrays civil rights leader Dolores Huerta in her many roles, from teacher to parent to protester and more. Her strength and determination to help the farm workers inspired her her to help organize a strike so they could achieve better working conditions and fair treatment under the law. Endnotes supply further information. Ages 5 and up.

Dolores Huerta is one of the fearless women on our women cards coloring page!

Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type by Doreen Cronin, illustrated by Betsy Lewin

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If you want to raise kids who won't let their future employers walk all over them, read them this modern classic about a group of determined barnyard animals who persevere to get what they want, despite a grumpy farmer. Ages 3 and up.

¡Sí, Se Puede! / Yes, We Can! by Diana Cohn

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Cohn's book is inspired by a real life janitor strike in 2000.  The story centers on Carlitos, whose mother is a night janitor who cleans a skyscraper in Los Angeles. I like the family touches, like when mama tucks Carlitos into bed every night before she goes to work. It personalizes the story so kids will be able to relate to the characters, even if they may never find themselves in a similar economic situation. Mama helps to organize the janitor strike, and a passionate Carlitos who "loves his mama" gets involved. A bilingual book. Ages 4 and up.

Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family's Fight for Desegregation by Duncan Tonatiuh

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Tonatiuh tells the story of school desegregation 10 years before Brown v. the Board of Education. In 1944, Sylvia's family moved to a new community. When she tried to attend school, she was told that she would have to go to "the Mexican school". Sylvia and her family fight back and eventually win a very important court battle, setting the stage for future desegregation cases. Ages 5 and up

MORE: Picture Books about The Civil Rights Movement

A Sweet Smell of Roses by Angela Johnson, illustrated by Eric Velasquez

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A young girl, with her red-ribboned teddy bear describes the experience as she and her sister slip out of their house to join a freedom march. The focus is very much on the sensory experience. They stand, "waist high" in the "bright light", "clapping in time with [their] feet." This is lovely book that emphases how children have been an integral part in civil disobedience and protest marches. Young readers will enjoy picking out the plucky protagonist in the illustrations by her bear's ribbon, which matches the stripes in the flag. Ages 4 and up.

Aani and the Tree Huggers by Jeannine Atkins

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In an event in 1970s India, villagers protested the cutting down of their venerated trees by holding on to them. In this story, Aani, a young girl, leads the fight to protect the trees from tree-cutters who have official orders to cut them down. The trees are a source of food, shelter and comfort for the villagers. This is an interesting book to talk to kids about the many forms of protest. It's not always a march or a strike. It could be—literally—tree-hugging. Ages 6 and up.

Which Side are You On? The Story of a Song by George Ella Lyon, Christopher Cardinale

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Florence Reese wrote the titular 1931 song and it's now a ballad sung worldwide in support of workers' rights. Florence's husband was a coal miner and the story of the coal miners' strike is told through the eyes of Florence's daughter. I recommend this book for ages 8 and up because of the depiction of the gun fire that was rained down on the miners. Nevertheless, it is an important story that deserves to be remembered. Ages 8 and up.

MORE: Books to Inspire Kids to Change the World

Elizabeth Started All the Trouble by Doreen Rappaport

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The book starts with a sort of prologue starring Abigail Adams who issues a warning to her husband that if women were not included in the new laws for the United States they would start their own revolution. The story then skips ahead to 1840 when Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott start that very revolution. I appreciated that the author included the voice of Sojourner Truth in the middle of the book because it is important to remember that Cady Stanton and the other suffragettes were not fighting for all women's right to vote. Ages 5 and up.

Freedom on the Menu: The Greensboro Sit-Ins by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Jerone Lagarrigue

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In 1960, four black college students sat down at the Woolworth's lunch counter, labelled "WHITES ONLY." The events are told from young Connie's perspective. She sips her soda while standing but her siblings become active in the lunch counter boycott and she helps them make signs. I like that the author still included Connie's youthful desire to just have a banana split, which she finally gets to do—while sitting. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Big List of African-American History Books for Kids

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney

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Here's another story about the 1960 Greensboro lunch counter sit in. I liked this one because of the food metaphors. "At first they were treated like the hole in the doughnut—invisible." "The kids had a recipe, too. A new brew called integration." I love Pinkney's splendidly expressive illustrations, with their swirly lines and colors. Ages 5 and up.

Boycott Blues: How Rosa Parks Inspired a Nation by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney

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Pinkney's book tells the story of how the African-American community walked for 382 days rather than ride the segregated busses in Montgomery, Alabama. The rhythmic text and vibrant illustrations, which themselves appear to move beautifully capture the spirit of the amazing individuals who brought change to their community and the nation. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Check out all our book list topics in the book list index!

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