The start of a new school year is filled with big feelings—excitement, nerves, curiosity, and hope. For many children, it’s also a time of transition: new classrooms, new friendships, and new questions about who they are and where they belong.
This curated back-to-school reading list is designed to help families, caregivers, and educators talk to kids about identity, belonging, and fairness from the very first day. Each book offers an opportunity for teaching kids about race, culture, language, and self-worth in ways that are accessible, affirming, and grounded in everyday experiences.
Whether you’re new to teaching race or looking for thoughtful ways to continue these conversations, these stories provide gentle, meaningful entry points. From celebrating names and family traditions to navigating first-day jitters and practicing kindness, these books help children build empathy, confidence, and pride in who they are.
As you prepare for the school year, we hope this list supports intentional conversations at home and in the classroom—and helps every child feel seen, valued, and ready to learn.
- Home in a Lunchbox by Cherry Mo
- Scarecited on the First Day of School by Alliah Agostini
- Your Name is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
- The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad
- Becoming Vanessa by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
- New by Niña Mata
- The Queen of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes
- The King of Kindergarten by Derrick Barnes
- Spanish is the Language of My Family by Michael Genhart
- All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold
- The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
- Imagine by Juan Felipe Herrera
- Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson
