Windows & Mirrors: A Collection of (BANNED) Diverse Literature from Book Passage

Diversity and the banning of books for children is big news. Organizations like #WeNeedDiverseBooks and Marley Dias's #1000blackgirlbooks are challenging publishers to change what we see on the shelves in bookstores and libraries. Meanwhile, booksellers and librarians are always on the look out for children’s books that can be "mirrors" or "windows" for children.

A “MIRROR” book offers the reader a chance to see their own life reflected in what the character experiences.

A “WINDOW” book offers a reader the chance to experience what life is like for other people who are not like themselves; as though they were looking through a window into another person’s life.

The advantages of featuring diversity to young readers include identifying with characters in the books they read, to help them feel like a part if the wider world and to let them see the value in themselves. Equally all young readers should have a chance to develop empathy for others by reading stories that teach them about how other people’s lives are different to their own.

PICTURE BOOKS

And Tango Makes Three

By Justin Richardson, Peter Parnell, Henry Cole

At the penguin house at the Central Park Zoo, two penguins named Roy and Silo were a little bit different from the others. But their desire for a family was the same. And with the help of a kindly zookeeper, Roy and Silo get the chance to welcome a baby penguin of their very own.


Kids & Tweens


Kids & Tween Graphic Novels


Teen/YA