Best Children's Prejudice & Racism Books of 2025

"Love in the Library" by Maggie Tokuda-Hall is a heartwarming children's book based on true events. Set during WWII, the story follows Tama, a Japanese American who is sent to live in a War Relocation Center. Tama finds solace in the camp's small library, where she meets George, who waits for her every day. As their friendship grows, Tama wonders if she is the reason George comes to the library. The book beautifully illustrates how love can bloom even in the darkest of times. Overall, "Love in the Library" is a powerful and must-read book that highlights the injustices faced by Japanese Americans during WWII while also celebrating the power of love and hope.

Winner of the Newbery Medal, Coretta Scott King Author Award, and Kirkus Prize for Young Readers’ Literature! Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Gene Luen Yang, New Kid is a timely, honest graphic novel about starting over at a new school where diversity is low and the struggle to fit in is real, from award-winning author-illustrator Jerry Craft. Seventh grader Jordan Banks loves nothing more than drawing cartoons about his life. But instead of sending him to the art school of his dreams, his parents enroll him in a prestigious private school known for its academics, where Jordan is one of the few kids of color in his entire grade.As he makes the daily trip from his Washington Heights apartment to the upscale Riverdale Academy Day School, Jordan soon finds himself torn between two worlds—and not really fitting into either one. Can Jordan learn to navigate his new school culture while keeping his neighborhood friends and staying true to himself?This middle grade graphic novel is an excellent choice for tween readers, including for summer reading.New Kid is a selection of the Schomburg Center's Black Liberation Reading List.Plus don't miss Jerry Craft's Class Act!

Brown Girl Dreaming is a memoir written in verse by Jacqueline Woodson that tells the story of her childhood in South Carolina and New York during the 1960s and 1970s. The book explores the remnants of Jim Crow and Woodson's growing awareness of the Civil Rights movement. Through her eloquent poetry, Woodson shares her journey of finding her voice through writing stories despite struggling with reading as a child. This National Book Award and Newbery Honor winner is a powerful and touching read that offers a mature exploration of grown-up issues and self-discovery.

The Day You Begin is a heartening book about finding courage to connect, even when you feel scared and alone. National Book Award winner Jacqueline Woodson and two-time Pura Belpré Illustrator Award winner Rafael López have teamed up to create a poignant and empowering message to any child who has ever felt too different. Woodson's lyrical text and López's dazzling art reminds us that we all feel like outsiders sometimes and how brave it is that we go forth anyway. This gentle, powerful ode to diversity and acceptance belongs with all children.

This moving picture book by Vashti Harrison tells the story of a child's journey to self-love and acceptance. Through exquisite illustrations and spare text, Harrison explores the challenges of being big in a world that values smallness. This emotionally resonant book offers important lessons about fitting in, standing out, and the power of words to both hurt and heal. Harrison's work has been recognized by the New York Times and Publishers Weekly, and she is the bestselling author of several other children's books. Big is a vital addition to any child's library and a beautiful celebration of self-love.

All Are Welcome is a New York Times bestselling picture book that revolves around a school where diversity and inclusion are celebrated. The story follows a group of children through a day in their school, where everyone is welcomed with open arms, regardless of their background. This book is a must-read for preschool and elementary classrooms everywhere, especially in today's polarized time. The author, Alexandra Penfold, along with illustrator Suzanne Kaufman, have delivered a vital message in an age-appropriate way. All Are Welcome is an important book that celebrates diversity and inclusion, making it stand out from other children's prejudice and racism books.

The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family is a beautifully illustrated children's book about two sisters on the first day of school. Faizah is excited for her older sister Asiya's first day of wearing a hijab, but not everyone sees it as beautiful. In the face of hurtful words, Faizah learns to be strong and proud of who she is. The book teaches important lessons about identity, visibility, and confidence, all while celebrating the unbreakable bond between siblings. Overall, this book is an inspiring and uplifting read that encourages respect and pride for hijab.

Freewater, written by Amina Luqman-Dawson, is a powerful historical middle-grade novel about two enslaved children's escape from a plantation and their journey to freedom. Homer and Ada's escape leads them to a secret community called Freewater, where they find new friends and a new home. However, when they learn of a threat that could destroy Freewater, they must find a way to help their new community. Based on the history of maroon communities in the South, this striking tale of survival, adventure, friendship, and courage is deeply inspiring. Freewater is a must-read for all children and adults who want to learn more about the African American experience.

The Confidence Code for Girls is an empowering and entertaining guide that teaches girls the essential code to becoming bold, brave, and fearless. The book is packed with graphic novel strips, fun quizzes, and true stories from real girls that help girls embrace risk, deal with failure, and be their most authentic selves. Katty Kay and Claire Shipman use cutting-edge science and research to reach girls just when they need it the most—the tween and teen years. Overall, this book is a must-read for every girl who wants to make her dreams come true and live confidently.

Wishtree by Katherine Applegate is a heartwarming middle-grade novel that tells the story of a wise old oak tree named Red, who serves as a wishtree for the neighborhood. Red, along with a crow named Bongo and other animals, watches over the residents and helps them embrace their differences. When a new family moves in, not everyone is welcoming, and Red's experience as a wishtree becomes more important than ever. This book is beautifully written and morally bracing, delivering a distinctive call for kindness. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to be inspired by the power of love and acceptance.