Ethnicity
Celebrate diversity with our Children’s Books About Ethnicity for ages 4–11. These stories explore identity and heritage, promoting empathy and unity while combating racism and prejudice. Perfect for families and educators, they inspire conversations about kindness and inclusion.
- Yokki and the Parno Gry
Authors: Richard O’Neill and Katharine Quarm
Age Rating: 5–8 years
Description: This beautifully illustrated tale follows Yokki, a young Traveller boy, who uplifts his family’s spirits during challenging times by sharing stories of the mythical Parno Gry, a magical white horse that brings hope and adventure.
Review: “I loved this story. The pictures of the horse are beautiful!”
– Ella, age 7
2. Ossiri and the Bala Mengro
Authors: Richard O’Neill and Katharine Quarm
Age Rating: 5–8 years
Description: Ossiri, a Traveller girl, dreams of becoming a musician. Without access to traditional instruments, she crafts her own from recycled materials. Despite warnings about the mythical Bala Mengro, she pursues her passion, leading to an unexpected encounter.
Review: ” I was a bit scared of the Bala Mengro, but the ending was really nice.”
— Tom, age 8
3. A Different Kind of Freedom: A Romani Story
Author: Richard O’Neill
Age Rating: 8–11 years
Description: Set in 19th-century Sheffield, this adventure follows Lijah, a young Romani boy passionate about football. Amidst societal challenges, Lijah’s determination leads him to form a team, showcasing the importance of community and perseverance.
Review: “It was exciting to read about the journey of Lijah’s football team”
— Jack, age 9
4. Tales from the Gypsy Caravan
Author: Fiona Collins
Age Rating: 7–10 years
Description: A collection of traditional Gypsy folktales passed down through generations, featuring magical characters, clever animals, and inspiring adventures.
Review: “The stories were sooo funny!
— Leo, age 7
5. Last Stop on Market Street
Author: Matt de la Peña
Age Rating: 4–8 years
Description: CJ and his grandmother ride the bus through their vibrant, multicultural city. Along the way, Nana teaches CJ to appreciate the beauty in his surroundings and the diverse people they meet.
Review: “The bus ride was so cool! I liked how CJ learned to see things in a different way.”
– Gracie, age 6
6. The Unforgotten Coat
Author: Frank Cottrell-Boyce
Age Rating: 8–11 years
Description: When two Mongolian brothers arrive at a UK school, they befriend a girl named Julie and share stories of their homeland. This poignant tale explores friendship, cultural differences, and the challenges faced by immigrant families.
Review: “I didn’t know anything about Mongolia before I read this book, it was cool to learn about something different”
— Louis, age 10
7. My Hair
Author: Hannah Lee
Age Rating: 4–8 years
Description: A joyful celebration of Black hair and its versatility, this story follows a young girl deciding how to style her hair for a special day. The vibrant illustrations highlight various styles and the cultural significance of hair in the Black community.
Review: “I loved how the girl was so excited about her hair and the styles were so cute!”
— Tiana, age 6
8. All Are Welcome
Author: Alexandra Penfold
Age Rating: 4–7 years
Description: In this vibrant and inclusive picture book, children from different cultures, religions, and backgrounds come together in a school where everyone is celebrated. The book emphasizes themes of diversity, kindness, and acceptance, with stunning illustrations that showcase the beauty of multiculturalism. The message is simple yet powerful: no matter where you come from, you are always welcome.
Review:
“I liked how all the kids in the book were different, and everyone got along. It made me feel happy.”
— Isla, age 6
9. Rocket Says Up
Author: Nathan Bryon
Age Rating: 3–6 years
Description: “Rocket Says Up” is a delightful picture book about Rocket, a little girl who loves to explore the world around her. Rocket wants to know everything about the sky, from the ground all the way up. As she interacts with her family, friends, and the world around her, Rocket learns about different directions, heights, and the concept of “up” in a fun and engaging way. The book is packed with vibrant illustrations and simple text, perfect for young readers.
Review: “I liked how Rocket wanted to know what’s up and how she asked everyone. The pictures were bright, and Rocket was so curious!” —
Elsie, age 5
10. The Same But Different
Author: Karl Newson
Age Rating: 3–6 years
Description: “The Same But Different” is a charming picture book that introduces young children to the concept of diversity and similarities. The story follows two characters—one a bear and the other a dog—who discover how they are both the same and different in various ways. The book encourages children to celebrate both individuality and the things that make us alike
Review: “I liked how the dog and bear were friends even though they were different. It made me think about how my friends are different from me but we still have fun.”
— Amir, age 6