There are many wonderful books that explore the rich diversity of cultures around the world. Share a book with a child and introduce perspectives from other cultures or celebrate traditional tales and cultural experiences from your own background. Here are some of this year’s best:
The Barefoot Book of Earth Tales, retold by Dawn Casey, illustrated by Anne Wilson
Stories and craft projects from around the world, paired with bright folk art illustrations, impart the ways different cultures interact with and find balance in the natural world.
Stories from the Billabong, retold by James Vance Marshall, illustrated by Francis Firebrace
Striking Aboriginal art frames this collection of legends from the Yorta-Yorta people of Australia. Information about Australia’s people, landmarks, animals and plants is included at the end of each story.
For very young children:
Opuestos: Mexican Folk Art Opposites in English and Spanish, by Cynthia Weill
Charming photographs of wooden animal sculptures, created by Mexican artists in Oaxaca, demonstrate pairs of opposites, in both Spanish and English, featuring one word per page.
Songs from the Garden of Eden: Jewish Lullabies and Nursery Rhymes, collected by Nathalie Soussana, illustrated by Beatrice Alemagna
This collection of Jewish nursery rhymes, lullabies, and songs represents the diversity of Jewish music all over the world. A CD is included, with selections in Hebrew, Yiddish, Judeo-Spanish and Arabic.
For ages four through eight:
Bring Me Some Apples and I’ll Make You a Pie: A Story about Edna Lewis, by Robbin Gourley
Watercolor illustrations and family lore embellish this story of Chef Edna Lewis’ childhood experiences growing up in a family that harvested, prepared, and enjoyed meals and time together, following traditions established by the founders of Freetown, Virginia. Recipes are included.
Cora Cooks Pancit, by Dorina K. Lazo Gilmore, illustrated by Kristi Valiant
Cora is finally old enough to be Mama’s assistant chef. When Mama asks which Filipino dish she would like to make, Cora selects her favorite noodle recipe, pancit. A glossary and recipe are included at the end of the book.
My Little Round House, by Bolormaa Baasansuren
Baby Jilu recounts his first year living in a nomadic Mongolian community, describing his yurt and the people who love him. Vivid, traditional illustrations paint a charming portrait of Mongolian childhood.
Testing the Ice: A True Story about Jackie Robinson, by Sharon Robinson, illustrated by Kadir Nelson
When the Robinson family moved to Connecticut, the lake on their property became the neighborhood hub for winter fun. Despite his fame and outward confidence, Jackie had to overcome a fear of water when it was time to test the ice.
For ages eight through twelve:
My School in the Rain Forest: How Children Attend School Around the World, by Margriet Ruus
Discover the many different and unusual ways children around the world attend school in this engaging photo essay, featuring students who dream of a brighter future and the teachers who are devoted to helping them attain their goals.
Where the Mountain Meets the Moon, by Grace Lin
This chapter book fantasy infused with Chinese folklore tells the tale of Minli, a girl who embarks on an extraordinary journey to find the Old Man of the Moon and ask him how her family can change their fortune.