February is Black History Month. At Best Beginnings we recognize how important representation is in children’s literature, and want to take this opportunity to share stories written by black authors and illustrators that feature characters of color.
Here are staff pick’s of our favorite Imagination Library stories that celebrate diversity:
The Night is Yours Day – written by Abdul-Razak Zachariah; illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo
“When I first read The Night is Yours, I wondered if kids in Alaska would have a hard time relating to a book about a girl playing with her friends during a dark summer night. Putting that aside, I realized that it refreshed my own memories of playing outside with neighbors during hot, dark summer nights in the Lower 48. Like Amani, the experience was full of excitement and laughter – plus, Amani’s resemblance to my childhood friend Layla pulled me into the story even further. I realized that any child could relate to this book through the sense of play and belonging. I love that the story of Amani is narrated by her father whose caring is in every observation of his daughter’s growing independence in the world. This book is a warm hug, a giant thank you to the joyful children who fill us with love, and a wonderful reassurance of an attentive caregiver who will call us home at the end of the night.”
Stephanie Schott, Early Literacy Director
The Snowy Day – written and illustrated by Ezra Jack Keats
As a parent of snow-loving teenagers, I vividly remember reading The Snowy Day to them repeatedly, every night for a while, when they were young. The following mornings we would venture out into the snow to climb snow mountains, sled down hills, find animal tracks, make snow angels, ski around the yard, and have snowball fights. These were some of my favorite memories and we continue to love snowy day adventures as a family! “
Carrie Chisholm, Program Coordinator
Hair Love – written by Matthew Cherry; illustrated by Vashti Harrison
Max and the Tag-Along Moon – written and illustrated by Floyd Cooper
“Max and the Tag-Along Moon is a perfect story for a grandparent and grandchild to share. Max loves his Granpa, as my grandchildren love their Aana (grandmother). When Max has to tell Granpa good-bye, they both look at the big, golden moon and Granpa says, “That ol’ moon will always shine for you…on and on!” Now Max feels connected to Granpa whenever he sees the moon. My grandchildren and I feel connected, too. But it’s not the moon for us – it’s technology. We talk on the phone, text, and share photos. Even the 5-year-old, who lives in New Mexico, can FaceTime me on her mama’s phone!”
Abbe Hensley, Executive Director
