If your child is learning about diversity and multiculturalism
Spork
Author: Kyo Maclear
Illustrator: Isabelle Arsenault
Publisher: Kids Can Press
Recommended Age Range: 3 to 7
In this ingenius book, a mother and father – spoon and fork – have a “spork.” At the beginning, all spork wants to be is “one thing,” and he tries, but, of course, it doesn’t work. Then, one day, something appears – a messy something – and only spork can save the day. A brilliant story about embracing what makes you who you are.
Awards: Prix Jeunesse des Libraires du Quebec (2012: Winner); Best Children’s Books of the Year, The Canadian Children’s Book Centre (2011); Top Ten Children’s Books, Ottawa Citizen (2011); Best Children’s Book of the Year, Bank Street Children’s Book Committee (2011); Best Children’s Books, Kirkus Reviews (2010); Magnificent Children’s Books, Fuse #8 Production (School Library Journal) (2010); Favorite Book (DRAWN) 2010
The Colors of Us
Author: Karen Katz
Illustrator: Karen Katz
Publisher: Holt Books for Young Readers, Henry Holt and Company
Recommended Age Range: 4 to 8
A young girl learns – with the wisdom of her artistic mother – the beautiful shades that make up the people in her life.
Awards: Child Magazine Best Book designation, 2000; NCSS-CBC Notable Trade – Social Studies; Bill Martin Jr. Picture Book Award (KS); Florida Reading Association Children’s Book Award