Reading books with children at a young age not only helps them be better prepared for school, but it also opens their minds to new cultures and experiences. Exposing children in kindergarten to both “mirror” and “window” books – that is, books in which they can see themselves, and books in which they can learn about others- is the best way to create engaged readers and support social and emotional growth.
Lee & Low Books offers hundreds of great books for kindergarteners! Our books include English, Spanish, and bilingual titles; books about many different cultures; books that span a wide range of subjects and themes; and both fiction and nonfiction. Browse all our books and collections for grades PreK – 2.
While we have hundreds of titles to choose from, here are ten of our absolute favorite diverse books for kindergarteners!
1. Fresh Juice written and illustrated by Robert Liu-Trujillo:
What makes a great juice that keeps everyone healthy? Art and his dad discover it takes carrots … collards … cayenne … and community! Also available in Spanish, Jugo Fresco.
2. Under My Hijab written by Hena Khan and illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel:
This lovely book from the author of Golden Domes and Silver Lanterns invites readers to understand and appreciate the hijab and the Muslim women who decide to wear it.
3. Zombies Don’t Eat Veggies! written by Jorge Lacera & Megan Lacera and illustrated by Jorge Lacera:
In this delightful debut by a talented husband-and-wife team, Mo Romero is a zombie with a deep, dark secret..
4. Sumo Joe by Mia Wenjen and illustrated by Nat Iwata:
In this sweet and funny story, Sumo Joe and his friends enjoy pretending to be sumo wrestlers. But when his little sister wants to join their boy-only game, what should Sumo Joe do?
5. The Talent Show (Confetti Kids #11) by Samantha Thornhill and illustrated by Shirley Ng-Benitez:
In this new book in the popular Confetti Kids series, Henry is nervous about sharing his dance moves at the school talent show. Also available in Spanish, La muestra de talentos.
6. A Special Goodbye (Confetti Kids #12) written by Samantha Thornhill and illustrated by Shirley Ng-Benitez:
In this book in the popular Confetti Kids series, Mei learns how to cope with the closing of her parents’ flower shop with the help of her best friends. Also available in Spanish, Un adiós especial.
7. Call Me Tree/Llamame Arbol written and illustrated by Maya Gonzalez:
An imaginary tale of self-discovery told by a child who grows, learns about the natural world, embraces others, and is free to become who he or she is meant to be–a child as unique as a tree.
8. Galapagos Girl/Galapaguena written by Marsha Diane Arnold and illustrated by Angela Dominguez:
This charming picture book from the illustrator of Mango, Abuela, and Me introduces the fascinating creatures of the Galápagos Islands through the life of one very lucky girl.
9. Our Celebracion! written by Susan Middleton Elya and illustrated by Ana Aranda
A delightful rhyming romp through the festivities of a small town’s summer parade and celebration, written in English with Spanish words sprinkled throughout.
10. Rainbow Stew written and illustrated by Cathryn Falwell
The sweet story of three children who spend a rainy day with their grandfather, picking fresh vegetables in his garden, and then cook and share a meal of healthy vegetable stew.
Further Reading
Using Diverse Books to Support Social and Emotional Learning in Kindergarten
Reading Strategies for Kindergarten
Culturally Responsive Teaching in Kindergarten: Read Alouds to Build Relationships
Teaching My Kindergarten Class about the Refugee Experience
Also check out our amazing PreK-Kinder collections:
Diverse Background English Collection for PreK-2
Building Classroom Community for Kindergarten Collection
COLLTS English and Spanish Kit: Cultivating Oral Language and Literacy Talents in Students
