Julián is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

Rating: 5/5

Another amazing children’s book! Julián is a little boy who wants to dress up like the beautiful women he sees on the train. His abuela is shocked but helps him transform into a stunning mermaid. A feel-good story about difference.

Prince and Knight

by Daniel Haack (Author), Stevie Lewis (Illustrator)

Rating: 5/5

The King and Queen decide it’s time for the Prince to find a princess and get married. They search all the land but cannot find anyone. One day the Prince meets a knight, and they live happily ever after. (Honestly, get it because it’s a freaking adorable gay love story!)

Yo Soy Muslim: A Father’s Letter to His Daughter 
by Mark Gonzales (Author), Mehrdokht Amini (Illustrator)

Rating: 4/5

A wonderful look at intersection of faith and national pride.

From the publisher: Written as a letter from a father to his daughter, Yo Soy Muslim is a celebration of social harmony and multicultural identities. The vivid and elegant verse, accompanied by magical and vibrant illustrations, highlights the diversity of the Muslim community as well as Indigenous identity. A literary journey of discovery and wonder, Yo Soy Muslim is sure to inspire adults and children alike.

Malala’s Magic Pencil

by Malala Yousafzai  (Author), Kerascoët  (Illustrator)

Rating: 4/5

A great way to introduce children to Malala’s story. Also, this book serves as a way to talk to kids about the privilege of education.

From the publisher: As a child in Pakistan, Malala made a wish for a magic pencil. She would use it to make everyone happy, to erase the smell of garbage from her city, to sleep an extra hour in the morning. But as she grew older, Malala saw that there were more important things to wish for. She saw a world that needed fixing. And even if she never found a magic pencil, Malala realized that she could still work hard every day to make her wishes come true.

Mommy’s Khimar 
by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow  (Author), Ebony Glenn (Illustrator)

Rating: 5/5

Many have a tendency to see head coverings as things that are forced upon Muslim women. This book shows that for some it is a choice. It’s wonderfully illustrated and a truly uplifting story.

From the publisher: A young girl plays dress up with her mother’s headscarves, feeling her mother’s love with every one she tries on. Charming and vibrant illustrations showcase the beauty of the diverse and welcoming community in this portrait of a young Muslim American girl’s life.

Not ‘Til Tomorrow, Phoebe 
by Julie Zwillich  (Author), Denise Holmes (Illustrator)

Rating: 5/5

Not ‘Til Tomorrow, Phoebe is story about patience and learning to wait. When Phoebe wants to play more, her mom tells her “Not until tomorrow.” When class is over just before she can take her turn, her teacher says, “Not ’till tomorrow.” This book is one of the rare children’s books that makes learning a lesson fun. I adore it!