Kids’ Books for the Revolution
Cover of Antiracist Baby. [Ashley Lukashevsky/ibramxkendi.com/media-kit]
It’s never too early to prepare the children in your life for revolution. Spanning issues such as the climate emergency, workers rights, prejudice and incarceration, these beautifully illustrated picture books seek to inspire the next generation of dreamers and activists to learn more about the world around them.
Antiracist Baby
Written by Ibram X. Kendi and illustrated by Ashley Lukashevsky
A how-to book that teaches kids about racism, and how they can challenge racism in their own small ways. Also a “favorite” of Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX).
Auntie Uncle: Drag Queen Hero
Written by Ellie Royce and illustrated by Hannah Chambers
Drag queen storytime is in session! Told from the perspective of a doting nephew, we watch as Uncle Leo shares his drag queen persona – Auntie Lotta – with the world.
Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909
Written by Michelle Markel and illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Real-life immigrant labor activist Clara Lemlich incites her fellow textile workers to go on strike against the shirtwaist factory owners.
The Fairy Tale Revolution series
Written by various authors and illustrated by Laura Barrett and Arthur Rackham
This Haymarket Books series puts modern twists on classic tales such as “Cinderella” and “The Ugly Duckling” by focusing on issues such as feminism and the climate crisis.
Her Body Can
Written by Katie Crenshaw and Ady Meschke and illustrated by Li Liu
Her body can do, eat and wear what she pleases! This book encourages kids to embrace their bodies and their worth, regardless of their size.
The Journey
Written and illustrated by Francesca Sanna
A mother and her two children escape their home in the midst of war and travel across borders to a safer country.
Missing Daddy and See You Soon
Written by Mariame Kaba and illustrated by bria royal and Bianca Diaz, respectively
Children reflect on missing their incarcerated parents and how loved ones can help them cope.
Skin Again
Written by bell hooks and illustrated by Chris Raschka
hooks explains the importance of letting go of prejudices and getting to know people on a level deeper than their skin.
Stand Up! Speak Up!
Written and illustrated by Andrew Joyner
In this story told mostly in pictures, children push back against the anxieties around global heating by getting their families involved in the fight against the climate emergency.
P is for Palestine: A Palestine Alphabet Book
Written by Golbarg Bashi and illustrated by Golrokh Nafisi
Learning the culture of Palestine and Palestinian people, from A to Z.
We Are Water Protectors
Written by Carole Lindstrom and illustrated by Michaela Goade
To protect her community, its natural resources and the larger world, an Indigenous girl fights the “black snake” of oil pipelines.
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