Books like Uptown
Award winning
Plátanos Are Love
Alyssa Reynoso-Morris, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage through vibrant storytelling.
Enhances language skills and emotional understanding.
Supports early childhood cognitive and social development.
Engaging narrative that fosters family bonding.

Plátanos Are Love
Alyssa Reynoso-Morris, 2023
Award winning
Santa in the City
Tiffany D. Jackson, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Captures the magic of Christmas in an urban setting.
Encourages belief in oneself and the spirit of giving.
Addresses diversity and inclusion through relatable storytelling.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading moments.

Santa in the City
Tiffany D. Jackson, 2021
Award winning
Magnolia Flower
Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Vibrant storytelling enchants and captivates young minds.
Illustrates resilience and courage through engaging narratives.
Fosters emotional growth and understanding in children.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading sessions.

Magnolia Flower
Zora Neale Hurston, Ibram X. Kendi, 2022
Award winning
My Powerful Hair
Carole Lindstrom, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and self-expression through hair.
Encourages confidence and self-love in young readers.
Supports understanding and acceptance of individual differences.
Interactive, engaging narrative for shared reading moments.

My Powerful Hair
Carole Lindstrom, 2023
Award winning
Hair Twins
Raakhee Mirchandani, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural identity and family bonds.
Encourages self-expression and confidence through relatable storytelling.
Illustrations enhance comprehension and engagement.
Supports emotional development and inclusivity.

Hair Twins
Raakhee Mirchandani, 2021
Award winning
Your Name Is a Song
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, 2020
45 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity through melodic storytelling.
Encourages respect and pride in personal names.
Supports emotional and social development.
Ideal for shared reading and family bonding.

Your Name Is a Song
Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, 2020
Award winning
Going Down Home with Daddy
Kelly Starling Lyons, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates family, heritage, and multigenerational bonds.
Enhances understanding of African American culture and history.
Empowers children through relatable, strong character representations.
Encourages family connections and storytelling traditions.

Going Down Home with Daddy
Kelly Starling Lyons, 2019
Award winning
Mama and Mommy and Me in the Middle
Nina Lacour, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diverse family structures warmly and inclusively.
Enhances understanding of separation and reunion.
Encourages emotional expression and resilience.
Supports development of empathy and acceptance.
