Children’s Books for Justice

Child sitting on stack of books, reading a book, against a white background.

Early stories shape lifelong values.

This collection features powerful, age-appropriate titles that help children understand equity, empathy, identity, and collective care. Centered on BIPOC authors and illustrators, these books spark meaningful conversations and affirm the experiences of marginalized communities. Whether you're a parent, educator, or youth program leader, these stories are tools for raising thoughtful, justice-minded kids.

Every purchase supports our Microgrant Fund, which provides direct support to grassroots changemakers and under-resourced organizations in New York and New England.

Cover of "Change Sings: A Children's Anthem" by Amanda Gorman, illustrated by Loren Long, featuring a child holding a guitar in front of a colorful mural.

  • Written by the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, this lyrical picture book celebrates the power of collective action and the role children play in shaping a better world.

  • Perfect for story time, classroom readings, or early lessons on activism and civic responsibility. It reinforces the message that every voice matters.

  • Buy on Bookshop.org

Cover of the book 'Julian Is a Mermaid' by Jessica Love featuring an illustrated character posing gracefully with a plant as a headdress and white cloth draped like a mermaid tail.

Julian Is a Mermaid
by Jessica Love
$17.99

  • A joyful and affirming picture book that celebrates self-expression, gender fluidity, and the importance of supportive adults. Julian’s imagination opens space for children to explore identity freely.

  • Use this story to foster dialogue about gender identity, affirm LGBTQ+ youth, and cultivate empathy among young readers.

  • Buy on Bookshop.org

Cover of the book 'Your Name is a Song' by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, illustrated by Luisa Uribe. It features a joyful illustration of a woman and a child with arms outstretched, surrounded by bright, colorful swirls and stars.

Your Name Is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, illustrated
by Luisa Uribe
by Karin Hurt and David Dye
$18.99

  • This story affirms cultural identity and the beauty of names from around the world. It helps children embrace difference and builds confidence in youth whose names are often mispronounced or misunderstood.

  • Use this book to celebrate identity, start conversations about belonging, and create a more inclusive classroom or home environment.

  • Buy on Bookshop.org

Illustrated cover of the book "Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story" featuring a person holding a bowl of fry bread and an infant eating a piece. Title in large red letters and credits to the author and illustrator.

Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story
by Kevin Noble Maillard, illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
$18.99

  • This book blends poetic storytelling with rich illustrations and historical context to honor the tradition of fry bread as a symbol of Native resilience, identity, and community.

  • Perfect for teaching cultural appreciation, food sovereignty, and family history. Includes a recipe and author’s note for deeper engagement.

  • Buy on Bookshop.org

Cover of "Justice Rising: 12 Amazing Black Women in the Civil Rights Movement" by Katheryn Russell-Brown, illustrated by Kim Holt, featuring portraits of four Black women.

Justice Rising: 12 Amazing Black Women in the Civil Rights Movement
by Katheryn Russell-Brown, illustrated by Kim Holt
by Priya Parker
$18.99

  • This empowering picture book introduces young readers to twelve trailblazing Black women who shaped the civil rights movement. With vivid storytelling and illustrations, it celebrates courage, justice, and the power of women’s leadership.

  • Use this book to spark conversations about Black history, women’s leadership, and civil rights. A meaningful addition to classroom libraries, home reading, and social justice curricula for kids.

  • Buy on Bookshop.org

Collections

Justice and Liberation

Books that challenge systems of oppression and offer bold visions for collective freedom. This collection includes foundational texts for organizers, educators, and advocates working toward racial justice, abolition, and community power. Browse titles…

Earth and Place

Titles that deepen our relationship with land, climate, and place-based wisdom. These books support environmental justice work, Indigenous land sovereignty, and ecological stewardship rooted in care and reciprocity. Browse titles…

Organizational Tools

Books that provide clear, principled guidance for running strong, justice-centered organizations. Topics include nonprofit strategy, fundraising, facilitation, conflict transformation, and values-aligned leadership. Browse titles…

Children’s Books for Justice

Stories for raising thoughtful, compassionate, and justice-minded kids. These titles uplift BIPOC voices, celebrate identity, and introduce young readers to equity, activism, and belonging. Browse titles…

Radical Education

A collection for those reimagining how knowledge is shared and power is built. From unschooling to political education, these titles support educators, youth workers, and movement leaders fostering liberatory learning spaces. Browse titles…

Culture and Story

Books that explore the power of narrative, art, and culture in shaping movements. Ideal for artists, cultural workers, and nonprofit communicators who use storytelling to shift narratives and build solidarity. Browse titles…