Are you a teacher searching for ways to teach your students about diversity and inclusion? Look no further than literature! Books can be powerful tools for introducing students to diverse perspectives and experiences. In this blog, we will explore some classroom reads that can help you teach diversity through literature. Let’s get started!

The Power of Storytelling 📖

Before we dive into our list of recommended reads, let’s discuss the power of storytelling. Stories have the ability to bring people together, to foster empathy and understanding, and to unite people from all walks of life. When we read diverse stories, we are exposed to different cultures, identities, and experiences, broadening our worldview and helping us become more knowledgeable and compassionate individuals.

The List of Recommended Reads 📜

Here are some must-reads for any educator looking to promote diversity and inclusion in the classroom:

“The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie 🏀

This touching coming-of-age novel follows the journey of Junior, a budding cartoonist on the Spokane Indian Reservation. When he decides to attend a predominantly white school, he faces discrimination and struggles to fit in. This book is a great way to teach your students about the experiences of Indigenous people and the importance of understanding and embracing diversity.

A book cover of "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" 📕

“brown girl dreaming” by Jacqueline Woodson 🌳

This memoir-style book uses verse to tell the author’s story of growing up as an African American girl in the 1960s and 70s. Her experiences with racism, segregation, and finding her own voice are sure to resonate with students of all backgrounds. Plus, the poetic style is a great way to expose students to different forms of literature.

A book cover of "brown girl dreaming" 📕

“Wonder” by R.J. Palacio 😊

This heartwarming children’s book tells the story of a young boy with a facial differences who enters public school for the first time. It teaches students about empathy, kindness, and the value of looking beyond appearances to see the person inside. This is a wonderful book to talk about inclusion, acceptance, and the beauty of diversity.

A book cover of "Wonder" 📕

“George” by Alex Gino 🎭

This empowering book follows the story of a young trans girl named George, who discovers her true identity and finds the courage to be herself. This is a great way to teach students about the transgender community and to encourage conversations around acceptance, identity, and self-expression.

A book cover of "George" 📕

“Inside Out and Back Again” by Thanhha Lai 🌺

This beautifully written novel in verse tells the story of a young Vietnamese refugee girl and her family as they adjust to life in the United States. This is a great way to teach your students about the experiences of refugees and immigrants, as well as the value of embracing diversity and adapting to new environments.

A book cover of "Inside Out and Back Again" 📕

Final Thoughts 🤔

In conclusion, teaching diversity through literature can be a rewarding and powerful way to promote empathy, understanding, and inclusivity in your classroom. These recommended reads are just the tip of the iceberg - there are countless books out there that can help you spark important conversations and encourage students to be more compassionate and accepting individuals. Happy reading!

An image of a diverse group of students sitting together and reading books 📚