EXPANDING THE ‘CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE BOOK BUNDLES’ PROJECT
In the Fall of 2022, the City of London partnered with Strive to enhance the diversity of stories, identities, and lived experiences available on bookshelves in licensed child care settings throughout the region. This collaboration resulted in the development and distribution of carefully curated book bundles. A total of 15 titles were selected, compiled, and distributed to every licensed child care centre and school-age program across London-Middlesex. Additionally, a separate bundle of French-language titles was created.
We are excited to share that recently, an expansion of the ‘Culturally Responsive Book Bundles’ project has been actioned. 10 new titles have been curated.
The chosen books emphasize positive representation and are designed to foster a sense of belonging, well-being, citizenship, and empathy among all children, families, and early years professionals.
Keep reading to learn about the new books chosen to support our continued efforts in providing diverse stories, identities, and lived experiences to bookshelves through prioritizing representation and belonging in books.
To explore the origins of this book bundle project and learn more about the titles included in the first bundle, click here.
The Peaceful Orange Blossom
by Bahaa Faraj Zouki (A Local Author) | Illustrated by Tanya Zeinlova
The story follows Bobo as she embarks on a delightful adventure with her grandparents. Hand in hand with Grandpa, Bobo explores the wonders of nature—from the sweet scent of orange blossoms to the gentle whispers of the wind.
After their adventure, they return home to enjoy a special meal prepared by Grandma. Bobo realizes that the most joyful and meaningful adventures are those shared with family. This gentle and uplifting tale celebrates the beauty of nature and the love between family members.
Prince & Knight
Le prince et le chevalier
by Daniel Haack | Illustrated by Stevie Lewis
This story is a modern fairy tale about a prince who, finds true love in a brave knight who helps him defeat a dragon. The story celebrates love, bravery, and acceptance.
Next Door
by Deborah Kerbel | Illustrated by Issac Liang
In this wordless picture book, a Deaf boy and his mother take a walk through their neighborhood. They greet their neighbors, visit the playground, spot a bird's nest, and buy cookies at the store. Later, they meet new neighbors, a woman and her daughter who recently immigrated. Despite their language differences—American Sign Language and Arabic—the children connect and form a close friendship.
Eyes that Speak to the Stars
Des yeux qui parlent aux étoiles
by Joanna Ho | Illustrated by Dung Ho
This is a heartfelt picture book about a young boy who learns to embrace his Asian heritage and the beauty of his physical features, particularly his eyes, which remind him of his ancestors. The story celebrates cultural pride, self-acceptance, and the importance of family, with stunning illustrations and lyrical prose.
20 First Words in 20 Languages
by Odd Dot
An interactive board book that introduces readers to 20 basic words, like "hello" and "thank you," in 20 different languages. Each page features a new language with vibrant illustrations, helping young readers develop curiosity about languages and cultures worldwide.
You Are Enough: A Book About Inclusion
Comme tu es!: Un livre sur l’inclusion
by Margret O’Hair, Sofia Sanchez | Illustrated by Sofia Cardoso
This empowering picture book from Sofia Sanchez, an 11-year-old model and actress with Down syndrome, reminds readers how important it is to embrace the things that make you who are, be confident, and be proud. Sofia encourages readers to imagine all of the wonderful things you can do if you don't let anyone stop you! You are enough just how you are. Sofia is unique, but her message is universal: We all belong.
Salma the Syrian Chef
Salma et les saveurs de la Syrie
by Danny Ramadan | Illustrated by Anna Bron
A young refugee in Vancouver, Salma, notices her mother’s sadness as they adjust to their new life. To uplift her, Salma decides to cook her mother’s favorite Syrian dish. Despite language barriers and unfamiliar ingredients, the Welcome Center community helps Salma succeed. The meal brings joy and hope, highlighting Syrian culture and the power of community.
Zak’s Safari
Le safari de Zak
by Christy Tyner | Illustrated by Ciaee Ching
When rain ruins Zak's safari plans, he offers a special tour of his family instead. Zak shares how his parents met, fell in love, and chose to have him through donor-conception. With simple, accurate language and vibrant illustrations, Zak’s Safari explores his biological origins and everyday life with his two moms, fostering conversations about family and conception.
My Heart Fills with Happiness
J’ai le coeur rempli de bonheur
by Monique Gray Smith | Illustrated by Julie Fiett
A beautifully illustrated book that explores the simple joys and deep connections that bring happiness. Through the perspective of a young Indigenous child, the story highlights moments of love and contentment, such as spending time with family and enjoying nature. It emphasizes gratitude and the beauty of everyday experiences.
The Last Garden
by Rachel Ip | Illustrated by Anneli Bray
In a war-torn city, a young girl lovingly cares for the last garden amidst escalating conflict. When she and others are forced to leave, she must abandon the garden. Its seeds scatter, and as people return, the city starts to bloom again. The girl eventually comes back to her flourishing garden, symbolizing hope and resilience. Inspired by real war gardens, the story explores conflict, migration, and nature’s healing power.
Did you know?
Joanna Ho, New York Times bestselling and award winning author, of titles such as Eyes that Speak to the Stars will be facilitating a virtual professional learning session, on Thursday, November 7th?
Join us in expanding our learning in the systemic erasure of the stories of people across the Asian diaspora as many of us know next to nothing about the deep contributions they have made around the world. It is vital that we learn their history so that we may draw strength from those who have come before in order to create bonds of solidarity across diverse Asian communities and beyond.
TO REGISTER CLICK HERE.
Please share any questions and/or comments below!