One of my favorite things about reading is that it takes me outside myself and lets me read stories about people who have different life experiences from my own. Sometimes it can be challenging to find books with diverse protagonists, particularly in the easy reader section. After searching Provo City Library's collection, here are my five favorite easy readers with a diverse cast of characters published this year (so far!)
By Melissa Iwai
Harpercollins Children's Books, 2022. Easy Reader.
Gigi is excited that her grandfather is coming from Japan to live with her family. She is looking forward to playing tag, reading books, and teaching her dog new tricks together with her grandfather. When he arrives, however, there are language and cultural barriers that Gigi did not anticipate. This is a great resource for discussing differences in customs between different cultures and the potential for confusion that can arise from misunderstanding intentions.
Written by Parker Curry and Jessica Curry
Illustrated by Brittany Jackson and Tajaé Keith
Simon Spotlight, 2022. Easy Reader.
Parker and Jessica Curry, who have already written several popular picture books, have written two new easy reader books this year. In Parker Dresses Up, Parker plays dress up with her younger siblings. Everything is going well until her younger brother Cash wants to play with a firefighter hose even though he's dressed as a chef. When Parker is upset because that's not what chef's do, Parker's mom teaches her that you don't always have to do one thing and it's okay to use your imagination to be whatever you want.
Written by Kelly Starling Lyons
Illustrated by Nina Mata
Harper, 2022. Easy Reader.
In this entry in the Ty Travels series, Ty and his younger brother Corey visit the science museum. While there the boys see butterflies, hunt for fossils, and steer sailboats with wind. Ty realizes that he can do science experiments at home too and makes slime and bubbles. This book will make your kids want to try their own science experiments!
Illustrated by Ashley Evans
Random House Children's Books, 2022. Easy Reader.
This book is all about grandparents coming for a special visit. They go to breakfast, visit a museum, and build a birdhouse together. Kids will relate to the familiar experience of having a special day with loved ones. This book has large words and repeated phrases, making it ideal for those just beginning to read.
Written by Fran Manushkin
Illustrated by Tammie Lyon
Picture Window Books, 2022. Easy Reader.
New this year, Katie Woo and Pedro, who each have their own series by Manushkin and Lyon, are teaming up to solve mysteries! In The Birthday Party Mystery, Katie and Pedro try to discover what Katie's parents are going to give her for her birthday. This series is a great read-alike for those who enjoy other early reader mysteries like the King and Kayla and Boxcar Children series.
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