Are you nurturing a young reader or a little book enthusiast? Perhaps you have a child who is a bit hesitant to dive into books or is still searching for stories that resonate with their experiences. If you’re seeking literature that mirrors our world more authentically, or simply wish to engage in conversations about social justice issues such as racism and gender equality, this curated list is just what you need.
For the sixth consecutive year, the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education (GSE) has put together its selection of the Best Books of 2020 for Young Readers. Initiated in 2015 by professor Ebony Elizabeth Thomas, a specialist in children’s literature, this list celebrates authors and illustrators who portray themes of race, gender, ability, religion, class, and sexuality with empathy and realism. Thomas focuses on narratives of love, joy, loss, and resilience that resonate with children often overlooked in the predominantly white landscape of children’s publishing.
Following the initial launch, Thomas’s Humanizing Stories research team, affectionately known as the Superfriends, has contributed by reviewing titles throughout the year to determine which should be included. This year, under the guidance of new leaders, Samara Lee and Jordan Parker, the selections reflect what children need to navigate the challenges of a tumultuous year, fostering hope for a more just and inclusive future.
Picture Books
The Superfriends have chosen picture books that “celebrate the values and cultural traditions of resilience while showcasing the beauty we can create in our daily lives.” These selections are sure to enchant your little ones.
- Evelyn Del Rey is Moving Away by Maya Ramirez, illustrated by Sara Lopez
Daniela’s best friend, Evelyn, is moving away. This heartwarming story captures their bittersweet farewell as they promise to remain friends no matter the distance. - My Rainbow by DeShawn Neal & Trinity Neal, illustrated by Art Twink
Inspired by the real-life bond between DeShawn and Trinity Neal, this story depicts a mother’s love as she creates a rainbow wig for her transgender daughter who dreams of vibrant hair. - Nibi is Water by James McCoy
This board book introduces young readers to the significance of water, or Nibi, in Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe), teaching them to cherish and protect this vital resource. - Your Name Is a Song by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, illustrated by Luisa Uribe
A little girl comes home upset about her name being mispronounced at school, but her mother helps her appreciate the beauty of names and individuality.
Middle Grade Selections
For middle-grade readers, the committee has chosen books that delve into essential conversations about various forms of identity while highlighting underrepresented histories.
- Any Day with You by Mai Tran
Kaia dreams of winning a movie-making contest at creative arts camp to convince her great-grandfather to stay in the U.S. instead of returning to the Philippines. - Efrén Divided by Emma Ramirez
Efrén’s life takes a turn when his undocumented mother is deported, forcing him to juggle new responsibilities while navigating middle school challenges. - From the Desk of Zoe Washington by Lila Johnson
On her 12th birthday, Zoe receives a letter from her birth father, currently incarcerated. As she writes to him, she seeks the truth while balancing her passion for baking. - Show Me a Sign by Anna Mae Clark
Set in a close-knit deaf community on Martha’s Vineyard, Mary navigates personal grief and social tensions while being subjected to cruel experiments by a determined scientist.
Graphic Novels
This year’s graphic novels emphasize the power of intergenerational narratives and the role of youth in activism.
- Banned Book Club by Kim Hyun Sook & Ryan Estrada, illustrated by Hyung-Ju Ko
A South Korean college student joins an underground book club, uncovering the dangers and joys of reading banned literature during a military regime. - Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel by Jason Reynolds, illustrated by Danica Novgorodoff
This poignant story follows Will as he grapples with the murder of his brother and the weight of seeking revenge. - The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen
Tien reads fairy tales with his parents to help with their English, while wrestling with his own identity as he struggles to come out to them. - You Brought Me the Ocean by Alex Wainwright, illustrated by Julie Maroh
Jake, a boy with a secret longing for the ocean, must confront his fears and feelings as he navigates his attraction to the swim team captain.
Young Adult Picks
The young adult category is filled with diverse narratives that highlight the complex identities of modern youth.
- How It All Blew Up by Arvin Ahmadi
After coming out to his Muslim family, Amir escapes to Rome only to find himself in a customs interrogation, where his fate relies on his confession. - Sitting Pretty: The View from My Ordinary Resilient Disabled Body by Rebekah Taussig
In this collection of essays, Taussig shares her experiences growing up with paralysis, reflecting on the significance of living in a body that often feels out of place. - The Night Watchman by Louise Erdrich
Inspired by her grandfather, this novel follows Thomas, a night watchman, as he fights against Native dispossession alongside a plant worker named Patrice. - Woven in Moonlight by Isabel Ibañez
Ximena, seeking revenge against a usurper, must navigate unexpected friendships and her own powers in a world filled with ghosts.
For the complete list of recommended titles, check out the Penn GSE Best Books of 2020 for Young Readers.
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In summary, this curated collection of books offers a rich array of narratives that resonate with young readers, providing them with stories that reflect their realities and foster understanding of diverse experiences. From picture books to graphic novels and young adult literature, these selections aim to inspire and educate while addressing important social issues.
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