Diversity

This eclectic roundup of YA titles features the latest by Anna-Marie McLemore, Indigenous literature from Latin America, and some delectable rom-coms.

From immigration and lucha libre to family high jinks and the first day of school, these stories illuminate the uniqueness and universality of the Latinx experience. Shine a light on them during Latinx Heritage Month and beyond.

In recent years, there has been a surge of Colombian creators crafting works that celebrate the vibrancy and resiliency of their culture, broadening the diversity and scope of Latino representation in children's publishing.

Poetry, biographies, sci-fi, and historical fiction are just some of the genres represented in these middle grade titles centering Latinx stories. Highlight them for Latinx Heritage Month and beyond.

Initiatives like Gale’s Bias Review Project and World Book’s Sensitive Language Project aim to identify poorly represented content areas and correct outdated language. 

The after-school program, which is not affiliated with the 1619 Project, will begin in Hannah-Jones' hometown of Waterloo, IA. The curriculum will be available for free to anyone next year.

These librarians provide books and a sense of belonging to marginalized students and those academically behind, living in poverty, or facing other difficulties.

The grieving process can open new spaces for expression, writes author B.J. McDaniel, including picture books. 

Teachers and librarians have an obligation to help students seek marginalized narratives and assess the validity of information presented to them.