When there is a lot going on in the environment on racism, diversity, and inclusion, it’s a happy feeling to come across books like ‘All Are Welcome’ by Alexandra Penfold. Illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman, this one is about a school where every child is welcomed with open arms.
What a wonderful school, isn’t it?
The story revolves around a day in that school where kids from different backgrounds, ethnicity, looks, traits, start their day happily and mingle with each other celebrating the beauty of diversity. All Are Welcome lets young children know that no matter who they are, how they look, what language they speak, they have a place, and space of their own in this world.
This book has such a beautiful message for all especially with the discussions happening around this topic in recent times. What I also loved a lot about this book is its illustrations. Without using harsh words about skin color etc, these illustrations represent the difference and uniqueness of each child so beautifully. After reading this book with my son, we revisited the story and paused at each page to look at the pictures especially.
There are many beautiful books but on this topic but this one is a must-read recommendation from my side, in case you’re looking for a story that explains the diversity in a very positive way.
Cheers to the author and illustrator for creating gems like these. In case you’re looking for the read-aloud version of this book, you may listen to this story by the amazing storyteller Ms. Linda at Brightly Storytime here.
Btw, would you like to know one of my other favorite books on this topic set in the Indian context? Undoubtedly it would be “Brown Like Dosas, Samosa and Sticky Chikki”. I had written about it long back here and even had done multiple storytelling sessions on this book when I was in India. I absolutely adore this book.
Diversity was also the topic of the month for my newsletter Pillow Talk. You may sign up for it here to receive book recommendations, doodle prompts, and conversation starter kits for kids.
Title: All Are Welcome
Author: Alexandra Penfold
Illustrator: Suzanne Kaufman
Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
Suitable for: Age 4 to 9 years
Available at Amazon here.
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