The Librarian Writer

Summer reading programs are starting and as I've mentioned before, the theme at the libraries where I work is One World, Many Stories . In addition to the books that I've previously listed , there are also some fabulous movies with multicultural stories that you might be interested in. Bend It Like Beckham : A Pakistani teen in London defies her parents by playing soccer. The Chorus (Les Choristes) : At a school for troubled boys in France, a music teacher changes their lives. Empire of the Sun : A young English boy tries to survive in a Japanese POW camp during World War II. Into the West : Two Traveller brothers find a mysterious white horse in their Irish slum. Osama : A 12-year-old girl disguises herself as boy after the Taliban takes over Afghanistan. Quinceanera : Magdalena gets kicked out of her home when she finds out she's pregnant, but finds a new home with her grandfather and gay cousin. Rabbit-Proof Fence : Three aboriginal girls escape government custody and at...

Summer reading programs are kicking off soon at the libraries where I work, and this year's theme is "One World, Many Stories." As I've mentioned before, I believe multicultural stories aren't just for people of color and I love that so many kids will have the opportunity to learn about the big, beautiful world we all share. Here's a short list of books about people from the four corners the world, including right here in the USA. Picture Books Angel City by Tony Johnston, illustrated by Carole Byard An African-American man adopts a Latino boy and when tragedy strikes this unlikely family, love is what keeps them going. Not for younger readers, but older children can appreciate the book’s message of tolerance and compassion. D Is for Dragon Dance by Ying Chang Compestine, illustrated by YongSheng Xuan Vibrant illustrations celebrate the traditions of Chinese New Year one letter at a time. Pablo Neruda: Poet of the People by Monica Brown, illustrated by Juli...