Informational books for kids

 Informational books for kids can be amazing resources for entire families. Aside from introducing children to concepts that are new to them, they can also be a fantastic stepping stone toward a conversation between adults and children. A quality informational book for kids would be one that can be enjoyed by all ages, and can provide information to anyone no matter their age. Who knows, you might even learn some new things as an adult that you never would have realized before. I had such experiences with the below. All of these books do one thing very well: they work as conversation starters.


Reynolds, Jason and Kenji, Ibram X, adapted by Cherry-Paul, Sonja. Stamped (For Kids). Illustrated by Rachelle Baker. Little, Brown & Co. 164 pages. Tr. $15.99, ISBN 978-0-316-16758-1

A fantastic adaptation of the Pulitzer winning Stamped From the Beginning by Ibram X. Kenji, this remix of the source material for younger ages by Sonja Cherry-Paul is a fantastic primer on race in the United States, and information on how to work toward an anti-racist mindset. Told in clear language that doesn't speak down to the audience, Kenji's research is foundational and should be read by all people. This is a perfect introduction to the topics of race, racism, and racial relations in the United States, told in a frank and clear manner.



Burcaw, Shane. Not So Different. Photographs by Matt Carr. Roaring Book Press. 40 pages. Tr. $19.99, ISBN 978-1-626-72771-7

I am a big fan of Shane Burcaw, and this is a good example of why. He tells his story of living with spinal muscular atrophy in a way that is entertaining but also educational. This is a great book to add to any collection regarding physical differences, what makes us unique, and how we can better support each other despite any differences we have. Burcaw's other writing is equally fun for older ages, with this being great for children of any age. Amusing photographs help sell Burcaw's humor and story.

Portis, Antoinette. Hey, Water! Holiday House. 48 pages. Tr. $9.99, ISBN 978-0-823-44735-0

A simple book with a fun naïve art style all about water and how water is a part of our everyday lives. An easy to read book for beginning readers, with lovely color use. The book ends with coverage of the water cycle and a primer on water conservation in simple terms for sharing with young readers, and starting a conversation.

Maillard, Kevin Noble. Fry Bread. Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal. MacMillan. 48 pages. Tr. $18.99. ISBN 978-1-626-72746-5

A gorgeously illustrated book about a food staple for many Indigenous American tribes. The book explores a topic that is universal--food--and how it connects us. The book itself is nice as a read aloud, and then there is an extensive author's note at the end going over additional information that can be used as conversation starters, and also just to learn a bit more about the people portrayed. There's also a recipe to make your own fry bread, which could be a fun bonding activity and experience.

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