Mixed Race Representation

A stunning little multicultural book pack celebrating our many different family structures. Promotes positive relationships and helps children develop respect for others. Includes boardbooks, paperbacks, hardback and a Story CD! 12 books See individual titles for book information. Members Price £70.00 **Suitable substitutions will be made if any title becomes unavailable**

A wonderful list of wonderfully inappropriate responses to a new sibling by an award winning illustrator/author team. Comic, upbeat, offbeat and bursting with child-centred humour. (Mixed race family). Things NOT to do with a baby include pegging them on the washing line, giving them to an octopus, swapping him for the school guinea pig. 'Great illustrations; swapping him for that lovely guinea pig is tempting!!' (Maggie, Former EY Adviser, LL reviewer). 'Funny and engaging do's and don'ts for new sisters and brothers; hints at the frustration older siblings can feel!' (Carey, Childminder, LL reviewer). Age 3-5 Paperback 24pp

In partnership with Inclusion for All, we have put together a unique bookpack designed to: - help combat the negative attitudes which give rise to homophobic bullying - promote an inclusive educational environment in order to- - drive forward whole school improvement and so raise standards. This careful selection of books includes titles which celebrate families in all of their diversity as well as upbeat story books which feature same-sex parents. The pack is made up of both hardbacks and paperbacks and is aimed at Primary children, KS1&2, Ages 5-11. 6 books See individual titles for book information. Members Price £51.00 **Suitable substitutions will be made if any title becomes unavailable** Themes: Families, Lesbian and Gay

Anna lives in Africa. Amazing Africa. Beautifully written and charmingly illustrated stories by a Nigerian author about a contemporary, urban, fun-filled little girl. Delightful. Age 7-10, Paperback 103pp

A delightful tale about a child who is absolutely bursting and popping with happiness. 'Very positive portrayal of extended family life (mixed race marriage)' (Children's Services Coordinator, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 32pp Themes: Families, Feelings

From getting up with the first "tweet" to going to bed with a night time "hoot!", follow a toddler on their busy day and learn lots of useful first words along the way. Introductory vocabulary (incl. nouns, prepositions, adjectives) about transport, feelings, animals and household objects. Bold, bright pictures; our favourites include the sunglasses-wearing cuddly mammoth and the crocodile-mouthed wellies. Lovely boardbook with tabs- which also happes to reflect a (interracial) two-dad family. 'Lovely, busy illustrations and words to explore. Every page is of interest and I like the woolly mammoth!' (Meryl, EY Consultant/Trainer, Letterbox reviewer). 'What's not to like? A brilliant book for introducing children and their parents to the delightful diversity of family life and a lot of useful words. And does it effortlessly and with grace, wit, style and charm' (Mark, Equalities Trainer, Letterbox reviewer). Age 1-3, Boardbook 20pp

Baby Ruby bawls and bawls. Dad, Mum, Nan, Grandad, Uncle Clyde all pitch in...but only brother Theo has the magic touch! A super-rhythmic, endearing story of mutual support and love within a mixed race family. Age 3-6, Paperback 20pp Themes: Families

A mixed race lead character and a hearing-impaired best friend who laughs in the face of gender stereotypes...and yet there is nothing self-conscious in these delightful mini-stories starring a very sweet and anxious boy anticipating the arrival of his new sibling. Age 7-10, Paperback 89pp

The long awaited sequel to Sawbones! We couldn't be more excited. Ezra and Loveday are on the move and are taking all possible risks to get prince Mahmoud back to safety. Travelling through late 18th century Paris, in the midst of revolution, they must dodge over-enthusiastic surgeons, a population in turmoil and... guillotines! Heads will surely roll... A fitting and ever-exciting sequel which also works just as well as a stand-alone. Age 10-16, Paperback 234pp

"The incredible story of the ultimate historical hustle, based on the true story of Mary Wilcox" (publisher blurb). We're completely smitten by this part-fictionalised biography of a quick thinking (mixed race), working class young woman who survives by adopting the disguise of the mysterious Princess Caraboo. A gripping, startling read which takes a unique peek into the workings of early nineteenth century Britain with its class system, its economic injustices, its imperial 'exoticisation' of foreign lands, its misogyny and its dubious-and racist-'new' sciences (e.g.: early phrenology). 'A well-told, quick moving story that once again reminds readers that black people were part of British society long before the Windrush sailed in!' (Patrice, Author & Parent, LL reviewer). [nb: trigger warning- this novel opens with a description of a rape, the repercussions of which are very sensitively handled]. Age 13+ Paperback 270pp

A lively day out at the science museum (mixed race family). Easy, chatty, interactive text perfectly suited for describing a first experience and for opening up discussion. Ages 2-5, Card Pages 23pp

"This is how we all begin: small and happy in our skin". A gorgeously inclusive book which gets giddy about skin! A rich text marvels at how skin keeps "your insides in", at how clever it is at growing, at healing and how it responds to the outside environment. Most of all, it celebrates the diversity of our skin and the importance of feeling happy in your skin. This joyful book has so many purposes: it can function very simply as an early science/biology book for the very young or it can be used as a subtle yet brilliant tool in challenging prejudice and in empowering children to feel confident in their skin and in their body. 'Lovely, evocative descriptions of colours- peaches & cream, honey/gold...What's not to like?' (Maggie, former EY Adviser, LL reviewer). 'Very positive about skin colours/purpose of skin. Joyful illustrations' (Rosalind, EY Consultant, LL reviewer). (Portrayals of different ethnicities, faiths and disabilities as well as diverse family structures). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp

A hugely loveable protagonist. Anna leaves 'Amazing Africa' to visit her Canadian Granny, make new friends and discover snow! Includes a clever (age-appropriate) exploration of prejudice. 'Deceptively simple' (Parenting Facilitator, LL reviewer). Age 7-10, Paperback 105pp

A very large, very fun-spirited elephant challenges a small child to a game of hide and seek. And, despite the elephant's quite terrible disguises- on full show with just its head in a lampshade, delicately clutching a skinny tree trunk in front of it- the child simply fails to spot it. Which leads, inevitably, to a tortoise challenging the same child to a game of Tag...A book which really understands the art of being a picture book with the barest of texts, decorative gatefolds and warm, smudgy illustrations in a gorgeous fuzzy summer palette, stuffed with character and great humour. A picture book lover's dream. 'Ahhh, how funny is this?! Children will love it. Made me smile all the way through' (Meryl, Early Years Consultant, LL reviewer). 'So funny- laughed out loud!' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Commissioning Officer, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 30pp

The Paddling family live on an island, making their living by fishing and teaching swimming- and serviced by the local ferry people who bring them their mail and food. But every summer, when the water dries up, the ferry people have to stop their visits and the Paddlings have to go elsewhere for a good paddle! An unusual story book with lots of scope to explore island living, weather patterns and their impact on the environment. A curiously life-affirming tale with some extra nice touches in the illustrationsL: a very heavily pregnant Mrs Paddling fishing in balloon trousers, Mr Paddle's chequered one piece swimsuit, the enormous plate of fish and chips in the final pages! 'This is very original- from the story to the illustrations. A very quirky family. Somehow a real feeling of warmth and affection' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox reviewer). 'I loved this book. Beautiful illustrations, interesting story and no gender stereotypes- hooray!' (Hannah, Social Worker, Letterbox reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp

SLA Information Book Award Under 7s 2011 Winner The most joyful and inclusive book of the year! A glorious, multicultural celebration of contemporary family life. Includes lesbian/gay parents, single parents, adopted/fostered children and people from different economic backgrounds. All wrapped up in delightful illustrations and great dollops of humour! Age 4-8, Paperback 32pp Themes: Families, Lesbian and Gay

A gentle exploration of bereavement through lilting, poetic text and joyful, sweeping brushstrokes of oranges, pinks, reds and yellows. A child takes her granddad's giant hand and journeys through the seasons with him exploring the first signs of spring, discovering the astrological properties of a racing track (!), capturing dreams with a rainbow pencil in a book of crinkly leaves, storytelling with snake puppet socks. When her beloved grandpa dies, she collects scattered memories from his room and then starts to write them down in the notebook he left for her, made of spring-petal paper and Indian string. A very moving story- the sadness made somehow bearable by the exquisite relationship between child and grandparents and the narrative faith in memories which gradually heal like balm. (Mixed- Asian/Black- Race Family.) Age 4-8 Hardback 28pp

Indigo is a girl with secrets who is just managing to keep things together in her latest foster home. Middle-class, aspiring musician, Bailey is dazzled by her and wants to get to know her better. Just as the two become closer, they are threatened by the appearance of a mysterious stranger who seems to know far too much about Indigo's past. The second YA novel from Patrice Lawrence about whom we are unashamedly biased. Lawrence is an absolute beacon on the landscape of YA fiction. Her plots are perfectly paced, dashing the reader forward, while threaded through with layers and details which give satisfying pauses. And, as with her YA debut, Orangeboy (stocked by us), the characters feel like they have been imagined and thought over for years before they have even touched the pages. The tenderness of Bailey with his well-intentioned but clumsy interruptions into Indigo's life and the fierce, beautiful strength of Indigo as she survives and triumphs over the hurt of her childhood, drive these characters right into your melting heart. (Secondary characters include rock goddess, Debbie Harry/Blondie, who plays a key role in bringing Indigo and Bailey together). A satisfyingly complex mystery, an utterly credible, aching teen romance, this hits the spot- all the spots! Extra style points for Bailey's ginger afro which fires up the gorgeously designed front cover. Finally, this wins our award for a portrayal of a young person in the care system- this is a wholly respectful, empowering and authentic treatment. 'This addictive teenage tale feels fresh and important' (Alex O'Connell, The Times Children's Book of the week 22/7/17). (Some extra points on inclusive content: for those of you on the look out for well drawn mixed race characters, Bailey won't disappoint. We were big fans too of Felix, Indigo's gay foster brother.) Age 14+, Paperback 441pp

A (mixed race) family - including a refreshingly active grandmother- work in perfect harmony in preparation for their house move. A first 'real task' explored in a fun, conversational, interactive style. Age 2-5, Card Pages 23pp

When rain pours in sheets from a sky "dark as a bruise", Mr Noah decides this is the perfect opportunity to "tidy up the world a bit". He busies himself with sorting out which creatures should be rounded up and saved and which should be left behind... namely, the ones which have just a little too much trickery and magic about them.... But Mr Noah hasn't accounted for Mrs Noah who begins to stitch and tack together a hooded coat with the deepest of pockets. Nor has he accounted for her wanderings through Mythico Wood. In praise of every marvellous and troublesome creature on earth, this is a velvety-rich retelling of an ancient story. 'Wonderful, figurative language' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). 'This is utterly gorgeous. Love the words and the images (and) the fact the family have different skin tones- like ours. Wonderful' (Patrice, YA Author, LL reviewer). [Mixed race family.] Age 4-7, Hardback 29pp

A day in the life of a toddler and their parent, jam-packed with the special charm that only Magic Mum can conjure up. Gentle rhymes. "Lovely illustrations that depict mixed ethnicity...simple, charming story." (Parent, LL reviewer) (Mixed race family). Age 3-5, Boardbook 16pp

Granny Vero was born in Trinidad. Granny Rose was born in Yorkshire. Alvina adores them both. But the grannies don't always agree...can Alvina soothe the squabbles? 'A lovely story with a good dual heritage theme' (Pre-School Leader, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp

There is so much for a busy, busy baby to do and yet so many people creating obstacles: "No, baby, no"! A celebrated author and Taylor's beautifully warm illustrations present a funny little baby caper within an extended, mixed race family. Age 3-5, Paperback + CD 28pp

"Really, Pea thought, there was no such thing as a normal family; just yours, and everyone else's". If 'casual inclusion' is your preferred mode of representation, then this series about Pea and her mates delivers on this flawlessly. Pea's upbeat, fun and chaotic world is peopled by a refreshingly humorous and three-dimensional lesbian couple, Pea's own diverse single parent family, some delightful little gender twists (through a set of boy/girl twins), socio-economic differences and mixed race characters. All are seamlessly woven into a story about transitions, belonging and families. Full of great substance, Pea would like you to know that "this book is not about mermaids". (1st in the series). PS: we're pretty keen on author Susie Day's website too! Age 8-11, Paperback 280pp

The second in the Pea series! Here, the delightful Pea enthuses and worries about her path in life- should she be a pet therapist, an artist, or a footballer? See our review of the first book in the series, Pea's Book of Best Friends. PS: do also check out author Susie Day's website See our other Pea books! Age 8-11 Paperback 303pp

The third in the Pea series. Pea is growing up and suspects she really ought to only hold sophisticated birthday parties from now on. Also, she would quite like to track down her father who she has never met and who may or may not be an actual pirate. Another fine addition to this series which manages to tackle very substantial issues- here, for example, an absent father- with a real lightness of touch. As always, the cast of the book remain wonderfully diverse. See our review of the first book in the series, Pea's Book of Best Friends. PS: do also check out author Susie Day's website See our other Pea books! Age 8-11 Paperback 280pp

The fourth in the Pea series…and this reviewer's favourite! Pea's famous writer Mum has shifted from mermaid to pirate books but has suddenly been stumped by writer's block! Determined to help, an inspired Pea suggests a break at Corfe Castle. A delicious story of English summer weather, smugglers and holiday adventures is interwoven with a quite excellent, balanced, critique of Enid Blyton's work: "Enid would never have written a book about a family like Pea's". As always, Susie Day remains faithful to the world we live in, with a range of characters including Ryan who has hemiplegia and whose parents are separated. See our review of the first book in the series, Pea's Book of Best Friends. PS: do also check out author Susie Day's website! See our other Pea books! Age 8-11 Paperback 300pp

A story set in contemporary Malaysia which cleverly weaves in Chinese legends and folklore. Rohan is disappointed to receive a boring old bamboo flute for his birthday. But when his brothers are swallowed up by the angry Forest Guardian, he soon discovers that this instrument is full of magical possibilities. Plenty of scope for cross-curricular work on the environment and the significance of family. (Mixed race protagonist). (nb: the author was born in India and grew up in Malaysia) Age 5-8, Paperback 29pp

The ever-rising star, Holly Sterling, brings her buoyant, deliciously warm illustrations to the nativity story, making it immediate to the very young. A perfect read-aloud in a nice large format with especially adorable stable residents: ducks, goats a very alert mouse... And did we mention the pop out & play fun? Little hands can pop out a stand-up stable and pieces to put together their own nativity scene; little lamb included! (Mixed Race representation). Age 1-4, Boardbook 12pp

Debut picture book by a much-loved Canadian webcomic artist. In a land of warriors, tiny warrior princess, Princess Pinecone, is growing tired of the comfy cutesy sweaters she receives each and every birthday. This year she begs for a great strong horse. She ends up with...a tiny pony. Worse- a tiny, farting, pony. On the day of the Great Battle, Pinecone fears they won't stand a chance. But perhaps a tiny pony has disarming powers all of its own. A charming tale full of warriors of all genders and ethnicities with a more-than-endearing mixed race lead. Age 4-7, Paperback 32pp

A bright, bustling, book showing a child's evening and bedtime routine through auditory landmarks- the pinging of the microwave, the babbling of the TV, the rustling of (Braille) book pages turning, the splish splash of the bath, the deep quiet voice of a father singing a lullaby. Dad as primary (and possibly also the single) carer and a toddler who experiences their environment through sounds. Very inclusive and especially relatable to those who may be blind/partially sighted. (Mixed Race family) Age 3-5, Paperback 27pp

Sammy dreams of flying, Teddy in tow. Can Grandma make his wish come true? Terribly sweet. (Mixed race family). Age 3-6, Paperback 26pp Themes: Families

It's 1792 and Ezra (mixed race) is an apprentice surgeon. When a tattooed body lands on his dissection table, he and the rapier-wielding Loveday unearth a tangled web of intrigue. Described by Malorie Blackman (Children's Laureate) as "Superbly written", our reviewers were absolutely gripped. "What an opening chapter! (School librarian, LL reviewer). Age 10 +, Paperback 233pp

Scarlet is used to looking after her little brother (who has a learning disability) so when her mum's depression results in them being split up into different foster homes, Scarlet is determined to get her brother back. Explores mental health and the complexities of the care system (without demonizing any social workers!) Ages 9-12 , Paperback 203pp

"Hi Mum...I know you're always watching over me...I go to Big School today. I'm not nervous...I'll probably actually make new friends in five minutes, because I am, like, fun and interesting..." Billie's family is full of big characters: three big brothers and a Dad. But she still misses her Mum. So when she has a chance to do a school project on her mum, Billie couldn't be happier- that is, until she realises her happy family isn't quite what it seems... A fantastic young chapter book starring a mixed race lead growing up in a Black British Christian family. As always, Susie Day's work embraces inclusion in the most 'natural way, merely showing us the world as it really is. Meantime, her fresh, comic tone is a perfectly safe forum for exploring bigger ideas of social justice. (Billie's gay brother is much more than a secondary character and is a refreshing addition to the tiny handful of largely white LGBT characters in children's fiction). Age 8-11, Paperback 304pp

A picture book lover's absolute delight! The story of sleeping beauty, recast and twisted and re-birthed as an extraordinary fairy tale for our times. The tale starts out in the 1950s with Annabel being raised by her two 'Aunts' (in fact, probably a [mixed race] same-sex couple). Absorbed in 1950s futuristic sci-fi pop culture, little does Annabel realise her own future is uncertain since green-eyed witch Morwenna (a Cruella de Vil spin off) has predicted her death on her 16th birthday, a curse converted by good witch auntie Flora into a long, long, long sleep. 1000 years on from the dreaded sixteenth, in a utopian future of flying saucers and smiley robots, a smart and fearless young (Asian) girl called Zoe discovers an ancient fable, Sleeping Beauty, in a quite magnificent towering library... and sets out to recue Annabel from her deepest sleep. Magical, feminist, visionary storytelling. Not a prince in sight- indeed, curiously, not a man in sight in either the mid-century nor the future world... 'I am besotted with this. The illustrations are quite breathtakingly beautiful and the storytelling is terrific. I love the synthesis of 'traditional' feminine values of nurturing and support with those of adventure and exploration to create a kind of feminist/queer utopia that anyone would want to live in. The language is elegant and the whole story brims with joy and hope' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant). Age 4-8, Paperback 29pp

A child (mixed race) makes the journey from her home town to the countryside, to become a new family with her grandmother. An exquisite story about transitions, feeling different, alienation, new beginnings and, ultimately belonging. By a popular CBeebies' presenter. We loved this! Age 4-7, 24pp Paperback.

Ideal either for shared reading or for a whole class performance, this anti-bullying book is a great resource for getting children to explore the emotional impact of bullying and social exclusion. Endorsed by the national anti-bullying charity, Kidscape. (nb: multicultural classroom; mixed race lead character). Age 8-11 Paperback 30pp

"Sometimes Sunita doesn't like her baby sister very much". But rest assured, Sunita is about to change her mind. Explores, in the simplest language, a vast range of conflicting feelings experienced by a child when there is a new arrival in the family- anxiety, jealousy and, of course, love. 'Lovely illustrations. Great to see a diverse family engaging in ordinary home life. Sunita is delightful' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). 'Really positive representation...feelings every child can identify with' (Beth, Inclusive Minds Founder & Parent, LL reviewer). Comes with some excellent parent/carer notes too. (Mixed Race family) Age 3-5, Hardback 18pp

Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2018 A wonderfully dense coming-of-age novel starring Leila who is teetering on the brink of a newly politicised identity and is about to discover just how loud her voice can bellow. With the unearthing of her Nan's Protest Book, Leila picks the baton of protest passed down through her family, joined by some wonderful secondary characters on her journey, including: Pari, a recent refugee from the Iraq war, living in a tower block in the UK, self-assured and quick to challenge assumptions about her and her family; Kez, a wheelchair user who is re-forging her identity and, in the process, coming into her own as a vocal advocate of disability rights. This is a narrative rich with a celebration of equality and solidarity, hopeful about the possibility of change and confident in young people as the initiators of change. (Mixed race protagonist). Endorsed by Amnesty International UK. Age 9-14, Paperback 413pp **Special offer is £1.99 off, usually £6.99**

"Dads, Daddies, Papas, Pops. Or fathers if you'd rather (but I think that sounds quite posh!" An adopted boy muses on all of the benefits of having two Dads- from double the sets of shoulders to rest on to double the fun at bath, or rather water pistols, time...not to mention the doubling up of snuggles and cuddles! A charming ode to diverse (and mixed race) families. (n.b.: The author and her partner are adoptive Mums). Age 3-6, Paperback 20pp

"They played and they worked, they sang and they danced. They loved and they laughed and giggled and pranked." A household grows in chaos and love and messiness as two mums adopt one child, then two, then a cat, a dog, a hedgehog, two field mice and more. As the house bursts with chicken feed and bin bags of poo, there can only be one solution...they pack up and move the entire menagerie to the countryside. A very special (mixed race) family bursting with warmth. Great rhymes and hilarious illustrations - the dopey-looking guinea pigs get extra marks! (n.b.: The author and her partner are adoptive Mums). Age 3-6, Paperback 20pp

Simple conversational text and lively illustrations explore the experience of a (mixed race) family waiting for a new baby. Great for encouraging discussion. Age Birth-2, Boardbook 12pp Themes: Families

Big, crisp photos and positive, upbeat text celebrate our many, varying family structures! Great for exploring difference and diversity. Age 3-6, American Import Hardback 24pp

From the magnificent duo who brought you the Great Big Book of... (Families and Feelings), comes this wonderfully affirming picture book about all the different ways children come into the world. Includes families created through adoption and fostering, blending (of two families), artificial insemination, IVF, surrogacy and more! Representations of same-sex parents (very well represented) and mixed race families alongside 'casual' images of disability just add to this inclusive, no-fuss, all-embracing, celebration of pretty much every type of family. A blissful, upbeat and often comical resource, destined to make each and every child feel valued. 'I love this book!' (Deb, Education Lecturer/Former Ofsted Inspector, LL reviewer); 'Wonderfully inclusive and positive' (Kate, Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer). Age 4-8, Hardback 24pp