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 and paperbacks. 13 books See individual titles for book information. Members Price £76.00 **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

First they told you what not to do with a baby* and now, this award-winning duo (including one of our very, most, absolute favourite illustrators) are back to tell you things to avoid doing with a granny. From not giving her squashed jelly beans on toast for breakfast to not interrupting her karate (Holly Sterling is herself something of a karate champion...) to not putting her pants on your head... some easy-to-follow rules on how to keep your granny or, indeed, both your grannies tip-top-happy! A very affectionate tribute to grandparents with not a 'granny' stereotype in sight. [Mixed race family]. Age 3-6, Paperback 26pp

Gran plays at Tiger Gran in her stripy orange jumper; Mum is a mischief-making monkey; Dad is a hungry hairy bear. A child relishes a day of imaginative play, travelling across jungles, deserts and oceans, with all her family members joining in. A warm-as-toast celebration of extended family life starring a child who just so happens to wear a hearing aid. [Mixed race family]. 'Delightful from the first page to the last! Great concept, great range of family members, colours, ages, activities. This book made me smile from page 1 to the end' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 30pp

"Blood may be thicker than water, but shared community and experience are thicker than both". When teacher, Mr Watras, invites his class to enter a competition to suggest a new statue for Staten Island, best pals, Sam and TJ, who both identify as non-binary (and mixed race), struggle to think of a figure head who will challenge the canon of straight cis white male statues populating the island's monument-scape. Until, that is, they discover Alice Austen, 1866-1952: famed photographer, local celebrity, rebel and lesbian. A discovery which, in turn, brings Sam and TJ into a new embrace of family, community, legacy and pride. A coming-of-age story perfectly pitched to middle grade and a grand tribute to lesbian, queer and non binary lives from the past and in the present. 'Loved this book! Informative, challenging, interesting, great story' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Finally a book which uses the word 'queer' in an informed, knowledgeable and authentic way. Also loved the subtleties of the changing languages of how we think and talk about gender identities and sexuality across history and generations of LGBTQ people. And all done in a way which is so switched on to a pre-teen readership' (Fen, Letterbox Library staff). Plus, once you've read the author backnote and seen the wonderful archive photos, you won't be able to resist looking up the very colourful, exciting and boundary-breaking life of Alice Austen. N.b.: author identifies as gender queer. Age 9-12, Paperback 169pp

The very simplest of boardbooks show an extended family -including Uncle and Cousin and Granny- coming together to form "Us" in a grand birthday celebration, complete with indoor bunting, balloons, paper crowns and confetti. Layered, collage illustrations. By a renown, award-winning, Edinburgh-based designer and illustrator. (Mixed race family). Age Birth to 3, Boardbook20pp

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 Click here to see the CLPE's Power of Reading Teaching Sequence to accompany this text. 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

One of those perfectly flawless picture books which harmonises text and illustrations in a joyful, synchronised two-step. Grandma is on her way over. And so, Daddy gathers the family together and gives instructions- Bobby must rock the baby, Dad will scrub the dishes, Sarah will feed the fishes... and he will bathe the cat. And all the tasks will be spelt out clearly on the fridge magnets, with no letter-scrambling interference whatsoever from the bath-hating, nimble-pawed kitty. None at all. An absolute triumph. Robert's exquisite illustration are pared down here to a minimal fluorescent palette of oranges, pinks and yellows; bold geometric patternings settle over Daddy's shirt, Dad's cornrow styling and dashing, pineapple-retro crockery. There is so much detail to relish: lurid orange nail varnish; the wedding bands which make Dad and Daddy's relationship unambiguous; the art deco cat shampoo bottle. Above all, this beautiful piece of art celebrates family life with two fathers through tons of play, flamboyant rhythms and rhymes and merry mayhem. And, rising above all of them, is a thoroughly ingenious tabby cat. Domestic bliss in technicolour. (nb: all in this family of 5, bar one, are characters of colour). Age 4-7, Hardback 39pp

"I am the black flamingo. / The black flamingo is me / trying to find myself.../ This books is a fairy tale / in which I'm cursed / and blessed by others./ But, finally, I am the fairy / finding my own magic". The debut novel by poet, Dean Atta landed on multiple shortlists and then won the 2020 Stonewall Book Award. Told in blank verse, in one fluid hymn, this is a beautifully developed coming-of-age narrative. We cheer and smile as teen Michael, a Cypriot/Jamaican Londoner, reaches into and then lays out his brilliant self in full, flamboyant technicolor. A one-sitting, luxurious-as-crushed-velvet, read. Age 12+, Paperback

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

Uncle JB has stopped by on his way out West. He asks Cora (and her mums) to look after something for him while he's away. Is it Poquito the pet goldfish? No! It's bread...and it's alive... it's a Bread Pet! JB leaves careful sourdough-goo-care instructions (except the part about keeping it in the fridge.... Soon, the sourdough grows and grows. In just days, there are mini bread pets bubbling all over the household. Eventually Cora, Mum and Mama not only end up having to turn bread bakers, they end up needing to distribute Bread Pet's offspring at the local community centre. A soulful story of family, community and artisan bread with a dash of multiplications and a sprinkle of science! Funny and gloopy! Obligatory Bread Pet and Bread recipes included in the back pages. (Mixed race household; protagonist wears two hearing aids). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp

"For as long as I could remember, I knew I was a boy". And so begins one child's journey as he stands tall in his real gender and takes on his new name, Calvin, supported by his parents, brother, grandparents and by his school. And if that all makes this book sound 'worthy', think again. It really is full of joy. The protagonist's face glows and shines more and more with each page; the gestures and facial expressions we witness amongst Calvin's family members as they embrace their son/grandson is truly life-affirming. As Calvin's Dad says, "We love you if you are a girl, boy, neither, or both". This narrative is unusually (for picture books) non-binary in its approach and is also very refreshing for not over-explaining Calvin's gender identity. Calvin isn't a boy because... Calvin just is Calvin. And his surrounding world just adjusts itself to him. The simple alterations made to the school environment alone role model good practise. The book also tells a 'real' story with plenty of lightness- there is a visit to Gigi and Papa, splashes and dives at Water World, superhero costumes to fashion for the comic convention. Some lovely little touches in the classroom scene illustrations: teacher Mr J's strikingly assembled dreadlocks; 'casual' disability images include a wheelchair user, a child who wears a hearing aid, a child with vitiligo; completely ungendered breaktime play- Calvin simply picking up his skipping games with friend, Violet, where he left off. 'A brilliant primer for adults about how to embrace a trans child's identity wrapped up in an engaging children's story. What I really love is that nobody is interested in the whys and wherefores of his identity- they just accept it' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, Letterbox Library Reviewer). 'Great book for children and adults about accepting Calvin for who he is. Really empathetic. Good to see a mixed race family central to the storyline' (Rosalind, Project Dev. Mgr., PACEY, Letterbox Library reviewer). Written by the parents of a transgender child. Age 4-7, Hardback 29pp

A highly (full-colour) illustrated book perfect for children bridging picture books and fiction/chapter books. Four mini stories/chapters featuring the extremely endearing brothers, Charlie and Mouse. In the first two, they task themselves with arranging a neighbourhood party in the playground- Mouse puts on his teeny boppers, pink tutu and pointy cowboy boots; Charlie dons his wizard's hat and cape and...off they set! As they make their way through the neighbourhood, they pick up a merry band of children. Wonderfully upbeat and cheerful, full of rich and comic dialogue. Effortlessly inclusive with gentle challenges to gender stereotypes and starring mixed race protagonists within a racially diverse neighbourhood (plus background secondary characters, couple Mr Erik and Mr Michael, in the story 'Rocks'). Age 5-8, Paperback 36pp

'What's for dinner. Will you help me choose?' A chatty, interactive text and merry illustrations encourage children to engage in their first 'real' tasks. Age 2-5, Paperback 23pp

After her 5-year-old brother dies, Isla and her parents move away from Edinburgh to the Orkney Islands, Scotland. The move brings a new school, new friends and a legend of selkies in a wild landscape which mirror and echoes and then starts to heal the grief buried deep within each family member. Layers and currents of emotion course out of a surprisingly sparse text. We especially appreciated how Isla's father manages to be honest with her about his sadness while still wrapping her up in his warm, protective bulk. The pain of bereavement is softened by the comforting repetition of symbols, the embrace of Ray's ruby-rich and light-diffused illustrations and the graceful arc of healing which drapes over the narrative. 'A beautifully told story of the pain of grief and loss and the beginning of recovery in this loving family. Ray's illustrations-always lovely- enhance the story' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). [An editorial aside: It is still all too rare a thing to see portrayals of people of colour in wild, rural UK landscapes. It is so refreshing to see characters reclaim the British country paths they have been written out of. Thank you, Sita and Jane.] [Mixed Race Family] Age 8-12, Paperback 87pp

Dad Toby and Dad Greg have quite a challenge on their hands, persuading daughter Sasha to part with her oldest sweater. Her Dads call it "dirty"; she protests that is merely "covered in adventures". It bears all the traces and splodges of the failed volcano experiment, the go-kart building, the hungry goat encounter at the city farm and the very spill-y tomato ketchup situation. So, who will win the Battle of the Jumpers? How gorgeous. A UK-produced picture book, pitched to the very young, which centres a nurturing, loving (mixed race) family which just so happens to be headed by two Dads and which also doesn't shy away from making that relationship unambiguous- as happens in so many other narratives.... (Lovely image also of a wheelchair user from Sasha's friendship group). Age 3-6, Paperback 29pp

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 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

Every summer, a child visits her seaside Grandad. Holidays with Grandad are always bursting with things to do and witness- but the best thing of all is hearing all about the adventures Grandad shared with Gramps, his partner. Grandad reminisces about Gramp's messiness, clumsiness and also his excellence at so many things. Most of all, he shares stories of their around-the-world adventures in their striped, pink camper van...a van which still lurks in the garage, now looking a little sorry for itself. Can a fix-it granddaughter bring the van and its magic adventures back to life...? A gentle story about loss, a celebration of intergenerational love and in praise of all good road trips. Age 4-7, Hardback 24pp

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, LGBTQ+

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 Paperback 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

From the dynamic duo who brought you 'Luna Loves Library Day', sprightly, bouncy Luna is back and this time she's on a school trip to an art gallery. Dad packs her up with her backpack, lunch box and instant Camera and she's off! The gallery is ablaze with excited visitors, so why is classmate Finn acting up so much? Parent helper, Luna's Mum, suggests perhaps all he needs is a friend. Can Luna lift his mood with the Art Bug? A careful and sensitive story about different family backgrounds (Luna's parents are separated; Finn is experiencing an unspecified family breakdown). Absolutely splendiferous emulations of 'real art' by Coelho -Warhol's Campbell Soup! Matisse's Snail! Kusama's Pumpkin!- with a full list of works included at the front of the book. "Love the setting and story! A school trip to an art gallery with real art!" (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). (A host of diverse background characters, including a wheelchair user and a child who wears a hearing aid). Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp

Luna enjoys her special weekly visit to the library. Mum drops her off and Dad is always already there, waiting, with his head in a book. Together they explore the stretchy Big Book section, the bug books area and a history book which describes the island dad grew up on. And then, together, they read a fairy tale -a genius addition of a book enclosed within this book- about a troll king and a mermaid queen who argue so much they decide to separate. An expansive book which manages to wrap up a story of family separation within a wider celebration of books, reading and libraries. A gorgeous ode to libraries and parental love (mixed race family). 'The whole thing is really beautiful and to be honest I did cry a bit...a beautiful book about a normal experience many children go through yet many people feel too awkward to explore or do so in a way that's too straightforward' (Josephine, teen reviewer for LL). Age 4-7, Paperback 22pp

On Monday, Mummy, a film director, goes off on her work trip, leaving Mama and their child behind. She won't be back until Sunday. In between there will be school circle time, zoom calls, virtual hugs, library trips, food shops and movie nights. But there will also be grey skies, tears and a whole lot of missing. A very child-friendly, true-to-life yet soothing, picture book about a child's feelings in the face of a temporarily absent parent. Lavish spot art/full bleed illustrations cover the narrative in a glow of familial love. There are lots of fun details in the pictures such as the tiny night time racoons and the huge array of hairstyles in the classroom scene. Plus, some thoughtful inclusive details such as Chloe's neck brace, the shared hair bonnets/complex hairstyles of the protagonist and her Mummy, the film's Black female superhero, the child's Black doll. N.b.: Mama is White (with purple hair and multiple floral tattoos!); Mama is Black. Age 4-7, Hardback 30pp

"Pride is all about family, both the ones you're given and the ones you make." 12-year-old Archie M Albright has a couple of secrets, one of them being his middle name. But, very soon he's going to become the holder of an Even Bigger Secret. His dad is about to come out and leave the family home. How will Archie muddle through this new found knowledge? Can he and his dad stay the same if his dad isn't...well...quite the same? Can a road trip to London Pride, accompanied by brilliant besties, Seb and Bell, answer any of his questions? A perfectly uplifting adventure in which bonds of family and friendships are rebooted, rediscovered, treasured and nurtured. A happy cast of secondary characters include non-binary Boo, gay teen couple Oscar and Dean, drag queens Lester and Michael and my personal favourite, Viv, a treasure of an 'older' lesbian parental figure. It is so delightful to finally see a smattering of middle grade novels with LGBTQ+ content and to have one written by 'our' very own UK creator seems all the more precious. Thank you, Benjamin Dean. Best Pride slogan: 'Pride is Still a Protest!' Bonus: a beautiful, inside front cover, full colour illustration of Pride by Sandhya Prabhat. Mixed race protagonist; Achie's dad is a gay man of colour as is the novel's creator. Age 8-13, Paperback 331pp

Puppies Milo and Monty have come to live with the McKenzies. But while they like doing lots of things together, Milo very often prefers to be left alone quietly. One day, when the house is especially noisy, Milo goes off to his favourite beneath-the-desk spot. To his surprise, someone else is already there... Cousin Henry! The wider family soon notice how similar Henry and Milo are. Both have a favourite toy, neither likes to be hugged, both gravitate to quiet, cosy spots, both prefer a set daily routine. And so, the McKenzies simply adapt to fit around Milo's needs. An excellent book for introducing empathy and awareness of differences, it is also a fantastic prompt for a conversation about autism and how small adjustments can make someone who is autistic feel safe and secure. (Features both a mixed race and a single parent family). Age 4-7 , Paperback 28pp

Mr Watson (White) lives with Mr Nelson (East Asian). In a honking house. In a honking city. With a titchy yard, shared with 2 dogs, 3 cats and a mere handful of chickens. Except, before long, the chicken numbers start to grow. And grow. One day the chickens count in at 456. The noise, topped off by Aunt Agnes clucking Shooby-doo on a loop, becomes a little challenging. Especially for Mr. Nelson, who threatens to leave. What can Mr. Watson do? He loves his chickens. But he loves Mr. Nelson far more. The silliest of chook tales which incidentally stars a same-sex couple. (Some nice background context too in the incredibly detailed Where's-Wally-esque spreads: rainbow and trans pride flags; an ethnically diverse wider community, a range of families etc.) Age 3-6, Hardback 40pp

Dad has scratchy-scritchy fur, he eats up all of the honey, he naps and he grumbles; he also growls out the loudest karaoke renditions; he likes to pitch up in the woods; he gives the bestest bear hugs. A great spoonful of Dad-love, served up with Adeola's supremely expressive illustrations. Watch out for the double page spread showing a cinema audience, bathed with light effects and filled with our full range of humanity, from an Edwardian monocled man to a nose-pierced, blue-puffball-styled woman. 'I found myself smiling throughout reading this book.' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Mixed race family. British South Asian author and British Black illustrator. Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp

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

"Friends' shoes, comfy shoes, tiny little baby shoes...Big shoes, twinkly shoes, Mary Jane and boating shoes". Every conceivable pair of shoes. No, really. All of the shoes! Look out especially for the ladybug heels, the peachy fluffy numbers and the starry platform boots. A parent and child head for a day out, arriving, finally, at a shop full of shoe treasures... all of the busy backgrounds are very inclusive. 'Lovely book. Bright and colourful. Good rhythm and rhyme. Lots to look at. I think children will enjoy this as they love to tell me if they are wearing sandals, trainers or wellies when I ask them to put their shoes on!' (Carey, Childminder, Letterbox Library reviewer). Mixed race family. Age 2-5, Paperback 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 child builds the perfect shelter out in the woods with her sister, their parents watching on. The narrator knows that something isn't quite right with her family. And, when the rains come, her sister isn't there to help stack the sticks high and patch over the cracks with leaves. Instead, she's in hospital and even Dad's fairy cakes can't bring any cheer. But maybe, just maybe, they can bring the sanctuary of their together-shelter indoors? A rare and much-needed book addressing long term illness in the family from a young child's point of view. Soft illustrations and a text full of tenderness. "Whilst it does not shy away from the reality of cancer, the balance is spot on, striking a successfully positive and heartwarming pitch, reminding us all to fully appreciate the precious moments together as we ride out our various storms" (BookTrust website review). (Mixed race family). Age 4-8, Paperback 27pp

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

**SPECIAL OFFER** "Hey, I’m a mixed-race, fairy kei ex-Pilgrim. That’s got to be worth something." Lawrence has done it again. Rose, Interrupted delivers all of the complexity of plot, characterisation, breathlessness you would want from a mature, adult, thriller- but Lawrence does so in a voice which is pitch-perfectly tuned in to young people’s lives from their relationships and thoughts, right down to the details of their fashions, eclectic music tastes and dialect. Rose, her brother, Rudder and their mother have ‘left’ the Jehovah’s Witnesses, a community founded on an intricate and rigorous set of rules. Now, they must negotiate a new world in a cramped East London flat, an environment which comes with its own bewildering codes of behaviour and technologies. In this world, a photo taken with consent, circulated without consent and then innocently shared risks destabilising the lives of everyone, threatening personal boundaries, confidences, trust and the very founding social structures communities depend upon. A breakneck pace and a super-satisfying whodunit mystery are underpinned by the exquisite characterisations of Rose and Rudder whose lives are steered and tripped up by the conflicting scripts of Atonement ("trying to be purer") and Being a Perfect Worldly-Wise ("complete decommissioning from God’s Pilgrims"). Their intense feelings of shame and guilt as former Pilgrims, their precarious straddling of an almost archaic innocence with thrilling wordliness and their hunger for discovery, for loving relationships, for living, dancing, and owning their own physicality- all come together to create unforgettable young lives. Their will to survive, to come into themselves and just ‘be’ will make you want to guide them and hold them very tightly and protectively in this world... but the wonder of Rose and Rudder is they neither want nor need you to. Young adult fiction at its very finest. (Mixed race leads). Age 14+, Paperback 420pp **SPECIAL OFFER £6.00, USUALLY £7.99**

Just a scattering of words- but each one carefully plucked and polished up in a rhyming text. Illustrations which feel so immediate and tactile- the sand seems to kick up at you and the waves drift in... A family enjoy a day in a recognisably domestic coastal scene. Beach huts, lollies, sandcastles, chips and sauce and, even, a rain shower! Our reviewers loved this. 'Such a lovely book! The sparse, rhyming text is beautifully matched with illustrations which conjure all the senses that are alive to sea, sun and sand' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Lovely rhyming and images, lovely mixed family. Lots to observe on each page with diversity of the surrounding people on the beach' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). N.Bs: one of the child protagonists wears leg splints; blended family; mixed race family. Age 3-6, Paperback 28pp

Sarah's Grandma Azar tells her stories from the Holy Koran and cooks up kofte with her. Sarah's Grandma Maria tells her stories from the Bible and bakes up cupcakes with her. But the very best stories they tell Sarah are those of the nativities. A gorgeous picture book -gorgeous in text, sentiment and illustrations- which enfolds Islam and Christianity into one, warm and joyous family celebration. 'I love this book! It really exemplifies the beauty of exploring commonalities in religions. My children loved it when I read this in assembly' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 22pp

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

The festive celebrations start right enough for 15-year-old Spey and his Mum. They decorate the Christmas tree, drink snowballs (aka "an omelette in a glass"), re-watch The Blues Brothers on DVD... but then, Christmas Eve gets rudely interrupted by a surprise visit from Spey's absent Dad, Benni. More than just a little absent. Just-out-of prison absent. Meantime, Dee is alone in a room down on the coast. Just her, one mattress and some cardboard boxes, in a flat where the key has been turned in the front door. When Mum hands Spey a mysterious envelope bursting with scraps of cut out flowers and childish doodles, he is propelled on to a road trip down south, from London to Hastings. A quest to solve the mystery of his missing childhood friend, Dee, soon spirals out into a journey of self-discovery, one which will make him grapple with his identity in the present and which will need him to revisit some uncomfortable places from his past. At the heart of these discoveries, at the heart of everything is Dee- a young woman who despite all the things conspiring to cut her down persists, roots herself down, thrives, survives, shines. The latest Young Adult novel from multiple award-winning author, Patrice Lawrence. And it's absolutely trademark Lawrence. Strap yourself in. Hold on tight. This is a single-sitting thriller; there's a reason Lawrence has won the CrimeFest Award not once, but twice. And, of course, there is the usual wonderful array of memorable characters: from secondary players such as the higher-than-aloof Astrid and "big-sis radar"-equipped Fi to protagonists Spey, an endearing (Mixed Race) reluctant hero, and care leaver Dee, who belts you over your heart and then lodges herself in there. With Dee, Lawrence continues her passionate claim on the agency and voice of those young women who society so often ignores, silences, mishears or passes by ... like so many weeds. "I imagined Dee as the most common wildflowers, the ones considered weeds. She is ignored, or a nuisance, unwanted. But Dee also knows about wildflowers- their strength and beauty too..." (Lawrence's letter accompanying early proofs of the novel). Unforgettable. Indelible. Age 13+, Paperback 320pp

Do not be distracted by the rather saccharine book cover! Behind the purple hue, the bunnies and the flowers is a fun and highly inclusive story (with not a whiff of self-consciousness about it). Part of a series, Teacup House, this third book works fine as a stand alone. Stevie and her mum have moved from an urban tower block to a countryside cottage, a transition made easier for Susie by Nanny Blue's gift of a doll's house in which four toy bunnies, the Twitch family, live...except these bunnies are alive! Stevie soon settles in to her new home, pairing up into a lovely adventure-seeking, roller-skating, duo with Eshe (who is mixed race). The series of full colour illustrated chapter books nicely interweaves the children's and the bunnies' mishaps and calamities. In this particular book, Stevie's mum has gone away on a photography commission and her dad moves in to look after her, along with his husband, Stuart, who turns up with an overly bouncy puppy in tow... leading to plenty of mayhem at the cottage. Stuart also happens to have a prosthetic leg, a detail revealed in the illustrations but not referred to in the text. 'The slightly twee cover hides a really well told story. An inclusive approach to content, related in an understated way' (Eileen, Former Primary teacher, LL reviewer). Age 6-9 Paperback 119pp

Bobby is Chloe's favourite uncle. He knows the names of all the stars and he's taken her right to the top of a lighthouse. But, at their first family picnic that summer, Bobby has an announcement to make: he and Jamie are getting married. Married! Moving in together! How can Chloe be sure her and Uncle Bobby can still have fun together? Can Jamie bring anything to the table? A delightful little story about a child learning to adjust to change which also centres a same-sex wedding. Lovely end pages dotted with rainbow flags, glitter balls and wedding iconography. For those of us who can remember the original (now out of print) 2008 Uncle Bobby's Wedding starring a cast of..guinea pigs...and for those of us who feel a little tired of quite how often picture books resort to anthropomorphism when portraying same-sex couples, this 2021 version is a very welcome update! Author Brennen has tweaked her original text and Soto's cartoon-esque illustrations have brought in a vibrant and an entirely human cast. (Bobby is White and Jamie is a person of colour; the protagonist is also mixed race). Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp

In praise of brining down walls and creating communities. A small town. Just like any other small town. Except, in the middle of it stands a castle. The very, very, very last castle. No one ever comes out. No one is allowed in. Who lives there? "Monsters", says Miss Wicks. "Giants", declares Alex. "Snakes", confirms grandpa. But Ibb is not so sure. Packing up her courage and her curiosity, she ventures across the drawbridge... Part mystery, part comedy and starring a mixed race lead. 'I really liked this book and the themes it addresses, i.e. overcoming fears, encouraging others to question their pre-judgements, welcoming new people' (Hannah, Social Worker, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, American Import Hardback 38pp

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 Paperback 24pp

A day in the park (with a male carer) becomes a seamless journey in to other worlds- the slide swooshes a child down a snowy mountain slope; a roundabout swirls her a distant island; a zip wire speeds her into a jungle. A perfect tribute to imaginative play. 'It will encourage vocabulary and imagination and inventiveness. A simple book which lends itself to sharing ideas and activities. My granddaughter loved it- she flew over the trees many, many times!' ((Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, LL reviewer) (Suggested single parent/separated parents family- day out at park is with a male carer who brings the child back to a female adult; 'casual', secondary character, disability images including hearing aid + wheelchair users). Age 2-5, Paperback 30pp

A positive encyclopaedia of words! Meet, Mum, Dad, Maya, Sam, Grandpa, Zanzibar the cat and Crunchy the crocodile. A busy (mixed race white/Asian) extended family introduce readers to their home and wider environment, incorporating key vocabulary as well as more elaborate language. Words for foods, shops, common household objects, occupations, feelings and even...fairytale characters. Multicultural and with plenty of 'casual' disability images in scenes showing the wider environment. 'Wow. So much to look at. Had fun looking for the crocodile in every picture. Inclusive, fun, extending' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'I like the fantastic pictures. I also like a lot of the words' (Vuso, aged 8, young Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 45pp