The Valentine’s Day Reading List for Children

February is Black History Month and Valentine’s Day lands smack in the middle of the month, so I’ve put together a reading list to celebrate love, kindness and inclusion.

Choosing a more inclusive story teaches your children a lot more about diversity than you may think. It’s important that every child see themselves as main characters within the pages of the stories. Especially those they enjoy reading most. Besides, Valentine’s Day is as good as any to show someone how much you care.

As we spread our family’s cultural awareness, we continue to add books to our library that include diverse lead characters. After all, unifying the world starts at home.

Little Blue Truck’s Valentine, Alive Schertle

One of Wesleigh’s first favorite stories, The Little Blue Truck has a Valentine’s Day special that follows Blue as he delivers Valentine’s to all of his friends. The series is consistently reliable for a catchy and entertaining read.

Love Is, Diane Adams

A new favorite, this story is a poetic ode to motherhood that honestly had me tearing up by the end. Short, sweet and written with a rhythmic flow, the book follows a young girl as she raises a duckling, drawing parallels to a mothers unconditional love.

One Love, Cedella Marley

A treat for parents who love Bob Marley, this book is colorful and beautifully illustrated. Kids, and their parents will love singing the words with each turning page.

Pass It On, Sophy Henn

A sweet book with positive messaging about spreading joy. The story follows a young girl as she delights in finding joy in all situations and sharing it with everyone she comes across.

The Other Side, Jacqueline Woodson

This special story reflects upon the bond of children and what friendship can overcome. Short, well written and beautifully illustrated, the book is about two girls, one African-American and one white (who live on opposite sides of a fence in their segregated town) and their efforts to become friends.