8 Super Fun Kids Books that Celebrate AAPI Heritage!
Because it’s Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I wanted to share a few of the beautiful books that have caught my eye over the last month or so. They each share the story of the AAPI community’s history, joy, struggles, and culture.
In the past year, we’ve seen anti-Asian hate rise across the country, so celebrating their culture and teaching our littles about their diverse and extraordinary heritage feels even more important.
There's no better time to share the unique stories that introduce our littles to the wider world than now. Here are eight books written and/or illustrated by Asian American authors you can read to your littles this month.
We Are Inspiring: The Stories of 32 Inspirational Asian American Women by Angel Trazo
We Are Inspiring shares the amazing stories of Asian American actresses, scientists, comedians, and musicians. This is, by no means, an extensive list of all the incredible AAPI women who have shaped our country, but it’s a great place to start!
Eyes that Kiss in the Corners by Joana Ho
This book celebrates the beauty of eyes that "kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea." The lyrical words tell a heartwarming story about learning to love yourself, just as you are.
Laxmi's Mooch by Shelly Anand
This is a fund and heartwarming little book about a young Indian American girl’s journey of accepting her body hair after she is teased about her mustache. I love it because it teaches our littles about body positivity, how to embrace their uniqueness, how to stand up against bullying.
I Dream of Popo by Livia Blackburne
Stories of emigrations are pretty common among the Asian American community and this story gives heartwarming insight into the experience. It’s about a little girl who moves from Taiwan to San Diego, and must now navigate a new culture, language, and community, all while missing her grandmother back home. Taiwanese culture and language are also wonderfully woven into the story.
No Kimchi for Me! by Aram Kim
Yoomi is not a fan of kimchi, despite how often the grownups in her house try to hide it in her favorite foods (like pizza, cookie, and even ice cream). But when her grandmother teaches her how to make kimchi pancakes, she learns more about her Korean heritage and her tastes start to change. (There’s even a recipe for kimchi pancakes to make with your littles in the book too!)
Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao by Kat Zhang
There are many things that Amy Wu does very well, but making bao is not one of them. This story follows little Amy on an all-day adventure to learn to finally make the perfect bao and teaches the importance of perseverance along the way. Plus, it also includes a recipe to try on your own!
Little Dumplings by Jekka & Krissy Kuhlmann
This fun little book teaches about diversity in a fun and creative way! It takes a look at all the different kinds of dumplings in the world, and is a great reminder of how much we have in common even though we are all special and unique.
ABCs for the American Born Chinese by Cathy Lu
What a fun way to teach your little their ABCs! This book highlights the diversity of Asian cuisine and teaches the alphabet through Chinese American vegetables, fruits, and other foods. Who knows, maybe your little will be willing to try something new!
Did I leave out a book you love? Find me on Instagram – @healthylittlesleepers – and let me know which books you would add to this list!