Kyle writes:

I recently had an amazing conversation with Andrea Davis Pinkney, the author of A Poem for Peter and other award-winning books. She shared this with me:

“When kids see a child that looks like them on the cover of a book, they see that they are important. But when they don’t see themselves reflected, they don’t get to know that they matter. When they don’t see themselves depicted, they don’t get to see that they count. And I think that’s the importance of diversity: kids see what they see, and they don’t see what they don’t see.”

Andrea’s words echo what we hear from the educators First Book serves: 90% of First Book educators say their students would be more enthusiastic readers if they had access to books with characters, stories, and images that reflect their lives.

When children read more, the greater the likelihood that they will succeed in school, and subsequently, in life. Unfortunately, the lack of diversity in children’s books is staggering.

First Book’s Stories for All Project™ addresses the lack of inclusivity in children’s books by providing kids in need with books representing diverse characters, voices and life circumstances. Promoting understanding and empathy through stories helps children see and celebrate their similarities and differences.

You can help children be seen. Donate to First Book today to help create an empathetic and inclusive generation. When you donate, tell us where you want Stories for All Project™ to be distributed. Open up a world of possibilities for kids in your community.