In this enchanting picture book, two children set out on separate adventures to blaze their very own trail, mapping it as they go.
Americas
Materials from the Americas
Stealing Little Moon: The Legacy Of American Indian Residential Schools: The Legacy Of American Indian Residential Schools
Little Moon There Are No Stars Tonight was four years old when armed federal agents showed up at her home and took her from her family. Under the authority of the government, she was sent away to a boarding school specifically created to strip her of her Ponca culture and teach her the ways of white society. Little Moon was one of thousands of Indigenous children forced to attend these schools across America and give up everything they’d ever known: family, friends, toys, clothing, food, customs, even their language. She would be the first of four generations of her family who would go to the Chilocco Indian Agricultural School.
Dan SaSuWeh Jones chronicles his family’s time at Chilocco–starting with his grandmother Little Moon’s arrival when the school first opened and ending with him working on the maintenance crew when the school shut down nearly one hundred years later. Together with the voices of students from other schools, both those who died and those who survived, Dan brings to light the lasting legacy of the boarding school era. Part American history, part family history, Stealing Little Moon is a powerful look at the miseducation and the mistreatment of Indigenous kids, while celebrating their strength, resiliency, and courage–and the ultimate failure of the United States government to erase them.
Buffalo Dreamer
When 12-year-old Summer visits her family on a reservation in Alberta, Canada, she begins experiencing vivid dreams of running away from a residential school like the one her grandfather attended as a child and learns about unmarked children’s graves, prompting her to seek answers about her community’s painful past.
This book is featured in Season 3, Episode 2 of the WOW Reads podcast.
This book is the WOW Recommends: Book of the Month for April 2025.
As The Seas Rise: Nicole Hernández Hammer And The Fight For Climate Justice
A picturebook biography of environmental scientist and activist Nicole Hernandez Hammer, who was recognized by former First Lady Michelle Obama at the 2015 State of the Union address for her efforts to educate people about climate change and its disproportionate impact on communities of color.
This book is part of the Worlds of Words Global Reading List for 2023/24.
Daughter Of the Light-Footed People: The Story Of Indigenous Marathon Champion Lorena Ramírez
From the copper canyons of Mexico her swift footsteps echo. Clip clap, clip clap. Experience a 60-mile run with Indigenous athlete Lorena Ramirez, who captured the world’s attention when she won an ultramarathon in Mexico wearing a skirt and rubber sandals — the traditional clothes of the Rarámuri, the light-footed people.
This book is part of the Worlds of Words Global Reading List for 2023/24.
Planting Hope: A Portrait Of Photographer Sebastião Salgado
As a young boy, Sebastiao Salgado loved exploring his parents’ farm in the forests of Brazil, always dreaming of what might lie beyond his view. When he went away to school, he met Lelia, who showed him how to use a camera. As he looked through the lens, Sebastiao realized he could use photography to capture how the world fits together.
Sebastiao used his pictures to tell the stories of people who might not otherwise be seen. But after witnessing too much destruction, he put away his camera and returned to his childhood home. The land was in ruins.
So Sebastiao and Lelia decided to rebuild the rainforest and photograph the beauty of the world to save it. Through art and activism, they would show that everyone was responsible for caring for the planet and that hope endures if we take action.
This book is part of the Worlds of Words Global Reading List for 2023/24.
Say Hello!
Carmelita loves her vibrant neighborhood, where cultural diversity thrives. With a cheerful glee, she greets the array of people in her community. From Spanish to English, French to Japanese, Carmelita exchanges hellos in numerous languages, embracing the multicultural tapestry around her. Even her faithful companion, Manny the dog, joins in with his enthusiastic “Woof!” that seems to transcend language barriers.
Rachel Isadora, renowned for her Caldecott Honor-winning works, creates captivating collages that depict Carmelita’s world with whimsical charm. Each detail, from colorful storefronts to fluttering pigeons and the enticing ice cream truck, invites exploration. Through Carmelita’s adventures, Isadora celebrates the kaleidoscope of cultures found in American neighborhoods, offering a delightful introduction to the beauty of language and the joy of diversity.
La Mala Suerte Is Following Me
In this fun picture book adventure exploring superstitions, Miguel finds himself grappling with La Mala Suerte (Mrs. Bad Luck)—and he’s determined to shake her off before it’s too late!
Ever since his abuelita warned him about the consequences of opening an umbrella indoors, Miguel’s life takes a turn for the worse. From stumbling over his own feet to flunking an exam and fumbling on the soccer field, Mrs. Bad Luck seems to shadow his every move. Desperate for a change of fortune, Miguel tries everything from hunting for four-leaf clovers to dabbling in his aunt’s “existential” oils, but to no avail.
With a blend of Spanish phrases and playful language, “La Mala Suerte Is Following Me” offers a delightful and heartfelt exploration of superstitions. Join Miguel on his zany quest to outwit Mrs. Bad Luck and reclaim control over his luck-filled adventures!
Everyone Gets A Turn
Join Bear, Hare, Turtle, and Mouse as they embark on an extraordinary adventure sparked by the discovery of a precious egg nestled in the woods. Illustrated in Dubuc’s signature soft and inviting watercolors, readers are immersed in the charming world of these woodland companions, who come together to find a solution for their newfound responsibility.
Through Dubuc’s endearing narrative and captivating illustrations, “Everyone Gets a Turn” celebrates the beauty of friendship, the power of community, and the importance of sharing and trusting in one’s resourcefulness. With its timeless message, this delightful picture book is perfect for sharing aloud and inspiring young readers to embrace the spirit of cooperation and kindness.
Let’s Play In The Park / Juguemos En El Parque (My Friend, Mi Amigo)
In the third installment of the My Friend, Mi amigo series, Joe and José embark on a playful adventure in the park. As they engage in various games and activities, their friendship blossoms while bridging language barriers. Follow along as these two companions, one English-speaking and the other Spanish-speaking, navigate the joys of climbing, sliding, and forging new connections. Ideal for preschoolers and early grade learners, this bilingual tale offers an immersive reading experience for families delving into English and Spanish.
Both Laínez, hailing from El Salvador, and Perez, originally from Puerto Rico, infuse their cultural backgrounds into the story, enriching the narrative with authenticity and warmth. For more bilingual adventures, explore titles like Let’s Be Friends, Seamos Amigos, and We Play Soccer / Jugamos al fútbol by the same talented duo.