Book Review for Read Your World: Barbed Wire Between Us, by Mia Wenjen, Illustrated by Violeta Encarnacion

Read Your World (formerly Multicultural Children’s Book Day) is on January 29, 2026!

This is my 9th year participating as an author sponsor and reviewer, and my 6th as a co-host! Wait – can that be right? Time really flies! It’s my favorite book event every year! More information about #ReadYourWorld Virtual Party is below right after my book review. This year I have the honor of reviewing three books which were #gifted to me as part of Read Your World.

Barbed Wire Between Us, by Mia Wenjen, illustrated by Violeta Encarnacion

Coming soon March 31, 2026 – Red Comet Press

Wow. This is one of the most powerful picture books I’ve ever read. It tells two stories using the same words, just arranged in reverse – an incredibly simple idea that carries so much weight. The first story depicts the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. The second takes place decades later, on the same land, and follows immigrants held in a detention center after crossing the border. Different people. Different time periods. The same language of confinement.

What’s heartbreaking is how familiar everything feels. The longing to belong. The fear and uncertainty. Families torn apart. Lives put on hold behind barbed wire. And yet, threaded through both stories is the same quiet resilience: kindness from strangers, small acts of care, and people creating beauty and hope with almost nothing. This line especially stayed with me: “Where darkness is, light will shine again. From behind barbed wire, new life will begin.”

The author’s note at the end adds even more depth, explaining both historical contexts and revealing that this same place, Fort Sill in Lawton, Oklahoma, was also used in the 1880s to imprison members of the Chiricahua Apache Tribe. Three different communities. Three different eras. One location shaped by forced confinement and injustice.

This book doesn’t just tell a story—it asks readers to notice patterns, to see how history echoes across cultures and generations. It’s a powerful reminder that these experiences are not isolated, and that understanding them requires us to listen to many voices, not just one.

History repeating itself.

#READYOURWORLD

Now, for more info about Read Your World 2026 and the Virtual Party:

Read Your World 2026 (1/29/26) is in its 14^th year! Valarie Budayr and Mia Wenjen founded this non-profit children’s literacy initiative; they are two diverse book-loving moms who saw a need to shine the spotlight on all of the multicultural diverse books and authors on the market while also working to get those books into the hands of young readers and educators.

Read Your World’s mission is to raise awareness of the need to include kids’ books celebrating diversity in homes and school bookshelves. Read about our Mission and history HERE.

Read Your World is honored to be Supported by these Medallion:

FOUNDER’S CIRCLE: Mia Wenjen (Pragmaticmom) and Valarie Budayr (Audreypress.com)

🏅 Super Platinum Sponsor: Author Deedee Cummings and Make A Way Media

🏅 Platinum Sponsors: Language Lizard Bilingual Books in 60 Languages and Jeanne Walker Harvey

🏅 Gold Sponsors: Publisher Spotlight

🏅 Silver Sponsors: Red Comet Press

🏅 Silver Corporate Sponsor: Kathy Choi

🏅 Bronze Sponsors: Fabled Films Press

🏅 Corporate Sponsor: Crayola Education

Read Your World is honored to be Supported by these Author Sponsors!

Authors: Audrey Barbakoff, Federico Erebia, Teddi Ahrens, Stephanie M. Wildman, Maritza M. Mejia, Authors J.C. Kato and J.C.², Eugenia Chu, Dorktales Storytime Podcast, Josh Funk, Frances Díaz Evans, Gaia Cornwall, Eric Clock, Maria Wen Adcock, Diana Huang, Gwen Jackson, Gea Meijering, Amanda Hsiung-Blodgett, Ismee Williams, Karin Fisher-Golton, Kathleen Burkinshaw, Tami Lehman-Wilzig, Daria Marmaluk-Hajioannou, Nancy Tupper Ling, Teresa Robeson,Crystal Z. Lee, Karen Leggett Abouraya, Elly Swartz, Robbin Miller, Shifa Safadi, Tonya Ellis,Lisa Stringfellow, Sylvia Liu, Kimberly Biddle, Robbin Miller, Tonya Ellis, Nadine Pressley, Natahsa Yim Carter, and Lisa Chong.

Read Your World is Honored to be Supported by our CoHosts and Global CoHosts and by our Partner Organizations!

Check out RYW’s Multicultural Books for Kids Pinterest Board!

📌 FREE RESOURCES from Read Your World Day

📌 Register for the Read Your World Virtual Party: https://readyourworld.org/virtualparty

Join us on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 8 pm EST celebrating 14 years of Read Your World Day Virtual Party! Register here.

This epically fun and fast-paced hour includes multicultural book discussions, addressing timely issues, diverse book recommendations, & reading ideas.

We will be giving away a 10-Book Bundle during the virtual party plus Bonus Prizes as well! *** US and Global participants are welcome. **

Follow the hashtag #ReadYourWorld to join the conversation, and connect with like-minded parts, authors, publishers, educators, organizations, and librarians. We look forward to seeing you all on January 29, 2026, at our virtual party!

Book Review for Read Your World: We Sing From the Heart, by Mia Wenjen, Illustrated by Victor Bizarre Gomez

Read Your World (formerly Multicultural Children’s Book Day) is on January 29, 2026!

We Sing From the Heart, by Mia Wenjen, illustrated by Victor Bizar Gomez

Mia Wenjen has written another powerful and timely book, this time telling the story of The Slants and why standing up for justice matters for all of us. Who are The Slants? They were an Asian American band denied the right to trademark their name, and they took their fight for free speech all the way to the Supreme Court!

The story centers on Simon Tam and the racism and bigotry he experienced growing up. From an early age, Simon learned that reclaiming a stereotype, rather than letting it define him, could be a source of strength. As an adult, he formed a band and deliberately named it The Slants, transforming a hurtful term into a statement of pride, resistance, and self-definition.

When Simon applied to trademark the band’s name, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office rejected it, claiming the name was racist. Yet the government had previously allowed non-Asian applicants to trademark slurs like “Jap,” “gook,” and “Chink.” The message was clear: Asian Americans were being treated differently. Refusing to accept this injustice, Simon chose to fight back – not just for himself, but for fairness and equal treatment under the law.

As the years went on, Simon kept playing music, kept speaking out, and became increasingly visible as an advocate and role model, especially for Asian American youth who rarely see themselves represented in stories about civil rights. After eight long years, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously in favor of The Slants. What began as a fight against racism became a landmark victory protecting freedom of speech for everyone—across cultures, communities, and identities.

This compelling and inspirational book is a must-have. It shows how one person’s experience as a member of a marginalized community can spark change that benefits a multicultural society as a whole.

The back matter is especially meaningful. Mia Wenjen includes a list of others who have fought anti-Asian racism, words from Simon Tam himself, and the lyrics to his song “From the Heart,” which became an anthem for their trademark battle. She also shares how she wrote a letter of support for Simon’s case, reminding readers that allyship matters and that standing up for justice can take many forms. Well done, Mia!

#READYOURWORLD

Now, for more info about Read Your World 2026 and the Virtual Party:

Read Your World’s mission is to raise awareness of the need to include kids’ books celebrating diversity in homes and school bookshelves. Read about our Mission and history HERE.

Read Your World is honored to be Supported by these Medallion:

FOUNDER’S CIRCLE: Mia Wenjen (Pragmaticmom) and Valarie Budayr (Audreypress.com)

🏅 Super Platinum Sponsor: Author Deedee Cummings and Make A Way Media

🏅 Platinum Sponsors: Language Lizard Bilingual Books in 60 Languages and Jeanne Walker Harvey

🏅 Gold Sponsors: Publisher Spotlight

🏅 Silver Sponsors: Red Comet Press

🏅 Silver Corporate Sponsor: Kathy Choi

🏅 Bronze Sponsors: Fabled Films Press

🏅 Corporate Sponsor: Crayola Education

Read Your World is honored to be Supported by these Author Sponsors!

Read Your World is Honored to be Supported by our CoHosts and Global CoHosts and by our Partner Organizations!

Check out RYW’s Multicultural Books for Kids Pinterest Board!

📌 FREE RESOURCES from Read Your World Day

📌 Register for the Read Your World Virtual Party: https://readyourworld.org/virtualparty

Join us on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 8 pm EST celebrating 14 years of Read Your World Day Virtual Party! Register here.

This epically fun and fast-paced hour includes multicultural book discussions, addressing timely issues, diverse book recommendations, & reading ideas.

We will be giving away a 10-Book Bundle during the virtual party plus Bonus Prizes as well! *** US and Global participants are welcome. **

Book Review for Read Your World: Giving Thanks with Halmoni, by Kathleen Choi and Sook Nyul Choi, illustrated by Il Sung Na

Read Your World (formerly Multicultural Children’s Book Day) is on January 29, 2026!

Giving Thanks with Halmoni, by Kathleen Choi and Sook Nyul Choi, illustrated by Il Sung Na

This mother-daughter writing team (LOVE that!) has created a truly lovely story centered on Chuseok, the Korean Harvest Festival—often described as the Korean Mid-Autumn Festival and comparable to Thanksgiving. The book gently introduces readers to Chuseok while also telling a heartfelt story about the bond between a grandmother and granddaughter, friendship, identity, and the joy of sharing cultures and traditions with others.

In the story, sweet Su-Jin worries that her Halmoni (Korean for grandmother), who has recently moved from Korea, will miss celebrating Chuseok. Wanting to make her feel at home, Su-Jin and her friends decide to surprise her with a Chuseok party. There’s just one problem—Su-Jin doesn’t actually know much about the holiday herself. Instead of pretending, the girls do something even better: they ask Halmoni to teach them. What follows is a beautiful example of learning across generations and cultures, as the girls prepare a celebration that welcomes everyone and honors Halmoni’s traditions.

Halmoni introduces the girls to all the parts of Chuseok, from meaningful gifts and mouth-watering food to honoring ancestors and playing traditional games. It’s a wonderful, accessible introduction to the holiday, especially for readers who may be unfamiliar with Korean culture. I also loved the way the authors naturally sprinkle in Korean words and phrases throughout the story, reinforcing cultural authenticity without interrupting the flow. The fact section at the end is a great bonus, offering even more context about Chuseok.

This is the kind of book that helps young readers see both themselves and others reflected on the page. Kids will relate to the friendships and family relationships, while also learning about a different culture in a way that feels inviting and joyful. It’s a lovely reminder that sharing traditions brings people closer—and that learning about one another can start with a simple question.

#READYOURWORLD

Now, for more info about Read Your World 2026 and the Virtual Party:

Read Your World’s mission is to raise awareness of the need to include kids’ books celebrating diversity in homes and school bookshelves. Read about our Mission and history HERE.

Read Your World is honored to be Supported by these Medallion:

FOUNDER’S CIRCLE: Mia Wenjen (Pragmaticmom) and Valarie Budayr (Audreypress.com)

🏅 Super Platinum Sponsor: Author Deedee Cummings and Make A Way Media

🏅 Platinum Sponsors: Language Lizard Bilingual Books in 60 Languages and Jeanne Walker Harvey

🏅 Gold Sponsors: Publisher Spotlight

🏅 Silver Sponsors: Red Comet Press

🏅 Silver Corporate Sponsor: Kathy Choi

🏅 Bronze Sponsors: Fabled Films Press

🏅 Corporate Sponsor: Crayola Education

Read Your World is honored to be Supported by these Author Sponsors!

Read Your World is Honored to be Supported by our CoHosts and Global CoHosts and by our Partner Organizations!

Check out RYW’s Multicultural Books for Kids Pinterest Board!

📌 FREE RESOURCES from Read Your World Day

📌 Register for the Read Your World Virtual Party: https://readyourworld.org/virtualparty

Join us on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 8 pm EST celebrating 14 years of Read Your World Day Virtual Party! Register here.

This epically fun and fast-paced hour includes multicultural book discussions, addressing timely issues, diverse book recommendations, & reading ideas.

We will be giving away a 10-Book Bundle during the virtual party plus Bonus Prizes as well! *** US and Global participants are welcome. **

Multicultural Children’s Book Day Book Review: Two Bicycles in Beijing, by Teresa Robeson

Yay! Today is Multicultural Children’s Book Day (MCBD)! This is my 6th year participating in MCBD as an author sponsor and reviewer, and my third as a co-host! Woo hoo! It’s my favorite book event every year! More information about MCBD and the Read Your World Zoom Party is below right after my book review.

This year I have the honor of reviewing Two Bicycles in Beijing, written by Teresa Robeson and illustrated by Junyi Wu, which was #gifted to me as part of MCBD.

Summary:

Absolutely stunning picture book based in Beijing, China! The story is told from the viewpoint of a red bicycle, named Lunzi – how cute and fun is that?!?!

Lunzi and her best friend, Huangche, a yellow bike, came from the same factory and sat next to each other by a window in a bicycle shop in Beijing, where they contently watched the hustle and bustle of the world together. They were happy. But one day a girl bought Huangche and they were separated! Oh no! Shortly afterwards, a boy came and purchased Lunzi. Lunzi was hopeful she would be able to find Huangche. The boy and Lunzi rode all over Beijing and they kept seeing flashes of yellow, but, to Lunzi’s dismay, it was never Huangche. Does Lunzi ever find Huangche? Are they ever reunited? How? I don’t want to ruin the ending for you so you will have to read this charming book for yourselves to find out!

Review:

I absolutely love this book! The story is sweet and poetic, and shows how special and strong friendship is. Kids of all ages will be able to relate to Lunzi and Huangche’s friendship and their heartbreak when separated. The illustrations are wonderful and have a crayon colored look – perfect for a children’s book!

Traveling with Lunzi through Beijing and passing by all the landmarks and places I have visited made me nostalgic for Beijing. All those wonderful sights and sounds! For those who have been to Beijing, they will recognize the places mentioned. For others, this is a wonderful way to introduce them to a new city! I also appreciate how the author so naturally intersperses Chinese words throughout the story. Kids will pick up on these words without even realizing they are learning! Such a fun way to introduce a few foreign words and culture to young kiddos.

As a bonus, the author includes a glossary of the Chinese words in the story, as well as some information on the sights mentioned in the book. More fun learning! Yay!

About the Author:

Teresa Robeson was born in Hong Kong, raised in Canada, and now lives on a mini-farm in Indiana with her scientist husband, younger son, and quirky chickens. She draws upon her Chinese heritage, Canadian-American sensibilities, as well as her background when she writes. A 2013 trip to China with her family inspired this whimsical story.

In addition to TWO BICYCLES IN BEIJING, Teresa has also written the APALA Picture Book Award-winning book, QUEEN OF PHYSICS, and an essay in NONFICTION WRITERS DIG DEEP. She has may more books coming so stay tuned!

You can see more about Teresa and follow her at:

http://teresarobeson.comhttps://www.instagram.com/tmrobeson/

Tweets by TeresaRobeson

Now, for more info about MCBD 2021 and the Virtual Zoom Party:

Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2023 (1/26/23) is in its 10^th year! This non-profit children’s literacy initiative was founded by Valarie Budayr and Mia Wenjen; two diverse book-loving moms who saw a need to shine the spotlight on all of the multicultural books and authors on the market while also working to get those books into the hands of young readers and educators.

Ten years in, MCBD’s mission is to raise awareness of the ongoing need to include kids’ books that celebrate diversity in homes and school bookshelves continues. Read about our Mission & History HERE.

MCBD 2023 is honored to be Supported by these Medallion Sponsors!

FOUNDER’S CIRCLE: Mia Wenjen (Pragmaticmom) and Valarie Budayr’s (Audreypress.com)

🏅 Super Platinum Sponsor: Author Deedee Cummings and Make A Way Media

🏅 Platinum Sponsors: Language Lizard Bilingual Books in 50+ Languages

🏅 Gold Sponsors: Interlink Books, Publisher Spotlight

🏅 Silver Sponsors: Cardinal Rule Press, Lee & Low, Barefoot Books, Kimberly Gordon Biddle

🏅 Bronze Sponsors: Vivian Kirkfield, Patrice McLaurin , Quarto Group, Carole P. Roman, Star Bright Books, Redfin.com, Redfin Canada, Bay Equity Home Loans, Rent.com, Title Forward

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Poster Artist: Lisa Wee

Classroom Kit Poster: Led Bradshaw

MCBD 2023 is honored to be Supported by these Author Sponsors!

Authors: Sivan Hong, Amanda Hsiung-Blodgett, Josh Funk , Stephanie M. Wildman, Gwen Jackson, Diana Huang, Afsaneh Moradian, Kathleen Burkinshaw, Eugenia Chu, Jacqueline Jules, Alejandra Domenzain, Gaia Cornwall, Ruth Spiro, Evelyn Sanchez-Toledo, Tonya Duncan Ellis, Kiyanda and Benjamin Young/Twin Powers Books, Kimberly Lee , Tameka Fryer Brown, Talia Aikens-Nuñez, Marcia Argueta Mickelson, Kerry O’Malley Cerra, Jennie Liu, Heather Murphy Capps, Diane Wilson, Sun Yung Shin, Shannon Gibney, John Coy, Irene Latham and Charles Waters, Maritza M Mejia, Lois Petren, J.C. Kato and J.C.², CultureGroove, Lindsey Rowe Parker, Red Comet Press, Shifa Saltagi Safadi, Nancy Tupper Ling, Deborah Acio, Asha Hagood, Priya Kumari, Chris Singleton, Padma Venkatraman, Teresa Robeson, Valerie Williams-Sanchez and Valorena Publishing, Martha Seif Simpson, Rochelle Melander, Alva Sachs, Moni Ritchie Hadley, Gea Meijering, Frances Díaz Evans, Michael Genhart, Angela H. Dale, Courtney Kelly, Queenbe Monyei, Jamia Wilson, Charnaie Gordon, Debbie Ridpath Ohi, Debbie Zapata, Jacquetta Nammar Feldman, Natasha Yim, Tracy T. Agnelli, Kitty Feld, Anna Maria DiDio, Ko Kim, Shachi Kaushik

MCBD 2023 is Honored to be Supported by our CoHosts and Global CoHosts!

MCBD 2023 is Honored to be Supported by these Media Partners!

Check out MCBD’s Multicultural Books for Kids Pinterest Board!

📌 FREE RESOURCES from Multicultural Children’s Book Day

📌 Register for the MCBD Read Your World Virtual Party

Join us on Thursday, January 26, 2023 (TONIGHT!), at 9 pm EST for the 10th annual Multicultural Children’s Book Day Read Your World Virtual Party!

This epically fun and fast-paced hour includes multicultural book discussions, addressing timely issues, diverse book recommendations, & reading ideas.

We will be giving away an 8-Book Bundle every 5 minutes plus Bonus Prizes as well! *** US and Global participants welcome. **

Follow the hashtag #ReadYourWorld to join the conversation, and connect with like-minded parts, authors, publishers, educators, organizations, and librarians.

Hashtag: Don’t forget to connect with us on social media and be sure and look for/use our official hashtag #ReadYourWorld.

15 FREE Back to School Ebooks (Aug 21-22, 2022)

In honor of children returning back to to school, all around the world, I’ve teamed up with 12 fabulous authors to give you 15 FREE Back-to-School eBooks! It’s always handy to have a library of books on hand, on the go. You never know when you might need them.

Go to https://linktr.ee/bookpromo to download ALL of them from Amazon! And remember to thank the authors by leaving a review on Amazon to let them know what you think. Happy reading!

To learn more about these authors and their books, check them out on FB at: @Carli Valentine-Children’s Book Author/Illustrator @sarahs.stories.2/ @beccimurray.childrensauthor @carolyn.w.dubisch @eugeniachuauthor @theannasmithers @onemoreexclamation @circle time books

Or on IG at: @carlivalentineauthor @sarah.taber2 @theannasmithers @becci_murray_author @artbycwdubisch @Eugeniachuauthor @francescawattauthor @Yychan_author @onemoreexclamation @joestarling.author @author.denisenicole @bruem_author @cazzycreates

#freeebooks #kidsbooks #bookpromo #backtoschool #summersoveralready #readtokids #readtokidseveryday #childrenspicturebooks #schoollibrary #homelibrary #authorsunite #author #illustrator #earlychildliterary #letschoolbegin #earlychildhoodeducation #librarian #ilovebooks #ilovefreethings #bookworm

Multicultural Children’s Book Day – January 28, 2022

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Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2022 (1/28/22) is in its 9th year! This non-profit children’s literacy initiative was founded by Valarie Budayr and Mia Wenjen; two diverse book-loving moms who saw a need to shine the spotlight on all of the multicultural books and authors on the market while also working to get those book into the hands of young readers and educators. I am super proud to be a Co-Host of this amazing on-line and off-line book event again this year! Woo hoo!

Want to know more? Here ya go!

MCBD by the Numbers

We are proud to announce that 34 Medallion and 26 Author Level Sponsors support this initiative and that number continues to grow.

Thanks to over 500 dedicated book reviewers, 1000+ diverse book reviews will be shared on social media during the last few weeks of January.

During our wildly popular Twitter Party (1/28/22 at (9:00 p.m. ET) hosted by Audrey Press Books, Pragmaticmom.com, and 2022 Platinum Sponsor Make A Way Media over 150 diverse books and related items will be given away in 60 minutes (a winner is announced every 5 minutes!).

To date, MCBD has gifted over 10,000 diverse books to end users.

Mission:

To raise awareness for children’s books that celebrate diversity by getting more of these books into classrooms and libraries. This non-profit also strives to shine the spotlight on the diverse books and authors that are often overlooked by mainstream publishing and media.

Multicultural Children’s Book Day (MCBD) is an online and offline celebration that attracts thousands of supporters, educators, parents, caregivers, book reviewers, and quality authors and publishers who join forces to shine the spotlight on diversity in children’s and YA literature.

Celebrated annually on the last Friday in January, this global non-profit offers a plethora of free resources, teaching tools, booklists, downloads, and a year-around initiative to get multicultural and diverse books into the hands of young readers.

To date, we have donated over 10,000 books to underserved kids, classrooms, and organizations, and that number continues to climb.

Our Criteria for “Multicultural” or “Diverse” Children’s Books

Books that contain characters of color as well as main characters that represent a minority point of view.
Books written by an author of diversity or color from their perspective. Search #ownvoices to discover diverse books written by diverse authors.
Books that share ideas, stories, and information about cultures, race, religion, language, and traditions. These books can be non-fiction but still written in a way that kids will find entertaining and informative.
Books that embrace special needs or even “hidden disabilities” like ADHD, ADD, and anxiety.
Books that show IBPOC readers what is POSSIBLE–like a book that shows an Asian child as an astronaut 👩‍🚀, a child from Sudan as an actress, or a biracial child as a world leader.

How Multicultural Children’s Book Day Works

View this in-depth blog post for more details!

How Multicultural Children’s Book Day (MCBD) Came to Be

After being frustrated by a lack of diverse and multicultural children’s books available to their own families, reading and play advocates Valarie Budayr (Audrey Press Books) and Mia Wenjen (Pragmatic Mom) decided to take matters into their own hands. The book-loving moms then teamed up to create a much-needed national event and the first-ever Multicultural Children’s Book Day was celebrated.

Using the Multicultural Children’s Book Day platform, the mission from Day One has been to not only raise awareness around kid’s books that celebrate diversity but to also get more of these types of books into classrooms and libraries.

“Kids need to ‘see themselves’ in the pages of the books they read,” noted Budayr. “We are determined to not only shine the spotlight on all of the multicultural books available but also offer visibility for the amazing authors and publishers who create them.”

In 2018, the non-profit has also shifted from an “every January 27th” model to “the last Friday in January” to avoid conflicting with International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

The upcoming next MCBD celebration will occur on and offline on January 28, 2022.

With each passing year, not only has the event itself grown exponentially, but this non-profit initiative has also expanded to offline classroom programs, celebrations, and we now have a global reach. 2022 will be our ninth year.

Lots of schools, libraries and even homes host in person parties where children read, share and/or discuss multicultural books. I’ve done this a few times with my son’s school, so if you need any ideas on how to celebrate, decorations, snacks, etc, please feel free to contact me!

The whole event culminates with an on-line TWITTER PARTY on 1/28/22, 9-10 PM (EST)! Join the party for a chance to win Kidlit books & more! Just follow #ReadYourWorld to join in & win!

The proceeds from the January online event and year-round fundraising go towards supporting this initiative and funding the Our Free Diverse Books for Classrooms and Teachers project.

Team:

Multicultural Children’s Book Day was founded by Valarie Budayr and Mia Wenjen who volunteer their time to run this event.

Co-founders are Valarie Budayr and Mia Wenjen are both bloggers, influencers, and children’s book authors. Valarie is the daughter of Swedish immigrants and the first to attend college in her family. She speaks five languages including Arabic which is the language they speak at home. Mia is half Japanese and half Chinese American and married to a Korean American.

MCBD also has several part-time/seasonal team members.

How the MCBD Raises Awareness on the Importance of Diversity in Children’s and YA Books:

During our online celebration, we match hundreds of book reviewers (parents, caregivers, teachers, librarians) with a free diversity book donated by an author or a publisher. These reviewers share this book, their thoughts, and information about the MCBD celebration on their social media (blogs, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram) using the #ReadYourWorld official hashtag. This creates tremendous buzz and visibility online.

MCBD has a strong and vibrant social media presence, and that visibility grows exponentially during November, December, and January. We leverage this connection to encourage productive discussions about diversity, inclusion, racism, and to shine the spotlight on unique books that allow kids to not only *see* themselves in the pages of the books they read, but to also discover new ways of life, traditions, religions, ethnicities, and cultures.

On the official day of the celebration, all reviewers are encouraged to add a link to their book review on our Big Giant Linky to create an evergreen catalog of book reviews and recommendation. (Found on our Home Page-scroll down).

Also, on Celebration Day, MCBD hosts (along with our current Super Platinum Sponsor, Make A Way Media) a hugely popular Twitter party. This event is an hour of fun, excellent discussions on literacy, diversity, and ideas on how we can better serve our educators and homeschool parents. During our Twitter Party, MCBD gives away a kidlit book bundle every five minutes.

**One of the striking things that comes out of this Twitter Party (and event as a whole) are the conversations happening between authors and their readers as well as publishers and the people who buy the books they publish. They are insightful and thoughtful conversations which give voice to those who are searching for multicultural titles and those that produce them be that as an author or a publisher.

We joke that this Twitter Party is the “fastest and funnest hour of the year.” And it is! It is common for the conversations and connection to continue for hours after the party officially ends.

A Plethora of Free Diversity Book Resources and Tools

Since 2017, MCBD has created free downloadable Classroom Kits that contain booklist, a special poster, on and offline resources, and activities that can be used as teaching tools in the classroom. Each year, we focus on a specific theme that we feel is relevant or a topic that needs attention and discussion:

2017 Teacher/Classroom Kit: Kindness

2018 Teacher/Classroom Kit: Everyone Is Welcome Here Empathy Kit:

2019 Teacher/Classroom Kit: Poverty Does not Discriminate | Understanding Poverty in America

2020 Teacher/Classroom Kit: Physical and Developmental Challenges: Understand and Celebrate our Differences

2021 Teacher/Classroom Kit: Classroom Activism and Activists: We Can All Be Champions of Change

2021 Homeschooling Families Kit: World Travel from your Homeschool Table

2022 Raising Awareness on Systemic Racism in America Classroom Kit

Other Free Resources

Diversity Book List Resource: A List of Lists http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/multicultural-reading-resources/diversity-book-lists-for-kids/

FREE Diverse Books for Classrooms Project: A year-round initiative, MCBD relies on authors and publishers to donate diverse books with the goal of getting these multicultural books into classrooms. Monies raised during the January celebration and other fundraising initiatives are used to cover postage to get these books to their destination.

Past and Current Supporters:

Children’s Book Council (CBC)
Make A Way Media
Barefoot Books
Language Lizard
Pack-n-Go Girls
Candlewick Press
Chronicle Books
Lee & Low Books
KidLit TV
Capstone Young Readers
Wisdom Tales Press
RIF Southern California
Real Dads Read
Zoom Autism Magazine
Star Bright Books

Children’s Book Council:

MCBD continues to team up with the Children’s Book Council to do a series on the CBC and MCBD websites called Read Your World Book Jam. Up to two dozen popular diverse kidlit authors and illustrators participate by sharing their personal book recommendations and giveaways of their own books as well. This partnership continues and is one that our supporters look forward to.

Final Thoughts

Through each multicultural book a child reads, it creates a new level of understanding and empathy. When we can see through the eyes of another, when we can share a loved book with a friend regardless of religion, culture, race etc., we create a sense of belonging not only in our classrooms and homes but more importantly in our communities. The world outside our window becomes ours to shape and create.

This year, as with every year, we are striving more persistently than ever to place books into children’s hands as possible. Our unwavering mission is to share our love of reading from a multicultural perspective while also sharing the storytelling talents of authors and publishers alike.

Please do not hesitate to ask if you have any questions!For more information about Multicultural Children’s Book Day, please contact Becky at Becky@MulticulturalChildrensBookDay.com .

Review of Why We Wear a Mask by Lieve Snellings

A fascinating story. Simple words and adorable photographs. The perfect guide to inform your kids about Covid-19 without scaring them.

Margot and friends are back!!! This latest book by children’s author and nature photographer, Lieve Snellings from Belgium, stands out! A fable in which various animals explain what we can do against the spread of the coronavirus. Lieve photographed all the animals herself in Quebec, Canada.

From her previous books (and my previous reviews), we know that Lieve Snellings was inspired to become an author by her photography. Her stories take the traditional picture book experience and transforms it by replacing illustrations with her nature photography in which she adds whimsical touches. The result: so much cuteness that your kids (and maybe you, too) will return to her books over and over again!

In her fourth and most recent book, Why We Wear a Mask, Lieve writes about a topical theme: the corona virus protection measures. “At first I didn’t like that,” she says. “But during the second wave, I changed my mind. The fact that I worked at the Emergency Department in Gasthuisberg (Belgium) for 40 years did influence my choice. I could imagine how hectic the corona crisis must be in the hospital. That is why I wanted to do my bit by writing a children’s book about applying the measures. It became a story in which squirrels, chipmunks, raccoons, and groundhogs explain why it is so important to follow the imposed measures. In order not to scare children, I have written it refreshingly. Also in this fourth book, the photos have a touch of humor. I think that a picture book is a handy tool to talk to children about the measures against Covid-19 and still put a smile on their faces.”

Lieve Snellings hopes so much that this pandemic will be over soon and she can return to her partner in Quebec. It also is her desire to see and photograph these lovely backyard animals, the groundhog and squirrels, again.

Relatable, easy to understand and poignant, this book will show little ones how to stay healthy and how to help keep others healthy, too, during this horrible pandemic. Hearing advice from a squirrel doctor may even be more persuasive (and less scary) than from a human doctor! The little animal doctors even have a video conference with human doctors to learn and collaborate! The furry little cuties will explain why it is so important to wear masks in a way your little ones will understand. Seeing conscientious animals washing hands, distancing and wearing masks will encourage your littles to do the same. Here are a few pages from the book:

Other books by the author

Margot Gets An Unexpected Visit: http://smarturl.it/e7uowx
Groundhog Secrets – Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Woodchucks: http://smarturl.it/0psllg
Time for Margot to Go to Bed: http://smarturl.it/e1mapx
Why We Wear a Mask: http://smarturl.it/x1gr9v

Reviews Why We Wear a Mask: https://lievesnellings.wordpress.com/reviews-why-we-wear-a-mask/

If you want to learn more about Lieve and her books:
Website: https://lievesnellings.wordpress.com

Photo Art: http://lieve-snellings.pixels.com

Amazon Sale Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/snellings

Facebook Author Page: http://www.facebook.com/FotoBoekLieveSnellings

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14186089.Lieve_Snellings

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lievesnellings

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SnellingsLieve

Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/lievesnellings

Brandon Goes to Hong Kong – Launching March 16, 2021!

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Brandon Goes to Hong Kong – Xiānggǎng (香港) will be release March 16, 2021! There will be freebies and giveaways to celebrate! But first, here’s a little blurb about the book:

While on a trip to Hong Kong, Brandon thinks he sees a great red dragon – but is it real or imaginary? Join Brandon as he tours the city and learns about dragons in this multicultural, multigenerational chapter book which includes some Mandarin Chinese (Simplified) with Pinyin pronunciation throughout, adding educational elements of the Chinese language and culture. Is Brandon the only one who sees the dragon? Can legendary or mythical creatures ever be real? What do you believe?

Now for the freebies and giveaways!

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is BGHK-FREE.png — getbook.at/BrandonGoestoHongKong

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is FREE-Gift-for-Hardcover-Preorders.png — https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/173348082X

Finally, I thought I would share some pre-release reviews/endorsements I have been lucky enough to receive from some incredibly impressive people/organizations:

I’m so excited for the launch of my newest chapter book and hope you will check it out and share it! As always, reviews are so so SO appreciated. Thank you!

Multicultural Children’s Book Day – Review of In the Nick of Time by Deedee Cummings

Yay! Today is Multicultural Children’s Book Day (MCBD)! This is my 4th year participating in MCBD as an author sponsor and reviewer, and my first as a co-host! Woo hoo! It’s my favorite book event every year! More information about MCBD and the annual Twitter Party is below right after my book review.

This year I have the honor of reviewing In the Nick of Time, written by Deedee Cummings and illustrated by Charlene Mosley. This is a heartwarming story about a boy, Nick Saint, learning the true meaning of Christmas and the joy and satisfaction of giving to, and helping, others. This wonderful story explores themes of kindness, awareness of other’s circumstances, empathy and compassion.

Nick, like lots of kids (including my own kiddo), loves video games and is sometimes careless with his words. He also don’t think about what others have or don’t have. In this story, Nick accidently (maybe) receives a letter meant for St. Nick from a boy at school, named Cooper. Cooper asks Santa for a job for his mom and a toy for his brother – nothing for himself. At first Nick thinks this is “stupid” – he can’t relate. But as he learns more about Cooper’s situation, he develops empathy and decides to try to answer Cooper’s letter to Santa. With his parents’ and school’s assistance, Nick is able to help Cooper and his family! Nick finally feels grateful for everything he has and even more grateful that he was able to help others.

This book is great to read with your kids to start a discussion about privilege, difficult times and the gift of giving rather than receiving.

Multicultural Aspect of the Book:

While the author does not make race an issue in the story, diversity is depicted throughout. Nick, after all, is a cute little brown boy. I love that the author wrote this book for her son (the real “Nick”) and other “little brown boys like you who do not see themselves very often in books.” It is so important for children to be able to see themselves in books to help bolster self-esteem by gaining a sense of affirmation about themselves and their culture.

Furthermore, it is crucial that ALL children are exposed to multicultural books, like this one, at a young age. I believe this will help diminish prejudicial thoughts about race and other differences. Children’s books with multicultural characters can be used to help open kids’ minds and to stimulate an understanding of diversity. It is important to expose kids to those who might be different because people will often sympathize or relate with those with whom they are familiar. These kinds of books teach children empathy towards those who look different and promote cross-cultural friendship while dispelling stereotypes. They show kids that even though some people may look different from them, people (especially children) are basically the same – everyone likes to play, gets frustrated sometimes, learns and feels pride when they help others.

Now, for more info about MCBD 2021 and the Twitter Party:

Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2021 (1/29/21) is in its 8^th year! This non-profit children’s literacy initiative was founded by Valarie Budayr and Mia Wenjen; two diverse book-loving moms who saw a need to shine the spotlight on all of the multicultural books and authors on the market while also working to get those book into the hands of young readers and educators.

Eight years in, MCBD’s mission is to raise awareness of the ongoing need to include kids’ books that celebrate diversity in homes and school bookshelves continues. Read about our Mission & History HERE.

MCBD 2021 is honored to be Supported by these Medallion Sponsors!

FOUNDER’S CIRCLE: Mia Wenjen (Prgamaticmom) and Valarie Budayr’s (Audreypress.com)

Platinum Sponsors: Language Lizard Bilingual Books in 50+ Languages, Author Deedee Cummings and Make A Way Media

Gold Sponsors: Barefoot Books, Candlewick Press, Capstone, Hoopoe Books, KidLitTV, Peachtree Publishing Company Inc.

Silver Sponsors: Charlotte Riggle, Connecticut Association of School Librarians, Author Kimberly Gordon Biddle, Pack-N-Go Girls

Bronze Sponsors: Agatha Rodi and AMELIE is IMPRESSED!, Barnes Brothers Books, Create and Educate Solutions, LLC, Dreambuilt Books, Dyesha and Triesha McCants/McCants Squared, Redfin Real Estate,Snowflake Stories, Star Bright Books, TimTimTom Bilingual Personalized Books, Author Vivian Kirkfield, Wisdom Tales Press, My Well Read Child

MCBD 2021 is honored to be Supported by these Author Sponsors!

Poster Artist: Nat Iwata

Authors: Author Afsaneh Moradian, Author Alva Sachs & Three Wishes Publishing Company, Author Angeliki Stamatopoulou-Pedersen, Author Anna Olswanger, Author Casey Bell , Author Claudine Norden, Author Debbie Dadey, Author Diana Huang & Intrepids, Author Eugenia Chu & Brandon goes to Beijing, Green Kids Club, Author Gwen Jackson, Author Janet Balletta, Author Josh Funk, Author Julia Inserro, Karter Johnson & Popcorn and Books, Author Kathleen Burkinshaw & The Last Cherry Blossom, Author Keila Dawson, Maya/Neel Adventures with Culture Groove, Author Mia Wenjen, Michael Genhart, Nancy Tupper Ling, Author Natalie Murray, Natalie McDonald-Perkins, Author Natasha Yim, Author Phe Lang and Me On The Page Publishing,Sandra Elaine Scott, Author Shoumi Sen & From The Toddler Diaries, SISSY GOES TINY by Rebecca Flansburg and B.A. Norrgard, Susan Schaefer Bernardo & Illustrator Courtenay Fletcher, Tales of the Five Enchanted Mermaids, Author Theresa Mackiewicz, Tonya Duncan and the Sophie Washington Book Series, Author Toshia Stelivan, Valerie Williams-Sanchez & The Cocoa Kids Collection Books©, Author Vanessa Womack, MBA, Author Veronica Appleton & the Journey to Appleville book series

MCBD 2021 is Honored to be Supported by our CoHosts and Global CoHosts!

MCBD 2021 is Honored to be Supported by these Media Partners!

Check out MCBD’s Multicultural Books for Kids Pinterest Board!

FREE RESOURCES from Multicultural Children’s Book Day

Diversity Book Lists & Activities for Teachers and Parents

Homeschool Diverse Kidlit Booklist & Activity Kit

FREE Teacher Classroom Activism and Activists Kit

FREE Teacher Classroom Empathy Kit

FREE Teacher Classroom Kindness Kit

FREE Teacher Classroom Physical and Developmental Challenges Kit

FREE Teacher Classroom Poverty Kit

Gallery of Our Free Posters

FREE Diversity Book for Classrooms Program

TWITTER PARTY! Register here!

Join us tonight, Friday, Jan 29, 2021, at 9 pm EST for the 8th annual Multicultural Children’s Book Day Twitter Party!

This epically fun and fast-paced hour includes multicultural book discussions, addressing timely issues, diverse book recommendations, & reading ideas.

We will be giving away an 8-Book Bundle every 5 minutes plus Bonus Prizes as well! *** US and Global participants welcome. **

Follow the hashtag #ReadYourWorld to join the conversation, connect with like-minded parts, authors, publishers, educators, organizations, and librarians. See you all very soon on Twitter!

Hashtag: Don’t forget to connect with us on social media and be sure and look for/use our official hashtag #ReadYourWorld.

Meet Ariana B. Farina, Author of The First Adventures of Nerma and Blueberry (Kitty Tales Book 1)

I’m so excited to introduce you all to Ariana B. Farina, a wonderful new kids book author who writes about funny kitties! I mean, who doesn’t love cute, little, silly cats! I know I do! And her new book is perfect for Christmas, which is right around the corner (can you believe it’s already mid-November? Aiya! Time flies!).

So, a bit about Ariana: she has ALWAYS loved cats. As a child, after a long day at school she loved to read funny and whimsical stories about animals. As an adult, she decided to combine these interests to write books for both children and parents to enjoy. Kitty Tales: The Book Series is inspired by her own two pet cats. You can enjoy photos of her real-life adorable kitties on Instagram @kitty_tales_the_book_series.

Now, onto the book!

Kitty Tales: The First Adventures of Nerma and Blueberry is an illustrated short chapter book about two funny cats and their human family.

In the first tale, we meet a fun-loving tuxedo kitty named Nerma who loves parties, especially Christmas parties. Smart cats like Nerma know that shopping bags contain magical kitty parties that only kitties can see.

In the second tale, we learn that Nerma loves shoes. But will she ever get a pair of her very own?

In the third tale, we meet Nerma’s new baby brother Blueberry. Blueberry is a shy chocolate point Siamese kitten. He is a little unsure of himself, but there is something very special about Blueberry. He has extra toes!

These three tales are filled with humor, fun, Christmas, magical realism, the importance of family, and of course cats!

Kitty Tales: The First Adventures of Nerma and Blueberry is the first installment in Kitty Tales: The Book Series.

Kitty Tales is perfect for kids learning how to read, but these books can also be enjoyed by the whole family! Even after a difficult day, they might just make you smile.

This book is perfect for:

-Stocking Stuffers!

-Gift Exchanges at School!

-Holiday gifts for Daughters, Sons, Nieces, Nephews, Friend’s Kids, Grandkids, Cat Lovers, etc.

If you would like to learn and see more about Ariana, her kitties and her writing, follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitty_tales_the_book_series/

This new adorable book is now available on Amazon so check it out! https://www.amazon.com/First-Adventures-Nerma-Blueberry-Kitty-ebook/dp/B08MGR7QJB/