Books can encourage kids of all ages to enact change in their communities. Because it’s never too early to make a difference, we’ll be sharing a list of social activism books for each grade level. Check out our social activism book roundup for first grade below and for more social activism titles, check out our full printable Social Activism Diverse Reading List!
First Come the Zebra
written and illustrated by Lynne Barasch
Two young Kenyan boys, one Massai and one Kikuyu, find a way to overcome their traditional rivalries and become friends.
Catching the Moon: The Story of a Young Girl’s Baseball Dream
written by Crystal Hubbard, illustrated by Randy DuBurke
The spirited story of Marcenia Lyle, the African American girl who grew up to become “Toni Stone,” the first woman to play for an all-male professional baseball team.
Lakas and the Makibaka Hotel
written by Anthony Robles, illustrated by Carl Angel
When Lakas discovers that the Makibaka Hotel is about to be sold, he leads a protest with his friends who are facing eviction.
Rainbow Weaver/Tejadora del arcoíris
written by Linda Elovitz Marshall, illustrated by Elisa Chavarri
A young Mayan girl isn’t allowed to use her mother’s thread to weave, but with a little ingenuity, she discovers how to repurpose plastic bags to create colorful weavings. The story is based on an actual recycling movement in Guatemala.
Xochitl and the Flowers/Xóchitl, la Niña de las Flores
written by Jorge Argueta, illustrated by Carl Angel
Thousands of miles away from El Salvador, Xochitl and her family make a new home in the United States. When they start a flower business, Xochitl learns the value of her new community.
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