Finding inclusive books
Most children's books today suitably reflect our multicultural society. However, not so many reflect other forms of diversity, for example the fact that one in five school-age children has special educational needs. This is especially true of books for very young children. This list aims to help you to find early years books showing positive images of disability, as well as titles that may prove useful in discussing disability and diversity.
Most children's books today suitably reflect our multicultural society. However, not so many reflect other forms of diversity, for example the fact that one in five school-age children has special educational needs. This is especially true of books for very young children. This list aims to help you to find early years books showing positive images of disability, as well as titles that may prove useful in discussing disability and diversity.
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My Brother Sammy
Becky Armitage
A gentle, honest and ultimately positive look at life with autism.
Read about My Brother Sammy -
The Giant Turnip
Henriette Barkow
A traditional Russian story retold and brought to life with stunning illustrations
Read about The Giant Turnip -
The Animal Boogie
Stella Blackstone
Boogie along with the jungle inhabitants who flap, shake and slide their way through this colourful book.
Read about The Animal Boogie -
Looking after Louis
Lesley Ely
The beautifully delivered story of children learning to understand their autistic classmate, gradually discovering how they can involve him in their activities
Read about Looking after Louis -
Seal Surfer
Michael Foreman
This exquisite picture book also touches on themes such as the passing of time and the passing away of a grandparent.
Read about Seal Surfer -
Brian Has Dyslexia
Woody Fox
Dr Spot and a specialist teacher introduce fun solutions to help Brian understand dyslexia and overcome many of the challenges it brings.
Read about Brian Has Dyslexia -
Dan and Diesel
Charlotte Hudson
Dan and his dog Diesel are inseparable and together they can conquer the world. What gradually becomes clear, although it is never stated, is that Dan is blind and Diesel is his guide dog.
Read about Dan and Diesel -
Elmer's Friends
David McKee
A colourful board book in which the ever-popular Elmer the Elephant praises each of his friends for their different strengths
Read about Elmer's Friends -
Hamish
Moira Munro
Wheelchair-using bears blend effortlessly into the images of the various teddies having fun
Read about Hamish -
The Ding-Dong Bag
Polly Peters
Two boys set off to catch a great big noise!
Read about The Ding-Dong Bag -
I Am the Music Man
Debra Potter
A large-format picture book featuring holes through which you can peek to find an inclusive band of musicians
Read about I Am the Music Man -
Winnie the Witch
Valerie Thomas
This is the first of many stories about Winnie and her cat, Wilber.
Read about Winnie the Witch -
Boots for a Bridesmaid
Verna Wilkins
Nicky refuses point-blank to wear a frilly dress to a wedding.
Read about Boots for a Bridesmaid -
Susan Laughs
Jeanne Willis
An endearing picture book which expresses a message of equality.
Read about Susan Laughs -
Peek-a-Boo!
Annie Kubler
Part of a series introducing well loved games and rhymes
Read about Peek-a-Boo! -
See-Saw!
Annie Kubler
Part of a series introducing well loved games and rhymes
Read about See-Saw! -
The Mulberry Bush
Annie Kubler
A large-format picture book with strong pages and peep-through holes
Read about The Mulberry Bush -
Pat-a-Cake!
Annie Kubler
Part of a series introducing well loved games and rhymes.
Read about Pat-a-Cake! -
My First Animal Signs
Anthony Lewis
Delightful illustrations show children signing the words.
Read about My First Animal Signs
