“It IS time for parents to teach young people early on that in diversity there is beauty and strength.” – Maya Angelou
Under the umbrella of “what it means to be human” is a gorgeous collection of differences. Communities and families embody those differences in so many ways…
Children start with what they know to be true from their own lives and quickly begin to see the beauty and complexity of the human race in their schools, activities, and neighborhoods. The books that we include with this theme will spark conversation about those differences and will build the emotional connections that are the first steps toward recognizing beauty.
Below you’ll find books, conversation launchers and activities that are appropriate for High Schoolers around the concept of “The Beauty of Differences”.
GREAT BOOKS & CONVOS
Fat Chance, Charlie Vega
By Crystal Maldonado
Why We LOVE This Book
Charlie wants to have a positive and healthy relationship with her body; but it is almost impossible, since her mom does not support her nor properly assist her. Amelia, Charlie’s best friend, is always there for her. Not only does Amelia help Charlie see how beautiful she is, but also shows her that it is okay to have fun, celebrate, and see the humor in life.
Conversation Launchers
FULL DISCLOSURE
By Camryn Garrett
Why We LOVE This Book
Simone has just moved to a new school. Simone, just like many other high schoolers, deals with all the ups and downs of teenage friendships, high school, parents, boyfriends, and her personal passion for musicals, but she does so while keeping a secret she’s learned not to share with others. No matter how much she wants to share with her new friends, who she feels comfortable around when sharing anything else, she knows it’s safer to stay quiet. That is until the day when she finds a threatening note in her locker. If she doesn’t tell her secret, the anonymous writer will tell everyone for her. The countdown is on… what will Simone do?
Conversation Launchers
A Quiet Kind of Thunder
By Sara Barnard
Why We LOVE This Book
Steffi is a selective mute and Rhys is deaf. When Rhys transfers to the same high school as Steffi, they realize how wonderful each other is and learn how to talk and listen to one another. As their relationship begins to flourish, they decide to go on an adventure of self-discovery; and realize through support and trust, nothing can get in their way.
Conversation Launchers
Keep the Conversation Going!
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES
MORE GREAT READS
Picture Us in the Light
Kelly Loy Gilbert
The Kite Runner
Khaled Hosseini
And She Was
Jessica Verdi
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Resources for OTHER AGE GROUPS
Below you’ll find books and activities that are appropriate for various ages around the concept of “The Beauty of Differences.”
SEARCH BY GRADE LEVEL…
PRE-K – KINDERGARTEN
PRE-K – KINDERGARTEN
1ST – 2ND GRADE
3RD – 5TH GRADE
MIDDLE SCHOOL
HIGH SCHOOL
FOR FULL ACCESS TO ADDITIONAL READINGS, RESOURCES & ACTIVITIES, CHECK OUT OUR FAMILY BOOK CLUB subscription BOXES…
– Mandy G, NEW BOOK JOY Founder
