“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, activities, and resources that are appropriate for various ages around the concept of “The Beauty of Differences”.
There’s Strength in Standing Out
– Beth H, NEW BOOK JOY Guest Contributor
Readings & Resources
SEARCH BY GRADE LEVEL…
PRE-K – KINDERGARTEN
PRE-K – KINDERGARTEN
1ST – 2ND GRADE
3RD – 5TH GRADE
MIDDLE SCHOOL
HIGH SCHOOL
Food for Thought
Additional Articles from our Favorite Authors
The Beauty of Differences
– Lisa Fipps, NEW BOOK JOY Guest Contributor
Bridging Books & Art
There is nothing better than creating images in your mind, while reading. It is almost like experiencing a movie, while getting immersed in a novel! Not only does it help you feel closer to the characters, but helps you become more excited about what is going to happen next. Talk about a great way to build your own suspense!
Art is also a wonderful connection with reading because it can help you get more attuned with the book’s topics or themes.
You have the opportunity to look at something visual and ponder about what the reading adventure will offer. You have the opportunity to make various connections between what you see in the piece of art and what you read in the book.
We’re excited to include a piece of art with each theme, in order for families to enjoy something visual along with their reading conversations and experiences!
NOW HIGHLIGHTING
The Beauty of Differences by Isa
For the Beauty of Differences theme, our friend’s daughter, Isa, created this thoughtful piece of artwork for New Book Joy.
“I chose to create a girl with all different skin tones, hairstyles, and hair colors to represent beauty. There is beauty in all differences!”
Family Activity
As an English teacher, I stumble across students who look at a piece of art and move on. They do not always pause and question. They only see what is on the surface, but do not dive into the visual experience.
When I have my students analyze a piece of art, I have them answer a series of questions, in order for the picture to be more than just random shapes and colors. The questions may focus on the visual aspect, as well as the story and/or tone. When teens take time to ponder and see the painting, everything comes alive!
It is easy to glance at a picture, but not take time to notice its beauty and meaning. Sure, it takes extra time to pause and answer questions about the picture, but questioning helps with awareness, curiosity, and wonderment.
Video Connection
Watch this YouTube video and discuss the following questions: Did Winnie Harlow hide or celebrate having Vitiligo? Give some examples from the video. Do you think Winnie’s mom was right to use concealer on her face? What else could her mother have done for Winnie? Explain.
Why do you think kids bully other kids for being different? What can be done to stop bullying?
FOR FULL ACCESS TO ADDITIONAL READINGS, RESOURCES & ACTIVITIES, CHECK OUT OUR FAMILY BOOK CLUB subscription BOXES…
– Connie O & Mandy G, NEW BOOK JOY Founders
Conversation
What books inspire YOU & your family (or close friends) to find beauty in differences?
Let’s get a conversation started in the comments below!