Book Lists & Reading Guides

Recommended Books & Reading Guides

The Oakland Literacy Coalition curates lists of rich, diverse, and engaging books that we think all children should get the chance to experience. We have created reading guides, or linked to external reading guides for several of the books, which we encourage you to use to further engage your students.

Click on a book entry to see more info about it, including the links to the reading guides where available. At the bottom of the table you’ll find options to view a larger version or download it as a spreadsheet (CSV). 

You can also check out a filterable view of the book list here.

Indigenous/Native American Book List

LGBTQIA+ Affirming Books

You can also view a filterable view of the book list here

Asian Pacific Islander Book List

Culturally competent and affirming stories of API characters and experiences, largely by API authors and illustrators.

You can also check out a filterable view of the book list here.

Arab American/SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African) Book List

You can also check out a filterable view of the book list here.

Black & African American Book List

These books by Black authors and/or illustrators provide affirming and multifaceted stories that reflect and celebrate the Black experience.

You can also check out a filterable view of the book list here.

Latine/x Book List

Culturally competent and affirming stories of Latine/x characters and experiences, largely by Latine/x authors and illustrators.

You can also check out a filterable view of the book list here.