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).
Reading is Joy Book List
Our summer reading list is part of our Oakland is a Reading Town campaign. Sign the pledge to join our citywide movement to make reading visible, joyful, and meaningful for every young person in Oakland.
Click to download and print a reading guide to make the most out of your joyful read aloud.
Complete Book List
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.
STEAM Book List
A collection of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math books, uplifting books by and about BIPOC people in STEAM.
You can also check out a filterable view of the book list here.