International children's books are not often marketed in the U.S. with the exception of public libraries. It is such a tragedy because some of the most brilliant artwork used for children's literature can be found in titles from around the world. International authors often push boundaries and eloquently address sensitive issues in their work. Titles are not easy to find, but there are organizations that do an excellent job at promoting titles in the U.S. market. The International Board on Books for Young People and its U.S. chapter, United States Board on Books for Young People, are resources that you can use to find titles from around the globe. My favorite foundation for finding authors, illustrators, and works from African writers is The Golden Baobab. This organization gives awards to outstanding literature representing Africa. Golden Baobab seeks to "inspire African children through African stories". Africa Access is an organization that works to improve the book collections on Africa in schools and public libraries. They highlight U.S. published books as well as international titles as long as they are available for purchase in the states. Africa Access is responsible for the Children's Africana Book Awards (CABA).
*This is not an exhaustive list and is always being updated. If you have a suggestion to add to this list send an email to readingncolor@gmail.com
The Red Bicycle: The Extraordinary Story of One Ordinary Bicycle (2015) Isabella, Jude
Dreaming of Light (2012) Bauling, Jayne
Mimi Mystery (2013) Ambatchew, Michael David
Amina (Through My Eyes). (2013) Poers, J. L.
Trinity High: Back to School. (2014) Loko, C.
Bundle of Secrets: Savita Returns Home. (2013) Kirmani, M.
Desmond and the Very Mean Word: a Story of Forgiveness (2013) Tutu, D.
Hope Springs. (2014) Walters, E.
The Herd Boy. (2013) Daly, .N
The Parade: A Stampede of Stories about Ananse the Trickster Spider. (2011) Kojo, K.P.
Blood Ties. (2014) Mlanzel, Z.
The Mirror & Nine Other Short Stories. (2014) Nde, S.
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind. (2012) Kamkwamba, W.
No comments:
Post a Comment