Amplifying Diverse Voices-The Catalog of Diverse Kids Books
When I first set foot in Canada, on October 4, 1986, the air felt different, crisp, hopeful, and anxious. I had left behind a country that left me with memories of my grand-mother, our backyard with fruit trees, air-raids, and feelings of fear and uncertainty. Yet, I also carried something else: stories. Stories of resilience, of family, of hope in the face of unimaginable odds. These stories shaped who I am, and they continue to guide my journey as I acclimate to life in North America.
The Power of Stories in Shaping Identity
For many immigrants like me, stories are lifelines. They connect us to our roots, help us process our experiences, and offer a sense of belonging in unfamiliar places. But as I navigated my new life, I realized something troubling: the stories available to children—especially those from diverse backgrounds—often failed to reflect the richness and complexity of our experiences. I remember going to the grocery store, leaving my mom’s side, only to have her find me looking at books. Too many shelves were filled with tales that didn’t look or sound like mine, or like the stories of so many others I met along the way.
Why the Catalog of Diverse Kids Books?
That’s why Tom Tracy’s initiative, the Catalog of Diverse Kids Books, resonates so deeply with me. This first-of-its-kind resource brings together over 100+ indie and self-published authors from across the globe, each with their own lived experiences, each passionate about inspiring and empowering children. Tom Tracy has devoted his time to curate a guide featuring more than 150 children’s books that celebrate diversity in all its forms: race, culture, family structure, ability, and more.
This project is not just about books. It’s about visibility. It’s about ensuring that every child—no matter where they come from or what they look like—can find themselves in the stories they read. It’s about giving parents, educators, and librarians the tools to introduce young readers to worlds both familiar and new.
Books as Mirrors and Windows
Children’s literature is one of the most influential tools we have to shape young minds. Books serve as mirrors, helping children see themselves and their families reflected in the pages. They also act as windows, opening up new perspectives and fostering empathy for others. The titles in this catalog are more than just stories, they are gateways to understanding, compassion, and a more equitable future.
A Personal Mission
My journey has taught me the value of being seen and heard. It’s a privilege, and a responsibility I carry with me every day. By supporting initiatives like the Catalog of Diverse Kids Books, I am helping to ensure that the next generation of children grows up in a world where their stories matter, where their voices are celebrated, and where diversity is not just acknowledged, but cherished.
Join Us in Elevating Diverse Voices
I invite you—parents, educators, librarians, and all who care about the power of stories—to explore the Catalog of Diverse Kids Books. Let’s stand together against erasure. Let’s amplify the voices of indie authors who dare to tell stories that matter. Together, we can open doors, build bridges, and inspire the next generation to dream bigger, love deeper, and embrace the beauty of our diverse world.
Although this book is available as a FREE PDF Download on Tom’s website, your support of this Kickstarter Campaign will bring it to life so that it is visible for all to see, at schools, libraries, community centres and even at home!
