Loving Day Reads: Picture Books That Celebrate Multiracial Families
Today, June 12th, aka Loving Day, marks the anniversary of the Supreme Court decision that struck down laws banning interracial marriage in the United States. For my mixed-race family ~ this day is not just history, it’s personal.
I am multi-ethnic, Husband is mixed-race, and therefore our children are a beautiful blend of the both of us: Toddler and Baby are mixed Vietnamese, Filipino, Japanese, Italian, and English.
For my littles, while I know that being part of a mixed-race family is a beautiful, enriching experience ~ it can also come with real challenges. On the joyful side, Toddler and Baby will grow up with multiple languages, traditions, cultures, and ways of seeing the world. They will come to learn that identity isn’t always either/or ~ but rather it can be a vibrant both/and.
At the same time, being mixed-race can mean navigating questions about belonging. They may be asked, “What are you?” or feel like they’re not “enough” of one culture or another. They may move through the world being seen differently depending on where they are or who they’re with.
That’s why representation in picture books matters so deeply. When children see themselves and their families reflected in stories ~ fully, joyfully, and with nuance ~ they gain language for their experiences and permission to be wholly themselves.
So whether you’re reading as a parent, educator, or caregiver, here is a list of picture books that reflect the richness, complexity, and joy of multiracial families.
Picture Books Featuring Mixed-Race Families
Find the full book list (including even more titles *not* featured in this post) on Amazon / Bookshop, or click on the individual titles linked below.
The Heart of Mi Familia by Carrie Lara | A young girl teams up with her abuela and grandma to create a special birthday gift for her brother ~ one that celebrates both sides of her multicultural family and what it means to be bicultural.
Let Me Fix You a Plate by Elizabeth Lilly | Celebrates the warmth of family, food, and culture as one girl experiences the delicious traditions of both her American and Colombian heritage through shared meals and meaningful memories.
Beautiful You, Beautiful Me by Tasha Spillett | Izzy begins to notice the physical differences between herself and her mama ~ but through tender affirmations and lessons from nature, she learns to celebrate her unique multiracial identity and the deep bond she shares with her mother.
In the Wild by Zadie Smith | Maud ~ a quirky guinea pig in a judo suit ~ and her owner Kit ~ daughter of mixed race parents ~ venture into the great outdoors, both a little unsure but ready for adventure. With courage and Maud’s Signature Moves, they discover new friends and experiences.
Changing Tides by Julia Moscardo | When Lula gains a new stepbrother, Theo, she’s unsure how they’ll get along. During a beach vacation, building a sandcastle helps them bond ~ but when trouble hits, their growing trust is put to the test.
My Dad is a Grizzly Bear by Swapna Haddow | A funny and heartwarming tale about a boy who’s convinced his dad might be a grizzly bear: he’s hairy, always hungry, and loves to nap! But even if it’s true, a big bear hug from Dad is just the comfort he needs.
Finn’s Little Fibs by Tom Percival | When Finn breaks Grandma’s clock and blames his sister, a little fib turns into a big problem ~ literally! As more fibs pile up, so do the mysterious blobs, making Finn feel worse and worse. This gentle, relatable story helps kids understand the value of honesty, forgiveness, and taking responsibility for their actions.
Beach Hair by Ashley Woodfolk | Follow a multiracial family’s beach day where everyone’s hair ~ wild, curly, straight, or barely there ~ is perfect just as it is. A warm ode to belonging and letting your true self shine.
Many Things At Once by Veera Hiranandani | Follows a young girl with Jewish and Pakistani roots as she learns about her grandmothers’ lives and her parents’ journey to America. Feeling like the “only one like me,” she finds comfort in a butterfly’s uniqueness, embracing the beauty of being many things at once.
I Can Be All Three by Salima Alikhan | On Multicultural Day, a girl struggles to share her identity ~ Indian, German, and American ~ but soon realizes she doesn’t have to pick just one. She’s a blend of all her stories.
Archie Celebrates an Indian Wedding by Mitali Banerjee Ruths | Archie and Emma’s friendship blossoms as they share the excitement of their Uncle and Aunt’s wedding. From mehendi to sangeet and playful adventures like stealing Poppy’s shoes, they discover culture, fun, and family
The Truth About Dragons by Julie Leung | Follow a biracial child’s magical journey through Eastern and Western mythology. Guided by bedtime stories from his grandmothers, he discovers the power and beauty of his mixed cultural identity.
At the End of the Day by Lisl H. Detlefsen | After a busy, sometimes restless day, this gentle story reminds us that with patience, the evening can become cozy and comforting ~ a perfect time to appreciate the day and feel hopeful for tomorrow.
You Are My Favorite Color by Gillian Sze | A mother lovingly celebrates her children’s brown skin through vivid, poetic imagery ~ comparing it to strong bears, towering trees, and shining chestnuts.
Hope is a Hop by Katrina Moore | Just before Easter, Eva’s hopes for a bright flower garden are spoiled by a mischievous rabbit. But through this setback, she discovers unexpected joy and resilience ~ finding inspiration to start anew and embrace hope’s surprising possibilities.
Two New Years by Richard Ho | Join this family as they celebrate two New Years ~ Rosh Hashanah and Lunar New Year. The story highlights unique traditions like baking challah and dragon dances and warmly honors cultural diversity.
You Will Do Great Things by Amerie | A young boy’s imagination soars as family photos spark adventurous journeys into new worlds, connecting him to his multicultural heritage and ancestors.
Snow Is… by Laura Gehl | At dawn, the first snowfall blankets the world, ringing in winter’s magic. A family embraces the day with cozy moments and togetherness, celebrating the beauty of the changing season from morning to night.
Wilderness by Steve McCarthy | Oktober dreams of adventures ~ but only inside with books, not in the wild like his family. When he gets lost on a hike, his fear turns to courage as he discovers a new perspective and an unexpected friend.
All That You Are by Smriti Prasadam-Halls | Inspired by the author’s own experience raising her mixed Indian and British children, this book encourages children to proudly embrace their full heritage and individuality.
And Then Came You by Christina Shawn | When families grow and change, it can feel scary ~ whether it’s a new parent, a messy pet, or a baby sister. This funny and warm story helps kids see that, with an open heart, there’s always room for love and new beginnings in any family.
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Happy Reading,
Maya