A paper published in the National Library of Medicine says, “Problematic levels of loneliness are experienced by a substantial proportion of the population in many countries.” More than ever, we need the opposite of loneliness. This can look like a lot of things, but one of the most obvious is community. The single most defining lesson of my adult life is that we need people, and people need us. I wish I had learned it sooner, or at least hadn’t forgotten it along the way. So here’s a list of wholesome children’s picture books that teach us how to build community, regardless of age.
In Our Garden by Pat Zietlow Miller and Melissa Crowton
Millie moves to a new city and misses her family’s garden, where they would grow and eat fresh vegetables. With her bright spirit, she notices that their school has a flat roof that would be perfect for a garden. She speaks to her teacher and her classmates, and everybody starts to contribute ideas of their own. A young child’s desire becomes a beautiful community garden. They also learn patience along the way while waiting for the plants to grow. |
Saving Eli’s Library by Ruth Horowitz and Brittany JacksonEli loves going to the library. It is a space for knowledge, community, and connection. When the town starts to flood, Eli wants to save as many books as possible. He and his dad help the librarian shift all the books to the shelves on top. Once the flood ends, the town gets together to restore their beloved library. This story is inspired by residents of Lincoln, Vermont, who rebuilt their library three different times despite the damage. |
Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña and Christian RobinsonThe picture book features CJ and his grandmother as they go around town in the bus. CJ wonders why they do not have a car or an iPod, and his grandma helps him notice what they do have. Through tiny interactions, CJ and grandma feel connected to the people around them. The last stop is at the soup kitchen. Grandma teaches CJ the importance of living in, cherishing, and giving back to the community. |
Maybe Something Beautiful: How Art Transformed a Neighborhood by F. Isabel Campoy, Theresa Howell, and Rafael LópezThe illustrations in this picture book are gorgeous. Mira loves art but lives in a gray urban neighbourhood. When a muralist arrives, they get together to make their space bright and beautiful. A lot more people join them and come closer through art. This story is based on the Urban Art Trail in San Diego, California. Do check it out if you’re ever there, or armchair travel through this stunning book. |
If you liked this list, check out 25 Picture Books That Promote Empathy and Respect and Best Picture Books for Building Classroom Community.
