Picture Books on Human Rights and Social Justice

Micah 6:8 states we are to “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.” Those are some big words for little people, and can even be harder to communicate what that means. Here are 10 Childrens Books that help illustrate what it means to pursue justice in our society today.

I Have The Right To Be A Child

by Alain Serres

I have mentioned this book before in the post 10 Picture Books About Race and Diversity. This book is the United Nations law on child rights explained for children. This is a creative way to help littles know their rights.

The Journey

By Francesca Sanna

This read gracefully illustrates a family’s journey to a better life. When littles hear the words refugee and immigrant either on the news or listening to grown ups, this is a beautiful tool to help mold a heart of compassion.

Peaceful Fights for Equal Rights

By Rob Sanders

This book is awesome! Written in alphabetical order, this book illustrates ways that we can get involved and promote change when we see injustice in our communities.

Little People, Big Dreams: Rosa Parks

By Lisbeth Kaiser

I love the Little People, Big Dreams series, and this book is no exception. With simple text, this book explains the story of Rosa Parks and her bravery to little people.

This Little Trailblazer

By Joan Holub

A little board book about amazing women who changed the world. These women stood up against oppression, and fought for equality, some still fighting. Some of the women mentioned are Rosa Parks, Malala Yousafzai, Sonia Sotomayor.

Courageous People Who Changed The World

By Heidi Poelma

Another board boom about some wonderful heroes who changed the world for the better, including Harrier Tubman, Susan B. Anthony, and Martin Luther King Jr. A perfect primer for the youngest readers.

Malala’s Magic Pencil

By Malala Yousafzai

This beautiful book strikes the perfect balance of literary magic, and discussing hard this. This artfully crafted story will have littles picking up their own pencils and choosing to work to do what is right.

God’s Dream

By Desmond Tutu

This book is a beautiful illustration of God’s heart. He created each of us different, and wants us to love one another, because our differences are beautiful. We don’t always get it right, but we can take steps towards forgiveness and reconciliation when we get it wrong.

A is for Activist

By Innosanto Nagara

This is another beautiful alphabet book, teaching young readers how we can stand up again injustice and seek equality for all.

Come With Me

By Holly M. McGhee

This is another beautiful book that tackles such a complex issue. When the news is blaring injustice and hardship, what can we do? How do we make the world a better place? It’s in the little things. We all can do something, no matter how small, it makes a difference.

Women Who Changed the World

By Alex Fabrizio

This delightful book is brightly colored, and a cleverly designed primer on the many women who have made a difference in our world. From computer science, to astrophysics, to politics, this book give littles an insight on the things women have done for our society.

What books would you add to the list? Comment Below!