Blog 11.11.2020

Trending Topics In Children’s Literature

It’s so important to know what’s trending in children’s and young adult literature right now. So, what should our children be reading and what matters most to them? It seems, overwhelmingly, that inclusion, diversity, social justice, and morality are all topics and core values that we should teach and read about, today and every day.

What’s Popular in Children’s Literature Right Now?

Diversity and Inclusivity are, and always have been, incredibly important. Now, more than ever, it’s our duty to represent all children within literature for all children to learn about. Puu (written by C. G. Salamander and illustrated by Samidha Gunjal, 2018) is a picture book about a young girl who faces discrimination at school because of her parents’ occupation. The story is written in a way so that children can grasp the ideas and themes but will be encouraged to ask questions. All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold (2018) is a New York Times Bestselling children’s book that deals with inclusion and, of course, welcoming others, no matter the circumstance.
Kindness and love are always trending topics! We must teach our children these lessons early and be clear that kindness is always something to practice. With charming books such as The Perfectly Perfect Wish by Lisa Mantchev (2020), Plant a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal (2011), Tomorrow I’ll be Kind by Jessica Hische (2018), I Walk with Vanessa: A Story About a Simple Act of Kindness by husband and wife collaborators, Kerascoët (2018), and Dr. Seuss’s classic Horton Hears a Who (1954) children can read about acceptance, compassion, and kindness while being entertained.

Reimagined bedtime stories are trendy because, well, it’s time for new narratives and structures. If I Had a Little Dream by Nina Laden (2017) is written from a child’s point of view, while Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallois (2016) is one of a series of three informative and progressive books that details all sorts of inspirational women from around the world along with their amazing accomplishments.
Life Lessons are always at the center of why we read and why we are curious. E is for Ethics: How to Talk to Kids About Morals, Values, and What Matters Most by Ian James Cortlett (2009) is an amazingly helpful teaching tool for kids. If you’re looking for a book that will help instill kindness and teach kids about ethics, this is it!

Different Perspectives are always interesting and topical. Stories with non-linear plots (such as David Macaulay’s post-modern picture book, Black and White (1990)) are also engaging and a nice way to spice up a familiar narrative.
Technology and gaming are simply a part of the world we live in: whether one is reading an e-book or a paperback about technology, it’s all around us.
Strong visual images are popular and essential for children these days since we’re all inundated with screens and pictures throughout the day. A striking image can determine whether a child is engaged or not.