By Nadia Shah, Adela Polankova and Yumna Iqbal
As it’s our final feature before we break off for the year, we’d like to recommend some books written by BIPOC authors with BIPOC protagonists that you should look out for and perhaps buy as gifts for a holiday like Christmas. Split into three genres, picture books, preteen and Young Adult recommendations, these books will make you the best gift-giver.
Picture Books
Every family has its own Christmas traditions, which might differ from others. But reading stories to children is part of Christmas time for everyone. Besides the classics, which everyone knows, other interesting and cosy stories can put us in a Christmas mood or remind us about the importance of diversity. These are our tips for picture books.
Cocoa Mistletoe: A Christmas Story Celebrating the Gift of Giving by Ciara L. Hill and Natalia Scabuso
This is a Christmas story that teaches children about the importance and magic of giving gifts instead of receiving them. It is an illustrated family picture book that shows readers the feeling of the Christmas spirit.
Like every child, Cocoa, the main character, loves everything about this festive season. But she enjoys making and giving gifts to her friends and family the most.
This picture book should remind readers of the true meaning of the holiday and the power of giving from the child’s heart. Philip Van Heusen comments, “Giving includes giving of your time. In a self–centred society, reading a book about the joy of sharing with others is refreshing.”
Where Are You From? by Yamile Saied Mendez and Jaime Kim
An award-winning picture book. The main character is constantly asked where she’s really from. None of her answers seem to satisfy others. But she gets support from her abuelo (grandfather), who teaches her who she really is.
This book explores themes of self-acceptance, identity, home and the feeling of not belonging anywhere. Booklist said, “This touching book addresses a ubiquitous question for children of colour and, in the end, the closeness between the girl and [her] abuelo shows that no matter the questions, she knows exactly where she’s from.”
Pre-teen Books
Shatter Me by Tahreh Mafi
Shatter Me, which recently went viral on BookTok, is the first book in a fantastic ten-part series published in 2011. It focuses on the story of Juliette, a woman who can kill people with her touch. After accidentally using this power, the Re-establishment throws her into prison for murder.
Very few know of her power, and she thinks that she will be left to rot in prison, as there are much more dire things at stake in society in the Re-establishment’s eyes. But perhaps Juliette could be the answer to it all. And now, she must decide how exactly she will use her power.
Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman
A classic 2000s read for pre-teens is Noughts and Crosses, written by the infamous Malorie Blackman. Set in an alternative universe in 21st-century Britain, society is divided between the ruling Crosses and the Noughts, who are deemed inferior due to their skin colour.
Following the story of Sephy, a prominent Cross, as her father is the Prime Minister and Callum, the son of a Nought rebel and how their relationship develops amidst political turmoil. As they are forced to be separated and loathe each other because of their backgrounds, they discover what loyalty and love truly mean.
Legendborn by Tracy Deonn
The first in the Legendborn Cycle trilogy, this novel tells the story of sixteen-year-old Bree Matthews, who, after her mother’s death, is desperate to leave her childhood home, as it is wrought with memories of the past.
Studying at UNC, she discovers a known-to-be historically white secret society full of magic wielders. And finds that they may, in fact, be involved in her mother’s tragic death.
Young Adult Books
Whiteout (Various Authors)
Whiteout is a delightful anthology written by celebrated Black authors Dhonielle Clayton, Tiffany D. Jackson, Nic Stone, Angie Thomas, Ashley Woodfolk and Nicola Yoon. Set against the backdrop of a snowstorm in Atlanta, it weaves six interconnected stories of love, friendship and redemption. The characters are vibrant and relatable, each navigating their own personal challenges amidst the festive chaos.
The writing captures the magic of the season while offering fresh perspectives on relationships, community and self-acceptance. Themes of identity and inclusion shine through, making it a heartfelt and diverse addition to holiday literature. Whether you’re a fan of romance or simply enjoy a cosy winter read, Whiteout is a perfect choice to curl up with during the festive season. It’s warm, authentic and brimming with holiday cheer.
The Holiday Switch by Tif Marcelo
The Holiday Switch by Tif Marcelo is a heartwarming holiday romance that brings the festive season to life with warmth and charm. The story follows Lila, a bookish Filipino-American teen working at a cosy, Christmas-themed inn in her small town. When a phone mix-up with her new, slightly infuriating co-worker Teddy uncovers unexpected secrets, tensions turn into sparks.
Marcelo blends themes of family, cultural identity and self-discovery into this festive tale. The Filipino holiday traditions woven throughout add a vibrant touch, setting it apart from typical Christmas romances. With its heartfelt narrative and idyllic small-town setting, The Holiday Switch offers readers a fresh and joyful way to immerse themselves in the spirit of the season.