ColorPop Books, an online bookshop, understands the importance of representation in literature, and has taken action to create curated book bundles for children that feature works written and illustrated by diverse authors.
Shockingly, a 2022 study revealed that only 39% of children’s books published in the U.S. include characters of color. However, research from Scholastic emphasizes the importance of representation, especially for children of color. Books that mirror their own identities not only enhance literacy skills but also build empathy and positive self-identity.
ColorPop Books’ curated bundles hold incredible value, especially for Black parents seeking books that celebrate Black stories. These bundles showcase stories by renowned authors like Stacey Abrams, Amanda Gorman, and Matthew Cherry. Priced at $45 each, they include three books along with items such as affirmation cards and activity sheets.
The selection of bundles is diverse, promoting pride and empowerment. Examples include the Black Joy Book Bundle and the Latinx Voices Book Bundle. The Girls in STEM Book Bundle features “Counting on Katherine,” narrating the inspiring story of Katherine Johnson, a Black mathematician featured in the film “Hidden Figures.” Additionally, the Grief Book Bundle includes titles like Candy Wellins’ “Saturdays Are For Stella,” designed to help children dealing with loss.
This initiative was developed in collaboration with the non-profit organization DonorsChoose, known for their #ISeeMee initiative, providing identity-affirming books to schools across the U.S. To elevate their impact, ColorPop Books is donating $5 from each bundle sold to their Book Donation Fund.
Comedian, television host, and DonorsChoose board member W. Kamau Bell highlights the significance of such representation, especially for his mixed-race Black daughters. “I know that my three Black daughters, mixed-race Black daughters, respond to books that reflect their lives and with characters that look like them or have similar life experiences,” he told PEOPLE. “And so if my daughters are doing it, more kids should have access to this because not every kid has the access to a great dad like me.”
Regarding the experience parents and children can enjoy with ColorPop, Bell expressed his hope that it becomes recognized as a convenient one-stop destination. He understands that not every parent possesses the time, interest, or capability to conduct extensive searches, like he does. He aspires for ColorPop to be easily accessible for parents seeking these specific types of books.
To learn more about how you can purchase your first ColorPop bundle, visit colorpopbooks.com.
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