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Books that broaden horizons

Perfect for independent reading or shared reading with an adult, this collection of beautiful short chapter books, written or illustrated by Own Voice creatives, are set in countries beyond the UK.

Reading these inclusive stories from around the globe will help increase children's awareness of different cultures, ethnic identities and traditions, expanding their worldview.

6+years

Sona Sharma, Wish Me Luck

Author: Chitra SoundarIllustrator: Jen Khatun

When Sona’s teacher plans to get married, Sona struggles with the idea that her teacher may be leaving the school.

South Asian representation
Challenges gender stereotypes
Female lead
Own Voice

6+years

Anna Hibiscus

Author: AtinukeIllustrator: Lauren Tobia

Anna experiences a beach holiday, a welcome-home party and being a hardworking street hawker. But will she ever experience snow?

Own Voice
Black representation
Mixed-heritage representation
Challenges gender stereotypes
Female lead

7+years

Granny Ting Ting

Author: Patrice LawrenceIllustrator: David Dean

When Londoner cousin Michael visits Shayla in Trinidad, the pair get hotly competitive in this delightfully funny Caribbean story.

Own Voice
Black representation
Diverse cast
Female lead

7+years

Too Small Tola and the Three Fine Girls

Author: AtinukeIllustrator: Onyinye Iwu

Eponymous Tola is back and determined as ever in this delightfully fine trio of stories, set in the busy megacity of Lagos.

Own Voice
Black representation
Muslim representation
Diverse cast
Single parent

7+years

The No. 1 Car Spotter

Author: AtinukeIllustrator: Warwick Johnson Cadwell

Oluwalase is the finest car spotter around but when the village cart collapses, can he be No. 1 in a crisis?

Own Voice
Black representation

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