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← Back to all Amariah Rauscher Illustrator She/Her Northern America, USA Amariah lives in Illinois with her family. She holds an MA in Communication. She is the illustrator of the popular Princess Truly series. When she isn’t painting, Amariah can usually be found reading a book. Q&A Coming soon - watch this space! Connect IG: @amariahrauscherillustrator W: https://www.amariahrauscher.com BOOKS BY Amariah Rauscher Sunday Rain View book

If I Were Prime Minister Written by Trygve Skaug Illustrated by Ella Okstad Translated by Rosie Hedger About this story A young boy gives his perspective on several things the grown-ups running the country could do differently. See Buying Options ↓ Featured in: ← Back to all books Book Details A young boy gives his perspective on several things the grown-ups running the country could do differently. How much happier would we be if all the adults went to nursery once a month to remind themselves how to play? How much safer would we be if Christmas lights were left up all year round to light everyone’s way home? This hilarious picture book treats profound topics with sensitivity and care. This is a book for all those children who dare to dream big and for all those adults who want to look on the world with fresh eyes. “This joyous picture book is a beautifully illustrated story which gets young readers thinking about what they would change if they were in charge. It covers major socio-political themes including the education, immigration, healthcare and environment in a child-friendly, approachable way.” - BookTrust “After dozens of ideas that bend and dance around each layout, promises get more serious and are in dialogue with daily news. The ideas are either chuckle-inducing or heart-warming (or both) across the board.” - Kirkus Reviews Awards & Accolades: Spark! School Book Awards Shortlist 2025 Derby Children’s Picture Book Awards Shortlist 2025 BookTrust Great Books Guide 2023 Book Specifications: Age Range: 2-5 Page Count: 40pp Country: N/A Region: Global Sold in: UK; US & Canada HB ISBN: 9781915244352 (US) 9781915244451 (UK & ANZ) PB ISBN: 9781915244994 (UK) Themes: Empathy & Emotion, Environmental Justice, Social Justice Buy this Book: UK: Bookshop.org US: Lerner Books Resources: Guides & Activities buying options You May Also Like: Funcles Mama’s Wedding Xirsi and the Final Battle What Makes a Family Explore All Books

The Playdate Written by Uje Brandelius Illustrated by Clara Dackenberg Translated by Nichola Smalley About this story For one little girl, the prospect of a playdate at her friend Henry’s house fills her with excitement. See Buying Options ↓ Featured in: ← Back to all books Book Details For one little girl, the prospect of a playdate at her friend Henry’s house fills her with excitement. To get to Henry’s house, they have to take a bus, then the underground, then change to another line, then a bus, and then walk for a bit, but it’s worth it because Henry’s house has millions of rooms to hide in and hundreds of toys to play with. But while the text tells one story, the illustrations slowly reveal another. As the kids tear around the house enjoying each other’s company, their mums experience the playdate very differently. Soon we find that the little girl and her friend Henry live lives that are poles apart. A powerful story about friendship across economic divides that encourages readers to question why we live in a society where those who have and those who have not live very different lives. “The story approaches the child’s and mother’s lives with empathy, imbuing both with dignity. A frankly told, child’s-eye view of the intersection of friendship and socioeconomic status.” - Kirkus Reviews Awards & Accolades: BookTrust’s Books We Love Inclusive Books for Children Top Pick Children’s Book Council’s Hot Off The Press for April Children's Books Ireland Free to Be Me Reading List Selection 2025 USBBY Outstanding International Books 2026 Read for Empathy Collection 2026 Carnegie Medal for Illustration Shortlist 2026 NCTE Charlotte Huck Award for Outstanding Fiction for Children, Honor Book 2026 Book Specifications: Age Range: 2-5 Page Count: 32pp Country: N/A Region: Global Sold in: UK; US & Canada HB ISBN: 9781836290148 (US) PB ISBN: 9781836290179 (UK) Themes: Empathy & Emotion, Family, Friends, Community, Social Justice, Learning & Creativity Buy this Book: UK: Bookshop.org US: Lerner Books Resources: Guides & Activities buying options You May Also Like: Funcles Mama’s Wedding Xirsi and the Final Battle What Makes a Family Explore All Books

Explore our award-winning collection of inclusive and diverse children’s books celebrating empathy, belonging, and global stories for young readers. Books Explore our growing collection of inclusive children’s books, grouped by age, theme, and region to help every young reader discover stories that reflect their world. Filters Filters Age Range Region Awards/Accolades Themes Search by Title Search Sort by Select Funcles What Makes a Family Old Man of the Sea Azizi and the Little Blue Bird Ellie and the Marriage List Starlet Rivals A Hat Full of Sea Mama’s Wedding Flyaway Boy I'll Believe You When... Soni and the Life Drinkers Odwar vs. The Shadow Queen Mwikali and the Forbidden Mask A Story about Afiya Xirsi and the Final Battle Shadow Peace and Me Mama's Special Wonton Soup Melody Queen A Card for My Mum Anita and the Dragons 1 2 3 4 1 ... 1 2 3 4 ... 4 Love discovering new inclusive books? Be the first to hear about new releases, upcoming titles, and creator news. Join the Newsletter Up

The Invisible Story Written by Jaime Gamboa Goldemberg Illustrated by Wen Hsu Chen Translated by Daniel Hahn About this story The world is full of stories. Some are as long as lizards, others so short that they never even make it to The End. But the invisible story is unlike any other story because no one has ever read it! See Buying Options ↓ Featured in: ← Back to all books Book Details The world is full of stories. Some are as long as lizards, others so short that they never even make it to The End. But the invisible story is unlike any other story because no one has ever read it! It lives hidden in the darkest corner of the library, far from where the famous tales, written in gold letters, shine. One day, a blind reader approaches the story’s trembling pages. This reader is unlike any reader the invisible story has ever encountered. And when she runs her fingertips over the book’s white pages, it is astonished by what she finds... A beautifully inclusive tale about sight-loss in which we learn that not all stories are meant to be read with the eyes. “This is a memorable picture book with a timeless quality, beautifully translated from Spanish by Daniel Hahn. Through its gentle lyrical story, it highlights the power of braille, reminding us that not all books are intended to be read with eyes. Braille, it tells us, deserves to be brought out of the shadows and celebrated. There's also a lovely universal message about the power of a great story – the best books can be re-read time and time again, meaning they essentially never end. Wen Hsu Chen's distinctive illustrations feature a highly effective cut-out paper technique in which little splashes of watercolour gradually seep out of the white folds to flood the page as the 'hidden' story emerges from the lonely book.” - BookTrust “Chen’s cut-paper illustrations are striking. Most objects and people, the blind girl included, are the white of the page, which evokes a sense of invisibility, while jewel-toned creatures suggest enticing adventures as they swirl from open books.” - Kirkus Reviews Awards & Accolades: Carnegie Medal for Illustration Shortlist 2025 A Books for Keeps Book of the Year A Book Trust Book of the Month Outside In World Book of the Month Book Specifications: Age Range: 2-5 Page Count: 32pp Country: N/A Region: Global Sold in: UK; US & Canada HB ISBN: 9781915244765 (UK & US) PB ISBN: N/A Themes: Disability & Neurodiversity, Empathy & Emotion, Learning & Creativity Buy this Book: UK: Bookshop.org US: Lerner Books Resources: Guides & Activities buying options You May Also Like: Funcles Mama’s Wedding Xirsi and the Final Battle What Makes a Family Explore All Books

Explore teaching resources, classroom materials, and reading guides to support Lantana Publishing’s inclusive children’s books in schools and learning settings. Resources Free downloadable teaching resources designed to spark curiosity, deepen understanding, and support inclusive learning in classrooms and at home. Peace and Me Download Now Odwar vs. The Shadow Queen Download Now A Card for My Mum Download Now Boundless Sky Download Now Dearest One Download Now If I Were Prime Minister Download Now Maisie's Scrapbook Download Now My Must-Have Mum Download Now Rajiv’s Starry Feelings Download Now Step Into My Shoes Download Now Taking Time Download Now The Jasmine Sneeze Download Now The Playdate Download Now Through the Forest Download Now Watch Me Bloom Download Now You're Strong With Me Download Now Soni and the Life Drinkers Download Now Starlet Rivals Download Now A Hat Full of Sea Download Now Chicken in the Kitchen Download Now Escape Download Now Kaya's Heart Song Download Now My Mindful A to Zen Download Now Nimesh the Adventurer Download Now Science and Me Download Now Sunday Rain Download Now The Brighter I Shine Download Now The Language Of Flowers Download Now The Queen on our Corner Download Now Tomorrow Download Now You're Safe With Me Download Now Mama's Special Wonton Soup Download Now Mwikali and the Forbidden Mask Download Now Anita and the Dragons Download Now Coyote's Soundbite Download Now Freedom Braids Download Now Letters in Charcoal Download Now My Mummy Marches Download Now Rainbow Hands Download Now Sleep Well, Siba and Saba Download Now SuperJoe Does NOT Do Cuddles Download Now The Invisible Story Download Now The Pirate Tree Download Now The Wall and the Wild Download Now Violet's Tempest Download Now You're Snug With Me Download Now Filters Age Range Search by Title Search Sort by Select Love finding fresh, inclusive teaching resources? Sign up to receive new lesson plans, classroom activities, and book-related resources as soon as they’re released. Join the Newsletter

Freedom Braids Written by Monique Duncan Illustrated by Oboh Moses Translated by About this story Gather the midnight strands, tend the roots that gave you life, weave hopes into pathways— paths that lead you home. See Buying Options ↓ Featured in: ← Back to all books Book Details Gather the midnight strands, tend the roots that gave you life, weave hopes into pathways— paths that lead you home. Day after day, Nemy is forced to sow seeds in the sugarcane plantation, until one night, she follows a woman called Big Mother to a hidden shack. There, she finds a group of women braiding each other’s hair. But these are no ordinary braids. Hidden in each elaborate pattern is a secret – a message that signals their intent to flee and a map to guide them in their escape. Will the paths these courageous women weave guide Nemy to a new home where she can be free? A picture book of love, liberation and legacy inspired by the true story of enslaved African women in Colombia braiding maps to freedom. “Duncan’s heartfelt lines break like poetry as secret messages are embedded in Nemy’s cornrows. Moses’ digitally rendered art — in night tones lit up at times by fiery yellows or brightly bruised purples and blues — regenerates pain as a glow that leads Nemy to “a new dawn.” On the penultimate two-page spread, Nemy’s braided hair and the winding terrain of her escape route mirror each other in an illustration that feels both haunted and hopeful. Nemy’s story leaves us to consider what a miracle it is that a body can grow the strands of her own survival, and what ingenuity it takes to comb and style a path to freedom.” - The New York Times “Duncan’s words and Moses’s illustrations work together in a deeply original harmony, as in a two-page spread that captures the zigzagging rainforest traveled by enslaved people that matches the pattern braided into the back of Nemy’s hair perfectly. This book offers a fascinating glimpse into a real-life secret code that guided many toward freedom during this dark chapter in history.” - Oprah Daily “A poignant tale of courage and resistance and of long-standing cultural traditions. Quietly tinged with hope, Duncan's narrative demonstrates how those in bondage used skills passed down over generations to find the liberty they desired. Moses’ digitally rendered art depicts intricate braid patterns; his dramatic use of color during the escape scene heightens the drama, bathing characters in deep blues as they make their way to freedom." – Kirkus Reviews Awards & Accolades: Featured in The New York Times Oprah Daily’s Best Kids Books on Race and Racism Bank Street College of Education’s Best Children’s Books of the Year Black KidLit Awards Best Historical Book Winner 2024 Américas Book Awards Honour Book 2025 Jane Addams Children’s Book Awards Finalist 2025 Cybils Awards Finalist for Best Fiction Picture Book 2024 A Just Imagine Book Breeze Pick for October Children’s Book Council’s Hot Off The Press in September 2024 Bookstagang Awards, Best Picture Books of 2024 Carnegie Medal for Illustration Shortlist 2026 Book Specifications: Age Range: 2-5 Page Count: 32pp Country: Colombia Region: South America Sold in: UK; US & Canada HB ISBN: 9781915244802 (UK & US & ANZ) PB ISBN: 9781836290377 (UK) Themes: Empathy & Emotion, Family, Friends, Community, Race & Ethnicity, Social Justice, War & Peace Buy this Book: UK: Bookshop.org US: Lerner Books Resources: Guides & Activities buying options You May Also Like: Funcles Mama’s Wedding Xirsi and the Final Battle What Makes a Family Explore All Books

Mama’s Wedding Written by Circle Yuen Illustrated by Circle Yuen Translated by About this story A tender story of blended families, Mama’s Wedding follows Ruby finding courage, connection, and hope on her mama’s wedding day, celebrating how love can change, grow, and begin again together. See Buying Options ↓ Featured in: ← Back to all books Book Details Mama’s Wedding is a tender, beautifully layered picture book about big changes, blended families, and the quiet courage it takes to embrace something new. When Ruby and her little sister Cindy wake up to a surprise - a special note from Mama asking them to be her flower girls - the excitement of the day begins. As Cindy bounces with joy, Ruby moves more slowly, her heart full of questions. Through rehearsals and dresses, paper flowers and wedding vows, Ruby navigates the bittersweet feelings of seeing her family change. With the gentle support of Granny, the warmth of Daddy Albert’s love, and the quiet kindness of Alex, Mama’s new husband, Ruby discovers that love doesn’t disappear. It can grow in the most surprisingly beautiful way. This book is perfect for families experiencing change, and is a heartfelt celebration of new beginnings, complex emotions, and the many forms love can take. A touching read for children and parents alike, filled with empathy, hope, and the magic of becoming a new family. Awards & Accolades: Book Specifications: Age Range: 2-5 Page Count: 32pp Country: N/A Region: Global Sold in: UK; US & Canada; AUS & NZ HB ISBN: 9781836290476 (UK; US; ANZ) PB ISBN: N/A Themes: Empathy & Emotion, Family, Friends, Community Buy this Book: Resources: If you want to see resources for this book, please send us an inquiry. buying options You May Also Like: Funcles Mama’s Wedding Xirsi and the Final Battle What Makes a Family Explore All Books

Xirsi and the Final Battle Intasimi Warriors Book Four Written by Shiko Nguru Illustrated by Wanjira Kinyua Translated by About this story When prophecy awakens, warrior Xirsi must solve ancient riddles, face monsters, and unlock his true self to save home as the final battle looms and the Underworld waits for all. See Buying Options ↓ Featured in: ← Back to all books Book Details Xirsi, the sharpest mind among the Intasimi Warriors, has always excelled at solving puzzles that stump others. With the emergence of an ancient prophecy, his abilities are put to the ultimate test. Xirsi embarks on a perilous journey to not only save the world but the most precious place on Earth to him: his home. He must navigate cryptic riddles left by ancestors, each bringing him closer to the looming Final Battle. Hidden in the shadows is a secret weapon powerful enough to decide the fate of their world. To succeed, Xirsi must learn to trust his instincts, even if it means sacrificing his own soul. The stakes couldn’t be higher: fail, and the Underworld will rise to rule forever. Through a parallel world filled with monsters and mystery, he must unlock his ancestor’s heirloom and the deepest truth of who he truly is. Packed with heart-pounding adventure, unforgettable heroes, and otherworldly challenges, this thrilling final installment will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. Awards & Accolades: Book Specifications: Age Range: 9-12 Page Count: 200pp Country: Kenya Region: Western Africa Sold in: UK; US & Canada HB ISBN: 9781836290612 (US) PB ISBN: 9781836290292 (UK) Themes: Empathy & Emotion, Family, Friends, Community, War & Peace Buy this Book: Resources: If you want to see resources for this book, please send us an inquiry. buying options You May Also Like: Funcles Mama’s Wedding Xirsi and the Final Battle What Makes a Family Explore All Books

Funcles Written by Yashika Mody Illustrated by Adriena Fong Translated by About this story A joyful celebration of community and culture, FUNCLES follows one child’s discovery that family isn’t just about blood. It’s about love, laughter, and the everyday people who care. After all, every kid deserves some FUNcles! See Buying Options ↓ Featured in: ← Back to all books Book Details When a classroom assignment asks for a family tree, one child knows he’ll need more than just one sheet as he has a gazillion uncles! There’s bus Uncle, supermarket Uncle, taxi Uncle, and even food hall Uncle. Everywhere he goes, there’s someone looking out for him. But when Ma and Pa see his growing tree, they gently explain that none of his uncles are “real” relatives. In their culture, calling someone "Uncle" is a sign of respect, a way of recognizing community, care, and connection. Embarrassed at first, the boy quickly realizes something even better: these aren’t fake uncles… They're FUNcles ! And they mean the world to him. FUNCLES is a warm, funny, and heartfelt story about the many shapes family can take. A celebration of cultural traditions, community bonds, and the everyday heroes in a child’s world, this is a story about love that lives in moments, not just in family trees. Awards & Accolades: Book Specifications: Age Range: 2-5 Page Count: 32 Country: Singapore Region: Southeastern Asia Sold in: UK; US & Canada; AUS & NZ HB ISBN: 9781836290506 (UK; US; ANZ) PB ISBN: N/A Themes: Cultures & Immigration, Family, Friends, Community, Race & Ethnicity Buy this Book: Resources: buying options You May Also Like: Funcles Mama’s Wedding Xirsi and the Final Battle What Makes a Family Explore All Books

Dearest One Written by Arielle Dance Illustrated by Jenny Duke Translated by About this story Imagine the words your grandmother might say if she wrote you a letter... See Buying Options ↓ Featured in: ← Back to all books Book Details Imagine the words your grandmother might say if she wrote you a letter... Perhaps she would encourage you to embrace the rain, or shine your light for all to see. Perhaps she would remind you to take up space and choose your path, knowing that whichever path you take will be the right one because it’s yours. Perhaps she would tell you you are loved. Perhaps she would start the letter, “Dearest One”. A gorgeous keepsake for a growing child, these inspirational words of wisdom passed down from older generations to the young will help little ones everywhere navigate the joys and sorrows of childhood with positivity, strength, and love. “This is the love letter I needed to read as a child! Dearest One is the perfect book for readers of any age who long to connect with that cherished loved one they miss so deeply. Arielle Dance’s text reminds us to cherish the words of wisdom shared by our ancestors, while Jenny Duke’s illustrations carry us through the adventures we hold tightly in our memories. Dearest One is a must-have on every bookshelf across generations and cultures.” -Brittany Inge, Actor & Activist Awards & Accolades: Book Specifications: Age Range: 2-5 Page Count: 32pp Country: N/A Region: Global Sold in: UK; US & Canada HB ISBN: 9781913747800 (UK & US) PB ISBN: N/A Themes: Family, Friends, Community, Race & Ethnicity, Empathy & Emotion, Learning & Creativity Buy this Book: UK: Bookshop.org US: Lerner Books Resources: Guides & Activities buying options You May Also Like: Funcles Mama’s Wedding What Makes a Family Shadow Explore All Books

A Card for My Mum Written by Bashabi Fraser Illustrated by Maanvi Kapur Translated by About this story It is Mother’s Day tomorrow and the shops are sparkling with lights and gifts, with people, laughter and excitement – looking for the perfect gift to bring a smile of joy to mums at home. See Buying Options ↓ Featured in: ← Back to all books Book Details It is Mother’s Day tomorrow and the shops are sparkling with lights and gifts, with people, laughter and excitement – looking for the perfect gift to bring a smile of joy to mums at home. Among the candles and balloons, the orchids and chocolate hearts, one young girl searches for a card that features a mum who looks like hers. Her mum has gold bangles that jingle-jangle when she washes the curry pots. Her mum wears silk kameez when she buys papaya at the market. Her mum has dark eyes that flash when she dances the bhangra. What will the little girl do if she can’t find a card with a mum who looks like hers? A lively, inclusive picture book about identity and belonging that joyfully celebrates mums and motherhood. “Brimming with warmth, Kapur’s detailed illustrations combine with tender, alliterative text for a vital narrative about the need for representation for all mothers. A gentle Mother’s Day tale with a message of inclusion.” - Kirkus Reviews Awards & Accolades: Teach Early Years Award 2025 Shortlist Children’s Book Council’s Hot of The Press for March Children's Books Ireland Free to Be Me Reading List Selection 2025 Book Specifications: Age Range: 2-5 Page Count: 32pp Country: N/A Region: Global Sold in: UK; US & Canada HB ISBN: 9781836290056 (US) PB ISBN: 9781836290087 (UK) Themes: Cultures & Immigration, Race & Ethnicity, Family, Friends, Community Buy this Book: UK: Bookshop.org US: L erner Books Resources: Colouring Sheet buying options You May Also Like: Funcles Mama’s Wedding Xirsi and the Final Battle What Makes a Family Explore All Books