Innosanto Nagara

Genre: Picture book 2

I know this is technically an ABC book but it wasn't on your list so I used it for one of the picture books.

Summary: The book uses a letter to introduce children to different forms of social justice and acceptance, including love for the earth and equality.

Review: I bought this book without even reading the whole thing. I love introducing children to parts of the social justice movement because it's something I believe in entirely. Many will say this book is brain show more washing, but there is nothing radical in this book. There is nothing radial about self love, acceptance, and respect of all people. I don't think that's brain washing, I think that's appropriate parenting.
Something I noticed was the use of a cat on every single page, making children find the hiding cat is their favorite part of the book.
I love books that start a conversation. Books are such a powerful learning tool. Kids are such visual people that many of them benefit more from reading a book before a valuable discussion takes place. The girl I nanny for is huge into American history and concepts in social justice, so this book was great for talking to her about things like the importance of equality and kindness.
I think the theme of this book is justice. There are many things that are discussed in the text but the main point is equality and justice. What I like about this book is that it celebrates differences, not just pretends they don't exist.
I don't think this book could be used in a school setting because of it's mention of feminism and aspects of the LGBTQ community. It could probably cause problems from parents, which is annoying. I am happy to have this book at home! I wish it could be shared with more children in a school setting, but this is the world we live in. show less

This is honestly my new favorite children's book. These few pages contain the most important lessons a child will ever need to learn. This is an alphabet book full of words kids really should know, like F is for Feminist and J is for Justice. I will also admit to being a queer/trans librarian and admit to having a bad day. Well, seeing LGBTQ on the L page and Trans on the T page *really* brightened my day.

"Trust in The True
The he she They That is you!"

I need to get that framed and mounted show more over my mirror. show less

This is literally the smarmiest, most self-satisfied book I've ever read in my entire life. It manages to condescend to its allies, its opponents, and the kids who are ostensibly its audience/our future, all in 26 pages.

"Not your typical alphabet board book, this one packs a powerful message both visually as well as verbally. Each spread presents a letter and a bit of social commentary urging children to take a stand against war and violence, develop an awareness of our environment, and promote acceptance and equality for all cultures, races, religions, genders, and walks of life. For example, "A is for Activist./Advocate. Abolitionist. Ally./Actively Answering A call to Action." "Y is for You. And show more Youth./Your planet. Your rights/Your future. Your truth./Y is for Yes. Yes! Yes! Yes!" Despite the format, this introduction to social justice is best suited to older children, who will need plenty of explanation and discussion to help them understand issues such as feminism or workers' rights. Nagara relies upon colorful illustrations—many representing the energy behind activism with arms and fists raised—lots of alliteration, and rhyming for each letter and idea. An ever-present black cat hiding or prowling on each letter's page seeks to hold listeners' interest as well. An unusual offering that may plant the seeds for and spark discussions about activism.—Susan Shaver, Hemingford Public Schools, NE" show less