Anti-racist education through culture—whether through literature, music, or the visual, performing, and fine arts—is an effective way to strengthen learning about cultural diversity, inclusion, respect, and identity.

In this context, children’s literature serves as a tool for addressing racial issues from an early age by incorporating anti-racist books into the school environment. Educators play a key role in facilitating these readings by promoting constructive and reflective dialogue.

The Bett Blog has selected six children's books to inspire school administrators and teachers to promote anti-racist education in the classroom. These books not only feature Black protagonists and narratives that celebrate diversity, but also foster discussions that are essential for building a more inclusive society.

1. Blackberries – Emicida

In *Amoras*, rapper, writer, and poet Emicida presents a work inspired by one of his songs of the same name, in which he sings: “May the sweetness of the berries, like a lullaby, / Have led the child, all alone, to this realization: / ‘Daddy, that’s great, because I’m little and black, too.’”

The book poignantly and sensitively explores the importance of self-esteem and the recognition of Black identity from childhood onward. The story encourages children to see themselves as unique and special, addressing themes such as ancestry, a sense of belonging, and the appreciation of African roots in Brazilian culture.

2. The Piraporiando Collection – Janine Rodrigues

Janine Rodrigues, writer and founder of Piraporiando, creates stories that celebrate diversity, empathy, and Afro-Brazilian culture. The collection features books that address various social themes, encouraging children’s imagination and creativity. Her works foster a more inclusive and respectful view of differences, making them valuable resources for educators who wish to incorporate anti-racist education into everyday school life.

The author, Janine, is a member of the Basic Education Committee of the Bett Brasil Council, which is responsible for supporting its strategies and initiatives, identifying trends, and fostering relationships with the education sector throughout the year.

3. The Little Black Prince – Rodrigo França

Inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s classic *The Little Prince*, author, actor, and director Rodrigo França retells the journey of a Black prince who travels across different planets in search of knowledge and to exchange experiences. The work celebrates the heritage, wisdom, and power of Afro-Brazilian culture, offering children a narrative rich in representation and reflections on belonging, love, and identity.

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4. Sulwe – Lupita Nyong’o

Kenyan-Mexican actress Lupita Nyong’o brings us a moving story about self-esteem and acceptance in *Sulwe*. The protagonist, Sulwe, is a girl with skin as dark as the deepest night who wishes she were lighter-skinned, like her family and friends. Throughout the story, she embarks on a magical journey that helps her understand the beauty of her skin color and the importance of loving herself. The book addresses themes such as colorism and beauty standards, which are essential for fostering dialogue about the celebration of Blackness.

5. A Practical Guide to Anti-Racist Education – Allan Pevirguladez

Written by Allan Pevirguladez, this book offers an accessible guide for educators who wish to implement anti-racist practices in the classroom. With reflections, exercises, and practical examples, the book provides guidance to teachers and parents on how to address racism in an educational and effective manner, promoting a more inclusive and equitable education for all children.

By introducing playful melodies and lyrics into the classroom, Pevirguladez, a public school teacher in Rio de Janeiro, created the Anti-Racist Brazilian Popular Children’s Music (MPBIA), which he describes as “a musical art movement that seeks to empower our children and foster racial literacy through music and art.”

6. Raising Children to Be Anti-Racist - Bárbara Carine

Have you ever imagined a school where all children could be free to be themselves and where every student’s way of being is equally valued? In this story, Kieza, one of the spokespeople for the School of Dreams, invites her new classmates to discover this place where affection, care, and respect are priorities—without limiting or invalidating anyone.

*Raising Anti-Racist Children* shows that a positive, equitable, and kind school environment is possible and is much closer to us than we realize.

The book is by best-selling author Bárbara Carine, who is also a partner and educational consultant at Escola Maria Felipa, the country’s first Afro-Brazilian school. Previously, Bárbara wrote another best-seller, *How to Be an Anti-Racist Educator*, which won the 2024 Jabuti Award in the Education category.

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