This year’s gift guide features picture books written or illustrated by Social Justice Book Fair creators for children 0-5.

At Tandem, we believe book-sharing experiences can transport children to new worlds, introduce fresh ideas, and offer meaningful connections to the experiences of other children and families. That’s why our book collection is intentionally curated to include mirrors (books where children see themselves and their own experiences reflected), windows (books that help them learn about other people, places, and experiences), and sliding glass doors (books that let them step into imagined worlds).

We are fortunate to have a vibrant and diverse community of authors and illustrators in the Bay Area who create picture books that lay the foundation for a more inclusive and just world. This list features just a small selection of books by local independent creators who participated in the annual Social Justice Book Fair. Be sure to visit the website to check out all of the local independent authors and illustrators!

To make the most of each book-sharing experience, we’ve included tailored conversation starters for each title. Open a book to spark a conversation about fairness, empathy, and inclusion while fostering a sense of community, connection, and belonging!

The Spice Box

Written by Meera Sriram
Illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat

This book tells the story of young Rishi as he excitedly gets ready to welcome his grandmother (Paati) from India by making her a special potato curry. He uses spices from the family’s treasured spice box, an heirloom passed down through generations. The box holds more than spices — it carries family memories and stories of strength and tradition. When Rishi accidentally damages it, he learns important lessons about responsibility, heritage, and the value of preserving family traditions.

Age level: 3 – 5 

Talking Tip: After reading, engage your child in a conversation about your own family’s cherished items or traditions. Ask: “Is there something special in our family that has been passed on from one person to another? What is it? What stories or memories are connected to it?”

Fresh Juice

Written & Illustrated by Rob Liu-Trujillo

Art and his dad embark on a quest to make a health-boosting juice to help Dad recover from a cold. Their journey through the neighborhood reminds Art of the vibrant community they live in and introduces us to a diverse group of people who contribute ingredients and support. This heartwarming tale highlights the power of community in promoting physical and emotional well-being.

Age level: 3 – 5

Talking Tip: Different cultures have their own remedies, such as chicken soup, ginger tea, or herbal infusions, to help our bodies heal when we fall ill. What are some remedies your family uses when someone isn’t feeling well? Discussing these traditions can help us appreciate the diverse ways people care for each other.

Check out our activity guide and more resources for Fresh Juice!

On Tiptoes

Written by C.V. Monterrubio
Illustrated by Gabriela Garcia

On Tiptoes/De puntitas is a bilingual story that weaves two inspiring tales in one book. One follows real life ballerina Sasha De Sola’s journey to becoming a world-class dancer at the San Francisco Ballet, while the other tells a fictional story of a boy who watches her perform and discovers his own love for ballet. Through these stories, the book celebrates perseverance, self-expression, and the power of following your dreams.

Age level: 3 – 5

Talking Tip: After reading the book, ask your child, “What is something you love to do or dream about doing? How could you practice or learn more about it? What is something new you’d like to try or get better at?” These questions can spark meaningful conversations about perseverance and exploring new interests.

The Mermaid Princesses: A Sister Tale

Written by Maya Cameron-Gordon
Illustrated by Mirelle Ortega

The Mermaid Princesses follows Anaya, Shante, and Kianna, three mermaid sisters, as they embark on a magical adventure to prove their worthiness for the underwater crown. Inspired by African mythology, magic and spirituality, the story highlights themes of individuality, cooperation, and bravery as the sisters overcome challenges, embrace their unique strengths, and learn to work together.  

Age level: 3 – 5

Talking Tip: After reading, encourage your child to think about what makes them unique and wonderful, like a special talent, interest, or ability. Use the story of Anaya, Shante, and Kianna to talk about how working together can solve problems. Ask: “What makes you special, and what unique traits do your family members have? How could you all use your strengths to work together as a team?”

May Your Life Be Deliciosa

Written by Michael Genhart
Illustrated by Loris Lora

Each year on Christmas Eve, Rosie’s family gathers in Abuela’s kitchen to make tamales and tell stories. In this story of how families live, love, learn, and grow together, Rosie’s abuela teaches her how to make a delicious tamale…and a delicious, perfectly seasoned life.

Age level: 3 – 5

Talking Tip: The author’s note at the end of the book tells us about his life and the inspiration for these stories. He ends by saying, “Storytelling connects us all.”

Talk with your child about what that means. What family memories, traditions, and stories does this book bring up for you?

Yenebi’s Drive to School

Written & Illustrated by Sendy Santamaria

Yenebi and her sister Melanie wake every morning at 4 a.m. to prepare for their journey from Mexico to school in the U.S. Along the way, slow-moving traffic and roadside vendors selling tamales and trinkets bring the vibrant border town to life, while Mami’s quiet determination reflects her sacrifices for their education. 

Age level: 4 – 8

Talking Tip: After reading Yenebi’s Drive to School, talk about your school mornings.  Ask: “How is your school morning similar or different to Yenebi’s? What time do you wake up, and what do you do to get ready for your day? How do you get to school in the morning? Yenebi sees many vendors on her way to school. What do you see or hear on your way to school?”

Not Yet: The Story of an Unstoppable Skater

Written by Zahra Lari and Hadley Davis
Illustrated by Sara Alfageeh

Inspired by the life of five-time Emirati National figure skating champion Zahra Lari, Not Yet: The Story of an Unstoppable Skater follows Zahra as she dreams of becoming a figure skater despite facing doubts from family and society. With determination and a “not yet” mindset, Zahra overcomes obstacles to make her dream a reality, showing the power of perseverance.

Age level: 4 – 8

Talking Tip: This story encourages conversation about determination and persistence. Talk to your child about how they can keep trying and learning, even when things are difficult. Ask your child, “Zahra said ‘not yet’ when people told her she couldn’t be a skater. Can you think of a time when you said ‘not yet’ and kept trying something new? What happened?”

Juneteenth Is

Written by Natasha Tripplett
Illustrated by Daniel J. O’Brien

In Juneteenth Is, a young girl celebrates the holiday with her family, from watching a lively parade to gathering at her grandfather’s house for food, stories, and shared history. With vibrant illustrations and heartfelt prose, this story captures the joy, tradition, and meaning of Juneteenth for generations to come.

Age level: 4 – 8

Talking Tip: Juneteenth is a time for celebrating freedom and family. What does your family do to celebrate special days? If you were at the Juneteenth parade in the story, what sounds, smells, and sights do you think you’d notice? What kind of story would you share about your family’s history

What is a special day you celebrate in your culture? How do you celebrate?  Do you eat special foods?  Do you have special traditions and rituals?

I Miss You Most

Written by Charlotte Cheng
Illustrated by Xindi Yan

In I Miss You Most, a young girl reflects on the special moments she shared with her grandpa, from favorite activities to treasured lessons. The story beautifully captures how her family remembers and honors him, celebrating his lasting presence in their lives. This thoughtful book opens the door for conversations about grief, offering comfort while honoring cherished memories of loved ones who have passed.

Age level: 4 – 8

Talking Tip: In the story, the girl remembers her grandfather and their fond memories together. Talk about the word “remember” with your child. Ask questions like:

• “What is something special you remember about someone you love or miss?”
• “How do you feel when you think about that person? Does it make you happy, sad, or both?”
• “What could you do to remember or celebrate them, like the girl in the story does for her grandpa?”

Encourage your child to draw or share a favorite memory, helping them connect emotionally and build understanding about coping with loss.

Mamie Tape Fights to go to School

Written by Traci Huanh
Illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan

This book tells the inspiring true story of eight-year-old Mamie Tape, a Chinese American girl in 1880s San Francisco who, with her family’s support, challenged school segregation by suing the school board for her right to a public education. Their landmark case, Tape v. Hurley, led to a California Supreme Court ruling affirming that children of Chinese heritage are entitled to attend public schools.

Age level: 4 – 8

Talking Tip: This story provides an opportunity to discuss the importance of standing up against unfair treatment with your child. After reading this book, ask your child: “Can you think of a time when you saw something unfair? How did you feel, and what did you do?”

Such conversations can help children understand the significance of advocating for equality and justice.