International Human Rights Day, observed on December 10, and Human Rights Week celebrated around the same time, serve as a call to honor and uphold the rights and dignity of all people. The issues surrounding human rights are complex and can be difficult to broach with even the most sophisticated and mature students. We have found that children’s books are often an excellent way to provide background knowledge and get practice with the vocabulary necessary to begin these conversations. Each of the children’s books below aligns with the mission of International Human Rights Day and Week, offering lessons in understanding and encouraging action for a more just world.
“Malala’s Magic Pencil” by Malala Yousafzai
Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai’s story begins with her childhood dream of a magic pencil to fix the world’s problems, evolving into her advocacy for education rights for girls. This book highlights the importance of education as a fundamental human right and demonstrates the power of an individual’s voice to drive global change. In the classroom, teachers can use this book to start discussions about the value of education and invite students to imagine what they would create or change with a “magic pencil” of their own.
“I Am Human: A Book of Empathy” by Susan Verde, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
This uplifting picture book explores what it means to be human, emphasizing kindness, making mistakes, and striving to do better. It fosters a sense of shared humanity and encourages students to appreciate the importance of empathy in respecting others’ rights and experiences. Teachers can invite students to brainstorm ways to show empathy in daily life and create a “kindness tree” in the classroom, where students can celebrate and document their acts of compassion.
“We Are All Born Free: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Pictures” by Amnesty International
This illustrated book makes the Universal Declaration of Human Rights accessible to children by presenting each article through vibrant, child-friendly illustrations. It introduces students to the foundational principles of human rights in an engaging way. Teachers can assign students or groups specific articles to illustrate, act out, or discuss, helping them connect the concepts to their own lives and communities.
“Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family’s Fight for Desegregation” by Duncan Tonatiuh
This true story recounts how Sylvia Mendez and her family fought against school segregation in California, paving the way for broader desegregation laws in the U.S. It teaches students about the role of courage and activism in achieving educational equity and justice. In the classroom, this book can spark discussions about fairness in schools today and inspire students to research other historical or ongoing fights for human rights.
“A Long Walk to Water” by Linda Sue Park
Told through the dual narratives of Salva, a Sudanese boy fleeing war, and Nya, a girl walking daily for clean water, this story raises awareness about access to basic needs and inspires empathy for children living in different circumstances. Teachers can use this book to introduce projects on water conservation or global water scarcity, empowering students to take action in their communities.
“Stepping Stones: A Refugee Family’s Journey” by Margriet Ruurs, illustrated by Nizar Ali Badr
This poignant story of a Syrian family’s escape from war is brought to life through Nizar Ali Badr’s striking stone artwork. It offers students an intimate glimpse into the realities of displacement and the resilience of refugees. In the classroom, teachers can discuss the meaning of “home” and guide students in creating artwork or writing pieces about how communities can welcome and support newcomers.
“The Day You Begin” by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Rafael López
This empowering story explores the courage it takes to share one’s unique experiences and find connection despite feeling different. It celebrates inclusivity, self-expression, and the strength of diversity. Teachers can encourage students to share their own stories of feeling different, creating a supportive space to discuss how embracing differences strengthens classroom and community bonds.
These books, focused on justice, equality, and compassion are invaluable tools for launching conversations about these cornerstones of human rights. By engaging students in these discussions, teachers can inspire students to stand up for fairness, celebrate diversity, and build a more compassionate and equitable world.
