
Windows and Mirrors
Our booklist
In 1990, Professor Rudine Sims Bishop published an article called “Mirrors, Windows, and Sliding Glass Doors”. The article shared the importance of all children seeing themselves reflected in what they read.
Our list of suggested books for children aged 4 to 7 offers:
- windows into the lives of all children
- mirrors for children’s own lives.
All children see themselves in stories. All children are seen. Stories help children become empathetic and reflective. Themes on our list include: family and friendship; exploring feelings; kindness and community; our planet; change and bereavement; moving home or country; the power of speaking up.
Find a printable list of the Windows and Mirrors booklist here.


I am Nefertiti by Annemarie Anang and Natelle Quek
Nefertiti’s grandma chose her name and she is proud of it. When Nefertiti plays drums with a band, her new music teacher shortens her name to “Nef’. Nefertiti feels her body shrink. Will she be able to play the drums when she feels this way? Our names matter.

I Love You Because I Love You by Muro’n Thi Van and Jessica Love
There are small and big reasons why we love the people we love. Because they care, carry or play with us. Because they cook with care. Because people let us speak or let us make mistakes. Because they know when we’re sad or afraid. In the end, we love them because… we love them.

I Talk Like a River by Jordan Scott and Sydney Smith
When the boy in this story starts to speak, the words get stuck. On bad speech days, he stays ‘quiet as a stone’. His dad helps him see how his voice bubbles and churns like a beautiful river. A book to help children understand stammering.

If all the world were… by Joseph Coelho and Alison Colpoys
A stunningly illustrated book about the love between a little girl and her grandad. When he passes away, she has a ‘kaleidoscope of memories’ that she writes and draws. A book to explore families, love and loss.

If I Were Prime Minister by Trygve Skaug and Ella Okstad
What would you do if you were prime minister? This child would buy ice cream for everyone and have cars powered by legs. Anyone who wanted a dog, could have one. Anyone who wanted a friend could have at least two. A funny, lively tale and a great stimulus for writing in Year 2+.

If I Were The World by Mark Sperring and Natelle Quek
Three children explore what the planet is facing: harmful gases, extinction and floods. They also help us see the action we can take as a community. An uplifting, energetic book, stunningly illustrated about looking after our amazing planet.

Islandborn by Junot Diaz and Leo Espinosa
Lola left the Island as a baby. Her teacher asks the class to draw a picture of where they are from, so Lola asks her community for memories. She hears of mangoes, music and dolphins. Also a scary monster; a hurricane. She may have left the island but she still belongs.

It’s a No-Money Day by Kate Milner
Sometimes, in this girl’s house, it’s a no-money day. There are still fun things to do; go to the library or practise your singing. Today, they are going to the food bank. This simple story explores the reality of some children’s lives with dignity, positivity and gentleness.

Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
‘I’m jumping off the diving board today’ says Jabari when he visits the swimming pool with his dad and sister. It’s a bit high, a bit scary. ‘It’s OK to feel a little scared,’ says his dad. Children will identify with Jabari’s fear and bravery in this story.