Banner to say that the title off the page is Windows and Mirrors

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. 

Image of a teacher holding up a book featured in our Windows and Mirrors list to show the class the story during Storytime.

Jabari Tries by Gaia Cornwall

One day in the garden with his dad and sister, Jabari decides to make a flying machine. Planning and building can be frustrating. Jabari’s dad encourages him to ‘blow away all the mixed feelings inside’. The moment of achievement makes Jabari, his family and the reader smile!

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Julian at the Wedding by Jessica Love

Julian and Marisol are all dressed up to go to the wedding of two brides. When Marisol’s dress gets dirty, Julian has an idea. Julian is very good at dressing up and the party continues with dancing and joy. A book to celebrate love in all its glory.

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Julian is a Mermaid by Jessica Love

Julian decides he wants to be a mermaid and creates an outfit for himself. How does his nana respond? Why, she takes him to visit other mermaids. ‘Like you, honey’ she says. ‘Let’s join them’. A story of love, acceptance and swishy tails that challenges gender stereotypes.

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Keep Smiling by Floella Benjamin and Diane Ewen

Vina loves to smile. When she starts school, she feels scared and her usual smile fades. A little boy gives her ‘a small nervous smile, as gentle as a mouse’. She collects all the smiles people share with her throughout the day. When she gets home, her smile is back. A smile is a superpower!

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Little Red by Bethan Woollvin

Some little girls are scared of wolves but not this little girl. Little Red is brave. Little Red is clever. Little Red will not be tricked by a silly wolf. A fabulous retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, perfect for Reception and Year 1 children.

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Love Grows Everywhere by Barry Timms and Tisha Lee

Love grows on the street…and reaches out to those we meet. A neighbour from across the way. A friend from school who’d like to play.’ A book that pays homage to the fact that love makes a brighter world. Wonderful illustrations to reflect all children’s lives.

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Love, the Earth by Frances Stickley and Tim Hopgood

A poem from the Earth to inspire us to love and look after our world. The Earth gives us animals, weather, forests, oceans and plants. ‘Please share my food, my lakes, my land, but try to lend a helping hand’. If we take care of the planet, it will take care of us.

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