Picture Books About Kids of Color With Disabilities

Amy Robinson
Amy Robinson

People with disabilities are one of the largest minority groups in the United States, but they’re comparatively underrepresented in picture books. Though representation is increasing, picture book characters with disabilities are still predominantly white.

It’s important for kids of color with disabilities to see themselves in books. These books introduce kids of color with disabilities to characters who look like them—people with disabilities being kids and accomplishing cool things.

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If you’re looking for more book suggestions, we’re happy to recommend them to you! Use this Book Recommendation form to send us some information about what you like to read and we’ll curate a list just for you.

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In the Catalog

Emmanuel's Dream

Emmanuel’s Dream

The True Story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah

Laurie Ann Thompson

Born in Ghana, West Africa, with one deformed leg, he was dismissed by most people–but not by his mother, who taught him to reach for his dreams.

From the Catalog
From Libby
Hello Goodbye Dog

Hello Goodbye Dog

Maria Gianferrari

A student who uses a wheelchair finds a way to see her dog each day in school.

From the Catalog
I Will Dance

I Will Dance

Nancy Bo Flood

This poetic and uplifting picture book illustrated by the #1 New York Times bestselling illustrator of “We Are the Gardeners” by Joanna Gaines follows a young girl born with cerebral palsy as she pursues her dream of becoming a dancer.

From the Catalog
From Libby
Just Ask!

Just Ask!

Be Different, Be Brave, Be You

Sonia Sotomayor

A group of friends learn about each other’s strengths and weaknesses while planting a garden together in this creative nonfiction story inspired by the author’s own childhood diabetes diagnosis.

From the Catalog
From Libby
My Three Best Friends and Me, Zulay

My Three Best Friends and Me, Zulay

Cari Best

Zulay is a blind girl who longs to be able to run in the race on field and track day at her school.

From the Catalog
A Splash of Red

A Splash of Red

The Life and Art of Horace Pippin

Jen Bryant

Presents an illustrated introduction to the life and work of artist Horace Pippin, describing his childhood love for drawing and the World War I injury that challenged his career.

From the Catalog
From Libby
Wilma Rudolph

Wilma Rudolph

Isabel Sánchez Vegara

A picture book biography of Olympic champion Wilma Rudolph, who beat polio to win gold medals and break world records for sprinting.

From the Catalog