Children / Young Adult Social Justice Book Lists

It's Archie's favorite holiday-Diwali. And this year she gets to share it with her friends and introduce them to the festival of lights! Archana loves her family's annual Diwali (deh-vah-lee) party, and this year she gets to share it with all her friends from school. She helps with the decorations and the food, and is eager for everyone to arrive. But once the party starts a thunderstorm kicks up and drenches the outside decorations and knocks out the power. Archie worries that everything will be ruined. How can there be a festival of lights without any electricity?

During Diwali, Hindus, Sikhs and Jains celebrate the legends and stories that describe the triumph of good over evil and justice over oppression. Critically acclaimed author Rina Singh explores her Indian roots as she tells the Diwali stories, which remind us that eventually light will prevail over darkness. Enriched by personal stories and spiced with festive recipes, including two by acclaimed chef, Vikram Vij, Diwali: Festival of Lightsbrings to life the holiday's traditions, food and rituals and takes you on a journey to see how this festival is celebrated around the world! Diwaliis the second book in the Orca Origins series, which examines how ancient traditions are kept alive in the modern world.

This charming and colorful Diwali story about a girl sharing her favorite holiday with her family, friends, and neighbors is a love letter to community, immigrant culture, and the festival of lights. Devi loves the Diwali season. It's a time to wear her favorite red bindi and eat samosas until she bursts! Make mithai and design rangoli with her papa. And paint diyas with her nani--a reminder to shine her light brightly all year long.  This joyful story, with vibrant collage illustrations, follows one girl's Diwali traditions as her family celebrates their favorite holiday with the ones they love.