As the world looks with hope at a post-pandemic era, there are other events to infuse a spirit of enthusiasm and gratefulness. The election of Kamala Harris as the Vice President of the United States of America, sends out a strong message. There are echoes of a new world order slowly moving into place. Just the right time to read some curated books on Kamala Harris!
One of the ways we can help young readers can celebrate and make sense of this key world event is to read the backstory and the nuances of what it took for the daughter of immigrants, to make it to this seat of power. Here are some books books on Kamala Harris that trace her life and story. Specifically targeted at young readers, these are a great starting point to explore her life story.
Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice (Age group 4 to 8)
Nikki Grimes has written this book in verse. The book evokes her childhood and the story of the politician is told through the unravelling of her childhood story. Laura Freeman’s striking imagery enhances the reading experience.
Superheroes Are Everywhere by Kamala Harris (3 – 7 years)
Well, here is a book for children, from Kamala Harris herself! She speaks directly to children and takes them through her life. This is an empowering book which points out to the fact that ‘superheroes’ exist everywhere, and the next superhero could well be you!
Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea (4 – 8 years)
This book has been written by Meena Harris, the niece of Kamala Harris. she tells the story of her aunt Kamala, and her mother Maya Harris. It is a true story inspired by the childhood of these two sisters, and how they worked together to effect change in their community.
The Truths We Hold: An American Journey (Young Readers Edition, Tweens and teens)
This is a memoir authored by Kamala Harris herself. The books tells us the impact that her family and community had on her life, and makes us see what led her to discover her own sense of self and purpose. It is her story in her own words.
Who Is Kamala Harris? (7-12 years)
Kirsten Anderson makes this biography for children come alive. It has just the right amount of information and inspiration for young readers.
There is A Girl Headed to the White House (3-12 years)
Dr. Jasmine Killiebrew combines illustration, storytelling and imagination in this book. While not directly about Kamala Harris, the book tells the story of a woman headed to the Whitehouse. This woman speaks to her former self. Words of encouragement for the ‘little girl’ combined with the powerful image of Harris today, will inspire all girls and women!
We hope there is a day when we don’t need labels of gender or community to applaud selection of leaders. But, as we traverse that journey, maybe books like these will infuse hope and understanding. They will provide our young readers an example and the backstory of what it means to be a part of a brave new world!
