We need picture books about being a good neighbor. I believe it’s one of the strongest hopes we have for the future. It feels futile to ask our kids to trust that their rights, their peace, or their government will remain whole and healthy. What can we tell them to depend on? It seems more and more likely that our best bet for safety and care is going to come from the people next door. Community is everything, and we need to build it now, while we still can.
I’m an elder millennial, and people of my generation are hyper-independent. We joke about being allergic to phone calls and revel in a world where takeout can be left on your doorstep without ever having to make eye contact. I’m not going to pretend I’m above these pleasures, but I’m noticing that the pattern of isolation is dangerous in the long run. Without the inconvenience of showing up for our neighbors, we lose the safety those relationships can bring. Things are very different from just a generation earlier, when people popped by for visits and phone trees were activated for the slightest need. I’m not ready for people to knock unexpectedly just because, but there are other ways we can grow our communities by showing up.
Below, I’ve gathered a few books that celebrate community and connection. I hope they can comfort you the way they comfort me.
Most People by Michael Leannah and Jennifer E. Morris
The world is scarier than I can ever remember it being in my lifetime, and as a teacher and parent of young children, I find it easy to spiral. How do I protect and uplift and sell the lie that life is good? Truthfully, by calming down. Most people are good. Most people are helpful. Most people are not out to hurt you. This book doesn’t downplay that scary things happen in the world, but guides the reader to search for acts of kindness closer to home. In true Mr. Rogers fashion, the message is “look for the helpers.” Bonus points for illustrations that actively work against stereotypes based on appearance.
There Is Enough To Go Around: Sometimes We Give, Sometimes We Receive by Gabi Garcia and Alejandra Ruiz
Gabi Garcia is one of my go-tos for books about social-emotional topics. I love her child-friendly language that affirms readers of every age. Part of being able to pour into our communities and show up as good neighbors is understanding that the goodness you put out will return. In a time where many people are finding resources tight and stress levels high, this book is a beautiful reminder that there is enough love, kindness, energy, time, and support to go around.
The Kids Are All Right
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I’m So Happy You’re Here: A Celebration of Library Joy by Mychal Threets and Lorraine Nam
One aspect of being a good neighbor is interacting in community spaces, and what better community space to celebrate than the library? Mychal Threets is one of those rare internet presences who makes you feel like he might live next door, at once whimsical and grounded. His debut picture book celebrates that the library is a space for everyone, a place where people go for books, technology, games, crafts, and community.
Hopefully, you’ve found a picture book about good neighbors to spark a conversation in your heart or home. Looking for more picture books about community? Check out this post from Yashvi Peeti. Happy reading!
English (US) · 