Welcome to the Kaleidoscope Book Club for kids.

The kaleidoscope is a wonderful metaphor for the world we live in today. Think about this wonderful instrument and the endless variety of colors and patterns that are created by subtly shifting the glass.

In addition, the word kaleidoscope, which comes from the Greek words kalos (beautiful) and eidos (form), has also come to represent shifting values, information, fashions, etc. There is no better way for us to foster the values of respect and celebration of all cultures, choices and ‘abilities’ than by giving our children (and ourselves) characters and stories that model the behavior that we want them to learn.

Working with educators and psychologists, we have developed the following criteria for the Kaleidoscope Book Club selections. A book will be highlighted each month and will meet two or more of the following criteria:

• Images and stories that counter stereotypes
• Images and stories of children and adults that represent all groups in the community
• Images and stories that showcase all cultural groups or multiple cultural groups
• Images and stories that reflect gender diversity roles
• Images and stories that depict diversity in body type and ability
• Images and stories that show multiple cultures involved in similar activities
• Images and stories that use positive and appropriate language
• Images and stories that celebrate what we all share
• Images and stories that engender respect and acceptance of all culture, choices and ‘abilities’.

We welcome your comments and suggestions. We read every suggestion and every book that you suggest—as well as the ones we recommend. Not only do they have to meet the very adult criteria outlined above, they have to pass the ‘kid’ test. All the books have been ready to and by children from the ages of 4-12.

If you have a favorite that we have missed, let us know and we’ll talk about it.

Happy reading,

Deb and Carlene