Jessica Levine

Publishers have long been dedicated to creating books that appeal to struggling and reluctant readers. Even before the pandemic, two-thirds of fourth graders were reading below grade level, according to the National Assessment of Education Progress. Now, the need for such books is even more crucial.

Even as teachers and librarians face continued attempts to restrict the circulation of books normalizing diversity, publishers are dedicated to putting more of them than ever before on school and library shelves.

Historically, most Spanish-language originals came out of Spain. But in the U.S. Latinx population, people of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Salvadoran, Cuban, Dominican, Guatemalan, Colombian, and Honduran origin all outnumber Spaniards. It’s important that Latinx children have access to books from authors whose origins are as diverse as their own.

Publishers are working to rectify the under- and misrepresentation of Indigenous voices and history, with content that authentically represents both the historic and contemporary experiences of Indigenous people.

Should teachers and librarians back away from SEL to avoid the political heat? Parents broadly support schools teaching SEL-related skills, or “life skills,” to use the more politically neutral term. And publishers continue to see the ever-increasing value of SEL themes and to prioritize them in their publishing programs.

Amid a climate of legislation dictating how gender, sexuality, and LGBTQIA+ topics are discussed in classrooms and a record number of challenges to books with LGBTQIA+ authors or characters, publishers are doubling down on their commitment to put out titles that represent their readers.

In 2023, graphic novels are no longer a new category but an established staple on library shelves. All signs point to the continued boom and increasing expansion of the format across all genres.

Educators know the pandemic created delays, deficiencies, and crises for children not only in mental health, but in social skills, relationships, and routines. Children’s book publishers have also recognized the greater importance and growing need for social and emotional learning–centered titles this year.

Giving all children the opportunity to see themselves and their world authentically represented in books is key to their personal and academic development.