Books
90+ Kids Books That Are All About Dad
Written byErin Feher
Jun 14, 2023
Father’s Day is Sunday, June 18, so there is no better time to add a few new titles starring dad to your library. While kids’ books that spotlight the sweet relationships between mother and child are a dime a dozen, stories about fathers are fewer and farther between—although luckily they’ve been on the rise. Below, we’ve rounded up more than 90 kids’ books that celebrate everything that makes dads so special. Click through the full slideshow below, and if we missed one of your favorite kids books about dads, let us know in the comments below!
For more kids’ book goodness, check out100+ Children’s Books That Spotlight LGBTQ+ Charactersand30 Incredible Black Kid-Lit Illustrators To Celebrate Now.
You can also get a behind-the-scenes look at some our favorite children’s authors and illustrators within our “The Bookshelf” profiles ofJarvis,Christian Robinson,Jessica Love,Yuyi Morales,Mac Barnett,Jon Klassen,Keturah A. Bobo,Meenal Patel,Hervé Tullet, andIsabel Sanchez Vergara.
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Bookshop and Amazon.
Today is a big day—the first time Juanito gets to help his papi on the job as a landscape architect! Throughout the day, Juanito sketches anything that catches his eye: a nest full of baby birds, a nursery with row upon row of plants and flowers, and more. Father and son travel from house to house, pruning, weeding, mowing, and turning overgrown and chaotic yards into beautiful spaces.
A few of the clients don’t appreciate Papi’s hard work, like Juanito’s classmate who pretends not to see him. But Papi always feels pride in owning his own business and in a job well done. And at the end of the day, Juanito may get the chance to turn his artistic eye toward landscape design—just like his papi.
From award-winning artist John Parra comes a “heartwarming family story that underscores the value of creativity, passion, and hard work” that is “a love letter to sons and their fathers” based on his childhood experience. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
From baking cookies and gardening to playing make-believe and watching the sunset, a child reveals all the simple yet wonderful things he loves to do with his dad.
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With lyrical rhyming text and gentle illustrations, this is a joyous celebration of fatherhood that creates a special reading experience between a child and their father.
Inspire a child to explore what makes the relationships in their own life special with this touching book. (Description via Amazon)
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Amazon.
Learning to ride is no easy feat! But with a little courage, a guiding hand from her dad, and an enthusiastic bark from her pup, one brave girl quickly learns the freedom that comes from an afternoon spent outside on a bike.
Experience the fear, the anticipation, and the delight of achieving the ultimate milestone in this energetic, warm story that celebrates the precious bond between parent and child. (Description via Amazon) ">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
Going to bed each night can be dark and scary. The night sky stretches out endlessly, making one sensitive child feel small in comparison. So Dad comes up with a plan: a night of camping out in the desert. Together, the two load up Darlin’, the old pickup truck, and drive over the mountain with the radio on, stopping to shoot the breeze at a junkyard before setting up camp, jumping in sand dunes, and lying back to name all the birds they can see.
After sunset, when the young thinker feels tiny against the vast sky, Dad knows just what to ask—and just what to say—to soothe away fears. Maybe this night spent under the stars (and a surprise from Mom and the baby later) are just what is needed to show that the universe is a friendly place.
From acclaimed author-illustrator Jessica Love comes a story of small moments between father and child that affirms the comfort of finding one’s place in the world. (Description via Amazon>">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
Dads are often busy and have lots to do, but they have fun too! Look at what Daddy is doing or wearing and see if you can guess what he's about to do! Open the flap on each spread to discover the answer in a delightful, colorful scene.
With sturdy flaps to aid hand-eye coordination and a question on each page to prompt conversation between parent and child, this bright, engaging board book is the perfect exploration of the activities that make up a parent and toddler’s day. (Description via Amazon)
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Bookshop.
Riley is Papa's princess and Daddy's dragon. She loves her two fathers! When Riley's classmate asks her which dad is her real one, Riley is confused. She doesn't want to have to pick one or the other. Families are made of love in this heartwarming story that shows there are lots of ways to be part of one. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop.
In the cool and quiet early light of morning, a father and child wake up. Today they're going on a hike. Follow the duo into the mountains as they witness the magic of the wilderness, overcome challenges, and play a small role in the survival of the forest. By the time they return home, they feel alive—and closer than ever—as they document their hike and take their place in family history. In detail-rich panels and textured panoramas, Pete Oswald perfectly paces this nearly wordless adventure, allowing readers to pause for subtle wonders and marvel at the views. A touching tribute to the bond between father and child, with resonant themes for Earth Day, Hike is a breath of fresh air. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop.
This story is for all those great fathers out there that have taken the responsibility of being called daddy, an honor and privilege. For those fathers that enjoy and look forward to leading and guiding their children through this journey called life, this book offers insights into the thoughts of a man becoming a father for the first time. His feelings are vividly portrayed in pictures that capture the essence of a father's excitement, surprise, and appreciation for his new found joy. Whether you've earned the title of father biologically, through adoption, or through pure admiration and love; this is a great book for any man that takes pride in the most important job he will ever have in his life.....being a daddy. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
Keith Negley's playful and emotional art tells this story of a new father who is no longer the cool guy he once was. He looks back wistfully on his crazy times playing in a band, riding a motorcycle, and getting tattoos. Those days may be behind him, but his young son still thinks he's the coolest guy in the world. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
Cats + water: What could go wrong? This riotous romp of a picture book follows a frantic family as they try to get some chores done—with no help from the family cat, who keeps scrambling the list of chores to hilarious effect. Get ready for a rollicking read-aloud with a truly purrfect ending.
It's cleaning day, but the family cat will do anything to avoid getting a bath. So instead of mopping the floor or feeding the fish, the family is soon busy rocking the rug, vacuuming the lawn, and sweeping the dishes. Bouncy rhyme carries the story headlong into the growing hilarity, until finally Dad restores some kind of order—but will the cat avoid getting his whiskers wet? (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Military daddies and mommies do all kinds of jobs in all kinds of places, but there’s one thing every military child knows for sure: “My Daddy is a Hero!” (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Zuri's hair has a mind of its own. It kinks, coils, and curls every which way. Zuri knows it's beautiful. When Daddy steps in to style it for an extra special occasion, he has a lot to learn. But he LOVES his Zuri, and he'll do anything to make her—and her hair—happy. Tender and empowering, Hair Love is an ode to loving your natural hair, and a celebration of daddies and daughters everywhere. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Stella's class is having a Mother's Day celebration, but what's a girl with two daddies to do? It's not that she doesn't have someone who helps her with her homework, or tucks her in at night. Stella has her Papa and Daddy who take care of her, and a whole gaggle of other loved ones who make her feel special and supported every day. She just doesn't have a mom to invite to the party. Fortunately, Stella finds a unique solution to her party problem in this sweet story about love, acceptance, and the true meaning of family. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
An endearing tale about a little boy who wants to be sure. “See you this afternoon,” says Daddy when he drops off Matthew at kindergarten. But Matthew says, “What if, this afternoon, the old green car doesn’t start?” Thus begins a series of what-ifs that Matthew poses to all of Daddy’s ideas about how he’ll fetch him, each one more fantastic than the last: he’ll come by teddy bear, by the wings of birds, by dragon! Finally, Daddy says he’ll use his own two long legs, the ultimate reassurance that he’ll come back for Matthew, no matter what! (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
From Muslim and Latino poet Mark Gonzales comes a touching and lyrical picture book about a parent who encourages their child to find joy and pride in all aspects of their multicultural identity. Written as a letter from a father to his daughter, Yo Soy Muslim is a celebration of social harmony and multicultural identities. The vivid and elegant verse, accompanied by magical and vibrant illustrations, highlights the diversity of the Muslim community as well as Indigenous identity. A literary journey of discovery and wonder, Yo Soy Muslim is sure to inspire adults and children alike. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop.
Spend the day with a busy baby and her two dads, and learn the words for things you do and see along the way! This bilingual first-words book features labels for objects, actions and sound effects, as well as a fun seek-and-find element. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
Young Drake the dragon is sent to the local village to cause some mischief and start a fire. But Drake has only ever breathed fire to roast a tasty caterpillar. How will be burn down a whole house? Or a school? Or even an old wooden shack? Has Drake got what it takes to make his father proud?
Dragons: Father and Son is a funny and moving story about the bonds between fathers and children, with a positive, peaceful message—and all the magic and mayhem you’d hope for in a tale about dragons. (Description via Amazon)
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A bestselling author-illustrator duo join forces to create a modern father-son love story. The father tells his little son the story behind each of his tattoos, and together they go on a beautiful journey through family history. There's a tattoo from a favorite book his mother used to read him, one from something his father used to tell him, and one from the longest trip he ever took. And there is a little heart with numbers inside—which might be the best tattoo of them all. Tender pictures by New York Times bestselling illustrator Eliza Wheeler complement this lovely ode to all that's indelible—ink and love. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Mercer Mayer’s Little Critter is going on a camping trip with his dad in this classic, funny, and heartwarming book. Whether he and his dad are canoeing, fishing, or building a campfire, parents and children alike will relate to this beloved story. A perfect gift for Father’s Day or any day! (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Diego is a dog, but he has one of the toughest jobs in the world. Is he a ninja? Nope. Is he a superhero? Nope. Is he a king or a police officer or the president? Nope. Nope. Nope. Diego is a DAD. And that requires the patience and fortitude of all of these positions combined...as Diego—an adorable pug—demonstrates in this laugh-out-loud photographic picture book. Admonitions and chores may be somewhat different for dogs: "Stop chewing on the furniture!" "Don't eat cat barf!" But Diego does everything out of love...and we get to see the objects of his affection at the end of the story: pug puppies! (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
From New York Times bestselling author Sherman Alexie and Caldecott Honor winning Yuyi Morales comes a striking and beautifully illustrated picture book celebrating the special relationship between father and son. Thunder Boy Jr. wants a normal name...one that's all his own. Dad is known as big Thunder, but little thunder doesn't want to share a name. He wants a name that celebrates something cool he's done like Touch the Clouds, Not Afraid of Ten Thousand Teeth, or Full of Wonder. But just when Little Thunder thinks all hope is lost, dad picks the best name...Lightning! Their love will be loud and bright, and together they will light up the sky. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop.
Some daddies sing in the shower. Some daddies wear two different socks. All daddies want you to be who you are! With his trademark childlike art, Todd Parr celebrates all different kinds of fathers. Whether daddies work far away or at home, or have a lot of hair or just a little hair, they are all lots of fun and filled with love.Now in board book format, this is the perfect book for celebrating daddies on Father's Day, and all year round. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Etsy.
Furqan Moreno wakes up and decides that today he wants his hair cut for the first time. His dad has just the style: a flat top fade! He wants his new haircut to be cool but when they get to the barbershop, he's a bit nervous about his decision. He begins to worry that his hair will look funny, imagining all the flat objects in his day to day life. Before he knows it, his haircut is done and he realizes that his dad was right—Furqan's first flat top is the freshest! (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
Being a dad is eleven jobs in one! This unique picture book for very young readers celebrates the many jobs being a parent encompasses: A receptionist scheduling important meetings (for playdates), an architect designing buildings (or pillow forts), an inspector (of diapers!)...When Dad gets home from his day job at the office, he never knows which job will be waiting for him, but he knows it'll be fun! Each rhyming spread features intimate, familiar, comforting and humorous depictions of family life through a wholly original—and amazing!—needle-felted lens. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop.
Bookworms big and small will be charmed by lovable Lola in this delightful sequel to Lola At The Library that celebrates imagination and the love of reading. Lola loves to go to the library with her daddy. Every night she reads a new story, and the next day, she acts it out. One day she's a fairy princess, the next day she goes on a trip to Lagos! She becomes a tiger, a farmer, a pilot...what will Lola be next? Children and adults will love following along with Lola's adventures. Lola Loves Stories is a wonderful introduction to the power of reading and how it can inspire young minds at the earliest ages. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Booskhop.
This companion book to Boy of Mine shows a dazzling little girl enjoying playtime in the moon's soft glow. As daddy cradles his baby girl, she is suddenly whisked away on a fantastical adventure, swinging above lush floral gardens under the golden moonlight. The sweet text, inspired by "Rock-A-Bye Baby," will whisk little ones off to peaceful slumber. With Asim's engaging and adorable rhymes and Pham's vibrant illustrations, babies and parents alike are sure to fall for Girl of Mine. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
This book captures the universal love between a father and child. Set in Africa and featuring the Maasai culture, the beautiful watercolor illustrations, lyrical text, and enduring message are sure to make this another instant classic. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
Sometimes bees can be a bit rude. They fly in your face and prance on your food." And yet... without bees, we might not have strawberries for shortcakes or avocados for tacos! Shabazz Larkin's The Thing About Bees is a Norman Rockwell-inspired Sunday in the park, a love poem from a father to his two sons, and a tribute to the bees that pollinate the foods we love to eat. Children are introduced to different kinds of bees, "how not to get stung," and how the things we fear are often things we don't fully understand. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
When Daisy Ramona zooms around her neighborhood with her papi on his motorcycle, she sees the people and places she's always known. She also sees a community that is rapidly changing around her. But as the sun sets purple-blue-gold behind Daisy Ramona and her papi, she knows that the love she feels will always be there. With vivid illustrations and text bursting with heart, My Papi Has a Motorcycle is a young girl's love letter to her hardworking dad and to memories of home that we hold close in the midst of change. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
When Mrs. Seahorse lays her eggs, she does it on Mr. Seahorse's belly! She knows he will take good care of them. While he swims waiting for the eggs to hatch, he meets other underwater fathers caring for their babies. Now Eric Carle's heart-warming New York Times bestseller is finally available in a board book edition, complete with the clear "peek-a-boo" pages that made the original such a hit. Brimming with bright, colorful sea life, this new board book will be irresistable to young children everywhere.">
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Bookshop.
What was it like growing up as a son of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.? This picture book memoir, My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Martin Luther King III, provides insight into one of history's most fascinating families and into a special bond between father and son. This nonfiction picture book is an excellent choice to share during homeschooling, in particular for children ages 4 to 6. It's a fun way to learn to read and as a supplement for activity books for children. "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." Martin Luther King III was one of those four little children mentioned in Martin Luther King's groundbreaking "I Have a Dream" speech. In this memoir, Martin Luther King Jr.'s son gives an intimate look at the man and the father behind the civil rights leader. Mr. King's remembrances show both his warm, loving family and a momentous time in American history. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
Babysaurus loves playing hide-and-seek with his Papasaurus. But one day, no matter where he looks, he can't find him, so Babysaurus turns to his prehistoric friends for help. Where can his Papasaurus be? Of course, Papasaurus has been right there all along, and when Babysaurus needs a little help, Papasaurus is ready with a big kiss and more games. This colorful and reassuring book is a fresh twist on a perennial theme that will win the hearts of little ones and their papas alike. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
Every morning Papa combs through his daughter's waves like he does his own—parting it down the middle, using coconut oil to get all the tangles out.
Some days he braids her hair in two twists down the side of her face. Other days he weaves it into one long braid hanging down her back, just like a unicorn tail.
But her favorite style is when he combs her hair in a tight bun on the top of her head, just like the joora he wears every day under his turban. They call this their hair twin look! (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
A boldly illustrated picture book read-aloud about how everyone gets sad—ninjas, wrestlers, knights, superheroes, everyone . . . even daddies have emotions! Did you know wrestlers have feelings? And knights. Even superheroes and ninjas feel sad sometimes. In fact everyone has feelings—especially dads who love their children! (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Up and down, to and fro, coo and crow baby, there you go. Up to the ceiling, down to the ground, backward and forward, round and round ... All babies love to be lifted, twirled and held in loving arms. Now a rhythmic poem by nineteenth century poet Anne Taylor makes a delightful board book perfect for baby and parent to share. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Told through the voice of a child, Anita Hope Smith's My Daddy Rules the World collection of poems celebrates everyday displays of fatherly love, from guitar lessons and wrestling matches to bedtime stories, haircuts in the kitchen, and cuddling in bed. These heartwarming poems, together with bold folk-art-inspired images, capture the strength and beauty of the relationship between father and child. (Description via Amazon) ">
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Amazon.
Rhythmic text and illustrations with universal appeal show a toddler spending the day with its daddies. From hide-and-seek to dress-up, then bath time and a kiss goodnight, there's no limit to what a loving family can do together. Share the loving bond between same-sex parents and their children. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Little Bear is ready for some grown-up adventures—at least, Daddy Bear thinks so. But they soon discover that Little Bear needs a helping hand. And who can help out better than Daddy Bear? (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
Dad, Who Will I Be? is written by G.Todd Taylor, a former educator and child mental health expert with over 20 years of experience. This book inspires, encourages and educates young readers to be great by introducing to them heroes of color from a number of different professions on an elementary level. Some real-life heroes in the book include Martin Luther King Jr., Muhammed Ali, Mansa Musa, Guion Bluford and Garrett Morgan, W.E.B. Dubois, Tiger Woods and many more. Dr. Jawanza Kunjufu says "This is a fantastic book for children! Children need to have goals and a purpose in life. They need to have their career range expanded. Children need to hear it from their fathers. Garrett truly needs to be commended." (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop.
Celebrate twenty-five years of love right up to the moon and back! A new board-book edition is perfect for little hands. How much does Little Nutbrown Hare love his daddy? And how much does Big Nutbrown Hare love him back? The cherished tale of boundless affection is ready for boundless sharing in a durable board-book edition for the younger set. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
This book by the sister-team behind Hello!Lucky features a mythical yeti and is a joyful tribute to just how amazing parents (and their kids!) are. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
I Am Perfectly Designed is an exuberant celebration of loving who you are, exactly as you are, from Karamo Brown, the Culture Expert of Netflix's hit series Queer Eye, and Jason Brown—featuring illustrations by Anoosha Syed. In this empowering ode to modern families, a boy and his father take a joyful walk through the city, discovering all the ways in which they are perfectly designed for each other. With tenderness and wit, this story captures the magic of building strong childhood memories. The Browns and Syed celebrate the special bond between parent and child with joy and flair...Syed's bright, cartoon illustrations enrich the tale with a meaningful message of kindness and inclusion. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
Your baby's first word will be . . ."Dada!" Right? Everyone knows that fathers wage a secret campaign to ensure that their babies' first word is "Dada!" But how does it work? One of the most popular entertainers in the world, Jimmy Fallon, shows you how. (Description via Amazon)
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In this companion book to the bestselling I Love My Hair, a young boy, Miles, makes his first trip to the barbershop with his father. Like most little boys, he is afraid of the sharp scissors, the buzzing razor, and the prospect of picking a new hairstyle. But with the support of his dad, the barber, and the other men in the barbershop, Miles bravely sits through his first haircut. Written in a reassuring tone with a jazzy beat and illustrated with graceful, realistic watercolors, this book captures an important rite of passage for boys and celebrates African-American identity. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
A big pot of “soup,” a beautiful drawing, a snuggle—a girl explores the different ways she can show empathy when her daddy is sick.
With simple stories and engaging illustrations, the Bright Start series of board books opens conversations about emotions and mental well-being, providing you with the tools and language needed to develop and nurture emotional intelligence in your child. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
With Spanish words sprinkled throughout and featuring warm art by New York Times-bestselling and NAACP-Award-winning illustrator AG Ford, Tameka Fryer Brown's Brown Baby Lullaby is the perfect new baby or baby shower gift. From sunset to bedtime, two brown-skinned parents lovingly care for their beautiful brown baby: first, they play outside, then it is time for dinner and a bath, and finally a warm snuggle before bed. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
From a child's first uttered "Dada" to his or her first unsteady steps, nothing can adequately convey the joy and awe of watching the birth and growth of a new child. Filled with adorable illustrations and the refrain, "You are the one made just for me," Made for Me is a winning presentation of tender moments that tie a father and his new child together—forever. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
As bedtime approaches, three young girls eagerly await the return of their father who tells them stories of a faraway homeland—Palestine. Through their father's memories, the Old City of Jerusalem comes to life: the sounds of juice vendors beating rhythms with brass cups, the smell of argileh drifting through windows, and the sight of doves flapping their wings toward home. These daughters of the diaspora feel love for a place they have never been, a home they cannot visit. But, as their father’s story comes to an end, they know that through his memories, they will always return. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
With rhyming verse and statements of affirmation, author Ashley Finley shares the beautiful journey of a young boy growing from infancy to young adulthood as viewed through the eyes of his loving father.
No Limits: A Story Celebrating the Unconditional Love of a Father celebrates the ebbs and flows of growing up within the protection of a loving and supportive parent-child relationship.
Paired with beautiful illustrations by Agia Putri, it's a warmly-written picture book that concretely demonstrates what unconditional love and acceptance between parents and their children looks like. (Description via Amazon) ">
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Amazon.
In a text that's both playful and loving, a father expresses his hopes and dreams for a one-of-a-kind relationship with his child. Whimsical monster characters bring the silly and sweet scenes to life and keep the book universal. The book's ending, a moving tribute to the author's father, guarantees intergenerational appeal. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Max loves his grandpa. When they must say good-bye after a visit, Grandpa promises Max that the moon at Grandpa’s house is the same moon that will follow him all the way home. On that swervy-curvy car ride back to his house, Max watches as the moon tags along. But when the sky darkens and the moon disappears behind clouds, he worries that it didn’t follow him home after all. Where did the moon go—and what about Grandpa’s promise? (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
What if Darth Vader took an active role in raising his son? What if "Luke, I am your father" was just a stern admonishment from an annoyed dad? In this hilarious and sweet Star Wars comics reimagining, Darth Vader is a dad like any other—except with all the baggage of being the Dark Lord of the Sith. Celebrated artist Jeffrey Brown's delightful illustrations give classic Star Wars moments a fresh parenting books twist, presenting the trials and joys of parenting through the lens of a galaxy far, far away. Life lessons include lightsaber batting practice, using the Force to raid the cookie jar, Take Your Child to Work Day on the Death Star ("Er, he looks just like you, Lord Vader!"), and the special bond shared between any father and son. It's a great option for baby shower gifts, especially for the expectant father Darth Vader and Son is a Star Wars book that makes a great gift or a just because purchase for yourself! (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Celebrate Dad's special day by saying "I Love You"--with a little help from The Very Hungry Caterpillar. This bright and colorful book is the ideal way to tell the person you call "Dad" how much you appreciate him. It's the perfect gift for Father's Day, Dad's birthday, or any day that you want to show Dad just how much you care. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
Ben and his friends are playing in their favorite part of the classroom—the dress-up corner! They are talking about what they want to be when they grow up. Rachel wants to be a tae kwon do master, Dixie wants to be a doctor like her auntie, and John wants to be a teacher just like their teacher, Mr. Underwood. But when Ben says he wants to fly just like his daddy, his friends are sure his daddy must be a pilot.
Ben tells his friends that they aren't even close, but he offers a few more clues. His daddy is strong, gentle, fierce, and fast. His friends have lots of guesses, but no one lands on the right one until Ben gives them the biggest clue of all.
Written by a dad who is also a professional ballet dancer, this story will appeal to all ballet dancing children and their loved ones. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Whether they're playing make-believe, making you smile, or warding off monsters under the bed, dads are always there when you need them. Debut picture book artist Soosh celebrates fathers with a gorgeously illustrated and moving story about the parent-child bond. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
A perfect children’s book for the offspring of the inked. The story explores family relationships through a child’s imagination, revealing that everybody looks funny to somebody. It is perfect for anybody who feels different or loves somebody who is. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Plum wants a pet. Plum's dad wants NO pets. So Plum, who never takes no for an answer, gets the only pet she can: a pet dad. Dad is a great pet--he loves playtime, tummy rubs, and scratches behind the ears. But every time Plum tries to get him to sit, or fetch, or chase, dad barks NO. Plum doesn't take no for an answer. How will she train her perfect pet (without getting a time-out)? Hilariously relatable and with ultra-cute art, PetDad is perfect for kids who love or want pets--or who already have the perfect parents to make up for it. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Inspired by his family experiences and his parents' paintings, a young boy creates four poems.(Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
This joyful story celebrates dad as the most fun in the world and the best playground ever! He’s the highest swing and a great climbing wall, he’s a bouncing trampoline and merry as a merry-go-round. And then, when playtime is over, dad is the best for reading and snuggling with before bed. Dads and their kids will love reading and re-reading this glorious celebration of fathers. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
Through adorably-illustrated vignettes, this gifty, light-hearted picture book captures and celebrates the true meaning of Father's Day, and encourages readers to embrace the spirit of Father's Day every day!
With an array of father-child pairings enjoying all the sweet moments that make dads special throughout the year, I Love Daddy Every Day shares the message that love, hope, kindness, and generosity are relevant all year round.">
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Amazon.
Our spunky heroine loves spending time with her dad. They ride bikes and swim in the pool! They can imagine exciting adventures, or just lounge around on a hot day. Being with her dad makes her feel safe and comforted, strong and powerful. She can confront the neighbor’s dog and get thrown up in the air! And when she gets too scared, or too angry, nothing calms her down better than a big hug from dad.(Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
At the penguin house at the Central Park Zoo, two penguins named Roy and Silo were a little bit different from the others. But their desire for a family was the same. And with the help of a kindly zookeeper, Roy and Silo got the chance to welcome a baby penguin of their very own. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
In the 1930s, Lewis's dad, Lewis Michaux Sr., had an itch he needed to scratch—a book itch. How to scratch it? He started a bookstore in Harlem and named it the National Memorial African Bookstore. And as far as Lewis Michaux Jr. could tell, his father's bookstore was one of a kind. People from all over came to visit the store, even famous people‚—Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, and Langston Hughes, to name a few. In his father's bookstore people bought and read books, and they also learned from each other. People swapped and traded ideas and talked about how things could change. They came together here all because of his father's book itch. Read the story of how Lewis Michaux Sr. and his bookstore fostered new ideas and helped people stand up for what they believed in. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
The lyrics of a Grammy winner's hit single are joined with stunning pencil and oil illustrations to celebrate the dignity, integrity, and honor of being a father. This 15-year-old title is out of print, but available used on Amazon. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
There is a rug in his father's shop that Mustafa loves. (It has a hole in it, so you can put it over your head and still see out.) No one else wants the rug, though lots of tourists visit the shop. His father always welcomes them "Bienvenue" and offers them tea "O cha wa ikaga desu ka?" Mustafa's father would like him to know some words in other languages too, and he tells Mustafa that he may have the rug if he agrees to learn. But after the first lesson, Mustafa is so bored he runs out of the shop (with the carpet on his head). Ending up at the market, he finds a very different way of learning foreign languages...and of getting tourists to visit his father's shop. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
A striking debut celebrating the warm bond between a little boy and his dad as they work hard to achieve their dreams Papi is a bricklayer, and he works hard every day to help build the city, brick by brick. His son, Luis, works hard, too—in school, book by book. Papi climbs scaffolds, makes mortar, and shovels sand. Luis climbs on the playground and molds clay into tiny bricks to make buildings, just like Papi. Together, they dream big about their future as they work to make those dreams come true. And then one Saturday, Papi surprises Luis with something special he's built for their family, brick by brick. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
This touching book is a colorful conversation with dad about the world, broccoli and love. The drawings are fresh and bursting with color and will grip any child's imagination. Daydreaming with Dad will warm your heart. This belongs on your shelf! The cool thing about the book is that the illustrator chose to include a variety of ethnicities and the children depicted are girls and boys in varying ages. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Down home is Granny’s house. Down home is where Lil’ Alan and his parents and sister will join great-grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Down home is where Lil’ Alan will hear stories of the ancestors and visit the land that has meant so much to all of them. And down home is where all of the children will find their special way to pay tribute to family history. All the kids have to decide on what tribute to share, but what will Lil’ Alan do? In this rich and moving celebration of history, culture, and ritual, Kelly Starling Lyons' eloquent text explores the power of family traditions. Stunning illustrations by Coretta Scott King Honor-winner Daniel Minter reveal the motion and connections in a large, multigenerational family. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
In this touching celebration of fatherhood, the close bond between parent and child comes to life with heartwarming resonance. Laurenne Sala’s tranquil text, accompanied by Mike Malbrough’s tender watercolor illustrations, creates a warm look at the joys, fears, and responsibilities of being a dad over the years. (Description via Amazon)
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Bookshop.
A celebration of the best kind of dad: the kind that's willing to join in the fun. A gang of mythical creatures is roaming around a magical land having a great time, until Bigfoot gets his foot stuck in a tree trunk and Unicorn gets her horn impaled on a table and Robot's saw-arm gets rusted into position. But have no fear! Dad is there to fix things—even when a Sneaky Flying Alligator Pirate steals the Fairy Queen Ballerina Doctor's wand. A hilarious story about imagination, play and the best parts about being a dad. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
Throughout the animal kingdom, in every part of the world, fathers love and care for their babies. This book takes readers around the globe and across the animal kingdom, showcasing the many ways fathers have of demonstrating their love. Whether it's a penguin papa snuggling with his baby in the frosty white snow, a lion dad playing with his cub in a yellow field, or a seahorse father protecting his young inside his pouch in the deep blue ocean, we see that a father's love comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Follow fathers and their children on playful adventures. "When it's only my ba and me...We pick shell from the sand, And jump waves hand in hand. We go sailing away 'IT’S SUMMER! HOORAY!' When it’s only my ba and me. When it's only my bapa and me...We celebrate every day, And also each night...My kiss says, 'I love you.'" The double flaps in this book reveal fathers and children of different cultures as they share special moments through every season. This book is perfect for Father's Day or any day of the year. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
In this intergenerational collection of poetry by new and established African American writers, fatherhood is celebrated with honor, humor, and grace. Folami Abiade, Dinah Johnson, Carole Boston Weatherford, Dakari Hru, Michael Burgess, E. Ethelbert Miller, Lenard D. Moore, David Anderson, Angela Johnson, Sonia Sanchez, and Davida Adedjouma all contribute. Javaka Steptoe, who also offers a poem, employs an inventive range of media to bring each of the poems to life. In Daddy's Arms I Am Tall testifies to the powerful bond between father and child, recognizing family as our greatest gift, and identifying fathers as being among our most influential heroes. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Mama's away one night, and her son can't sleep. He tries to relax by counting stars, but the more of them he sees, the more determined he is to count every single one. Then the boy finds that Daddy can't sleep either. Together, the two of them set off on an unforgettable all-night journey of discovery. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
In this moving picture book from multi-award winning author Jacqueline Woodson, a young girl and her grandmother prepare for a very special day—the one day a month they get to visit the girl's father in prison. "Only on visiting day is there chicken frying in the kitchen at 6 a.m, and Grandma in her Sunday dress, humming soft and low." As the little girl and her grandmother get ready, her father, who adores her, is getting ready, too, and readers get to join the community of families who make the trip together, as well as the triumphant reunion between father and child, all told in Woodson's trademark lyrical style, and beautifully illustrated by James Ransome. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop.
This poignant, vibrantly illustrated tale, which won the prestigious Feng Zikai Chinese Children's Picture Book Award in 2009, is sure to resonate with every child who misses relatives when they are away—and shows how a family's love is strong enough to endure over time and distance. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
A fun read-aloud written in upbeat rhyming verse, Girl Dad is a picture book that honors the strong men who raise, love, and uplift strong girls. ">
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Amazon.
King and Jester, Boat and Captain, Mountain and Climber... fathers and children are all of these things and more in Chris Raschka's tribute to this familial pair. Each stanza presents three scenarios in which the father and child's roles are subtly balanced. The pairs vary between stanzas, coming together in a visit to an ice-cream truck. With minimal text and maximum emotion, the book encapsulates Raschka's own passion and nostalgia for being a father to his [now-grown] son. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
A beautifully illustrated, affirming story of life with two dads, written from the perspective of their adopted child. Two Dads is a book about LGBT parents and adoption. The simple narrative and illustrations depict just how very normal LGBT families are. It is a funny and tender representation of family life. The book would be a good platform for opening up conversations about adoption or same sex parenting. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop.
My Two Dads is about a boy named Jacob who is raised by two fathers. It displays life from Jacob's point-of-view and also how some of his friends' families are structured. The book helps to foster and show that different families may exist but they all provide love.
My Two Dads has QR Codes that can be scanned for English to Chinese d104 Translation as well as audio files in both languages.
It is a great book about diverse family structures for individuals learning languages. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
You asked for a special house for your dolls; but instead Grandpa gives you a toolbox! What do you do? Launching it into outer space is a bad idea. So is feeding it to a T. rex! Instead, be patient, pay attention, and you might find that you’re pretty handy. And just maybe, with grandpa’s help, you’ll get that dollhouse after all.
This clever story celebrates kindness, hard work, and community, as well as variety in gender expression: the male main character proudly engages in activities that might be considered typically girl (playing with dolls) and typically boy (building with tools). (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Featuring adorable illustrations from Marianne Richmond, My Dad Loves Me! illustrates all the ways a dad shows his love to his children! Kids can relive their best times with Dad every day! (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Families with same-sex parents are celebrated in this board book that follows busy dads and their kids throughout their day—eating breakfast, getting dressed, heading out to the park, and settling back in at night with a bubble bath and a good-night lullaby.
LGBTQ+ parents and their friends and families will welcome this inclusive and cheerful book that reflects their own lives and family makeup. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
From the New York Times bestselling illustrator of I Am Enough, this glowing, empowering picture book about a nighttime hide-and-seek game celebrates Blackness and self-confidence.
"Little one, so calm and so happy, the darkness of the night is yours like the darkness of your skin." This lyrical text, narrated to a young girl named Amani by her father, follows her as she plays an evening game of hide-and-seek with friends at her apartment complex. The moon's glow helps Amani find the last hidden child, and seems almost like a partner to her in her game, as well as a spotlight pointing out her beauty and strength.
This is a gorgeous bedtime read-aloud about joy and family love and community, and most of all about feeling great in your own skin. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop.
Some families look different than others. A father who doesn't live full-time with his son tells him all the ways he misses and loves him. I Love You More Than...by Taye Diggs, illustrated by Shane W. Evans, is perfect for families who are separated, whatever the circumstances.
Its message of love underscores the bond between parent and child in ways that little ones will understand. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
Perfect for Father's Day or every day, this sweet companion to Leo Loves Mommy and spin-off of the best-selling Lola Reads series celebrates the love between young children and their dads. Leo and Daddy love to make pancakes for breakfast, dance to the beat, and go to the park together. When it's time to sleep, Daddy's hugs are the snuggliest. (Description via Amazon) ">
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Amazon.
Joe-Joe’s father works at the local airport, one of the first in the area, at a time when segregation rules. Even though the men who work at the airport, including Joe-Joe’s dad, were promised flying jobs, the owner refuses to let them fly.
The town of Blind Eye has lost hope over the men’s heartbreak and the injustice being done to them, so much so that the moon won’t shine down on it any longer. More than anything, Joe-Joe wants to bring the moon back to Blind Eye so he can return hope to the townspeople.
This is an extraordinary storybook about lost hope and what can happen when dreams are allowed to flourish. (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop and Amazon.
A daddy and daughter can’t let this perfect day go to waste—so what will they do and where will they go?
Play hopscotch in the park or build a pillow fort and stay inside?
Shoot the perfect alley-oop or host a tea party on the half-court line?
Frolic like princesses or find a big tree to climb?
If life gives them puddles, they’ll jump and splash and play! (Description via Amazon) ">
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Bookshop.
It's Saturday, and one small girl and her Dad are heading for the supermarket while Mom is working. It's so exciting! How can she contain herself? She tries but she can't!
An enormous sneeze sets in motion a small calamity, and Dad gets the blame. But when his daughter speaks up and takes responsibility for her actions, the mood changes.
Fast-paced, funny with a simple, uplifting message, this playful rhyming read-aloud is guaranteed to have you laughing out loud! (Description via Amazon)">
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Bookshop.
When darkness falls and bedtime comes, Papa tucks Alex in, then puts on his hard hat and goes to work. Papa is an engineer who works at night. "Take me with you," Alex says. "Not tonight," says Papa.
But one night Papa has a surprise—a hard hat for Alex! He takes Alex with him to the construction site, where excavators rumble and cement mixers hum. As his dream comes true, Alex gets to be a night worker just like Papa.
Kate Banks's evocative text and Georg Hallensleben's colorful paintings combine to make a unique bedtime book that will delight all children, especially those who are fascinated by big machines. (Description via Bookshop)">
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Amazon.
"Jut-Ay, Baby, peek-a-boo, want to play? Where are you?" Baby knows that Jut-Ay means morning has come, and it's time to play. But where is Baby hiding? Eechy-eechy-egg! crows the red-tailed rooster. Is Baby near? Hru-hruu! Hru-hruu! whines the puppy dog. Is Baby crouching there? Jiak-jiak! Jiak-jiak! screeches a monkey in the banyan tree. Is Baby swinging there? Hornbill and snake, elephant and tiger—who can finally lead Papa to Baby's hiding place? (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon (For ages 8 and up).
Set in Mississippi at the height of the Depression, this is the story of one family's struggle to maintain their integrity, pride, and independence in the face of racism and social injustice. And it is also Cassie's story—Cassie Logan, an independent girl who, with the help of her father, discovers over the course of an important year why having land of their own is so crucial to the Logan family, even as she learns to draw strength from her own sense of dignity and self-respect. (Description via Amazon)">
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Amazon.
Based on the true story of the birth of his son, Be Brave, Be Brave, Be Brave recalls the thoughts of author F. Anthony Falcon upon holding his child after the baby and his wife endured a life-threatening labor during Hurricane Harvey's landfall in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Having felt adrift from his Native roots, Falcon found himself with a deep desire to understand his heritage so that he might better bestow it upon his son.
A meditation on what it means to "be brave," this is the tale of little Lakota's perilous arrival into the world, of Falcon's struggle to reconnect with a heritage that was lost to him, and a father's attempt to describe what it means to be a Native American man in America today. (Description via Amazon)">
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