Michelle McDonald
May 5, 2022
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This is a great opportunity to uplift the contributions and rich history of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched American history.
Helpful Background Resources:
If you are looking for new resources or want to build some background information, I suggest starting with the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month website. You can find a calendar of events and lots of educational resources on this website. I also suggest that you check out the Asian American and Pacific Islander Teacher Guide from EDSITEment. You can find answers to commonly asked questions and lesson plans too.
AAPI Picture Books for Elementary:
If you teach elementary, picture books are a great way to open conversation. Picture books are windows and mirrors. It's important that our students see themselves in the books we read and also experience the unfamiliar. Here are some picture books to consider adding to your classroom library.
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho
Grandfather's Journey by Allen Say
Hush! A Thai Lullaby by Minfong Ho
How to Wear a Sari by Darshana Khiani
When Lola Visits by Michelle Sterling
Hundred Years of Happiness by Thanhha Lai
AAPI Chapter Books:
If you teach upper elementary or middle school, you might feature a few chapter books during AAPI Heritage Month. Here are a few suggestions. Pre/Teens are never too old for a read-aloud, and these are quick reads that you might consider choosing for the month of May.
Praire Lotus by Linda Sue Park
Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca
Messy Roots: A Graphic Memoir of a Wuhanese American by Laura Gao
In the Beautiful Country by Jane Kuo
Two Virtual Field Trips:
If you are looking for an interactive learning experience, you might consider these ready-to-go virtual field trips.
This post contains Amazon Affiliate links to make it easier for you to find the books shared in this post. Just click on an image to be redirected to Amazon.