Books like Can I touch your hair? by Irene Latham

Irene Latham and Charles Waters create a friendly, conversational series of paired poems that capture simple moments—family dinners, sports, recess—and the rhythms of everyday life for children. Their work invites young readers to celebrate friendship across differences and invites reflection on how race shapes everyday experiences in America. The poems are written with humor, honesty, and accessibility, making them a useful companion for children exploring identity, inclusion, and community. The book treats themes such as friendship, family, and race awareness with warmth and directness. By sharing complementary perspectives, the authors provide a balanced look at the lived experiences of children from different racial backgrounds. An engaging, approachable collection that encourages discussion about diversity and inclusion while celebrating everyday moments shared by children.

First publish date: 2018