10 Books to Explore July’s “Passport Around the World” Curriculum With Your Child

This July, our Passport Around the World curriculum at Little Sunshine’s Playhouse invites children to travel the globe without ever leaving the classroom. To help keep the adventure going at home, we’ve selected 10 outstanding books that celebrate the beautiful diversity of people, places, and traditions around the world. 

Here are 10 must-read books for your family’s global reading adventure:

1. This Is How We Do It by Matt Lamothe

Take a peek into the lives of seven real children from different countries as they share what they eat, wear, and learn each day. This book is a wonderful way to help children see both the differences and the common threads that connect families around the world.

2. Children of the World by Tomoko Suzuki

Bright, inclusive, and informative, this book introduces readers to children from over 30 countries, showcasing how they live, play, and celebrate. It’s a vibrant tribute to both cultural uniqueness and shared humanity.

3. Bee-Bim Bop! by Linda Sue Park

Follow a little girl as she helps her mother shop for, prepare, and joyfully eat a traditional Korean meal. This rhythmic, engaging story offers a warm introduction to Korean culture—and might just inspire a cooking night!

4. The Rainforest Grew All Around by Susan K. Mitchell

This beautifully illustrated, rhythmic book introduces children to the vibrant plants and animals of the rainforest. Its catchy, cumulative style makes learning about ecosystems both fun and memorable.

5. Lucia the Luchadora by Cynthia Leonor Garza

Lucia wants to be a superhero—until she discovers the strength and sparkle of her family’s traditions. Set in a lively, multicultural community, this empowering story introduces young readers to lucha libre and the power of identity.

6. Waiting for the Biblioburro by Monica Brown

Based on a true story, this heartwarming tale follows a girl in rural Colombia who dreams of books—and the traveling librarian who brings them to her village. A beautiful tribute to storytelling, education, and access.

7. Round Is a Tortilla by Roseanne Thong

This clever concept book uses the shapes of everyday objects to introduce elements of Latin American culture. It’s a playful, engaging read that weaves learning with cultural celebration.

8. We All Count: A Book of Cree Numbers by Julie Flett

This gentle counting book blends beautiful illustration with Cree language and cultural elements. It’s a wonderful introduction to Indigenous storytelling and an invitation to learn from First Nations perspectives.

9. Festival of Colors by Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha Sehgal

Celebrate Holi, the Indian festival of colors, in this bright and joyful story. With lyrical text and rich visuals, children will learn how tradition and nature come together in vibrant celebration.

10. The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi

Unhei just moved from Korea to America and isn’t sure if she should keep her name. This tender, relatable story encourages conversations about cultural identity, belonging, and the beauty of names.

Whether you’re cuddling up for bedtime or starting a morning adventure, we hope these stories inspire your child to see the world with wonder, curiosity, and heart.

Happy reading—your journey awaits!