Reading the World's Stories

This comprehensive guide to international youth literature offers educators, librarians, and parents a vital roadmap for expanding young readers' horizons through global stories. As the fifth volume in the Bridges to Understanding series, this annotated bibliography presents a curated collection of children's books from around the world, specifically selected to build cross-cultural awareness and empathy. Sponsored by the United States Board on Books for Young People, the project connects readers with diverse narratives that reflect experiences beyond their own communities.

What makes this resource particularly valuable is its structured approach to navigating international children's literature, providing clear annotations and organizational frameworks that help adults select meaningful books for young audiences. The collection stands out for its thoughtful curation that prioritizes authentic voices and cultural representation rather than simply gathering foreign titles. Readers seeking to build more inclusive libraries or classroom collections will find this an indispensable tool for fostering genuine intercultural understanding through the power of story.