The Knicks Won… Now Let's Celebrate New York Through Books! 🏀📚

New York is celebrating!

Whether you're a lifelong Knicks fan or simply love the energy of our state, moments like this remind us why New York is unlike anywhere else. It's a place filled with diverse neighborhoods, rich cultures, unforgettable stories, and communities that inspire resilience, creativity, and pride.

At We Lit Academy, we believe one of the best ways to celebrate New York is by reading stories that help children see themselves—and others—through the people and places that make our state so special.

Here are five incredible children's books that capture the heart of New York.

1. The Bronx Is My Home by Sandra María Esteves

This heartfelt picture book celebrates the Bronx through the eyes of a young girl who proudly shares everything she loves about her neighborhood. From family and community to culture and history, readers discover that home is much more than a place—it's the people who make it special.

Perfect for: Ages 4–8

Why we love it: It reminds children to celebrate where they come from and take pride in their community.

2. Boogie Boogie, Y'all by C. G. Esperanza

Inspired by the birthplace of hip-hop, this vibrant picture book follows a young boy as he explores the Bronx through music, dance, murals, and neighborhood life. The energetic illustrations and rhythmic storytelling celebrate creativity and community.

Perfect for: Ages 4–8

Why we love it: It's a joyful tribute to Bronx culture and the artistic spirit that has influenced the world.

3. Keats's Neighborhood

Keats' most famous book is The Snowy Day, but he wrote many other books about the diverse children that populate the borough of Brooklyn, New York. I've always felt Keats' mixed media collages perfectly capture the vibrancy of urban life and the wide range of experiences that kids have playing and growing up on sidewalks and in apartments.

Perfect for: Ages 4 and up

Why we love it: It celebrates compassion, diversity, and finding joy in your community.

4. Tar Beach by Faith Ringgold

Set atop a Harlem rooftop during a warm summer evening, this Caldecott Honor book blends imagination with family history. Cassie dreams of flying over New York City, showing readers that dreams have no limits.

Perfect for: Ages 5–9

Why we love it: It's a beautiful celebration of Harlem, family traditions, and believing in yourself.

5. Milo Imagines the World by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson

As Milo rides the subway through New York City, he imagines the lives of the people around him—only to discover that first impressions rarely tell the whole story.

Perfect for: Ages 5–10

Why we love it: It encourages empathy, curiosity, and understanding while showcasing the diversity of New York City.

Bringing New York to Your Bookshelf

One of the greatest gifts we can give children is the opportunity to see the places they know—and places they hope to visit—reflected in books.

Whether it's Brooklyn, the Bronx, Harlem, Queens, or Manhattan, every neighborhood has stories worth telling. Reading these books helps children build pride in their communities while learning about the people and cultures that make New York extraordinary.

So while we're celebrating a championship on the basketball court, let's also celebrate the stories that make New York unforgettable.

Happy reading—and Go New York! 🏀📚

Looking for more diverse children's books?

Visit the We Lit Academy Bookshop, where you'll find carefully curated collections that help every child see themselves in the pages they read. Every purchase supports our literacy mission and helps us continue bringing diverse books into the hands of children and families.