This Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, and all year long, we celebrate stories that reflect the immense diversity of cultures, languages, foods, histories, religions, and mythologies, along with common experiences, both positive and negative, that shape the lives of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI). The following books, either written by AAPI authors, or featuring AAPI characters, or both, offer stories that will captivate any reader. You can find these titles and more in our AAPI-focused catalogs: Celebrating Asian and Pacific Islander Storytellers and Celebrating Asian and Pacific Islander Stories.

ELLIE MAKES A FRIEND by Mike Wu

When Ping, a panda who also happens to be a talented artist, moves to the zoo, Ellie is a bit intimidated. Is there room for two artists at the zoo? As she learns more about her new friend from China, Ellie finds that a fresh perspective can lead to new inspiration—and maybe something wonderful they can create together!

Educator’s guide for The World of Ellie.

I’M ON IT! By Andrea Tsurumi

A prepositional game of one-upmanship tests the limits of play for Goat and Frog in the newest installment in Mo Willems’ Elephant and Piggie Like Reading! series, by acclaimed illustrator Andrea Tsurumi.

ARU SHAH AND THE CITY OF GOLD by Roshani Chokshi

In the penultimate book in the Pandava series, Aru Shah and her sisters—including one who also claims to be the Sleeper’s daughter—must find their mentors Hanuman and Urvashi in Lanka, the city of gold, before war breaks out between the devas and asuras.

Educator’s guide for the Pandava series.

THE LAST FALLEN STAR by Graci Kim

In this thrilling middle-grade adventure infused with Korean mythology, an adopted Korean-American girl named Riley discovers her heritage and her magic on a perilous journey to save her witch clan family.

Educator’s guide for The Last Fallen Star.

THE STORY OF MOANA by Kari Sutherland

Inspired by the Disney Animation Studios film Moana, this middle grade novel features characters and adventures based on the rich culture of Oceania. It includes original content in the form of mini folktales interspersed throughout the story of the film.

REFLECTION: A TWISTED TALE by Elizabeth Lim

What if Mulan had to travel to the Underworld to save Shang? This book, from the New York Times best-selling Twisted Tale series, explores a new story about honor, courage, and love inspired by the Disney animated classic.