6 Books About Different Types of Families

Not every child grows up with their bio parents — and that's okay. Some kids live with a grandparent. Some are in foster care. And some have an older sibling who stepped up. Whatever their family looks like, every kid deserves to see it reflected on the page.

The following six stories celebrate all kinds of families. They are books for kids in foster care, kinship care, or any home that doesn't fit the traditional mold.

1. Who's In My Family?: All About Our Families

by Robie H. Harris, illustrated by Nadine Bernard Westcott

Accessible, humorous, and full of charming illustrations depicting families of many configurations...making it clear to every child that whoever makes up your family, it is perfectly normal — and totally wonderful.

2. Pup and Bear

by Kate Banks, illustrated by Naoko Stoop

This deeply emotional read-aloud about a lost wolf pup who is raised by a loving polar bear is sure to resonate with families – particularly non-traditional ones

3. All Kinds of Families

by Suzanne Lang, illustrated by Max Lang

Lots of nontraditional family structures are celebrated in this fun board book, including families with two moms or one grandpa or just a cousin named Doug.

4. Families, Families, Families!

by Suzanne Lang

Moms, dads, sisters, brothers — and even Great Aunt Sue — appear in dozens of combinations, demonstrating all kinds of nontraditional families! 

5. The Family Book

by Todd Parr

The Family Book celebrates families and all the varieties they come in. Whether they're big or small, look alike or different, have a single parent or two, this book assures readers that every family is special in its own unique way. 

6. A Family Is a Family Is a Family

by Sara O'Leary, illustrated by Qin Leng

As a child hears her classmates describe who they live with and who loves them ― family of every shape, size and every kind of relation ― she realizes that as long as her family is full of caring people, it is special.

Why These Are Great Books for Kids in Foster Care

Kids in foster care often move through unfamiliar homes and unfamiliar routines. A book that reflects their experience offer something steady. It also lets them know they're not alone, and that their family, whatever the type, is worth celebrating.

Are You Looking for More Books Like These?

Foster Book Club is a community-driven nonprofit getting books with foster care representation into the hands of kids in foster care. Visit fosterbookclub.org to browse our full list of books by age group.

Together, we can make sure every kid in foster care has a book that reflects their experience.