June is Caribbean-American Heritage Month - a time to celebrate the vibrant culture, deep history, and incredible contributions of Caribbean people in the U.S. As a Black mom and business owner, it’s important for me to share stories that reflect the beautiful diversity of our community - and that includes amplifying Caribbean voices, traditions, and experiences.
If you're looking for ways to celebrate with your family, here are some simple but impactful ideas - plus a list of books we love for kids (of all ages) and moms too.
Whether you're curled up on the porch or winding down before bedtime, these books are a great way to introduce your kids to Caribbean culture:
For Littles (Babies & Toddlers):
Islandborn by Junot Díaz – A joyful celebration of memory, identity, and imagination.
I Am Mixed by Garcelle Beauvais – A sweet board book that celebrates multicultural heritage.
For Big Kids (Ages 6–10):
Freedom Soup by Tami Charles – Learn about Haitian culture through a grandmother's recipe and storytelling.
My Granny Went to Market by Stella Blackstone – A counting adventure that includes Caribbean stops.
For Tweens & Teens:
Hurricane Child by Kacen Callender – A beautiful middle-grade novel set in the Virgin Islands.
When Life Gives You Mangos by Kereen Getten – A moving coming-of-age story set in Jamaica.
Because we deserve stories that nourish us, too.
Here Comes the Sun by Nicole Dennis-Benn – A powerful novel set in Jamaica that explores womanhood, love, and survival.
How to Love a Jamaican by Alexia Arthurs – Short stories that dive into identity, family, and diaspora life.
Everything Inside by Edwidge Danticat – A breathtaking collection from one of Haiti’s most cherished authors.
Caribbean-American Heritage Month is about more than history - it’s about connection. Let’s continue to raise our kids with pride, read stories that reflect who we are, and celebrate the richness of our heritage all year long.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Looking for books to teach your kids about Juneteenth? We teamed up with Baby Book Doc to share family-friendly titles that celebrate freedom, storytelling, and Black pride — perfect for toddlers, big kids, and even moms.
Summer can feel overwhelming for moms. Here's a list of easy, real-life ways to squeeze in self-care - even if it's just 10 quiet minutes on the porch.
Cinemark's Summer Movie Clubhouse is back! Grab $1.75 tickets for kids' movies every Wednesday morning from June 10 to August 15 - a fun and affordable summer activity for the whole family.
Amber Bowie
Author