Inclusive Sant Jordi: 8 Books to Look at the World Through Diversity
Sant Jordi is a celebration that brings together books, roses and affection. A day to give the gift of culture and words that accompany us. But it is also an opportunity to ask ourselves which stories we are putting into circulation and what perspectives we are building.
Books are not just entertainment: they educate, legitimise realities and help shape our collective imagination. For this reason, speaking of an inclusive Sant Jordi means choosing readings that reflect human diversity and recognise that all people — including people with Down syndrome — have the right to be represented in literature.
Reading with an inclusive lens is not about focusing on limitations. It is about people, relationships, autonomy, emotions and participation. It is about widening our perspective and offering references that challenge stereotypes from early childhood.
- Understanding Down syndrome from early childhood
Some books are designed to explain what Down syndrome is in a simple, clear and non‑dramatic way. They are especially useful for supporting conversations at home or in the classroom.
I Have Down Syndrome – Helena Kraljic
A direct and respectful picture book that presents Down syndrome naturally, helping to normalise diversity from an early age.
- Stories where diversity does not define the character
In these books, the condition is not the centre of the story. The character with Down syndrome experiences adventures, emotions and relationships like anyone else.
Piraña, an Extraordinary Little Cat – Silvia Blázquez
A warm and touching story about friendship and difference, without turning it into a label. Ideal for showing that what makes someone “extraordinary” is not a disability, but their individuality.
- Books about friendship and belonging
Feeling part of a group is a universal need. These books work on inclusion through relationships and shared life.
Planet Willy – Birte Müller
Willy comes from “another planet” and needs to learn how things work here. A beautiful book about patience, understanding and living together, based on the author’s real experience with their child with Down syndrome.
- Books that challenge stereotypes and paternalistic views
These stories portray people with Down syndrome as active individuals, with their own ideas and the ability to make decisions.
Carlota, Marieta and the Chest of Ideas – Sara Mª Pérez Picarzo
A story that highlights creativity, initiative and teamwork, presenting diverse characters without reducing them to a condition.
- Reading for children with Down syndrome
It is not only important to read about diversity; it is also essential that people with Down syndrome can read independently and enjoy reading.
Easy‑to‑read books (adapted collections)
Texts with clear language, short sentences and visual support ensure the right to culture and promote reading independence. They are a key element of a truly inclusive Sant Jordi.
- Books to work on inclusion at school
The classroom is a privileged space for educating in diversity and coexistence. These books are designed to be read and explored collectively.
At School with Pepa – M. Nieves Seseña
A story that introduces different disabilities within the school environment and helps children understand them through respect, empathy and everyday coexistence.
- Stories that work with emotions
Emotional education is essential for all children and is especially relevant in contexts of diversity.
Bet and Autism (ASD) – Anna Gusó & Joana Bruna
A sensitive story that helps identify emotions, understand others and talk about acceptance through a warm and respectful perspective.
- Books created from experience and commitment
Some of the most powerful stories about diversity come from the direct experience of families and inclusive projects.
Israel’s Chromosome – Colorín Cuenta Project
A story about Down syndrome told in positive and accessible language, designed to foster empathy and conversation from an early age.
Reading to include is also a political act
Giving an inclusive book as a Sant Jordi gift is not a neutral gesture. It is a way of saying:
- that diversity matters,
- that all people deserve to see themselves reflected,
- that culture must be accessible to everyone.
Books may not change the world overnight, but they do change the way we see it. And perspectives are the first step towards a fairer and more inclusive society.
A Sant Jordi where no one is left out of the story
From a blog about Down syndrome, proposing inclusive reading choices means expanding the celebration and making it more consistent with the values we defend: dignity, equality, participation and rights.
This Sant Jordi, let us give books that build bridges, name diversity without fear, and help us look at the world with greater honesty.
Because when books include, society learns to include too
