More than a story: 5 ways multicultural reading can reflect God's heart

The benefits of reading multicultural literature are not only educational, but intensely relational.

Multicultural stories are about far more than unique settings and diverse characters. They have a gentle, persistent power that stirs us to try on someone else's shoes, learn from unexpected places, and recognize the dignity of every person's life.

For readers of faith, multicultural literacy can echo the values we hold close: love, justice, and the truth that every person is created in God's image and precious to Him.

Here's what happens when we open our hearts (and make room on our bookshelves) to stories from many cultures:

1. We remember that every person matters. The Bible reminds us we’re "fearfully and wonderfully made" (Psalm 139:13–14). Multicultural stories spotlight people—real and fictional—who reflect God’s creativity and care. They help us teach kids (and remind ourselves) that everyone has worth, no exceptions.

   
   

2. We grow in kindness. Reading about others’ challenges and joys softens us. When we see characters struggle through differences, mistakes, and hardship, it induces empathy. Just like Ephesians 4:32 says: “Be kind and compassionate to one another."

   
   

3. We stand up for fairness. Many multicultural books explore themes like injustice and inequality—and often push us to see what justice looks like in action. Micah 6:8 gives a simple challenge: “Act justly. Love mercy. Walk humbly.”

   
   

4. We learn to welcome. Whether it’s a person from another continent we didn’t expect to relate to, or our own neighbor from a different ethnicity—multicultural stories remind us that hospitality matters. Hebrews 13:2 reminds us, "Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers . . ."

   
   

5. We see the world through fresh eyes. Proverbs 18:15 says, “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge.” That’s not just book knowledge—it’s relational wisdom. Every story from another culture is a window that gives us insight, helps us understand different viewpoints, and appreciate God's vast, diverse creation.

Tip: Next time you pick out a book for a young reader, choose one with characters from a different culture or background. Let the story be a conversation starter: "What can we learn from this character's experience?" It's a simple way to turn reading time into heart time.