In “Eli and the Uncles,” author Jehan Madhani and illustrator Rashin Kheiriyeh offer a vibrant, heartfelt picture book published by Candlewick Press in 2024. The story invites us into the life of young Eli, a boy surrounded by a group of uncles who represent a beautiful spectrum of affection and care. Moving away from tired tropes, this narrative focuses on the genuine, joyful relationships Eli shares with these men, portraying their bonds through warm interactions and rhythmic, accessible language. It’s an unfolding 32-page narrative that has already collected multiple starred reviews, with critics praising its ability to center representation and family warmth. As a high-quality selection for any primary school library, the book uses its repetitive structure and engaging art to make its themes of identity and belonging feel both grounded and inviting for early readers.
This book fits perfectly into a Changemaker collection because it addresses SDG 5: Gender Equality by dismantling rigid stereotypes in a way that feels organic rather than preachy. By presenting men who are openly affectionate and diverse in their interests, the story helps students cultivate the IB Learner Profile trait of being open-minded. An educator could use Eli’s experiences to serve as a foundation for a Grade 1 unit on identity, asking students to look at the highly discussable visuals to find examples of how the uncles show they care for one another. This provides a natural way to move a classroom discussion from abstract definitions of “respect” to real-world examples of inclusion. Ultimately, the story inspires student agency by demonstrating that being oneself is a valid and powerful choice. It equips children with the language to support their peers’ self-expression, fostering a school culture where everyone feels safe to be their true selves.
