Digital citizenship is a natural extension of the International Baccalaureate (IB) philosophy, seamlessly aligning with its mission to develop compassionate, lifelong learners and responsible global citizens. In a world increasingly shaped by digital interactions, the IB Learner Profile and inquiry-driven educational model provide the perfect framework for guiding students toward ethical, reflective, and informed use of technology.
From fostering empathy in online spaces to understanding the ethical implications of digital actions, the principles of digital citizenship directly support attributes like being principled, reflective, and communicative. Furthermore, the IB’s emphasis on global citizenship and real-world problem-solving highlights the importance of equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in an interconnected digital society.
This post explores how the IB philosophy and digital citizenship intersect, offering a short list of children’s and teen’s books that promote responsible and thoughtful engagement with the digital world. These titles serve as excellent resources for sparking meaningful discussions with students about their roles as global citizens in the digital age.
Mitzi and the Big Bad Nosy Wolf by Teresa Bateman
Teresa Bateman’s Mitzi and the Big Bad Nosy Wolf is a clever, humorous tale that sneaks in some big lessons about digital citizenship and the IB Learner Profile. Through the adventures of Mitzi—a quick-witted lamb who stands her ground against a wolf with too many questions—readers learn about the importance of privacy, critical thinking, and making thoughtful decisions, both in real life and online.
Mitzi’s smarts shine as she skillfully avoids sharing personal information, modeling what it means to stay safe and savvy in a digital world. The story encourages kids to think critically, communicate effectively, and reflect on their own actions, aligning beautifully with IB values like being inquirers, principled, and reflective.
This engaging story doesn’t just entertain—it empowers. By showing young readers how to maintain their boundaries and act with integrity, it makes the often complex ideas of digital safety accessible and fun. Perfect for classrooms exploring How We Express Ourselves or families navigating early online experiences, Mitzi’s journey leaves readers laughing, learning, and ready to face their own “nosy wolves.”
Mitzi and the Big Bad Nosy Wolf
Written by Teresa Bateman, Illustrated by Jannie Ho
2022, Holiday House
ISBN: 9780823445172
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On a Magical Do-Nothing Day by Beatrice Alemagna
Beatrice Alemagna’s On a Magical Do-Nothing Day is a visually stunning and thought-provoking story that gently nudges readers toward balance, mindfulness, and curiosity. When a child, bored and fixated on video games, stumbles into the magic of the natural world, the story becomes a beautiful reminder of the joys that lie beyond screens.
This tale serves as a delightful tool for encouraging discussions about digital citizenship. It touches on balancing screen time, being present in the moment, and reflecting on how we engage with technology. Alemagna’s vibrant illustrations and relatable narrative inspire readers to pause, unplug, and explore their surroundings with fresh eyes.
The book also aligns seamlessly with the IB philosophy. The protagonist embodies the traits of inquirers and reflective learners, discovering wonder in the world around them. Themes of balance and caring for the environment encourage a well-rounded, responsible approach to life—a hallmark of IB education.
With its charm and depth, On a Magical Do-Nothing Day isn’t just a story—it’s an invitation to savor the simple, magical moments that make life meaningful. Perfect for classrooms, libraries, or bedtime, it leaves readers enchanted and inspired to embrace a balanced, mindful approach to both learning and living.
Written by Beatrice Alemagna
2017, HarperCollins
ISBN: 9780062657602
Sonia’s Digital World by Shannon McClintock Miller
Sonia’s Digital World is an inspiring and practical guide for young readers navigating technology’s potential. Through Sonia’s adventures with digital tools like iPads and laptops, the book empowers children to embrace technology responsibly and ethically. It highlights how tech can foster creativity, collaboration, and community engagement, all while encouraging critical thinking about online actions.
This story also beautifully aligns with IB principles, showcasing traits like inquiry, communication, open-mindedness, and reflection. Sonia’s journey inspires curiosity, effective digital communication, and thoughtful technology use, making it an ideal resource for teaching both responsible digital habits and IB Learner Profile attributes. Engaging and insightful, this book is a must-have for classrooms exploring the intersection of technology and global citizenship.
Written by Shannon McClintock Miller, Illustrated by Clara Reschke
2023, Picture Window Books
ISBN: 9781484687574
The Phantom Account by Nora Flanders
Nora Flanders, an experienced international educator from Asia, wrote this novella to help middle and high school students in exploration of online identity, ethical dilemmas, and the power of technology. Tackling critical digital citizenship themes like managing privacy, navigating ethical challenges, and understanding one’s digital footprint, the book empowers readers to think deeply about their online presence and behavior.
The story also encourages inquiry into the complexities of digital interactions, emphasizes principled choices in challenging situations, and fosters reflection on personal technology use. With its persuasive storytelling and thoughtful lessons, The Phantom Account is a must-read for young digital citizens and educators looking to spark meaningful conversations about technology’s role in our lives.
Written by Nora Flanders
2024
ISBN: 9781037109324
Unmasking AI by Joy Buolamwini
Joy Buolamwini’s Unmasking AI is a groundbreaking exploration of bias in artificial intelligence, blending technology, ethics, and social justice into a compelling narrative. By uncovering how algorithms can perpetuate societal prejudices, the book challenges high school students and young adults to think critically about the tools they use and inspires them to advocate for fair and ethical technology—a foundation of digital citizenship.
This work encourages inquiry into complex global issues, fostering principled and caring attitudes, and promoting reflection on the impact of technology, all highly aligned with IB philosophy. Buolamwini’s advocacy for justice and her dedication to ethical AI practices make this book an essential resource for understanding the societal implications of AI and empowering mature readers to shape a more equitable digital future.
Written by Joy Buolamwini
2023, Random House
ISBN: 978-0593241837
Eleanor Duggan is a passionate children’s book reader, a storytelling enchantress, an aspiring globetrotter, a part-time book crafter, and an impassioned foodie who is a cooking disaster. She is more known as an international school teacher-librarian, Founding Chair of the Toucan Award, and the International Association of School Librarianship (IASL) Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean. She is a Taiwanese with a Belgian soul and is currently enjoying her life as a citizen of the world with her daughter and their 2 one-of-a-kind cats. You may find her via The Third Culture Librarian
GLLI Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in posts on this site are the individual author’s and are not indicative of the views of Global Literature in Libraries Initiative.
Global Literature in Libraries Initiative 
We had a wonderful discussion of Unmasking AI: My Mission to Protect What is Human in a World of Machines, by Dr. Joy Buolamwini in our staff book club at the International School of Myanmar. Don’t miss her two TED talks and her spoken word poem on YouTube called AI, Ain’t I a Woman? Huge recommend!
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