Black History Month is a time to reflect on the past and to recognize how it continues to shape the present and influence the future. What better way to bring Black History to life than by reading a book? Here are five must-read books for a new generation of children.
My First Heroes: Black History by Silver Dolphin Books
Synopsis by Bookshop.org: Celebrate the inspiring stories of four powerful figures in Black history with this interactive board book. With scenes you can push, pull, and slide, this book is perfect for teaching little ones about Black heroes who changed the world!
“My First Heroes: Black History” is geared towards children ages 3-5.
I Am Ruby Bridges by Ruby Bridges, illustrated by Nikkolas Smith
Synopsis by Bookshop.org: Ruby Bridges tells her story as never before and shares the events of the momentous day in 1960 when Ruby became the first Black child to integrate the all-white William Franz Elementary as a six year old little girl — a personal and intimate look through a child’s lens at a landmark moment in our Civil Rights history.
Parents can continue the Black History lesson beyond the book and have children learn more about Ruby Bridges, now 71, who continues to write children’s books, speak at events, and promote tolerance and education via the Ruby Bridges Foundation.
“I Am Ruby Bridges” is geared towards children ages 4-9.
Before the Ships: The Birth of Black Excellence by Maisha Oso, Illustrated by Candice Bradley
Synopsis by Bookshop.org: Before the Ships is a powerful and poetic celebration of the early roots of Black history. The great achievements and accomplishments across Africa prior to the Transatlantic slave trade are told through melodious text and evocative illustrations, that culminate into the strength and resilience of modern-day Black people.
This is an incredible read for children to really understand that those of African heritage unquestionably have Black excellence embedded in their DNA.
“Before the Ships: The Birth of Black Excellence” is geared towards children ages 4-8.
Go Tell It: How James Baldwin Became a Writer by Quartez Harris, illustrated by Gordon C. James
This book is a Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Award Honor and a USA Today Bestseller!
Synopsis by Bookshop.org: Discover the story of young James Baldwin in this ode to the legendary writer and the power of the written word–with exquisite prose from acclaimed poet Quartez Harris, and breathtaking illustrations from New York Times bestselling creator and Caldecott Honoree Gordon C. James.
This read may definitely inspire the next generation of poets and writers.
“Go Tell It: How James Baldwin Became a Writer” is geared towards children ages 4-8.
Our last pick on the list is another award-winning book that chronicles one young student’s journey of learning her family’s history through a school assignment.
Synopsis by Bookshop.org: The 1619 Project’s lyrical picture book in verse chronicles the consequences of slavery and the history of Black resistance in the United States, thoughtfully rendered by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and Newbery honor-winning author Renée Watson.
“The 1619 Project: Born on the Water” is geared towards children ages 6-10.
Didn’t find something on our list that you want to add to your home library? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Click here for more fantastic reads for all ages.
