Five Books to Celebrate Black History Month
Black History Month is a great time of year to add to your book collection. Here, we list some of our favorite books celebrating Black history and Black culture to read with your kids year round!
As you know, February is Black History Month. The importance of diversity in literature cannot be understated. Here are some great books to read with your family to celebrate Black History Month and Black culture in children’s and young adult literature this month and all year round!
Your Name is a Song, by Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow
Great for back to school time! This book tells the story of Kora-Jalimuso’s (KO-rah-DJAA-lee MOO-so) reaction to her teacher and classmates being unable to say her name. Check out this YouTube video of Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow pronouncing the names in the book.
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History and Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History, by Vashti Harrison
Vashti Harrison’s books are treasured in my library. The images of the men and women are absolutely lovely, and her one page biographies leave my kids itching for more! She does an amazing job highlighting the “bold” and “legendary” leaders, some of whom may be new to you. These books have someone for every kid to relate to, from Bill Russell to Sojourner Truth; from Marian Anderson to Thurgood Marshall.
Through My Eyes, by Ruby Bridges
Ruby Bridges’ autobiography should be required reading. Ms. Bridges provides the reader with her perspective on the integration of her elementary school. Filled with images and quotes from the time, this book is a well-written door to the past.
The Undefeated, by Kwame Alexander
If you haven’t read Kwame Alexander, you are missing out! While I can agree that poetry can be an acquired taste, Alexander’s books are somehow immediately accessible, yet deeply moving. The Undefeated is a Caldecott Medal and Newbery Honor recipient. Additionally, Kadir Nelson’s illustrations won the Coretta Scott King Award. The book highlights the Black experience in American history and the present day, juxtaposing harrowing experiences with the resilience and passion of some of the most important names in Black history.
The Crossover, by Kwame Alexander
You may be convinced that your middle schooler will never pick up a poetry book, but this book is here to prove you wrong. It is a beautiful story about a middle school boy, his family, and his love of basketball written in verse that is sure to inspire your preteen or teen to read more poetry!
Now, these are some of my favorite books to celebrate Black America, but I am still growing in my journey to read more diverse books and expand my library. Two of my favorite accounts are @diversereads and @mayasbooknook on Instagram. Since following these ladies, I have added a bunch of really great books and authors to my library in both children’s and young adult literature. Definitely check out their pages and give them a follow!
