Some notable books for kids celebrating African American history.
Black History Month for Kids
Compiled by:
Ellen A.
J 973.315 Woe
Step into the shoes of thirteen men and women of color, and discover how the American Revolution rattled the chains of slavery. Woelfle examines the death-defying attempts of black Americans to gain the inalienable rights promised in the Declaration of Independence. By doing so they expanded the boundaries of freedom beyond the Founding Fathers' intentions.
J 921 Tubman Cli
A lush and lyrical biography of Harriet Tubman, written in verse. An evocative poem and opulent watercolors come together to honor a woman of humble origins whose courage and compassion make her larger than life.
From former Chief Official White House Photographer Pete Souza comes a book for young readers that highlights Barack Obama's historic presidency and the qualities and actions that make him so beloved.
J 921 Douglass Bol
Complemented by full-color and archival images, a portrait of the statesman, suffragist and journalist shares insights into his complex personality and experiences beyond what is known about his enslavement and in his famous autobiography.
J 811.54 Bry
Using original slave auction and plantation estate documents, Ashley Bryan offers a moving and powerful picture book that contrasts the monetary value of a slave with the priceless value of life experiences and dreams that a slave owner could never take away.
J 920 She
A lavishly illustrated picture book adaptation of the inspiring story of the four brilliant mathematicians who were pivotal to the success of America's space program, written by one of their associates, describes how they overcame the harsh limitations imposed on black women in the segregated 1960s.
J 973.0496 Bol
The first national museum whose mission is to illuminate for all people, the rich, diverse, complicated, and important experiences and contributions of African Americans in America is opening. And the history of NMAAHC--the last museum to be built on the National Mall--is the history of America.
Ej Cla
Documents the inspirational peaceful protests in 1963 Birmingham, Alabama, combining poetic text and poignant illustrations that celebrate the powerful words of Martin Luther King, Jr. and the resolve of thousands of African-American children to march for their civil rights.
J 305.896 Mck
A Newbery Honor-winning author and a two-time Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator present a collection of classic, culturally inspired hand clap games, circle games, songs and poems, including "Eenie, Meenie Sassafreeny," "Little Sally Walker" and "Amazing Grace."
J 920 Har
Based on her popular Instagram posts, debut author/illustrator Vashti Harrison shares the stories of 40 bold African American women who shaped history.
J 920 Wil
This book brings together 52 iconic talents from the past and present and celebrates their inspirational achievements. Meet figureheads, leaders and pioneers such as Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela and Rosa Parks, as well as cultural trailblazers and sporting heroes, including Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey and Serena Williams.
J 921 Lewis Asi
Critically acclaimed author Jabari Asim and Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator E.B. Lewis give readers a fascinating glimpse into the boyhood of Civil Rights leader John Lewis. John wants to be a preacher when he grows - up a leader whose words stir hearts to change, minds to think, and bodies to take action. But why wait? When John is put in charge of the family farm's flock of chickens, he discovers that they make a wonderful congregation! So he preaches to his flock, and they listen, content under his watchful care, riveted by the rhythm of his voice.
J 921 Jennings Hea
Reveals the little-known story of Elizabeth Jennings, a young African American woman whose refusal to leave a segregated Manhattan streetcar in 1854 led to a court case that marked a victory in the fight to desegregate New York's public transportation.
J 921 Hendricks Lev
An inspirational picture book portrait of 9-year-old Audrey Faye Hendricks describes how, in 1963 Alabama, she became the youngest known child to be arrested for participating in a civil rights protest, for which she was imprisoned for picketing against Birmingham segregation practices.