In honor of Black history month, I’d like to dedicate this post to children’s books that have been written by Black authors featuring Black main characters. These books support diversity, promote equity, and foster inclusion. In addition, I’ve added links to further encourage our love of reading and expand our collective understanding of the Black culture and heritage.
“One day our descendants will think it incredible that we paid so much attention to things like the amount of melanin in our skin or the shape of our eyes or our gender instead of the unique identities of each of us as complex human beings.” — Franklin Thomas
PICTURE BOOKS
Non-fiction: The Undefeated, by Kwame Alexander Fiction: Sulwe, by Lupita Nyong’o
MIDDLE GRADE BOOKS
Non-Fiction: Heroes of Black History: Biographies of Four Great Americans, by The Editors of TIME for Kids
Fiction: One Crazy Summer, by Rita Williams-Garcia
YOUNG ADULT BOOKS
Non-Fiction: Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race, by Margot Lee Shetterly
Fiction: The Hate You Give, by Angie Thomas
RECOMMENDED LINKS
21 Picture Books for Black History Month
https://coloursofus.com/picture-books-for-black-history-month/
Dr. Ibram X. Kendi’s Picks: Anti-Racist Books for Kids: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/dr-ibram-x-kendis-picks-anti-racist-books-for-kids
Black History Month NonFiction Book Lists: https://redeemedreader.com/2018/02/black-history-month-book-list/
“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” — Nelson Mandela