Education

Books to honor Black History Month

Black History Month is a time to celebrate and honor the contributions and achievements of Black Americans throughout history. One of the best ways to do this is by reading books that showcase their stories and experiences. Here are some books for kids and teens to celebrate Black History Month:

  1. “A Ball for Daisy” by Chris Raschka: This children’s picture book tells the story of a dog named Daisy and her beloved ball. The book is noted for its simple, yet powerful message about perseverance and determination. https://www.amazon.com/Ball-Daisy-Chris-Raschka/dp/0375869020
  2. “Something Beautiful” by Sharon Dennis Wyeth: This children’s picture book tells the story of a young girl who sets out on a journey to find something beautiful in her city. Along the way, she discovers the beauty in the everyday people and things around her. The book is noted for its positive message and powerful illustrations. https://www.amazon.com/Something-Beautiful-Sharon-Dennis-Wyeth/dp/0060279767
  3. “We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball” by Kadir Nelson: This children’s picture book tells the story of Negro League baseball, including its history, players, and significance. The book is noted for its powerful illustrations and inspiring message. https://www.amazon.com/We-Are-Ship-Negro-Baseball/dp/0375839307
  4. “The Other Side” by Jacqueline Woodson: This middle grade novel tells the story of two girls, one Black and one White, who live on opposite sides of a fence in a segregated neighborhood. The girls eventually meet and form a friendship that breaks down barriers and helps to change their community. https://www.amazon.com/Other-Side-Jacqueline-Woodson/dp/0060277372
  5. “Freedom on the Menu: The Greensboro Sit-Ins” by Carole Boston Weatherford: This children’s picture book tells the story of the Greensboro sit-ins, a series of nonviolent protests against segregation in the 1960s. The book is noted for its powerful message and inspiring illustrations. https://www.amazon.com/Freedom-Menu-Greensboro-Carole-Weatherford/dp/0689833883
  6. “Stepping Stones: A Refugee Family’s Journey” by Margriet Ruurs: This children’s picture book tells the story of a Syrian refugee family and their journey to a new home. The book is noted for its powerful message and inspiring illustrations. https://www.amazon.com/Stepping-Stones-Refugee-Familys-Journey/dp/145973492X
  7. “The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963” by Christopher Paul Curtis: This middle grade novel tells the story of a Black family living in Michigan during the Civil Rights Movement. The family takes a trip to Birmingham, Alabama, where they experience the challenges and injustices of segregation and racism. The book is noted for its powerful message and inspiring story. https://www.amazon.com/Watsons-Go-Birmingham-1963/dp/0440417254
  8. “March” by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin: This graphic novel trilogy tells the story of John Lewis, a civil rights leader and Congressman. The first book in the trilogy focuses on his life and experiences during the Civil Rights Movement. The books are noted for their powerful message and inspiring illustrations. https://www.amazon.com/March-Book-One-John-Lewis/dp/1603093001