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We can’t reiterate enough how important it is to teach our kids about different cultures in the world. We’re thrilled that February is Black History Month because it gives us the opportunity to teach them about African-American culture. Sure, they obviously know all about President Obama and their school most likely teaches them Rosa Parks’s amazing story, but what about figures like Ella Fitzgerald or Frederick Douglass?
Make learning about history fun for you and your family with these 24 children’s books.
1. Steamboat School by Deborah Hopkinson
So your little one is resistant to “educational” books at home? Good news, you can easily interest them in learning some history from this amazing book, based on true events. It’s the story of how a steamboat school was created so that a teacher could continue teaching his students despite a law banning African American education.
Available now on Amazon, $13.42
2. Frederick’s Journey: The Life of Frederick Douglass by Doreen Rappaport
Part of the Big Words picture book series, Frederick’s Journey dives deep into the life of Frederick Douglass. Your kids will learn about slavery, the struggle for freedom, and the power of words through this easy read.
Available now on Amazon, $12.33
3. Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport
Shouldn’t kids know why they get an extra day off of school in January? Use this picture book biography to explain the sacrifices made by Martin Luther King, Jr., and why they are still so important to us today.
Available now on Amazon, $6.48
4. Hand in Hand: Ten Black Men Who Changed America by Andrea Pinkney
Want to jump-start your kids’ knowledge of African-American culture? Then this book is an excellent place to begin. Sharing stories of men like Jackie Robinson, Frederick Douglass, and even Barack Obama — you can’t lose with a jam-packed book like this.
Available now on Amazon, $15.45
5. Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom by Carole Boston Weatherford
This book is a tribute to Harriet Tubman. It’s important that our children truly grasp how she led people to freedom through the Underground Railroad, and what it took for her to show such bravery.
Available now on Amazon, $12.15
6. We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball by Kadir Nelson
The little leaguer in your house will love this story. Written by Kadir Nelson, it explains how the League came to be. It’s incredible tone of voice and oil paintings make it a guaranteed home run for the whole family!
Available now on Amazon, $14.29
7. We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song by Debbie Levy
“We Shall Overcome” was the song of the Civil Rights Movement — and now it’s a book! The colorful picture book captures the essence of this important song, while still keeping kids turning the pages to see what happens next.
Available now on Amazon, $14.33
8. The Negro Speaks of Rivers by Langston Hughes
The ever-eloquent Langston Hughes has always been know for his poetry. The poem depicted in this picture book was written when Hughes was only 17! While the words themselves will wow, the pictures are just as breathtaking.
Available now on Amazon, $0.01
9. Sojourner Truth’s Step-Stomp Stride by Andrea Davis Pinkney
Introduce your children to the story of Sojourner Truth with this beautiful book. It explains how she escaped slavery, bravely speaking out against what was wrong. You won’t regret adding this story to your shelves. Trust us.
Available now on Amazon, $12.07
10. Skin Again by Bell Hooks
The up-and-coming book brings about a new way to discuss race and skin color. It celebrates what makes all of us unique, while helping children understand why every one is beautiful in their own way.
Available for pre-order on Amazon, $7.38
11. Freedom on the Menu: The Greensboro Sit-Ins by Carole Boston Weatherford
This story features a young girl, Connie, and how the start of the Civil Rights Movement affected her. It takes place with her and her brother witnessing the beginning of the protests — and what it means to them. Not only is this book captivating, but its pages are also beautifully drawn.
Available now on Amazon, $5.99
12. Harlem’s Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills by Renée Watson
In this story, Florence Mills, who had a beautiful singing voice, dedicates her life to inspiring fellow black supporters. You won’t want to put this educational book down.
Available now on Amazon, $16.25
13. Bring Me Some Apples and I’ll Make You a Pie: A Story About Edna Lewis by Robbin Gourley
Are you a fan of organic foods? You’re not the only one! Edna Lewis championed pure ingredients and farm-to-table eating. You’ll love reading this story about nature and food with your kids — it even comes with five kid-friendly recipes to try out!
Available now on Amazon, $6.99
14. Skit-Scat Raggedy Cat: Ella Fitzgerald by Roxane Orgill
Thanks to La La Land, jazz is making a comeback. What better time to educate your kids about the great Ella Fitzgerald? This book is a bio about Ella, beginning with her childhood all the way to her radio-hit “A-Tisket, A-Tasket.”
Available now on Amazon, $15.57
15. What Color Is My World?: The Lost History of African-American Inventors by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar & Raymond Obstfeld
Have you ever wondered who created inventions, like the microphone in your cell phone, perhaps? Thanks to basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, you’ll have a source of knowledge to bestow on your kids! Help them learn all about our African-American inventors.
Available now on Amazon, $4.98
16. The Watsons Go to Birmingham — 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis
Kids will not only relate to the initial plot line of this story — traveling to Grandma’s house. But they will also get the chance to learn all about Alabama in 1963, and the struggles many African-Americans faced during that time.
Available now on Amazon, $5.99
17. Firebird by Misty Copeland
Written by the graceful ballerina Misty Copeland, this story will encourage your kids to reach for the stars! And it’s extra perfect for aspiring ballerinas to learn about dance from one of the best.
Available now on Amazon, $13.58
18. Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s Fastest Woman by Kathleen Krull
Wilma Rudolph’s inspiring story will blow your kids’ minds. When she was 4, polio paralyzed her left leg and she was told that she would never walk again. This book explains how Wilma refused to give up, going on to win three gold medals in the Olympics.
Available now on Amazon, $7
19. Let It Shine: Stories of Black Women Freedom Fighters by Andrea Davis Pinkney
This book covers many important and historical African-American women — from Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman, to Ella Josephine Baker and Shirley Chisholm. After this read, both you and your kids will be inspired to change the world.
Available now on Amazon, $9.99
20. The Bus Ride That Changed History: The Story of Rosa Parks by Pamela Duncan Edwards
The story of Rosa Parks is told beside beautiful illustrations, allowing readers to take a ride through history. It’s a must-read for Black History Month.
Available now on Amazon, $6.99
21. Mister and Lady Day: Billie Holiday and the Dog Who Loved Her by Amy Novesky
While many know Billie Holiday for her music, she was also quite the dog lover! Your kids will enjoy learning about Billie’s life and the special relationship she had with her boxer, Mister.
Available now on Amazon, $6.99
22. Preaching to the Chickens: The Story of Young John Lewis by Jabari Asim
This book will teach your kids about Civil Rights leader, John Lewis. As a small boy, he wanted to be a preacher. So it was no surprise that when he was put in charge of his family’s chickens, he turned them into his own congregation!
Available now on Amazon, $12.75
23. The Water Princess by Susan Verde
This moving story is inspired by the childhood of supermodel, Georgie Badiel. Growing up in Africa, Badiel and the other girls in her village had to walk miles each day to collect water. This book will both educate your kids, and make them thankful for their easy access to water.
Available now on Amazon, $11.89
24. I Am Martin Luther King, Jr. by Brad Meltzer
If you recognize this cover style, it’s because this book is just one in a series of big kid biographies. Your little one will love flipping the pages to learn more about the great Martin Luther King, Jr.
Available now on Amazon, $11.69