During the month of February, Black History is celebrated. Recognizing the notable achievements of African American men and women throughout history. We believe the best way for children to learn about the contributions made by African Americans in Science, Medicine, Civil Rights and more, should be taught not only during Black History Month but continuously. Plus, representation matters, especially in the books our children read. It helps promote self-love and appreciation for who our children are.
I’m sharing some of our favorite Children’s Books to Read During Black History Month.
Not Quite Snow White by Ashley Franklin
A picture book for magical yet imperfect girls everywhere, written by debut author Ashley Franklin and perfect for fans of such titles as Mary Had a Little Glam by Tammi Sauer and the classic Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman.
Emi’s Curly Coily, Cotton Candy Hair by Tina Olajide
Emi is a creative 7-year-old black girl with a BIG imagination. In this story, Emi shares a positive message about her Curly, Coily, Cotton Candy Hair and what she likes most about it. The vibrant illustrations and fun story teach basic natural hair care techniques and tips in a playful and memorable way.
Martin Luther King, Jr. (Little People, BIG DREAMS) by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara
From the critically acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of Martin Luther King, Jr., the inspiring minister, and civil rights activist.
Related: The Best Children’s Books to Gift
I Need You to Know – The ABCs of Black Girl Magic by Laura McClain Muhammed
A children’s coloring book filled with all things Black Girl Magic from A to Z! The “I Need You To Know…” series depicts our children beautifully from their skin complexion to their hair type. The book is educational and has encouraging words from A-Z. These coloring books have proven to speak to diversity through coloring when shared with children of all backgrounds!
Hair Love by Matthew Cherry
Hair Love highlights the relationship between an African American father and daughter. Tender and empowering, It is an ode to loving your natural hair — and a celebration of daddies and daughters everywhere.
Zuri’s hair has a mind of its own. It kinks, coils, and curls every which way. Zuri knows it’s beautiful. When Daddy steps in to style it for an extra special occasion, he has a lot to learn. But he LOVES his Zuri, and he’ll do anything to make her — and her hair — happy.
Related: 5 Travel-Themed Children’s Books by Black Authors
Texting with Black History: Martin Luther King Jr., Sojourner Truth, and Aretha Franklin Biography Book for Kids (Texting with History Collection) by Bobby Basil
Alex, a curious child, gets to text prominent historical figures, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Sojourner Truth, and Aretha Franklin. Through each texting conversation, Alex learns about strong people who stand up for what they believe and fight for what is right. It’s a biography book collection for kids that uses modern-day texting bubbles children understand and enjoy!
Bedtime for Sweet Creatures by Nikki Grimes
In this beautifully illustrated book, Bedtime for Sweet Creatures demonstrates a mom as she tries to wrangle her sweet creature in bed so that the whole family can sleep. From tigers to squirrels to snakes, the little boy dodges around his bedtime, until he is tired enough to finally sleep. His imaginative animal friends weave their way through the illustrations, eventually joining him in curling up for the night.
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