Hey, friends! February is here which means all things love! As a Black American, celebrating my heritage, culture, and Black heroes is a constant priority in my life and parenting. I have an expansive book list HERE of many of our favorite #OccasionsBookNook finds and have a passion for seeing our children represented in popular media and books. It is important for all children to see and read about themselves as protagonists and heroes. While it feels impossible to narrow the list down, I’m sharing 5 of our all time favorites–some old and a few new–with you today.
“We need diverse representation not only so that every kid can see themselves as the hero of the story, but so that every kid can understand that *other* kinds of kids are *also* the heroes of the story.”-Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg
This book list is comprised of books about love, black history gems, as well as some adorable storybooks that feature brown protagonists and fantastic messages. Enjoy, and I would LOVE to know some of your family favorites! While I always appreciate earning small commissions from book sales here, I also want to encourage you to also seek out local Black-owned book shops. Your local library is also an incredible resource.
Just a reminder that for all of the books below, if you scroll over the title of the book, next to the number, and click, the link will take you directly to the Amazon Prime affiliate link to shop. You can add them to your wish list that way as well; to purchase in the future.
1. Black Gold
by Laura Obuobi and illustrated by London Ladd
When the Universe decides to create a child, she draws from the earth—rich, dark, and full of everything that gives life, including eyes like black star sapphires and full lips to speak the truth. With help from the Sun and the Moon, they create a child of the Universe: beautiful, powerful, and boundless with the brilliance of Black Gold.
2. When I Wrap My Hair
by Shauntay Grant and illustrated by Jenin Mohammed
With lyrical text by acclaimed author Shauntay Grant and vibrant illustrations by Jenin Mohammed, When I Wrap My Hair is both an act of joyful recognition and a demonstration of how knowledge is passed through generations.
3. Change Sings
by Amanda Gorman and illustrated by Loren Long
In this stirring, much-anticipated picture book by presidential inaugural poet and activist Amanda Gorman, anything is possible when our voices join together. As a young girl leads a cast of characters on a musical journey, they learn that they have the power to make changes—big or small—in the world, in their communities, and in most importantly, in themselves.
4. Ruby, Head High
by Irene Cohen-Janca
Inspired by an iconic Norman Rockwell painting and translated from an original French text, this is a story about the day a little girl held her head high and changed the world.
5. Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History
by Vashti Harrison
Among these biographies, readers will find heroes, role models, and everyday women who did extraordinary things – bold women whose actions and beliefs contributed to making the world better for generations of girls and women to come. Whether they were putting pen to paper, soaring through the air or speaking up for the rights of others, the women profiled in these pages were all taking a stand against a world that didn’t always accept them.
I always try to get at least one new themed book for the girls, each year! I’ve found some great ones from your past suggestions! Keep them coming! Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram or Facebook!
If you’re looking for a fun craft to do in celebration of Black History Month, I’ve got 2 Black History Month Crafts for Kids.
