Black History Month is an important celebratory month highlighting Black experiences, contributions, history, and culture. We encourage you to read more about the origins of this month, and take this time to engage in resources and practices that can extend beyond the month of February.
One of the best ways to learn is to read books about Black history and the Black experience. There are many books to choose from, ranging across all reading levels.
Reading is an essential skill, especially for students. Not only does it help them learn and explore the world, it can improve their mental health. That’s why books are such a great learning resource. It allows us to engage in our own past, learn more about the state of current events, and imagine the future. It can also help us engage with cultures that we are not a part of in meaningful ways and learn how we can contribute to a better, more inclusive society. For Black History Month, books can help us do a deep dive into the richness of Black culture and strengthen the connection to heritage or learn something new.
Here are some of our favorite books that celebrate Black history for students at different grade levels. Consider using these recommendations for a Black History Month reading list, and to create guided discussions.
Whether your child is an independent reader or you plan to do Black History Month read-alouds, these are some great books written about the Black experience.
Whether your child is an independent reader or you plan to do Black History Month read-alouds, these are some great books written about the Black experiencKnockin’ On Wood, by Lynne Barasch: Based on the life of the famous Black tap dancer Clayton “Peg Leg” Bates, this book tells a story as entertaining as it is educational.
Little Leaders, Bold Women in Black History, by Vashti Harrison: A celebration of Black women, this beautifully illustrated book tells the stories of Black women who have helped shape the nation and world.
Mae Among the Stars, by Roda Ahmed: This book shares the true story of Mae Jemison, the first Black woman to travel to space.e.
The following books are appropriate for older students in the latter half of elementary school as they handle more complex themes. The topics are addressed in an age-appropriate way.
George Crum and the Saratoga Chip, by Gaylia Taylor: This story tells the tale of George Crum, and how he invented the potato chip.
The Kidnapped Prince: The Life of Olaudah Equiano, by Olaudah Equiano: This book tells the true story of a prince from Benin who was kidnapped and forced into slavery—and how he found his freedom.
Life Doesn’t Frighten Me, by Maya Angelou: Combining Angelou’s poetry with illustrations by renowned modern artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, this book looks at the scary things in a child’s life as a way to celebrate courage.
One Crazy Summer, by Rita Williams-Garcia: Set in 1968, this book tells the story of three sisters whose mother sends them to a summer camp run by the Black Panthers.
By middle school, most children have left picture books behind and enjoy reading longer stories with fewer images. The following books are written for middle-grade readers.
