9 Must-Read Books for Little Black Boys and Girls

From the moment I learned to read, I’ve been a book worm. From as early as kindergarten, you could always find me with my nose buried in a book, and the genre didn’t matter. Poetry, picture books, non-fiction – all of it fed my little voracious literary appetite. I didn’t realize until I was older, however, that as many books as I read during my childhood, I couldn’t remember reading many books for or about black boys or girls. It simply wasn’t prevalent in the 90’s and early 2000’s.

Thankfully, the tide has turned. As a mama of two kids now, I’ve been able to find a plethora of books for black boys and girls that affirm, Inspire, and educate them on their culture, history, beauty, and value. The list below includes nine of our current favorites. And while these should be read all year, reading them during Black History Month is extra special.

The ABCs of Black History

The ABCs of Black History by Rio Cortez is a fun rhyming book that celebrates the history, power and beauty of black events, people, and places. At the end, the book expounds on all of the terms and figures that were mentioned throughout the story so the little reader can have a fuller picture of Black history and culture.

Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History

In Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History, author Vashti Harrison shines a light on the stories of real black men who made great contributions throughout history. The book highlights politicians, artists, activists, pop stars, and more in an engaging collection of joyous and powerful stories.

The Story of Juneteenth

The Story of Juneteenth by Dorena Williamson is a 250-word board book that introduces little ones to the origin and traditions surrounding the day on June 19, 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Texas finally learned of their freedom.

Dream Big, Little One

Dream Big, Little One by Vashti Harrison is a shorter adaptation of the best-seller, Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History. The book highlights 18 inspirational black women who were pioneers in science, the arts, cinema, sports, and more.

Daddy’s Arms

Daddy’s Arms is a sweet board book about the safety and joy a little boy finds in his father’s arms. It is told from the perspective of a son’s big imagination and love for his dad. In a climate that paints black fathers as uninvolved, I love that Daddy’s Arms celebrates the special bond between a little black boy and his father.

Hair Love

My daughter and I adore Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry. It’s an endearing story that celebrates both the beauty of black hair and the love between a girl and her father. This book is a staple in our collection of stories we use to affirm our daughter’s beauty and confidence.

Princess Hair

Princess Hair is another of our go-to “hair” books. Our daughter’s godmother gifted her this story on her first birthday and it’s been a favorite ever since. In Princess Hair, Sharee Miller celebrates the beauty of different traditionally black hairstyles. From afros to frohawks and braids, this story highlights all the fun ways black girls express themselves through their hair.

Our Children Can Soar: A Celebration of Rosa, Barack, and the Pioneers of Change

Our Children Can Soar celebrates the achievements of prominent black Americans from the Civil Rights movement to the historical election of America’s first black president. This inspirational book motivates black children to reach beyond the limits placed on them and to soar toward their dreams.

When God Made You

When God Made You is a celebration of the uniqueness and purpose of every person God made. The book is a powerful affirmation of the inherent worth and beauty in every child. Beautifully illustrated and playfully written, this rhyming book is a fun read that leaves children motivated and inspired to embrace who God called them to be.

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These nine books for black boys and girls are excellent additions to add to your child’s bookshelf. Not only do they celebrate black history and affirm black beauty, many of them are also written by black authors. Show them some support and pick up a copy today. Also, share this post with other parents you know to spread the love!