10 Powerful Black History Month Picture Books
Looking for inspiring black history month picture books to share with your children during this February … or any other month of the year? Check out this list of 10 must-read titles.
1. Under the Same Sun
This book is about a family split between two countries – Tanzania and America. The American family visits Africa for the first time in a long time. During this visit, they go on a safari and visit the ruins of a slave trading post. One of my African students said this was her favorite part because it touched her heart. This book not only shows children what life is like for those who live in Africa, it also gives a modern day view of African American slavery through the eyes of today’s African families.
2. We Shall Overcome
This book teaches how the words of this simple song led so many to bravely push for changes – from slavery, to civil rights and beyond. Make the lesson even more meaningful by showing this video: We Shall Overcome
3. Henry’s Freedom Box
Henry is a brave character who hopes for a day free from slavery. After the heartbreak of looking his family, he sets out to find a way to make it happen. He decides to mail himself to the North in a crate. On the day that crate is opened safely in the North, he finally has a birthday – his first day of freedom.
4. Ron’s Big Mission
5. Martin’s Big Words
This book is a great introduction to the life of this important figure in history as well as his powerful words that changed America. While there are many wonderful books written about Martin Luther King Jr., I like this one because it shows how he was involved in different movements. I also appreciate all of the direct quotes used throughout the book.
6. We March
The “power of us” is definitely portrayed in this book. The reader is given a view of what the March on Washington was like for those present that day. This simple book can be read in minutes but discussed for much longer.
7. Riding to Washington
8. Teammates
Jackie Robinson was the first black player on a Major League baseball team. After he joined the Brooklynn Dodgers, he struggled with acceptance from the public, other teams and even his own team. Thankfully, he had one fellow teammate who was willing to stand with him – literally.
9. This is the Dream
This book brings the ideas of segregation to the level of our students by showing it in places they are familiar with. It gives a brief overview of peaceful protests and finally ends with a view of our world today without segregation in the same places the book began with.
10. The Colors Of Us
I know, this isn’t technically a black history month picture book, BUT it’s a wonderful tool to use when creating a classroom community that values all! In this book, a young girl compares the skin color of people she knows to various shades of brown that can be found in nature, food, and other places. There are limitless opportunities for follow-up projects to go with this book.
Check out our beautiful shades of brown!
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