picture book biographies for black history month

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50 Outstanding Black History Month Books

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Get inspired and informed by the lives, experiences, struggles, achievements, and contributions of Black individuals throughout history to the present day. Teachers, parents, & librarians, you’ll find the best r ead-aloud Black History Month books with this list of picture book biographies for February and all year round.

Up until now, I haven’t written a post with a list of picture book biographies for kids to read for Black History Month because it worries me to think that there would be only one month out of the year in which we read biographies about amazing African Americans. The only reason I’m writing this list now is with the hope that this is not the case. Just like I review books year-round, this list will help teachers, parents, and librarians find excellent children’s book biographies to read any time of the year. Right?

That being said, let’s talk about Black History Month for a minute. It is celebrated during the month of February in the United States and was started by Black United Students. Black History Month was officially recognized month in February 1976. It’s a chance to stop and reflect, honor and celebrate.

I’ve organized the books into sections related to their impact on the world: scientists, artists, activists, leaders, athletes, and more . Also, the people in these books are mostly African Americans, but there are some international Black history biographies as well.

Many of these children’s books are about regular people who did amazing things. Some are famous. Most aren’t. I love that biographies like these teach children how we can all change the world. One person at a time is all it takes.

I hope these children’s books will give your preschool and elementary-age readers knowledge of the contributions of incredible folks as well as new ideas for ways that they can make a difference in the world, too!

Read the Black History Month books any time, ask questions, connect to your own life, and discuss!

Table of Contents:

Artists, Actors, & Writers

• Other Black Biographies and Biography Collections

Picture Book Biographies for Black History Month

George Washington Carver Loved Plants (Little Naturalists) by Kate Coombs, illustrated by Seth Lucas SCIENTIST A simple but informative biographical board book shares the inspiring story of George Washington Carver. Kids will learn how people called George “Plant Doctor” even as a boy , and that he went to college to study agriculture, taught at an all-black college, and helped people rotate crops and plant things like peanuts. Inviting earth-toned illustrations helps capture this man’s inspiring life story.

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed, illustrated by Stasia Burrington SCIENTIST Beautifully illustrated and inspirationally written! Little Mae dreamed of becoming an astronaut. Her parents told her she could do it if she worked hard, taking Mae to the library to find information and encouraging her astronaut pretend play after dinner. Despite her teacher’s discouragement (“ Nursing would be a good profession for someone like you, “) Mae listened to her mom while sticking to her dream. Mae kept dreaming, believing, and working hard. Finally, she became the first African American female astronaut in space.

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly, illustrated by Laura Freeman MATHEMATICIANS An essential book for Black History Month, learn about Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden who worked for NASA during a time when being women and black was a lot harder than in today’s world. It’s really cool to learn about the work they did, providing calculations that made a difference in the world and set a new standard for other black women.

The Doctor With an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath by Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated by Daniel Rieley SCIENTIST Read how Patricia, despite being a girl and African American, stood firm in her goal to become a doctor. She became a doctor and later invented the laser probe to heal eyes.

What Color is My World? The Lost History of African-American Inventors by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Raymond Obstfeld, illustrated by Ben Boos & A.G. Ford SCIENTISTS Twins, Herbie and Ella, move into a new house where they meet Mr. Mital, a handyman who surprises the kids with fascinating information about African-American scientists. Throughout the narrative are non-fiction lift-the-flap sidebars and two-page spread biographies of people like James E. West who invented a compact microphone used in race cars or Frederick McKinley Jones, Dr. Percy Lavon Julian, George Crum, Dr. Valerie L. Thomas, and many others. The large size of the book, the fold-out parts, and bright illustrations make it an appealing design for kids.

Counting the Stars: The Story of Katherine Johnson NASA Mathematician by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by Raul Colon STEM You can’t help but be inspired by Katherine’s life story. Katherine, after zipping through her schooling early because she is so smart, finds a job as a teacher. But she’s most well known for her next job as a human calculator for NASA’s space program , helping the first American travel to space.

Activist Biographies

I am Martin Luther King, Jr.  by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos ACTIVIST This nonfiction picture book biography series for young readers is absolutely fantastic. The book about Martin Luther King, Jr. shows a white friend who wouldn’t play with Margin because he was Black and how it hurt his feelings. The biography does NOT end with his death but ends on a positive note of standing strong and facing struggles.

Wangari Maathai Planted Trees (Little Naturalists)  by Kate Coombs, illustrated by Seth Lucas ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVIST A board book biography perfect for preschool readers. Learn about environmentalist and Nobel Prize winner Wangari Maathai. While she studied at school in America, men cut down trees in her homeland. When she returned home, she wondered where all the birds and streams had gone so she asked other women of Kenya to help her plant new trees — and they planted 50 million trees. Lovely earth-toned illustrations.

The Escape of Robert Smalls A Daring Voyage Out of Slavery by Jehan Jones-Radgowski, illustrated by Poppy Kang ESCAPE FROM SLAVERY Don’t miss this heart-stopping, inspiring story of a daring escape from slavery on a Confederate ship . It’s a true story of a heroic man!

Let The Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson, illustrated by Frank Morrison ACTIVIST You’d be hard-pressed to find a more perfect historical picture book. The author shares the events leading up to a Birmingham, Alabama march with only of children and teens. The illustrations are dynamic, too, showing expressive children and passionate adults — each two-page spread evokes an emotion. I LOVE this book so much.

Someday is Now: Clara Luper and the 1958 Oklahoma City Sit-Ins by Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich, illustrated by Jade Johnson ACTIVIST With captivating folk-art style illustrations, this biography narrates the story of an amazing woman named Clara who advocated for justice and equality during a time when Black people weren’t permitted the same rights as white people. As a teacher, she inspired her students to believe that change was possible. For example, Clara and her students went to the Katz drugstore and asked to be served — even though the store didn’t serve Black people.

Ona Judge Outwits the Washingtons: An Enslaved Woman Fights for Freedom by Gwendolyn Hooks, illustrated by Simone Agoussoye ACTIVIST Ona Judge’s life is captured in this picture book biography, introducing younger readers to Ona, the personal slave to Martha Washington, who eventually escaped to freedom . Not only will it give readers a sense of life as a slave, but it will also show that George Washington owned slaves who were treated like property and not paid.

Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Kadir Nelson ACTIVIST / LEADER I love this beautifully illustrated, lyrically written picture book biography book that shows how incredibly brave and determined Harriet Tubman was and how her faith in God was part of everything she did.

Lilian’s Right To Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Shane W. Evans ACTIVIST Blueish-tinted illustrations capture the somber mood of Lillian’s memories in this historical nonfiction picture book. Lilian’s memories begin with her great-great-grandparents who were slaves, sold, and separated from each other. As Lillian remembers all people who struggled to gain equal rights and all who have gone before her, she walks slowly up a steep hill to cast her vote. Gaining the right to vote was a journey, somewhat like her steep climb up the hill, and is an important part of Black History Month.

Chasing Freedom by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Michele Wood ACTIVIST This lovely picture book is about Susan B. Anthony and Harriet Tubman — two women who changed the world — and are important in understanding black history in the United States.

Two Friends: Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass by Dean Robbins, illustrated by Sean Qualls and Selina Alko ACTIVIST You’ll find this to be a fascinating glimpse of two activists who are both fighting for their rights — one for women and one for black Americans.

Mambo Mucho Mambo the Dance That Crossed Color Lines by Dean Robbins, illustrated by Eric Velasquez ACTIVIST In 1940s New York, a dance called the Mambo helped to desegregate dance halls. When Machito and His Afro-Cubans brought the Mambo to New York, dancers from all backgrounds loved it. Their exuberance brought them together at the Palladium Ballroom which made a daring move to open to all races and ethnic groups who wanted to dance.

Farmer Will Allen and the Growing Table by Jacqueline Briggs Martin, illustrated by Eric Shabazz Larkin ACTIVIST Most people don’t have Will Allen’s vision. Instead of an abandoned city lot, he saw a farm. In fact, he figured out how to create an innovative urban farm despite huge obstacles. Very inspiring.

Rosa Parks & Claudette Colvin: Civil Rights Heroes by Tracey Baptiste, illustrated by Shauna J. Grant ACTIVISTS Learn more about the important contributions of women like Rosa Parks, Claudette Colvin, and Jo Ann Robinson to the Civil Rights Movement. Because before Mrs. Parks, there was a girl named Claudette Colvin who also refused to move to the back of the bus and was arrested. When Rosa Parks also got arrested for not moving to the back of the bus, another woman named Jo Ann Robinson thought of the bus boycott idea. The bus boycott dragged on and on — but through the actions of so many individuals who bravely stood up against injustice, the Supreme Court ruled that bus segregation was illegal.

Magic Trash   by J.H. Shapiro, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton ARTIST This is the true story of artist Tyree Guyton who made his own crime-ridden Detroit neighborhood into an urban canvas in the 1980s. His grandfather told him to “paint the world” and that’s exactly what Guyton did using houses, trash, found objects, and more. As a result, Guyton created magic and healing for the community. Read more at the Heidelberg Project website .

A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin by Jen Bryant, illustrated by Melissa Sweet ARTIST Horace loved to draw. He liked to paint exactly what he saw. Even after a wound in WWI prevented him from using his right arm without help from his left, he began painting as an adult again, paintings that are now hung in museums. I adore the whimsy of Melissa Sweet’s illustrations in this inspiring biography.

Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks by Suzanne Blade, illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera POET Talk about a growth mindset! Gwendolyn loved words and poetry and from a young age, wrote poetry of her own. She never had monetary success but with persistence and dedication, she eventually found success as an adult with publications and winning the Pulitzer Prize.

Stitch by Stitch Elizabeth Hobbs Keckly Sews Her Way to Freedom  by Connie Schofield-Morrison, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon  SEAMSTRESS & DESIGNER Stunning mixed-media illustrations add so much to this story of Lizzy who was born into slavery and worked as a successful seamstress to support her owners. A group of Lizzy’s patrons and friends in St. Louis helped Lizzy buy her own freedom for $1,200 and which Lizzy paid back, stitch by stitch. Once free, Lizzy’s clients grew and included the wives of Senator Jefferson Davis and President Abraham Lincoln, who she fit in elegant gowns that were admired by all.

Poet: The Remarkable Story of George Moses Horton  by Don Tate WRITER George loved words and even though he was a slave, he taught himself to read and began composing verses. When students at Chapel Hill began to pay George for his poetry, a professor helped him learn to write which led to his poems protesting slavery being published in the newspaper. But his owner would never sell George, no matter how what George’s fans and friends offered. It took until George was 66 years old to be freed from slavery with the Emancipation Proclamation.

You Gotta Meet Mr. Pierce: The Storied Life of Folk Artist Elijah Pierce by Chiquita Mullins Lee and Carmella Ven Vlett, illustrated by Jennifer Mack-Watkins ARTIST I love this clever biographical format where the subject of the biography tells a boy about his life. When a boy’s dad takes him to a barber named Mr. Pierce, who is also a wood carver, Mr. Pierce tells the boy about how he learned to carve wood and how he tells stories with each carving. Notice how the illustrations look like wood carving folk art!

Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat by Javaka Steptoe ARTIST This picture book biography won the Caldecott award for illustration in 2017. The illustrations are painted (and collaged) on found wood and are EPIC! You could frame every single page! The story is about the sometimes challenging young life of the artist Jean-Michel Basquiat .

Take a Picture of Me, James VanDerZee! by Andrea J. Loney, illustrated by Keith Mallett PHOTOGRAPHER James VanDerZee got his first camera by winning a contest where he had to sell the most perfumed sachets. From that moment on, h e worked hard to be the best photographer he could be , even moving to New York City where he eventually opened his own photography studio. His story is fascinating, as are the people whom he captured in photographs during the Harlem Renaissance, many of which were displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in a special exhibit.

Salt in His Shoes  by Deloris Jordan & Roslyn M. Jordan, illustrated by Kadir Nelson ATHLETE Mike wants to grow taller so he’ll be better at basketball. His mom tells him to put salt in his shoes and say a prayer every night. But his father also tells young Michael that it also takes hard work and patience. It’s an optimistic, growth mindset perspective.

Muhammad Ali: A Champion Is Born by Gene Barretta, illustrated by Frank Morrison ATHLETE Kids should all learn the story of Muhammad Ali because his determination and grit are so inspiring. And to think, it all started with a stolen bicycle! Read how a police officer got Ali into boxing as well as about his never-waning confidence and the grueling workouts. Superbly done. He’s a hero to many.

Marvelous Mabel by Crystal Hubbard, illustrated by Alleanna Harris Mabel’s early life was difficult, and sometimes she was homeless. She dreamed of ice skating despite the restrictions on where she could skate as a Black girl. Mabel skated and practiced and because of other shows’ racism, created her own touring show. Inspirational.

Wilma Unlimited by Kathleen Kull, illustrated by David Diaz ATHLETE After having polio as a child, Wilma was told she wouldn’t walk again, let alone run.  But Wilma was determined. She worked hard, becoming the first American woman to win three gold medals at the Olympics. This is a favorite picture biography about an athlete.

Stephen Curry: The Boy Who Never Gave Up by Anthony Curcio ATHLETE People said Steph Currey was too short, too weak, and not good enough. But he followed his dreams and proved everyone wrong. This picture book biography will be popular with sports lovers.

Above the Rim How Elgin Baylor Changed Basketball by Jen Bryant, illustrated by Frank Morrison ATHLETE Elgin grew up during segregation which dictated where he was allowed to play basketball and attend college. Despite this, he was the top recruit for the NBA but traveling with his basketball team, he was often turned away from hotels because of the color of his skin. Eglin protested the discrimination by sitting out of basketball games. His activist actions worked. The NBA put out a statement that they would not give their business to hotels and restaurants that discriminated against Black people. Rich, evocative illustrations and lyrical writing perfectly capture the importance of Eglin’s life and impact.

Trombone Shorty by Troy Andrews, illustrated by Bryan Collier MUSICIAN Growing up in New Orleans is a life filled with music. Troy sees his musician family members and follows the bands in parades. One day he finds an old trombone that he dedicates himself to learning. And as you might have guessed, that’s how he got his nickname, Trombone Shorty. Gorgeous Caldecott-winning illustrations! 

A Voice Named Aretha by Katheryn Russell-Brown, illustrated by Laura Freeman SINGER This picture book shares the story of how Aretha used her pain and passion to become a world-known soul singer. After reading about this iconic, groundbreaking singer, listen to some of her greatest hits.

When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop by Laban Carrick Hill, illustrated by Theodore Taylor III MUSICIAN Clive loved music. He really wanted to be a DJ. After moving to the Bronx from Jamaica, he eventually became DJ Kool Herc, known for playing records differently. He had two turntables so he could have breaks for hip-hop dancing. Because of this innovation, he is credited with helping start the movement of hip-hop.

Nina A Story of Nina Simone by Traci N. Todd, illustrated by Christian Robinson MUSICIAN Eunice, the daughter of a female minister, grew up immersed in music. Due to racism, she was denied entry to Julliard and she stopped playing music for a while. But not long. She started playing and then, singing in a bar but she gave herself a stage name so her mom wouldn’t find out– Nina Simone. Not only did Nina become a hugely popular singer despite the racism she faced, but she also used her music as activism. Beautiful artwork throughout.

Sonny Rollins Plays the Bridge by Gary Golio, illustrated by James Ransome MUSICIANS Lyrical and poetic, the writing in this gorgeous picture book brings Sunny Rollins’s passion for his saxophone to life. Rollins, a man who believed in honing his craft, decided to forgo performing and spend his days playing more. With saxophone in hand, he walks to the Williamsburg Bridge where he plays anything and everything just as loud as he wants. He’s accompanied by the noises of the city like clanking clanging subway cars, bass notes from tugboats, and squeaking, squawking seagulls.

Little Melba and Her Big Trombone by Katheryn  Russell-Brown, illustrated by Frank Morrison MUSICIAN Little Melba Doretta Liston was something special! She loved music and taught herself to play the trombone. Her gift led her to become a famous trombone player and arranger. A delightful musician picture book biography for black history month or anytime!

Rule the Music Scene Like Queen Beyonce Knowles  by Caroline Moss, illustrated by Sinem Erkas MUSICIAN You’ll zip through this impressive biography with information, history, conversation, and short chapters all accompanied by cool graphic illustrations.  You don’t have to be a Beyonce fan to enjoy this biography because it’s so well-written and appealing.

Black Leaders

Nelson Mandela by Kadir Nelson Growing up in the prejudicial apartheid South Africa, Nelson Mandela faced horrible racism and a long time in prison. Despite all of this, his spirit continued to be strong. He eventually realized his dream to improve the country and give equal rights to all people by becoming a strong leader and president of his country. This isn’t an American Black History Month book but equally important in world history.

The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Kadir Nelson This moving, emotionally compelling poem celebrates the strong, unforgettable, hard-working black Americans who persevered through slavery, prejudice, war, civil rights, and who rise up, cool and unbending. The lush, realistic illustrations feel transcendent. A must-read for Black History Month or any time of year.

Lift Every Voice and Change: A Celebration of Black Leaders and the Words that Inspire Generation by Charnaie Gordon, illustrated by Aeron Cargill One page of biographical text plus an illustration features important Black leaders like Booker T. Washington, Jay-Z, James Baldwin, Katherine Johnson, and Ayo Tometi. Press the buttons in the back to hear the Black leader’s actual voice speaking — which is really cool. This book will educate and inspire you!

Anthologies & More Good Children’s Books (Black History Month)

The ABCs of Black History by Rio Cortez, illustrated by Lauren Semmer This book marches through the letters of the alphabet, giving children information about black history, black lives, and inspiration. Colorful and chock-full of information and inspiration!

How Do You Spell Unfair? MacNaolia Cox and the National Spelling Bee by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Frank Morrison MacNolia spelled her way to the National Spelling Bee finals despite the challenges she faced, including discrimination at the host hotel and an unfair word given to her that wasn’t on the list and lost her the winning spot. Repetition of the phrase “How do you spell” grounds us in the spelling theme, and Frank Morrison’s beautiful, expressive illustrations add emotional resonance.

Young, Gifted, and Black, Too by Jamia Wilson, illustrated by Andrea Pippins Read about 52 black icons from the past and the present. Each biography includes a bold, graphic illustration. Well written, these short biographies will inspire and educate readers.

Bessie the Motorcycle Queen by Charles R. Smith Jr., illustrated by Charlot Kristensen Lyrical, poetic writing and lush, inviting illustrations tell about an independent Black woman named Bessie, a stunt-riding, long-distance motorcycle rider in the 1920s. Bessie loves traveling on her motorcycle throughout the U.S., where she meets mostly curious and kind people, except for in the south with its Jim Crow segregation, meaning she has to be careful about where to get gas and where to stop. Nevertheless, Bessie loves her life on the road and flips a coin to decide where to travel next.

A Black Woman Did That: 42 Boundary-Breaking, Bar-Raising, World-Changing Women by Malaika Adero, illustrated by Chante Timothy (ages 9 – 12) In this celebration of Black women, you’ll meet women and girls who will inspire you . Read the biographies about fascinating and admirable women who are scientists, models, athletes, politicians, dancers, and more. Fascinating writing and fascinating people with impactful, vivid illustrations.

Little Leaders Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison  (ages 8 – 12) Beautifully designed and illustrated, Little Ladies shares 40 one-page biographies of inspiring African-American women. This Black History (Month) book shares about women like Marcelite Harris, Mamie Phipps Clark, and Phillis Wheatley. It’s a superb, inspiring must-read book.

Tani’s New Home by Tanitoluwa Adewumi In this true story, Tani Adewumi lives in Nigeria with his family. But one day, terrorists threaten his father so the family escapes to the U.S. where they live in a homeless shelter. Tani doesn’t love his new home but when he discovers chess, it helps everything. He dedicates himself to the game and goes on to win the New York State Chess Championships.

For Black History Month activities, visit  Here We Read .

KEEP READING

Activism Biographies and Books for Kids

Valentine’s Day Books

Growth Mindset Picture Books

Women’s History Month Biographies

Favorite Children’s Books by Black Authors

Melissa Taylor, MA, is the creator of Imagination Soup. She's a mother, former teacher & literacy trainer, and freelance education writer. She writes Imagination Soup and freelances for publications online and in print, including Penguin Random House's Brightly website, USA Today Health, Adobe Education, Colorado Parent, and Parenting. She is passionate about matching kids with books that they'll love.

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• Jan 29, 2021
• 14 min read

28 Amazing Picture Book Biographies by Black Authors to Celebrate Black History All Year Long

Updated: Jun 21, 2023

Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions African Americans have made in society.

Carter G. Woodson noticed a lack of information on the achievements of Black people and in response founded the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History . In 1926, the group started Negro History Week, which was later adopted as Black History Month in the 70's.

Black History is American History is World History and that it should all be taught and studied all year long. We've created this list of 28 picture book biographies for the 28 days in Black History Month .

All of the books are written by Black people and are perfect for learning Black history any time of year. This list is complete with publisher's descriptions.

“Those who have no record of what their forebears have accomplished lose the inspiration which comes from the teaching of biography and history. " Carter G. Woodson

Even as a young child growing up in the 1920s, Shirley Chisholm was a leader. At the age of three, older children were already following her lead in their Brooklyn neighborhood.

In 1964, Shirley took her voice and leadership to politics, becoming the first Black woman elected to the New York State Assembly, and in 1968, the first Black woman elected to Congress. Then in 1972, she became the first Black woman to seek the presidency of the United States. She pushed for laws that helped women, children, students, poor people, farm workers, Native people, and others who were often ignored. She fought for healthcare. She spoke up for military veterans. She spoke out against war.

Shirley Chisholm, a woman of many firsts, was an unforgettable political trailblazer, a candidate of the people and catalyst of change who opened the door for women in the political arena and for the first Black president of the United States.

FIND IT HERE: BOOKSHOP

Words Set Me Free by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James E. Ransome is the inspirational, true story of how Frederick Douglass found his way to freedom one word at a time.

This picture book biography chronicles the youth of Frederick Douglass, one of the most prominent African American figures in American history.

Douglass spent his life advocating for the equality of all, and it was through reading that he was able to stand up for himself and others.

In 1848, Mary Walker was born into slavery. At age 15, she was freed, and by age 20, she was married and had her first child. By age 68, she had worked numerous jobs, including cooking, cleaning, babysitting, and selling sandwiches to raise money for her church. At 114, she was the last remaining member of her family. And at 116, she learned to read.

From Rita Lorraine Hubbard and rising star Oge Mora comes the inspirational story of Mary Walker, a woman whose long life spanned from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, and who--with perseverance and dedication--proved that you're never too old to learn.

"Who's that playing out there?" Bo Diddley asked the New Orleans crowd. It was a small child who'd been nicknamed "Trombone Shorty" because his trombone was twice as large as he was. Trombone Shorty was lifted in the air and carried through the audience until he reached the stage with Bo Diddley. He has been onstage ever since.

Hailing from the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, where music always floated in the air, Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews didn't always have the money to buy an instrument, but he did have the dream to play music. This is the story of how he made his dream take flight.

Today, Troy Andrews is a Grammy-nominated musician who tours the world with his band, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. He continues to inspire hope for the next generation in New Orleans and for music lovers everywhere.

The mist in Charleston Inner Harbor was heavy, but not heavy enough to disguise the stolen Confederate steamship, the Planter, from Confederate soldiers.

In the early hours of May 13, 1862, in the midst of the deadly U.S. Civil War, an enslaved man named Robert Smalls was about to carry out a perilous plan of escape.

Standing at the helm of the ship, Smalls impersonated the captain as he and his crew passed heavily armed Confederate forts to enter Union territory, where escaped slaves were given shelter.

The suspenseful escape of the determined crew is celebrated with beautiful artwork and insightful prose, detailing the true account of an unsung American hero.

William Still's parents escaped slavery but had to leave two of their children behind, a tragedy that haunted the family. As a young man, William went to work for the Pennsylvania Anti-Slavery Society, where he raised money, planned rescues, and helped freedom seekers who had traveled north.

And then one day, a strangely familiar man came into William's office, searching for information about his long-lost family. Could it be?

Motivated by his own family's experience, William began collecting the stories of thousands of other freedom seekers. As a result, he was able to reunite other families and build a remarkable source of information, including encounters with Harriet Tubman, Henry "Box" Brown, and William and Ellen Craft.

The mere mention of the name conjures up visions of basketball played at its absolute best. But as a child, Michael almost gave up on his hoop dreams, all because he feared he'd never grow tall enough to play the game that would one day make him famous. That's when his mother and father stepped in and shared the invaluable lesson of what really goes into the making of a champion -- patience, determination, and hard work.

Deloris Jordan, mother of the basketball phenomenon, teams up with his sister Roslyn to tell this heartwarming and inspirational story that only the members of the Jordan family could tell. It's a tale about faith and hope and how any family working together can help a child make his or her dreams come true.

Ona Judge was enslaved by the Washingtons, and served the President's wife, Martha. Ona was widely known for her excellent skills as a seamstress and was raised alongside Washington's grandchildren. Indeed, she was frequently mistaken for his granddaughter. This biography follows her childhood and adolescence until she decides to run away.

This book doesn't shy away from the horrors of slavery, nor the complex role of house servants. Author Ray Anthony Shepard implicates the reader in Ona's decision to emancipate herself by using a rhetorical refrain, "Why you run, Ona Judge?" This haunting meditation welcomes meaningful and necessary conversation among readers.

Critically acclaimed author Jabari Asim and Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator E. B. Lewis give readers a fascinating glimpse into the boyhood of Civil Rights leader John Lewis.

John wants to be a preacher when he grows up--a leader whose words stir hearts to change, minds to think, and bodies to take action.

But why wait? When John is put in charge of the family farm's flock of chickens, he discovers that they make a wonderful congregation! So he preaches to his flock, and they listen, content under his watchful care, riveted by the rhythm of his voice.

Celebrating ingenuity and dreaming big, this inspirational story, featuring Jabari Asim's stirring prose and E. B. Lewis's stunning, light-filled impressionistic watercolor paintings, includes an author's note about John Lewis, who grew up to be a member of the Freedom Riders, chairman of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, and demonstrator on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama.

Malcolm X grew to be one of America's most influential figures. But first, he was a boy named Malcolm Little. Written by his daughter, this inspiring picture book biography celebrates a vision of freedom and justice.

Bolstered by the love and wisdom of his large, warm family, young Malcolm Little was a natural born leader. But when confronted with intolerance and a series of tragedies, Malcolm's optimism and faith were threatened. He had to learn how to be strong and how to hold on to his individuality. He had to learn self-reliance.

Together with acclaimed illustrator AG Ford, Ilyasah Shabazz gives us a unique glimpse into the childhood of her father, Malcolm X, with a lyrical story that carries a message that resonates still today--that we must all strive to live to our highest potential.

Wendell O. Scott made history as the only black driver to win a race in a NASCAR Grand National (now Spring Cup) division.

Born in Danville, Virginia, he scrimped and saved to buy his first car, a Model T, at age fourteen. Although he "loved to turn the wheel of a racecar, work magic on an engine, and then push it faster than it was ever meant to go," he never had the resources or sponsorship to buy a brand-new racecar.

Using secondhand Fords that he fixed up in his garage, he competed in five hundred races in NASCAR's top division.

Renowned author Lesa Cline-Ransome and celebrated illustrator John Parra unite to tell the inspiring story of Ethel Payne, a groundbreaking African American journalist known as the First Lady of the Black Press.

"I've had a box seat on history." Ethel Payne always had an ear for stories. Seeking truth, justice, and equality, Ethel followed stories from her school newspaper in Chicago to Japan during World War II. It even led her to the White House briefing room, where she broke barriers as the only black female journalist. Ethel wasn't afraid to ask the tough questions of presidents, elected officials, or anyone else in charge, earning her the title, "First Lady of the Black Press."

Fearless and determined, Ethel Payne shined a light on the darkest moments in history, and her ear for stories sought answers to the questions that mattered most in the fight for Civil Rights.

A shimmering picture book that shines the light on Zora Neale Hurston, the extraordinary writer and storycatcher extraordinaire who changed the face of American literature.

Zora was a girl who hankered for tales like bees for honey. Now, her mama always told her that if she wanted something, "to jump at de sun", because even though you might not land quite that high, at least you'd get off the ground. So Zora jumped from place to place, from the porch of the general store where she listened to folktales, to Howard University, to Harlem. And everywhere she jumped, she shined sunlight on the tales most people hadn't been bothered to listen to until Zora.

The tales no one had written down until Zora. Tales on a whole culture of literature overlooked...until Zora. Until Zora jumped.

A stunning picture-book biography of iconic African American opera star Leontyne Price.

Born in a small town in Mississippi in 1927, the daughter of a midwife and a sawmill worker, Leontyne Price might have grown up singing the blues. But Leontyne had big dreams--and plenty to be thankful for--as she surrounded herself with church hymns and hallelujahs, soaked up opera arias on the radio, and watched the great Marian Anderson grace the stage.

While racism made it unlikely that a poor black girl from the South would pursue an opera career, Leontyne's wondrous voice and unconquerable spirit prevailed. Bursting through the door Marian had cracked open, Leontyne was soon recognized and celebrated for her leading roles at the Metropolitan Opera and around the world--most notably as the majestic Ethiopian princess in Aida, the part she felt she was born to sing.

FIND IT HERE: AMAZON

Experience history with this picture book of Martin Luther King's iconic speech, with an audio CD included. This Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book will inspire young readers.

From Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s daughter, Dr. Bernice A. King: "My father's dream continues to live on from generation to generation, and this beautiful and powerful illustrated edition of his world-changing I Have a Dream speech brings his inspiring message of freedom, equality, and peace to the youngest among us--those who will one day carry his dream forward for everyone."

On August 28, 1963, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington, Martin Luther King gave one of the most powerful and memorable speeches in our nation's history. His words, paired with Caldecott Honor winner Kadir Nelson's magnificent paintings, make for a picture book certain to be treasured by children and adults alike.

From Caldecott Honor winner Christian Robinson and acclaimed author Renee Watson, comes the inspiring true story of Florence Mills .

Born to parents who were both former slaves, Florence Mills knew at an early age that she loved to sing, and that her sweet, bird-like voice, resonated with those who heard her. Performing catapulted her all the way to the stages of 1920s Broadway where she inspired everyone from songwriters to playwrights.

Yet with all her success, she knew firsthand how prejudice shaped her world and the world of those around her. As a result, Florence chose to support and promote works by her fellow black performers while heralding a call for their civil rights. Featuring a moving text and colorful illustrations, Harlem's Little Blackbird is a timeless story about justice, equality, and the importance of following one's heart and dreams.

His white teacher tells her all-black class, You'll all wind-up porters and waiters. What did she know? Gordon Parks is most famous for being the first black director in Hollywood.

But before he made movies and wrote books, he was a poor African American looking for work. When he bought a camera, his life changed forever. He taught himself how to take pictures and before long, people noticed. His success as a fashion photographer landed him a job working for the government.

In Washington DC, Gordon went looking for a subject, but what he found was segregation. He and others were treated differently because of the color of their skin. Gordon wanted to take a stand against the racism he observed. With his camera in hand, he found a way.

Told through lyrical verse and atmospheric art, this is the story of how, with a single photograph, a self-taught artist got America to take notice.

Based on true events of important US history, this non-fiction narrative, the biography of George Moses Horton introduces students to a story of determination and a profound love of words.

In the nineteenth century, North Carolina slave George Moses Horton taught himself to read and earned money to purchase his time-though not his freedom. Horton became the first African American to be published in the South, protesting slavery in the form of verse. Told with vivid, figurative language; metaphor, simile and hyperbole.

Students will use story elements; setting, plot and character development as they understand themes of determination, pride, talent, freedom, slavery, abolition and poetry as a form of expression.

A gripping biography of the mail carrier who orchestrated the Great Savannah boycott -- and was instrumental in bringing equality to his community.

"Grow up and be somebody," Westley Wallace Law's grandmother encouraged him as a young boy living in poverty in segregated Savannah, Georgia. Determined to make a difference in his community, W.W. Law assisted blacks in registering to vote, joined the NAACP and trained protestors in the use of nonviolent civil disobedience, and, in 1961, led the Great Savannah Boycott. In that famous protest, blacks refused to shop in downtown Savannah. When city leaders finally agreed to declare all of its citizens equal, Savannah became the first city in the south to end racial discrimination.

A lifelong mail carrier for the U.S. Postal Service, W.W. Law saw fostering communication between blacks and whites as a fundamental part of his job. As this affecting, strikingly illustrated biography makes clear, this "unsung hero" delivered far more than the mail to the citizens of the city he loved.

Before John Glenn orbited the Earth or astronauts walked on the moon, a group of dedicated female mathematicians known as "human computers" used their knowledge, pencils, adding machines, and writing paper to calculate the orbital mechanics needed to launch spacecraft.

Katherine Johnson was one of these mathematicians who used trajectories and complex equations to chart the space program. Even as Virginia's Jim Crow laws were in place in the early 1950s, Katherine worked analyzing data at the NACA (later NASA) Langley laboratory.

In 1962, as NASA prepared for the orbital mission of John Glenn, Katherine Johnson was called upon and John Glenn said "get the girl" (Katherine Johnson) to run the numbers by hand to chart the complexity of the orbital flight. He knew that his flight couldn't work without her unique skills.

You've seen the building. Now meet the man whose life went into it.

Philip Freelon's grandfather was an acclaimed painter of the Harlem Renaissance. His father was a successful businessman who attended the 1963 March on Washington.

When Phil decided to attend architecture school, he created his own focus on African American and Islamic designers. He later chose not to build casinos or prisons, instead concentrating on schools, libraries, and museums--buildings that connect people with heritage and fill hearts with joy. And in 2009, Phil's team won a commission that let him use his personal history in service to the country's: the extraordinary Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon celebrates a contemporary black STEAM role model, a man whose quiet work enabled the creation of an iconic building reflecting America's past and future. With a stirring text by Kelly Starling Lyons, vibrant pictures by Laura Freeman, and an afterword from Philip Freelon himself, it is sure to inspire the next generation of dreamers and builders.

A little-known but fascinating and larger-than-life character, Mary Fields is one of the unsung, trailblazing African American women who helped settle the American West. A former slave (enslaved person ), Fields became the first African American woman stagecoach driver in 1895, when, in her 60s, she beat out all the cowboys applying for the job by being the fastest to hitch a team of six horses.

She won the dangerous and challenging job, and for many years traveled the badlands with her pet eagle, protecting the mail from outlaws and wild animals, never losing a single horse or package. Fields helped pave the way for other women and people of color to become stagecoach drivers and postal workers.

Ever since Barack Obama was young, Hope has lived inside him. From the beaches of Hawaii to the streets of Chicago, from the jungles of Indonesia to the plains of Kenya, he has held on to Hope. Even as a boy, Barack knew he wasn't quite like anybody else, but through his journeys he found the ability to listen to Hope and become what he was meant to be: a bridge to bring people together.

This is the moving story of our 44th President, told by Nikki Grimes and illustrated by Bryan Collier, both winners of the Coretta Scott King Award. Barack Obama has motivated Americans to believe with him, to believe that every one of us has the power to change ourselves and change our world.

Celebrated poet and playwright Ntozake Shange captures the spirit of Civil Rights pioneer Coretta Scott King in this picture book biography gorgeously illustrated by Caldecott Medal artist Kadir Nelson.

Walking many miles to school in the dusty road, young Coretta Scott knew the unfairness of life in the segregated south. A yearning for equality began to grow.

Together with Martin Luther King, Jr., she helped lead change through nonviolent protest. It was the beginning of a journey--with dreams of freedom for all.

Stirring poems and stunning collage illustrations combine to celebrate the life of Fannie Lou Hamer, a champion of equal voting rights.

"I am sick and tired of being sick and tired." Despite fierce prejudice and abuse, even being beaten to within an inch of her life, Fannie Lou Hamer was a champion of civil rights from the 1950s until her death in 1977.

Integral to the Freedom Summer of 1964, Ms. Hamer gave a speech at the Democratic National Convention that, despite President Johnson's interference, aired on national TV news and spurred the nation to support the Freedom Democrats. Featuring vibrant mixed-media art full of intricate detail, Voice of Freedom celebrates Fannie Lou Hamer's life and legacy with a message of hope, determination, and strength.

Aretha Franklin is the Queen of Soul, a legend. But before she became a star, she was a shy little girl with a voice so powerful it made people jump up, sway, and hum along.

Raised in a house full of talking and singing, Aretha learned the values that would carry her through life--from her church choir in Detroit to stages across the world. When she moved to New York City to start her career, it took years of hard work before she had a hit song. In the turbulent 1960s, she sang about Respect and refused to perform before segregated audiences.

The first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Aretha always remembered who she was and where she came from.

Fifty years after her refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama, city bus, Mrs. Rosa Parks is still one of the most important figures in the American civil rights movement.

This tribute to Mrs. Parks is a celebration of her courageous action and the events that followed.

Award-winning poet, writer, and activist Nikki Giovanni's evocative text combines with Bryan Collier's striking cut-paper images to retell the story of this historic event from a wholly unique and original perspective.

Matthew Henson was not meant to lead an ordinary life. His dreams had sails.

They took him from the port of Baltimore, around the world, and north to the pole.

No amount of fear, cold, hunger, or injustice could keep him from tasting adventure and exploring the world.

He learned to survive in the Arctic wilderness, and he stood by Admiral Peary for years on end, all for the sake of his goal.

And finally, after decades of facing danger and defying the odds, he reached the North Pole and made history. At last, Henson had proved himself as an explorer-and as a man.

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Have you signed up for our Black History Reading Challenge ? It's available all year, so download it and enjoy it anytime you like.

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Children's Books by Indigenous Authors to Add to Your Bookshelf Today (+ Video Read Aloud)

Five Ways to Celebrate Black Children's Book Week + Resources

18 MORE Picture Book Biographies that Celebrate Black Life Written by Black Authors

I would add Little melba and her Big Trombone - I read it every year to my students (among others) - I’ll be looking for a few of these 😊

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Black History Biographies: 15 Picture Books Celebrating Black Excellence

First, let’s be honest: If we’re doing this right, February is not the first time our students are learning about Black history or seeing examples of Black excellence. Black history isn’t a book bin that we put in our library for one month a year. Black History Month is an opportunity to put Black History, Black joy, and Black excellence front and center.

Sharing biographies highlighting Black excellence is one of my favorite ways to celebrate Black History Month. Most students are already familiar with Black leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. I like to dig a little deeper and highlight new people who have done some AMAZING things in many different realms. I’ve pulled together twenty of my favorite Black History biographies, including scientists, politicians, writers, athletes, artists, and leaders.

The books below are linked to a variety of Black-owned bookstores. Please consider supporting these businesses this month, and all year!

Carter Reads the Newspaper by Deborah Hopkinson

Every year, I begin our Black History Month read alouds with this biography of Carter G. Woodson, “The Father of Black History Month.” Carter was born after the Civil War to formerly enslaved parents. Carter’s father was a smart man, and strongly believed in being an informed citizen, and would have Carter read him the newspaper.

When Carter traded work on the farm for working the mines, he traded reading to his father for reading to coal miners. He became fascinated with history and politics. He also began to realize how many of the life stories around him would never be told in history books.

He went back home at twenty to finish high school and then went on to university, where he earned a Ph.D. in history from Harvard. While there, one of his professors said that Black people had no history. Carter dedicated the rest of his life to fighting for a “history based on truth- a history that includes all people.” It is because of Carter G. Woodson’s dedication to amplifying Black excellence, that we have Black History Month. His biography is a must-have!

The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne by Lesa Cline-Ransome

This book is a wonderful companion to Carter Reads the Newspaper! Ethel Payne was a journalist who amplified Black voices and stories that affected the Black community (stories that were typically ignored by the white, mainstream press). Ethel fought tirelessly to ask the hard questions of politicians and leaders. She worked her way up to being the first Black White House reporter, and earned the title, “First Lady of the Black Press.”

Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13 by Helaine Becker

When I think of brilliant Black women in STEM, Katherine Johnson is one of the first that comes to mind. While there are now several picture book biographies that highlight her achievements, Counting on Katherine might be my favorite. It’s a beautiful book that really highlights Katerine’s scientific achievements and her strong leadership. I also love how Helaine Becker plays with the dual meaning of counting throughout the book: both in a mathematical sense and the ability to “count on” someone. If you’re looking to highlight heroes, Katherine’s work to save Apollo 13 will definitely fit the bill.

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed

We’re going from a scientist behind the scenes at NASA to one of its prized astronauts, Mae Jemison. This simple text begins with young Mae Jemison dreaming of going to space and being an astronaut. With her mother’s consistent encouragement and Mae’s brilliance and determination, she became the first Black woman to travel to space. I cannot talk about this book without mentioning the beautiful illustrations by Stasia Burrington. They perfectly capture the wonders of a child dreaming about space.

Sisters & Champions: The True Story of Venus and Serena Williams by Howard Bryant

When we celebrate Black athletes, I love highlighting sisters Serena and Venus Williams. Their dominance in tennis is unmatched, both in pairs and singles. Sisters & Champions is my favorite biography of this dynamic pair. It offers a look into their childhood and how their healthy competition and unending love for each other pushed them to the top of the game. This book does not shy away from highlighting their achievements, and you can’t finish this book without appreciating these two champions.

Trombone Shorty by Troy Andrews

This Caldecott Honor book is the autobiography of Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews. Today, Troy is a Grammy-nominated musician who travels the world with his band, but in this book, he shares his childhood growing up in the Trem é neighborhood of New Orleans. Through his rhythmic storytelling, Troy shares how “any time of day or night, you could hear music floating in the air,” and how despite not having a lot of money, they had a lot of music.

He and his friends created their own band (before they ever had instruments). But one day he finds an old trombone and he teaches himself to play. With the instrument nearly twice his size, his brother dubbs him, “Trombone Shorty.”

Troy shares about the day that changed his life forever- when at the Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, Bo Diddley brought him up on stage and played by his side.

If the musicality of the text and Bryan Collier’s stunning illustrations aren’t enough to entice you, a portion of each purchase of this book goes to the Trombone Shorty Foundation, which “provides music and business education, instruction and mentorship experience to New Orleans high school students who are gifted in music.” Win-Win!

Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream by Deloris and Roslyn Jordan

Sometimes we just assume famous people have always been exceptional. However, this book, written by his mother and sister, tells the story of young Michael Jordan and the self-doubt that he fought to overcome. My students are always shocked to learn that he almost quit basketball because he didn’t think he’d be tall enough! I love how this book focuses on the support of family, perseverance, and hard work, and how those three in combination set Michael Jordan up to be one of the greatest basketball players of all time.

Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michele Basquiat by Javaka Septoe

This Caldecott winning book follows the story of famous artist Jean-Michele Basquiat. Written in prose, readers learn of Jean- Michele’s childhood inspirations: his mother, music, art in museums, his city. His art was not perfect, yet it was his outlet. Readers watch as Jean-Michele grows up, faces struggles, and pursues his dream of becoming a famous artist.

Nina: A Story of Nina Simone by Traci N. Todd

This is a new favorite. I have always loved Nina Simone’s music, but in this book, we also learn how she also used her voice for change. We are given a glimpse into different memories throughout her childhood where she experienced racism. We watch as her anger slowly builds, and as a chorus of unrest in the country grows, Nina adds her voice to the roar, by exploding into song. I love that this book does not sugarcoat the backlash that she received, or how she used her voice to ease the pain of a hurting Black community during the civil rights movement.

Christian Robinson does a fantastic job (as always) of creating powerful illustrations to accompany the raging words on the page. I love how he uses different pianos as a setting for the events throughout the story, tying them together with the impact of Nina’s music.

Thurgood by Jonah Winter

This incredible biography shares the story of Thurgood Marshall, America’s first Black Supreme Court Justice. But there is so much more to the story. Bryan Collier’s captivating illustrations jump off the pages and pull readers right in. With beautiful storytelling, we learn more details about Thurgood’s childhood, school experiences, and early days of practicing law. These experiences led him to passionately and tirelessly fight to end segregation and fight for justice in cases like Brown v. the Board of Education. If the cover alone doesn’t hook you (I don’t know how it couldn’t), the story and illustrations inside are sure to win you over!

Whoosh: Lonnie Johnson’s Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions by Chris Barton

This is a great story of Black excellence and perseverance. But students also LOVE learning the history of the Super Soaker! Whoosh follows Lonnie Johnson from an inventive child to his career as an engineer. He’s trying to figure out how to make a refrigerator cooling system. But, he accidentally makes a device that would work perfectly for a new type of squirt gun. If only he could get the right people to see his invention and make it into a toy… You know how the story ends!

The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes: The story of Dr. Patricia Bath by Julia Finley Mosca

I didn’t know about Dr. Patricia Bath until I added it to my classroom library, but I will not stop talking about her now. This amazing woman developed the Laserphaco probe which has been used across the globe to remove cataracts and reverse blindness.

Through clever rhyming text, this story shares Dr. Bath’s determination and perseverance to overcome both gender and racial barriers. It highlights her observations that Black patients were twice as likely to go blind as her white patients. With science and medicine as her weapons of choice, she fought for the “right to sight.”

Ron’s Big Mission by Rose Blue

A biography of Ron McNair could highlight his many accomplishments as an adult pilot and astronaut. Instead, Rose Blue focuses on a key turning point in Ron’s childhood. Always interested in learning more about flying and airplanes, Ron spent a lot of time at the library… but there was a problem: the rules said that only white people could check out books. One day, Ron decides to take a stand against the racist policies at his town library.

After readers have connected with Ron and celebrated his determination and bravery, we come to learn about his amazing achievements as one of NASA’s astronauts.

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth, and Harlem’s Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson

This celebrates Lewis Micheaux and his National Memorial African Bookstore in Harlem. The Book itch is written by Micheaux’s great-niece and told from the perspective of Micheaux’s son. It is through his eyes that we get to know his father and the impact his bookstore had on the world. “Knowledge is power. You need it every hour. Read a book!” This book is sprinkled with many of Micheaux’s words, that highlight his desire to bring knowledge and truth to the people of Harlem.

The book also focuses on Micheaux’s friendship with Malcolm X, and the heartbreaking days surrounding his assassination. The book finishes with, “Word. That’s why people need our bookstore.” A testament to the power of truth and knowledge. The illustrations and beautiful writing style add an extra layer of greatness to this already powerful story.

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read by Rita Lorraine Hubbard

This book follows the amazing journey of Mary Walker. Mary was born in 1848, and was enslaved until she was fifteen. Like most enslaved people, she was deliberately denied the right to read and write, but that didn’t stop her desire to learn. A life of hard work and fighting to survive delayed her dreams of learning to read until she was 116 years old. ONE HUNDRED SIXTEEN! My students connect with her dedication and perseverance, while learning that you’re never too old to learn something new or achieve your dream.

I also cannot talk about this book without mentioning the incredible artwork from Caldecott Honor Winner, Oge Mora. Her mixed-media illustrations are memorizing and make this book even more memorable.

I hope this has offered you some new Black History biographies to add to your celebrations of Black Excellence this month and to share all year long. Do you have a favorite biography that’s not on the list? Let me know in the comments!

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these are awesome. Thank you for sharing. Really appreciate this details and look forward to sharing these titles and stories with my students and children.

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Lasting Impact: 25 Recent Picture Book Biographies for Black History Month

Combining storytelling and history, picture book biographies bring famous figures to life. This Black History Month, we're highlighting some recently published and beautifully illustrated books whose subjects have made a lasting impact by breaking barriers, overcoming obstacles, and fighting for change. Writers, musicians, activists, athletes, and more—young people will learn about and be inspired by their stories. 

Explore Black History Month at NYPL.

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by Michelle Meadows; illustrated by Jamiel Law

This first-ever picture book biography of the legendary writer and activist introduces readers to this passionate Black man who discovered his true power in the written word, which opened the world to him as he used his voice fearlessly. 

Extraordinary Magic: The Storytelling Life of Virginia Hamilton

by Nina Crews

Celebrating one of America’s most celebrated children’s book authors and the first African American to win the Newbery Medal, this beautiful picture book told through interconnected poems shows how she found her voice in her writing as she began a career defined by her roots.

Fighting With Love: The Legacy of John Lewis

by Lesa Cline-Ransome; illustrated by James E. Ransome

In a beautiful prose telling, the story of a groundbreaking civil rights leader, John Lewis. John Lewis left a cotton farm in Alabama to join the fight for civil rights. He was only a teenager. He soon became a leader of a moment that changed a nation. Walking at the side of his mentor, Dr. Martin Luther King, Lewis was led by his belief in peaceful action and voting rights. Today and always his work and legacy will live on.

Invincible: Fathers and Mothers of Black America

by Wade Hudson; illustrated by E.B. Lewis

Exploring the birth of Black America, an acclaimed Black author teaches readers about the little-known men and women who suffered and struggled to build a country, a culture and institutions, showing the slow process by which Black Americans fought for justice over the course of many generations.

Major Taylor: World Cycling Champion

by Charles R. Smith Jr.; illustrated by Leo Espinosa

One hundred years ago, one of the most popular spectator sports was bicycle racing, and the man to beat was Marshall “Major” Taylor, who set records in his teens and won his first world championship by age twenty. The first African American world champion in cycling and the second Black athlete to win a world championship in any sport, Major Taylor faced down challenge after challenge, not least the grueling Six-Day Race, a test of speed, strength, and endurance. 

Ida B. Wells Marches for the Vote

by Dinah Johnson; illustrated by Jerry Jordan

Painting a vivid portrait of one of the most influential civil rights leaders and her critical role in the Women’s March of 1913, this picture book recounts how Ida B. Wells worked tirelessly to fight for an America that was fair to everyone, regardless of race and gender. 

Go Forth and Tell: The Life of Augusta Baker, Librarian and Master Storyteller

by Breanna J. McDaniel; illustrated by April Harrison

This picture book biography chronicles the life of the beloved librarian, storyteller and the first Black coordinator of children’s services at all branches of the New York Public Library who championed books, writers and teachers centering around Black stories that were both educational and inspirational. 

You Gotta Meet Mr. Pierce!: The Storied Life of Folk Artist Elijah Pierce

by Chiquita Mullins Lee and Carmella Van Vleet; illustrated by Jennifer Mack-Watkins

Based on the true story of woodcarver Elijah Pierce and his community barber shop in Columbus, Ohio, this picture book follows a young boy who walks in for an ordinary haircut and walks out having discovered a lifetime of art. 

Jackie Ormes Draws the Future: The Remarkable Life of a Pioneering Cartoonist

by Liz Montague

This inspiring picture-book biography of the first Black female cartoonist in America, who tackled racism, pollution and social justice—and made the world listen—chronicles her life and how her work inspires countless artists today.

Rooting for Plants: The Unstoppable Charles S. Parker, Black Botanist and Collector

by Janice N. Harrington; illustrated by Theodore Taylor III

In this inspiring STEM/STEAM picture book biography, children will meet the Black botanist and mycologist, who, after witnessing firsthand the ecological devastation that WWI caused, made it his mission to make things grow, not destroy them. 

Chef Edna: Queen of Southern Cooking

by Melvina Noel; art by Cozbi Cabrera

In this picture book biography, children are introduced to African American culinary legend Edna Lewis, who carried her Southern traditions to New York, where she became a celebrated chef and introduced the world to the flavors of her home. 

Jerry Changed the Game!: How Engineer Jerry Lawson Revolutionized Video Games Forever

by Don Tate; illustrated by Cherise Harris

Introduces readers to Jerry Lawson, a Black engineer who changed the videogaming world forever by building a videogame console that allowed players to switch out cartridges and who founded the first African American-owned videogame company in the country.

Traveling Shoes: The Story of Willye White, US Olympian and Long Jump Champion

by Alice Faye Duncan; illustrated by Keith Mallett

This never-before-told story of Black sprinter and long-jumper Willye B. White chronicles her journey to competing in and winning the 1956 and 1964 Olympics, showing how her mantra, "I believe in me," helped her overcome obstacles and the turmoil of the Civil Rights Movement.

Mary's Idea

by Chris Raschka

Part biography, part celebration of imagination and the creative process, this picture book pays tribute renowned American jazz pianist and composer, Mary Lou Williams, who is often overlooked in the canon of American music because of her gender and skin color.

Ice Cream Man: How Augustus Jackson Made a Sweet Treat Better

by Glenda Armand and Kim Freeman; illustrated by Keith Mallett

Spotlighting a little-known visionary, this inspiring picture book biography tells the story of African American entrepreneur Augustus Jackson, aka “the father of ice cream,” who, in the 1800s, created this frozen treat during his time as a White House cook. 

Ketanji: Justice Jackson's Journey to the U.S. Supreme Court

by Kekla Magoon; illustrated by Laura Freeman

This inspiring picture book biography traces the life of Ketanji Brown Jackson, who is making history as the first Black woman to serve as a Supreme Court Justice, showing her incredible achievements as she fights for justice and equality. 

Ordinary Days: The Seeds, Sound, and City That Grew Prince Rogers Nelson

by Angela Joy; illustrated by Jacqueline Alcántara

Before Prince became one of the bestselling musicians of all time, he was a boy named Prince Rogers Nelson. Often overlooked and abandoned, he found his own inspiration in the world around him—teaching himself how to play the guitar, the piano, the drums, and much more. And when he grew up, he used these small details of the everyday to make music, and make the world around him more colorful. 

Little Rosetta and the Talking Guitar: The Musical Story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Woman Who Invented Rock and Roll

by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow

This warm, inspiring story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, a pioneering Black artist whose rural roots inspired rock-and-roll, shows how she made her dream become reality through hard work and dedication. 

This Is Tap: Savion Glover Finds His Funk

by Selene Castrovilla; illustrated by Laura Freeman

This is a story about tap dancing, a distinctly American art form that blended English-Scottish-Irish clog dancing with African tribal dancing.  And it’s about a boy, Savion Glover—who was born to feel the music—to dance and perform and invent. And to delight and awe audiences with the movements of his body.  

Everywhere Beauty Is Harlem: The Vision of Photographer Roy Decarava

by Gary Golio; art by E.B. Lewis

This visually stunning portrait of Black photographer Roy DeCarava, a child of the Harlem Renaissance and an artistic collaborator of Langston Hughes, takes readers through 1940s Harlem where beauty is everywhere as he immortalizes and documents the lives of ordinary Black people.

The Green Piano: How Little Me Found Music

by Roberta Flack with Tonya Bolden; illustrated by Hayden Goodman

Growing up in a Blue Ridge mountain town, little Roberta dreamed of having her own piano. When her daddy spies an old, beat-up upright piano in a junkyard, he knows he can make his daughter's dream come true. He brings it home, cleans and tunes it, and paints it a grassy green. And soon the little girl has an instrument to practice on, and a new dream to reach for—one that will make her become a legend in the music industry.

Unstoppable: How Bayard Rustin Organized the 1963 March on Washington

by Michael G. Long; illustrated by Bea Jackson

This powerful and triumphant picture book biography tells the story of Bayard Rustin, an openly gay civils rights leader, who, with the support of Dr. King and future congressman John Lewis, led 250,000 people to the doorstep of the U.S. government demanding change. 

Coretta: The Autobiography of Coretta Scott King

by Coretta Scott King, with the Reverend Dr. Barbara Reynolds; illustrated by Ekua Holmes; adapted by Julia Sooy

This picture book adaptation of her critically acclaimed adult memoir paints a vivid portrait of the wife of Martin Luther King, Jr. and a singular 20th-century American civil and human rights activist who fought for justice against all odds, becoming an unforgettable champion of social change. 

To Boldly Go: How Nichelle Nichols and Star Trek Helped Advance Civil Rights

by Angela Dalton; illustrated by Lauren Semmer

To Boldly Go tells the true story of Nichelle Nichols and how she used her platform on Star Trek to inspire and recruit a new generation of diverse astronauts and many others in the space and STEM fields.

How Do You Spell Unfair?: Macnolia Cox and the National Spelling Bee

by Carole Boston Weatherford; illustrated by Frank Morrison

A true story of determination and groundbreaking achievement follows eighth grade African American spelling champion MacNolia Cox, who left Akron, Ohio, in 1936 to compete in the prestigious National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., only to be met with prejudice and discrimination.

Summaries provided via NYPL’s catalog, which draws from multiple sources. Click through to each book’s title for more.

Beyond Rosa and Harriet: Black History Picture Book Biographies

Ashlie Swicker

Ashlie (she/her) is an educator, librarian, and writer. She is committed to diversifying the reading lives of her students and supporting fat acceptance as it intersects with other women’s issues. She's also perpetually striving to learn more about how she can use her many privileges to support marginalized groups. Interests include learning how to roller skate with her local roller derby team, buying more books than she'll ever read, hiking with her husband and sons, and making lists to avoid real work. You can find her on Instagram (@ashlieelizabeth), Twitter (@mygirlsimple) or at her website, www.ashlieswicker.com.

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Let’s start with the most important fact: we need to be teaching Black history all year long. Black history is American history, and once we start doing the work and making the connections, opportunities to share picture book biographies about Black historical figures will bubble up naturally. However, it’s February now, and Black History Month brings the spotlight onto the often overlooked or purposely ignored narrative of Black people in America.

As an elementary librarian, I know that my students are exposed to the most common figures in their classrooms. In January they were doing Martin Luther King Jr. activities, and they have read about Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks. They have had discussions about segregation in schools and at water fountains. They have named the horror of how Black people were kidnapped and enslaved as common practice. This brutal truth can’t be ignored, and I’m glad that most of my students have been exposed to this in age-appropriate ways from the earliest grades. However, there is so much more to Black history than trauma.

Below, I’ve gathered some of my absolute favorite picture book biographies that celebrate Black joy, ingenuity, athleticism, talent, and magnificence. It’s impossible to tell a story about being Black in America without a thread of oppression, but these books add to the narrative in the most important and lovely way.

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed and Stasia Burrington

Mae knows from a very young age that she would like to be an astronaut. When her teacher tells her “girls like her” would be better off as nurses, Mae decides not to let small minds stand in her way. Based on real-life astronaut Mae Jemison, this simple book sings.

Serena Williams: A Kid’s Book About Mental Strength and Cultivating a Champion Mindset by Mary Nhin and Yuliia Zolotova

Serena Williams is a powerhouse of the modern age, famous for her tenacity as much as for her tennis prodigy. This book takes readers through her young life, sharing both her life story and the positive affirmations and mental strength that made both her and her sister the champions they will forever be remembered as.

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Pies from Nowhere: How Georgia Gilmore Sustained the Montgomery Bus Boycott by Dee Romito and Laura Freeman

Here is a civil rights figure your students have likely never heard of! Georgia Gilmore supported the Montgomery Bus Boycott by cooking and selling food to fundraise for the gas and cars needed. Her house was a meeting point for civil rights meetings — she even testified on behalf of Martin Luther King Jr! When asked where she got the money to fund her efforts, she would reply “from nowhere,” giving us the title of this great book.

Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free: The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth by Alice Faye Duncan and Keturah A. Bobo

Introduce children to the activist who dreamed of Juneteenth being a national holiday. Opal Lee knew that Juneteenth celebrated freedom (even if it was a few years late), but in her town, she still saw treatment of Black folks that didn’t seem like freedom at all. Could one little girl bring about national change? Absolutely!

Stacey’s Remarkable Books by Stacey Abrams and Kitt Thomas

A follow-up to Stacey’s Extraordinary Words , this bookish masterpiece depicts another true story from the representative’s childhood. Stacey loves library day at school. When she notices another student struggling to read in English, a special friendship is born.

The Way Champs Play by Naomi Osaka and Kamala Nair

Dedicated to her girls’ empowerment program, Play Academy, Osaka’s The Way Champs Play is, well, playful! Energetic, rhyming text blends with bright and inclusive illustrations to champion the values of sportsmanship and healthy activity. This book will introduce kids to tennis star Naomi Osaka in an exciting way.

Madam C. J. Walker Builds a Business by Denene Millner and Salini Perera

This chapter book is part of a new series highlighting stories from the Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls book. Madam C. J. Walker, born Sarah Breedlove, made history by creating hair care products, especially for Black hair. She was America’s first self-made female millionaire, and her story is as impressive as it is beautiful.

Nina: A Story of Nina Simone by Traci N. Todd and Christian Robinson

I am a huge fan of Christian Robinson’s artwork, and his breathtaking paintings and collage work shine here alongside an equally gorgeous story by Traci N. Todd. The story starts with a celebration of Simone’s early life and musicality, ramping up the volume as Simone’s contributions to the Civil Rights movement begin to sing on the page.

Hopefully, you’ve found a book to complement a lesson or just introduce your students to new and exciting historical figures. Looking for more Black History Month guidance? As an educator, I highly suggest checking out Vera Ahiyya or Dawnavyn M. James on social media. They generously share book recommendations and other amazing resources. Looking for more picture book biographies? Check out these picture book biographies about authors , or this list of diverse picture book biographies . Happy reading!

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15+ Must-Read Picture Books to Celebrate Black History Month

Use this list as a starting point for conversations with your child about african american history..

February is Black History Month, and a great way to help your growing reader learn more about African American history is with picture books. The picture books on this list break history into bite-sized, age-appropriate pieces for young children, with vivid illustrations and easy-to-digest text. 

By exposing your child to a variety of  diverse and inclusive  books, both  fiction  and  nonfiction , you'll help widen your child's perspective. Try  Henry's Freedom Box — a gripping tale about how Henry goes on an arduous journey to the North to gain freedom and a birthday. Or pick up  I Am Ruby Bridges ,  a landmark story with stunning visuals about a pivotal event that shaped the civil rights movement. There's also the empowering true story of young Colin Kaepernick's journey of self-discovery that will inspire young readers to be true to themselves and show how they can make the world a better, more equitable place.  

From picture books on well-known figures like Rosa Parks to the story of the first Black female Supreme Court Justice , our Black History Month picture book list covers a multitude of subjects. For longer works on Black History geared towards elementary schoolers , preteens and teens, check out our comprehensive Black History Month book list  for all ages.

Shop picture books for Black History Month below! You can find more books and activities at  The Scholastic Store .

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• October 22, 2023

Ignite Classroom Conversations: Unlock Picture Books for Black History Month

Ready to make Black History Month truly impactful in your classroom? Dive into picture books that not only celebrate the rich history and achievements of black individuals but also open doors for essential classroom discussions. From biographies of trailblazers to stories of resilience and resistance, these picture books for Black History Month are perfect for creating an inclusive environment and engaging your students in meaningful dialogue all year round.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything through them, I will get a small referral fee and you will be supporting me and my blog at no extra cost to you, so thank you! You can find more information here .

Black History Month and Its Importance in the Classroom

Black History Month is a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements and contributions of black individuals throughout history. It allows you to cultivate an inclusive classroom environment and teach students about the diversity of human experiences.

Black History Month, observed in America during February and October in the UK, offers the opportunity to celebrate the history, art and culture of people often under-represented in literacy and media.

Why Read Picture Books for Black History Month?

Picture books, especially those focusing on black history, simplify complex historical events and figures, making it easier for students to grasp. 

Moreover, these books often portray powerful messages of resilience, bravery, and innovation, helping to foster empathy and respect among students.

No matter your school’s and classroom’s cultural makeup, your students need access to books celebrating black history and culture. 

Black children need to see themselves and their ancestors represented in books. Other children must read about the experiences and lives of those different from themselves to educate and counter racism and prejudice.

When teaching about black history and culture, picture books celebrate the beauty, difficulties and diversity of African American life. These picture books should be accessible all year round, not only during Black History Month.

Overcoming Challenges in Teaching Black History Month

Teaching about Black History Month can sometimes be challenging, especially in creating a balance between the realities of historical injustices and the celebration of black accomplishments.

Using picture books for Black History Month can help navigate these challenges, offering stories of success, resistance, and hope and creating room for age-appropriate discussions about discrimination and injustice.

Questions to Pair with Picture Books for Black History Month

• Who is the main character in this book?
• What challenges did they face? How did they overcome these challenges?
• What can we learn from their experience?
• How does their story contribute to Black History?
• What emotions did you feel while reading this book?
• How would you feel if you were in the protagonist’s situation?
• Can you identify any major events in the book?
• How does this story relate to what we know about black history?
• What does this book teach us about resilience?
• How does this story reflect the culture and traditions of the Black community?
• Why do you think it’s important for us to read this book during Black History Month?
• How does this book help you understand the experiences of Black people in history?
• What is one new thing you learned about Black History from this book?
• If you could ask the protagonist one question, what would it be?

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Picture Books for Black History Month

These picture books for Black History Month explore many aspects of black history and culture, including

• Role models who fought for change and equal rights.
• Scientists and inventors who improved all our lives. 
• People who experienced racism and prejudice and fought for tolerance and equality.
• Positive relationships that inspire and empower.

Althea Gibson: The Story of Tennis' Fleet-of-Foot Girl by Megan Reid

Born and raised in Harlem, Althea Gibson had a passion for tennis. Undeterred by the racist and sexist attitudes she faced, Althea persevered. Her hard work and resilience paid off when she became the first African American recipient of tennis’s highest honours. 

Althea’s story demonstrates the power of commitment, perseverance, and overcoming adversity.

Becoming Billie Holiday by Carole Boston Weatherford

A series of poems tells the story of legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday, born Eleanora Fagan in 1915. She navigates through pain, poverty, and legal issues to pursue her dream of becoming a music icon.

Becoming Billie Holiday reflects on resilience and perseverance in adversity and the pursuit of dreams.

Before She Was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome

This is the first of two picture books for Black History Month on this list by Lesa Cline-Ransome. Despite being born into slavery, Harriet Tubman devoted her life to fighting for freedom and equality. Her many roles included – conductor of the Underground Railroad, a nurse, a suffragist, and a spy.

Before She Was Harriet explores courage, perseverance, social justice, and how a single person can bring about change, historical issues like slavery, civil rights, and the role of women in societal changes.

The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson

Lewis Michaux started the National Memorial African Bookstore in Harlem. It became a hub for Black culture, knowledge, and activism. It was a meeting place for figures like Muhammad Ali and Malcolm X.

The Book Itch promotes discussions on freedom, truth, the power of literature, learning from others, cultural heritage, and empowering change and fostering new ideas.

Chef Edna: Queen of Southern Cooking, Edna Lewis by Melvina Noel

Edna was a chef, a trailblazer, and the “Queen of Southern Cooking”. She came from a small town called Freetown, Virginia, and she changed the world of cooking. She taught America how to make delicious dishes like Hot Buttered Biscuits, Fried Chicken, and Peach Cobbler. She became the first African American cookbook author published by a mainstream publishing house. 

Coretta's Journey by Alice Faye Duncan

Coretta Scott King was not just the wife of the renowned civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. She was a pacifist committed to freedom work long before she met Dr. King. After Martin’s death, she continued the struggle, preserving his legacy for future generations. 

Coretta’s Journey promotes discussions on resilience, social justice, standing strong in adversity, fighting for what is right, and the power of one’s voice. 

Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13 by Helaine Becker

Katherine Johnson broke racial and gender barriers to play an instrumental role in NASA’s space missions. Her mathematical skills and quick thinking were critical to the astronauts’ safe return aboard the troubled Apollo 13 spacecraft.

Counting on Katherine inspires discussions on perseverance, problem-solving skills, gender roles in the STEM field, the fight against racial discrimination and equal opportunities.

Freedom Summer by Deborah Wiles

Joe and John navigate the realities of segregation when John, who is black, may not use the pool. Despite the Civil Rights Act, the local pool closed rather than allowing black people to use it. Joe cannot understand why John doesn’t have the same rights as himself.

Freedom Summer prompts discussions on civil rights, segregation, equality, tolerance, prejudice and challenging inequality.

Gordon Parks: How the Photographer Captured Black and White America by Carole Boston Weatherford

This is the first of several picture books for Black History Month on this list by Carole Boston Weatherford. Born into poverty, Gordon Parks became a photographer after seeing images of migrant workers in a magazine. Despite discrimination and adversity, Parks used his camera to capture the essence of life in America during the mid-20th century. 

Gordon Parks promotes discussions on perseverance, pursuing passions despite obstacles, the power of art, social issues, and challenging racial discrimination.

Granny Came Here on the Empire Windrush by Patrice Lawrence

This is the first of two picture books for Black History Month on this list by Patrice Lawrence. Ava’s Granny sailed from the Caribbean to England on the Empire Windrush. She leaves behind familiar surroundings for a life of uncertainty, and her journey shows the risks she took to create a better life. 

Granny Came Here on the Empire Windrush prompts discussions on courage, risk-taking, inspiration, overcoming adversity, resilience, and immigration, shedding light on the stories that make us who we are.

Harlem's Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills by Renée Watson

Born to former slaves and raised in a “teeny-tiny, itsy-bitsy house” in Washington, D.C., Florence Mills proved that even the most humble beginnings can lead to greatness. From her melodic voice that captivated people from a young age to her success on Broadway, Florence used her platform to stand against racism and intolerance. Unfortunately, there are no surviving recordings of her voice.

Henry’s Freedom Box by Ellen Levine

In Henry’s Freedom Box, author Ellen Levine takes us on a journey of courage, resilience, and creative thinking. Through his incredible determination, resilience and problem-solving, Henry finds a way to escape slavery by mailing himself to the North. 

This book is a reminder of the importance of freedom and the strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.

Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly

Hidden Figures unfolds in the 1940s, spotlighting four black women vital to NASA’s missions. Their intellect and tenacity broke through barriers, significantly assisting the historic moon landing. 

The book illustrates overcoming adversity amidst prejudice and gender roles, tolerance, and perseverance. It highlights the significant, yet often unnoticed, contributions of women, particularly women of colour, in history.

Jake Makes a World by Sharifa Rhodes-Pitts

Artist Jacob Lawrence found creative inspiration in the people, streets, and colours of Harlem. From his mother’s apartment, coloured with intricate patterns, to the streets full of faces, sounds, rhythms, and smells, Jake created a world that reflected the beauty and spirit of Harlem.

Jake Makes a World promotes discussions on creativity, self-expression, community impact, and art’s transformative power.

John Agard's Windrush Child by John Agard

A young child leaves his Caribbean home and sails aboard the Empire Windrush to start a new life in England. He experiences many emotions as he says goodbye and faces the uncertainty of a new country and home.

Windrush Child initiates discussions on black history, hope, resilience, overcoming adversity, and the challenges associated with a new life in a different country.

The Juneteenth Story: Celebrating the End of Slavery in the United States by Alliah L. Agostini

On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of the Civil War and slavery. This day, now celebrated as Juneteenth, symbolises freedom and equality for African Americans.

The Juneteenth Story promotes discussions on liberation, freedom, and resilience in overcoming the hardships of slavery, recognising the contributions and struggles of African Americans.

Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice by Nikki Grimes

This biography narrates Kamala Harris’s journey, the first woman, the first Black person, and the first South Asian American to become Vice President of the United States. Her immigrant parents instilled justice, equality, and activism values, inspiring her to fight for rights. 

Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice facilitates discussions on gender roles, empowerment, social justice, equality, representation in leadership and women’s ability to effect change.

Let the Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson

A child’s words show the harsh consequences for children protesting after hearing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speak at the 1963 Birmingham Children’s Crusade. Despite facing fear, hate, and danger, the children used their voices to enact significant change.

Let the Children March promotes discussions on activism, facing fear and danger with courage, resilience and collective strength in the fight for civil rights.

Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotten by Laura Veirs

Elizabeth Cotten was left-handed but still taught herself to play her brother’s guitar backwards and upside down. By the time she was a teenager, she had discovered her own unique music and written the famous song “Freight Train”. 

Reading Elizabeth’s story can be inspiring and teach important lessons about determination, self-belief, and never giving up.

Lillian's Right to Vote by Jonah Winter

Lillian is a centenarian African American woman determined to walk to her polling station to have her say. As she makes her way up the hill, she reflects on the efforts of her family to secure the right to vote. 

Her great-grandfather was the first to do so after the Fifteenth Amendment was passed, her parents registered to vote, and she took part in the march from Selma to Montgomery to support the cause.

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed

As a child, Mae Jemison was captivated by the thought of exploring space. She became the first African American woman to visit outer space through her intelligence, persistence, and courage. 

Mae proves that anything is possible when you have the drive, ambition, and resilience to make your dreams come true. She is a testament to the power of focusing on your goals and never giving up.

Malcolm Little: The Boy Who Grew Up to Become Malcolm X by Ilyasah Shabazz

Ilyasah Shabazz writes about the childhood of her grandfather, Malcolm Little, later known as Malcolm X. Despite hardships and racial prejudice, Malcolm’s resilience and strength emerge, setting the stage for his transformation into a charismatic leader.

Malcolm Little promotes discussions on racial identity, resilience, Malcolm Little’s transformation to Malcolm X and self-belief.

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport

As a young boy, Martin witnessed the harsh reality of segregation. Inspired by his father’s preaching and his mother’s assurance of his worth, Martin grows up to use his ‘big words’ to fight for equality and justice.

Martin’s Big Words promotes discussions on social justice, racial segregation, advocacy for equal rights, bravery in the face of adversity and resistance, and the power of words.

My Name Is Truth: The Life of Sojourner Truth by Ann Turner

Once a slave, Isabella Baumfree embraced her rose to become the renowned abolitionist and preacher Sojourner Truth. Through her tireless efforts towards the movements for abolition, justice, and women’s rights, Truth’s remarkable journey shows how any individual can influence positive change. 

Sojourner Truth exemplifies the power of perseverance and illustrates African American history, abolition, and the women’s rights movements.

Nelson Mandela by Kadir Nelson

Nelson Mandela is a global icon and Nobel Peace Prize winner. The book recounts Mandela’s journey from his childhood in rural South Africa, through his years of struggle against apartheid, to his triumphant election as the first Black president of South Africa.

Nelson Mandela promotes discussions on the fight against injustice, resilience in the face of adversity, perseverance, determination, commitment, belief in equality and leadership.

Nina: A Story of Nina Simone by Traci N. Todd

Nina Simone was born Eunice Kathleen Waymon and started singing before she could talk. Her music was inspired by classical composers like Bach, whose pieces began softly and finished powerfully. During the Civil Rights Movement, Nina sang to stand up against racism and unfairness.

Nina used her voice to fight for justice and equality. You can use her story to discuss civil rights, discrimination, and social justice.

Not Done Yet: Shirley Chisholm's Fight for Change by Tameka Fryer Brown

Shirley Chisholm paved the way for future generations of women and people of colour in politics by becoming the first woman to run for President of the United States. An activist for her constituents, gender equality, and fairness, her courageous determination to never give up was an inspiration. 

Read ‘Not Done Yet’ to explore and discuss Shirley’s impact on black history, equality, respect, perseverance, making a difference, fairness, discrimination, gender roles, and never giving up.

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read by Rita Lorraine Hubbard

Mary Walker was born into slavery in 1848 and experienced the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement. When she was 116 years old, she learned how to read and showed everyone that it is possible to learn no matter how old.

Mary Walker’s determination teaches us important lessons about black history, the joy of reading, perseverance, and character and exemplifies how people can adapt to change.

Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free: The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth by Alice Faye Duncan

Opal Lee’s commitment to the cause deepened when, at twelve years old, an angry mob burned down her family’s home on June 19th. She gathered over 1.5 million signatures to make Juneteenth a national holiday, symbolising her vision of freedom and equality.

Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free promotes discussions on perseverance, determination, activism, freedom and the importance of Juneteenth in American history.

Our Story Starts in Africa by Patrice Lawrence

This is the second of two picture books for Black History Month on this list by Patrice Lawrence. When Paloma visits her family in Trinidad, she doesn’t feel she belongs. Tante Janet tells her a story about warrior queens and things that happened thousands of years ago. Paloma is part of this story, too! Her story starts in Africa. 

Join Paloma and her aunt as they share how Paloma’s family journeyed from Africa to the Caribbean. They’ll talk about the hard times of colonization and slavery and how this adversity led to a vibrant and successful community.

The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne by Lesa Cline-Ransome

This is the second of two picture books for Black History Month on this list by Lesa Cline-Ransome. Born in racially segregated Chicago, Ethel Payne overcame adversities to become a journalist. As a White House correspondent, her fearless and uncompromising style of asking hard-hitting questions about civil rights became her hallmark. 

The Power of Her Pen emphasises standing for justice, equality, and truth, prompting discussions on black history, female empowerment, anti-segregation struggles, and journalistic integrity.

RESPECT: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul by Carole Boston Weatherford

This is the second of several stories about black history by Carole Boston Weatherford. Aretha Franklin’s journey to becoming one of the most influential singers of all time began with her father, a preacher and gospel singer in Detroit. Recognising Aretha’s talent, he encouraged her to record her first album at 14. 

As the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Aretha used her platform to champion justice and fight against adversity. Her example can help us recognise the power of influence in creating change and overcoming prejudice.

Rise!: From Caged Bird to Poet of the People, Maya Angelou by Bethany Hegedus

Maya Angelou, a poet, author, and activist, was born into difficult circumstances and faced hardships growing up. She never gave up and turned her adversity into resilience and courage and, with it, achieved her dreams. 

Maya wrote poetry that embraced her black identity and celebrated black history. Her words offered hope and inspired many to take risks and stand up for their beliefs.

Rosa by Nikki Giovanni

In 1955, Rosa Parks refused to yield her seat to a white passenger on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama. Her courage sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott during the Civil Rights Movement, inspiring many to join the fight against racial segregation.

Rosa inspires conservations about courage, resilience, civil rights, racial discrimination, the impact of individual actions on societal change and understanding the role of standing against injustice.

Ruby, Head High: Ruby Bridge's First Day of School by Irene Cohen-Janca

Ruby Bridges became a symbol of courage during the Civil Rights Movement. She became the first African American student to attend an all-white school in New Orleans on her first day of school. Despite facing hostility and prejudice, Ruby remained strong, keeping her head high.

Ruby, Head High highlights Ruby’s bravery and resilience in adversity, inspiring readers to stand up against injustice and embrace equality.

Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library by Carole Boston Weatherford

This is the third of several stories about black history by Carole Boston Weatherford. Arturo Schomburg, an Afro-Puerto Rican law clerk in New York, was concerned by the lack of African heritage in books. He collected literature, music, and art from Africa that became the cornerstone of the New York Public Library’s Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture.

Schomburg promotes discussions on preserving history, cultural identity, dedication, commitment and knowledge as a powerful tool for change.

A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin by Jen Bryant

Despite Horace Pippin’s humble beginnings and numerous obstacles, including poverty, racism, disability, and war, Pippin’s passion for art never wavered. His perseverance led the self-taught painter to become one of America’s notable painters.

A Splash of Red inspires discussions on resilience, self-expression, the power of art, overcoming adversity, and the impact of socio-cultural factors.

This is the Rope: A Story from the Great Migration by Jacqueline Woodson

Follow the journey of an African American family during the Great Migration. A little girl in South Carolina finds a rope under a tree one summer. The rope symbolises hope and continuity, accompanying the family as they move north, searching for a better life.

This is the Rope promotes discussions on the Great Migration, family history, symbolism, resilience, determination, hope and continuity through generations.

The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander

This powerful poem is a tribute to the African American experience, weaving past and present, highlighting the resilience and triumphs of black Americans amidst the hardships and challenges they have faced.

The Undefeated pays tribute to African Americans who fought against injustice through passion, grit and courage. It promotes discussions on resilience in adversity, remembering and acknowledging the past, the power of hope, and the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

Unspoken: A Story from the Underground Railroad by Henry Cole

During the Civil War era, a farm girl stumbles upon a runaway slave hiding in the barn. Although scared, she sees the fear in his eyes and leaves him food without uttering a word. She cares for him even when slave hunters look for the escaped slave.

Unspoken, a wordless book, encourages discussions on courage, kindness, the struggle for freedom, understanding black history and moral choices.

Voice of Freedom Fannie Lou Hamer: The Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement by Carole Boston Weatherford

This is the last of several stories about black history on this list by Carole Boston Weatherford. Fannie Lou Hamer was a champion of equal voting rights, but she had to overcome prejudice, verbal abuse and a beating that nearly killed her. In 1964, she gave a televised speech that prompted people to support the Freedom Democrats.

Told in verse, the book shares Fannie Lou Hamer’s life from her tough childhood, showing determination, courage, hope, and standing up for social rights.

We March by Shane W. Evans

A family joins the monumental March on Washington in 1963 during a pivotal historical moment. From the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial, they become part of the collective voice calling for racial harmony, led by Martin Luther King Jr.’s resonating “I Have a Dream” speech. 

We March invites your students to explore how activism helps shape society, the values of fairness and equality, and the power of community.

White Water by Michael S. Bandy

As Michael drinks gritty water from a fountain, he is curious whether the water from the white-only fountain is better. Set in the segregated South just before the civil rights movement, he plucks up the courage to taste the white water, only to realise it is the same.

White Water inspires discussions on racial segregation and its impact, questioning unjust rules, determination, and the struggle for equality.

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson

This true story follows Audrey Faye Hendricks, the youngest child arrested during the Civil Rights Movement in Alabama, who bravely marched to end segregation. 

The Youngest Marcher promotes discussions on activism, black history, fears, social justice, defending rights, and civil rights.

Incorporating picture books for Black History Month into your classroom or school library is a powerful and effective way of teaching about the complexities of history. 

Personal narratives and biographies aid in nurturing an open-minded and inclusive classroom culture while sparking essential student discussions.

Visit Embrace Race to read more on choosing picture books with diverse characters.

What stories about black history (and beyond) do you recommend? Let me know in the comments!

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8 New Picture Book Biographies for Black History Month

Just in time for Black History Month, some amazing new picture book biographies about iconic African Americans have recently been published. From little-known fashion designer Ann Cole Lowe to boxing legend Muhammad Ali, these picture books feature a variety of people who have, all in their own ways, left important marks in Black History. 

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks by Cynthia Levinson

9-year-old Audrey Faye Hendricks was the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest. Wanting to be able to do things like anybody else, she joined a march against segregation laws in Alabama in 1963. The Youngest Marcher is an inspiring picture book that shows that you’re never too little to make a difference.  ~ Elementary School

Frederick Douglass: The Lion Who Wrote History by Walter Dean Myers

“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” Bestselling author Walter Dean Myers and acclaimed artist Floyd Cooper take young readers on an inspiring journey through the life of Frederick Douglass. With lush illustrations, Frederick Douglass brings to life the inspiring story of the self-educated slave who became an iconic leader of the abolition movement, an esteemed writer, speaker, and social reformer. ~ Elementary School

Harriet Tubman’s Escape by Thomas Kingsley Troupe

Zip alongside two cartoon flies as they follow Harriet Tubman’s daring Escape from slavery – across fields, over fences, and through dark forests. Harriet Tubman’s Escape: A Fly on the Wall History tells the story of this heroic moment in American History in an accessible way, providing a good balance of facts and fun.  ~ Elementary School

Muhammad Ali: A Champion Is Born by Gene Barretta

Muhammad Ali: A Champion Is Born tells the story of a pivotal childhood moment that set the boxing legend on his path to become the Greatest of All Time. When 12-year-old Cassius Clay had his brand-new bike stolen in the streets of Louisville, Kentucky, he wouldn’t let it go without a fight. That was the day he discovered boxing. Includes biographical overview, photos, bibliography, and more resources.  ~ Elementary School

The Legendary Miss Lena Horne by Carole Boston Weatherford

“You have to be taught to be second class; you’re not born that way.” Born into a family of teachers and activists. Lena Horne followed her dream to become an actress, despite facing racial discrimination, and many stereotypes. The Legendary Mis Lena Horne is an inspiring and beautifully illustrated picture book that celebrates the life of the pioneering African American actress and civil rights activist.  ~ Elementary School

Beacon to Freedom: The Story of a Conductor on the Underground Railroad by Jenna Glatzer

Not as well-known as Harriet Tubman, Reverend John Rankin was also a pivotal figure in the Underground Railroad network. He helped more than 2,000 slaves escape to freedom. With expressive illustrations, Beacon to Freedom follows Rankin as he guides runaways across the Ohio River with a light in his window, giving them hope in a time of great fear and danger.   ~ Elementary School

Fancy Party Gowns: The Story of Fashion Designer Ann Cole Lowe by Deborah Blumenthal

“Wisps of cloth would fall from their worktables like confetti, / and Ann would scoop them up and turn them into flowers / as bright as roses in the garden.” Fancy Party Gowns is a beautiful picture book about Ann Cole Lowe, a little-known black fashion designer who – despite hardship and discrimination – pursued her passion and went on to design party gowns for America’s high society, including Jackie Kennedy’s wedding dress.  ~ Elementary School

Strange Fruit: Billie Holiday and the Power of a Protest Song by Gary Golio

Jazz and blues performer Billie Holiday’s life changed forever with  “Strange Fruit”, a song about injustice and lynching. In the 1930s, the young black woman raised in poverty and Abel Meeropol, the son of Jewish immigrants, combined their talents to create the song that challenged racism and paved the way for the Civil Rights movement. With dynamic illustrations,  Strange Fruit is a powerful book, excellent for classroom use.  ~ Elementary School ,  Middle School

*You can buy any of the books on this site from Amazon USA, CAN or UK by clicking on the book titles or images*

More children’s books about black history:.

21 Award-winning Children’s Books for Black History Month

21 Picture Books for Black History Month

African American Historical Fiction for Middle School

Children’s Books about the Harlem Renaissance

9 Children’s Books about Nelson Mandela & Desmond Tutu

10 Children’s Books celebrating Juneteenth

Top 10 Children’s Books about Kwanzaa

Multicultural Book of the Month: Voice of Freedom

Multicultural Book of the Month: The Case for Loving

Multicultural Book of the Month: Radiant Child

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Picture book biographies for black history month.

Learn about Aretha Franklin, Gwendolyn Brooks, and Elgin Baylor in these new picture books biographies .

*R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul by Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Frank Morrison. Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2020. 48 pages.

Reading Level : Picture Books , ages 4-8

Recommended For : Ages 4-8

From a childhood love of music to her rise to fame, Aretha Franklin’s story is told in simple rhyming verses. Like the title, each page begins with a spelled out word, followed by two lines of verse. “D-E-B-U-T Fourteen, recording live, and nervous as can be. She cuts a gospel album, gives God the victory.” The story is not without sadness, and one page references the early separation of Franklin’s parents. However, the open testament to the Lord is a beautiful theme in the book. The illustrations are gorgeously rich and vibrant. (They won Frank Morrison the 2021 Coretta Scott King illustration award.) With additional info, and a list of chart-toppers you can look up and listen to, here is a wonderful picture book biography to introduce young readers to the Queen of Soul.

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5

• Worldview/Moral Rating: 5
• Literary/Artistic Rating: 5

Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks by Suzanne Slade and illustrated by Cozbi A. Cabrera. Harry N. Abrams, 2020. 48 pages.

Reading Level : Picture Books , ages 6-9

Recommended For : Ages 8-10

Gwendolyn Brooks’s early love of poetry led to initial success as a child, with some of her poems published. But then the Great Depression came along, and it would be years before Brooks again succeeded in publishing her poetry. These years weren’t always easy, from changing schools and not fitting in, to later struggling to keep the apartment utilities paid. However, Brooks’s perseverance ultimately led to publication and to her becoming the first Black person to win the Pulitzer Prize for poetry in 1950. Readers are introduced to Gwendolyn Brooks’s life and the world she lived in through a series of lyrical sentences, not always rhyming but with a definite meter. The illustrations capture both creativity and also the happiness and hardship of Brooks’s life. One note: aside from one lovely picture of Brooks’s wedding, her husband is never shown. Instead, Brooks is depicted as struggling alone, raising her young son. This might lead young listeners (or older readers!) to wonder where he was —despite Brooks’s long marriage. This artistic omission aside, in researching Exquisite, Suzanne Slade discovered a previously unpublished poem of Brooks’s which is included in full. For poetry lovers young and old, here is a tale of determination and creativity that was ultimately recognized by the world.

Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5

• Worldview/Moral Rating: 4
• Literary/Artistic Rating: 4.5

Above the Rim: How Elgin Baylor Changed Basketball by Jen Bryant and illustrated by Frank Morrison. Harry N. Abrams, 2020. 40 pages.

Recommended For : Ages 6-10

Elgin Baylor may not be the best known name in basketball these days, but he deserves to be. As a kid in the heavily segregated urban atmosphere of the 1940s, Elgin couldn’t at first even play on the same courts the white kids could. By his early teens, those courts were open, but with no equipment Elgin and his friends started out playing with a tennis ball. Bragging on the court wasn’t his style; he put all his energy into the game. His athletic moves and spectacular jump shots, developed on those cracked-pavement courts, eventually propelled him into the NBA–then just an upstart sports league with no huge following. Baylor’s quiet determination not only helped him perfect such moves as the running bank shot, but also stage a one-man protest when he was barred from staying in the same hotel as his Lakers teammates.

The vibrant, fluid illustrations add drama to this story of a humble hero who eschewed self-promotion and devoted himself to developing his gifts to their fullest potential.

Read more about our ratings here .

Related Reading From Redeemed Reader

• Older basketball fans might enjoy Games of Deception: The True Story of the First U.S. Olympic Basketball Team at the 1936 Olympics in Hitler’s Germany .
• A Resource : See our picture-book biographies mega-list!

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Biographies, Picture Books & Graphic Novels for Kids Ideal for Black History Month (updated 1/2024)

Celebrate Black achievement, innovation, and history during Black History Month! Our collection of picture books bring alive the stories of little-known Black heroes who have fought for justice, made new scientific discoveries, created great art and music, and made this world a better place to live.

You Are My Pride: A Love Letter from Your Motherland by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by E. B. Lewis

You Are My Pride

A Love Letter from Your Motherland

View Details

In this powerfully written and beautifully illustrated picture book by award-winning author and illustrator team Carole Boston Weatherford and E. B. Lewis, Mother Africa addresses her offspring of all colors in all corners of the earth, reminding us of our timeless bond. Two starred reviews!

Brown Sugar Babe  by Charlotte Watson Sherman, illustrated by Akem

Brown Sugar Babe

Written as a letter from a mother to her beautiful child, the inspiration for the story comes from an actual experience the author had with her daughter, who once claimed as a toddler she wanted to be pink. Brownness is a topic every parent of Black and Brown children knows they must discuss eventually. This book is an affirmation that this topic doesn’t have to be explored alone, but instead with the guidance and love of a trusted guardian.

Mermaid Kenzie: Protector of the Deeps by Charlotte Watson Sherman, illustrated by Geneva Bowers

Mermaid Kenzie

Protector of the Deeps

Beautifully written in African American Vernacular English, this poetic picture book includes back matter with information about how plastic winds up in our oceans and examples of people–some of them kids, like Kenzie–who have worked to protect the sea. Mermaid Kenzie celebrates the ways that all of us, no matter how small, can make a difference.

Graphic Novels

Garvey’s choice : the graphic novel by nikki grimes, illustrated by theodore taylor iii.

Garvey’s Choice

The Graphic Novel

A School Library Journal Best Book

Award-winning author Nikki Grimes’s beloved novel in verse Garvey’s Choice is now a graphic novel, imaginatively and dramatically illustrated by  Little Shaq  artist Theodore Taylor III. 

Garvey’s father has always wanted Garvey to be athletic, but Garvey is interested in astronomy, science fiction, reading—anything but sports. Feeling like a failure, he comforts himself with food. Garvey is kind, funny, smart, a loyal friend, and he is also overweight, teased by bullies, and lonely. When his only friend encourages him to join the school chorus, Garvey’s life changes. The chorus finds a new soloist in Garvey, and through chorus, Garvey finds a way to accept himself and a way to finally reach his distant father—by speaking the language of music instead of the language of sports.

Black Heroes of the Wild West: Featuring Stagecoach Mary, Bass Reeves, and Bob Lemmons by James Otis Smith

Exploring American history and finding diversity at its roots!

This graphic novel by James Otis Smith celebrates the extraordinary true tales of three black heroes who took control of their destinies and stood up for their communities in the Old West. Born into slavery in Tennessee, Mary Fields became famous as “Stagecoach Mary,” a cigar-chomping, cardplaying coach driver who never missed a delivery. Bass Reeves, the first black Deputy US Marshal west of the Mississippi, was one of the wiliest lawmen in the territories, bringing thousands of outlaws to justice with his smarts. Bob Lemmons lived to be 99 years old and was so good with horses that the wild mustangs on the plains of Texas took him for one of their own.

Ordinary Hazards

Born to Swing

Garvey in the Dark

Poetry and Verse

If you love rhythm, rhyme, and verse, these titles are for you.

Garvey in the Dark by Nikki Grimes

Winner, 2023 Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award

Capturing the shock and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic through the eyes of Garvey, a beloved character, Nikki Grimes’s novel in verse shows readers how to find hope in difficult times.

Carver : A Life in Poems  by Marilyn Nelson

A Life in Poems

This biography in verse was awarded a Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Author Honor award. George Washington Carver is associated with the creation of peanut butter, yet his true motivations and achievements are often left unsaid. Carver was driven by scientific curiosity, devotion to the betterment of Black Americans, and his Christian faith to discover better ways to farm. Beautiful prose and photographs throughout give readers a detailed look at Carver as a scientist, as well as the tools he used and the world he lived in.

Ordinary Hazards by Nikki Grimes

With a Printz Honor and a Sibert Honor , this memoir from award-winning author Nikki Grimes takes place during Grimes’s tumultuous childhood in the 1950s and 1960s. It gives young readers a first-person perspective to the drama of Grimes’s family’s life as it unfurls during critical moments in the Civil Rights-era New York City area.

Voices from the March on Washington by George Ella Lyon and J. Patrick Lewis

Voices from the March on Washington

A poignant collection of powerful poems weaves together multiple voices to tell the story of the March on Washington, DC, in 1963. Each character in the book brings a unique perspective to their experience of being at the march—walking shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers, hearing Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous speech, heading home inspired.

Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop

The Teachers March!

Lizzie Demands a Seat!

Non-Fiction / Historical Fiction

Fathers and Mothers of Black America

Invincible: Fathers and Mothers of Black America by Wade Hudson, illustrated by E. B. Lewis

This lyrical picture book explores the birth of Black America, focusing on the little-known men and women who fought for justice and for an America where freedom truly rang for all. We’re familiar with the founding fathers of white America, but who are the founding fathers (and mothers!) of Black America?

Evicted! The Struggle for the Right to Vote by Alice Faye Duncan, illustrated by Charly Palmer

The Struggle for the Right to Vote

Shortlist, Goddard Riverside/CBC Young People’s Book Prize for Social Justice 

With a story told through the eyes of a child, this critical civil rights book for middle-graders examines Tennessee’s Fayette County Tent City Movement in the late 1950s and reveals what is possible when people unite and fight for the right to vote. Powerfully conveyed through interconnected stories, Evicted! combines poetry, prose, and stunning illustrations to shine light on this forgotten history.

Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop : The Sanitation Strike of 1968 by Alice Faye Duncan, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie

The Sanitation Strike of 1968

Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor • Booklist Editors’ Choice • SLJ Best Book • Kirkus Best Book

This multiple award-winning picture book will help young readers understand the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. It tells the story of a nine-year-old girl who in 1968 witnessed the Memphis sanitation strike—Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final stand for justice before his assassination—when her father, a sanitation worker, participated in the protest.

Seeking Freedom : The Untold Story of Fortress Monroe and the Ending of Slavery in America written by Selene Castrovilla, illustrated by E.B. Lewis

Seeking Freedom

The Untold Story of Fortress Monroe and the Ending of Slavery in America

ALSC Notable Children’s Book • CCBC Choice title

In this dramatic Civil War story, a courageous enslaved fugitive teams up with a cunning Union general to save a Union fort from the Confederates–and triggers the end of slavery in the United States. This is the first children’s nonfiction book about the unsung Black hero who remains relevant today and to the Black Lives Matter movement. 

Buzzing with Questions

Molly, by Golly!

Biographies

Everywhere beauty is harlem : the vision of roy decarava by carole boston weatherford, illustrated by e. b. lewis.

Everywhere Beauty Is Harlem

The Vision of Photographer Roy DeCarava

A child of the Harlem Renaissance and an artistic collaborator of Langston Hughes, Roy DeCarava is an unsung hero of Black history. Convinced that the lives of ordinary Black people deserved to be immortalized and documented in photos, Roy celebrated Black people through his art, a process that the incomparable author Gary Golio and illustrator E. B. Lewis capture in this beautiful picture book.

A Long Time Coming

A Lyrical Biography of Race in America from Ona Judge to Barack Obama

A Long Time Coming: A Lyrical Biography of Race in America from Ona Judge to Barack Obama by Ray Anthony Shepard, illustrated by: R. Gregory Christie

School Library Journal Best Book • Booklist Editors’ Choice • Kirkus Reviews Best Book

This collective biography-in-verse of six important Black Americans from different eras, including Ona Judge, Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Ida B. Wells, Martin Luther King Jr., and Barack Obama, chronicles the diverse ways each fought racism and shows how much—and how little—has changed for Black Americans since our country’s founding. Three starred reviews!

Coretta’s Journey

The Life and Times of Coretta Scott King

Coretta’s Journey: The Life and Times of Coretta Scott King by Alice Faye Duncan, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie

Horn Book Fanfare Book • Center for the Studies of Multicultural Children’s Literature Best Book

Who was Coretta Scott King? Her black-veiled image at the funeral of her husband Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was moving and iconic. This book introduces readers to the woman behind the veil—a girl full of spunk and pluck, bravery and grit. Four starred reviews!

The Inquisitive Mind of Charles Henry Turner

Buzzing with Questions : The Inquisitive Mind of Charles Henry Turner  by Janice N. Harrington, illustrated by Theodore Taylor III

Called “understated, fully realized, deftly written, and utterly absorbing” in a starred School Library Journal review, this nonfiction picture book focuses on the life and discoveries of Charles Henry Turner, the first Black entomologist, and his discoveries about ants, bees, and other insects.

Rooting for Plants

The Unstoppable Charles S. Parker, Black Botanist and Collector

Rooting for Plants : The Unstoppable Charles S. Parker, Black Botanist and Collector by Janice N. Harrington, illustrated by Theodore Taylor III

Meet Charles S. Parker, an unsung yet trailblazing Black scientist who made major contributions to the fields of botany (the study of plants) and mycology (the study of fungi) in this inspiring STEM/STEAM picture book biography from the creators of  Buzzing with Questions .

Born to Swing : Lil Hardin Armstrong’s Life in Jazz  by Mara Rockliff, illustrated by Michele Wood

Lil Hardin Armstrong's Life in Jazz

Award-winning author Mara Rockliff and acclaimed illustrator Michele Wood brilliantly capture the rhythms and passions of “Hot Miss Lil” Hardin Armstrong, legendary jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader—and a female pioneer on the music stage.

Rosa’s Bus: The Ride to Civil Rights by Jo S. Kittinger, illustrated by Steven Walker

Rosa’s Bus

The Ride to Civil Rights

Like all buses in Montgomery, Alabama in the 1950s, bus #2857 was segregated: white passengers sat in the front, and Black passengers sat in the back. Bus #2857 was ordinary — until a woman named Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white passenger. Her arrest sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a major event in the Civil Rights moment, which was led by a young minister named Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. For 382 days, Black passengers chose to walk rather than ride the buses in Montgomery. This picture book is told from the point of view of the bus, telling its story from the streets where it rode, to its present home in the Henry Ford Museum.

The Teachers March! How Selma’s Teachers Changed History by Sandra Neil Wallace and Rich Wallace, illustrated by Charly Palmer

How Selma's Teachers Changed History

Booklist Editor’s Choice • NCTE Orbis Pictus Honor Book • Bank Street College of Education Best Book of the Year • A Notable Book for a Global Society • Finalist, Jane Addams Children’s Book Award

In the 1960s, Reverend F.D. Reese was a leader of the Voting Rights Movement in Selma, Alabama. As a teacher and principal, he recognized that his colleagues were greatly respected in the city. But, could he convince them to risk their jobs—and perhaps their lives—by organizing a teachers-only march to the county courthouse to demand their right to vote? Demonstrating the power of protest and standing up for a just cause, this acclaimed picture book is an exciting tribute to the educators who participated in the 1965 Selma Teachers’ March.

Lizzie Demands a Seat! : Elizabeth Jennings Fights for Streetcar Rights  by Beth Anderson, illustrated by E. B. Lewis

Elizabeth Jennings Fights for Streetcar Rights

A Bank Street College of Education Best Book of the Year • NCSS/CBC Notable Social Studies Trade Book • ILA Children’s Book Award Nonfiction Honor • Winner of Bank Street College of Education’s Flora Stieglitz Straus Award for excellence in nonfiction

This book focuses on the bravery and integrity of Elizabeth “Lizzie” Jennings, a Black schoolteacher, who in 1854 fought back when she was unjustly denied entry to a New York City streetcar, sparking the beginnings of the long struggle to gain equal rights on public transportation.

Molly, by Golly! : The Legend of Molly Williams, America’s First Female Firefighter  by Dianne Ochiltree, illustrated by Kathleen Kemly

The Legend of Molly Williams, America's First Female Firefighter

This legendary tale introduces young readers to Molly Williams, an African American cook for New York City’s Fire Company 11, who is considered to be the first known female firefighter in U.S. history. One winter day in 1818, when many of the firefighting volunteers are sick with influenza and a small wooden house is ablaze, Molly jumps into action and helps stop the blaze, proudly earning the nickname Volunteer Number 11.

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25 Picture Books for Black History Month

February is here and with it comes Black History Month !

It’s the perfect time to check out some books to read with your children about the amazing accomplishments of Black Americans both in the past and in the present.

There are so many good books available and I maxed out my library holds in a hot second (I can request 50 at a time which sounds like a lot and then is. . . not a lot at all) as I collected titles for this list.

As I’ve done more research and reading about diversity in children’s books over the past couple of years, one of the things I’ve heard a lot about Black History Month is to make sure, as you read with your children or your classroom, that you don’t only include books about slavery and the Civil Rights movement.

Certainly, those are important topics that need to be taught but Black History includes so much more than just those two things.

Look for black history books for kids that feature scientists, artists, musicians, athletes, politicians, and every other category you can think of!

Also, Charnaie from Here Wee Read , who does a ton of work around diversity and inclusion on her book site and Instagram , created the most amazing free printable resource for Black History Month with activities to do each day. It is GORGEOUS. You can download it here and print it as an engineering print ( directions for doing that here !)

25 black history month books for kids

This list of Black History Month books just scratches the surface! If you have other favorite titles, I’d be so grateful if you’d share them in the comments!

And if you’d like a printable copy of this list that you can take to your library or screenshot on your phone for easy access, just pop in your email address below and it’ll come right to your inbox!

If you liked this list about Black History Month books for kids, you might also like these posts:

• Favorite books about Martin Luther King Jr.
• Picture books about kindness and empathy
• Best biography picture books for kids

Reader Interactions

February 3, 2020 at 7:01 am

Preaching to the Chickens by Jabari Asim about John Lewis is great. (Illustrations are gorgeous too.)

February 3, 2020 at 7:35 am

Thanks for this list! A few we have read and loved. My boys LOVE Trombone Shorty. And a few are new to me. Just added several to our library hold list. One more to add — “The Plant Doctor” about George Washington Carver and his influence in the sustainable agriculture space.

February 3, 2020 at 9:13 am

We love the “I am ____” Books in our home! We have a lot of the Black History ones, and Early Presidents, and they’re such an easy way to introduce these important historical figures to kids!

February 10, 2020 at 2:08 pm

Would any books on this list work for a two-and-a-half year old with a good attention span?

February 14, 2020 at 1:41 pm

I added the ones of these we haven’t read yet to my (ever growing) library list! And you get FIFTY holds??? We get 5 per card, which is why I’m very close to getting my 2 year old a card, I need more holds!!

February 5, 2021 at 9:45 am

Thanks for the list. Even though my kids are teens now I still love teaching through picture books. I really appreciate you always doing the legwork.

February 5, 2021 at 11:28 am

Thank you for this list! These all sound great. We just checked out The ABCs of Black History by Rio Cortez. and I highly recommend it!

February 4, 2022 at 11:49 am

Another book we’ve loved is WILLIAM STILL AND HIS FREEDOM STORIES: THE FATHER OF THE UNDERGROUND RAILROAD by Don Tate https://www.peachtreebooks.com/book/william-still-and-his-freedom-stories/

February 4, 2022 at 2:03 pm

Ron’s Big Mission — black history, biography, space, libraries, story of a kid, compelling narrative, not too long — WONDERFUL book!

February 4, 2022 at 2:52 pm

The Little Piano Girl is a good one we stumbled upon at the library.

February 17, 2023 at 8:47 am

We love Derrick Barnes and Gaia Cornwell for books centering Black characters. We also read Roberto Clemente: Pride of the Pittsburgh Pirates by Jonah Winter, a picture book biography of baseball great Roberto Clemente earlier this month.

February 17, 2023 at 11:07 am

You don’t want to forget “We Are the Ship” by Kadir Nelson and “Black Diamond” by Patricia & Frederick McKissack for all those baseball fans.

February 5, 2024 at 4:51 pm

Hi! I was wondering if your image with the book covers can be used on a FaceBook Page for Rising Stars Volunteer Tutors, an affiliated ministry of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, that works to tutor at-risk students in and around Milwaukee. I would of course credit you and/or the image.Thanks for this awesome article.

February 5, 2024 at 5:50 pm

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Children's Literature - Genres/Indianapolis

• Genres/Subject Titles
• Non-fiction Picture Books
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• Martin Luther King, Jr by Joeming W. Dunn; Chris Allen (Illustrator) Call Number: e-book ISBN: 9781602701755. Publication Date: 2008-09-01 Graphic novels aren't just for superheroes! Martin Luther King Jr. has been plucked from history books and his life and accomplishments have been depicted in an informative nonfiction graphic novel. The subject's birth, childhood, education, and civil rights leadership have been skillfully told with detailed art. Further reading lists, timelines, glossaries, and indexes make these titles useful in classroom discussion. Graphic Planet is an imprint of Magic Wagon, a division of ABDO Publishing Group. Grades 3-6.

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Black History Month 2024

6 books to help young readers learn about black history.

Jaclyn Diaz

Aubri Juhasz

Desiree Mathurin

Brittni Robertson Powell, with the New Orleans-based bookstore Baldwin & Co. looks through her choice for Black History Month: I Am Ruby Bridges. Aubri Juhasz/Aubri Juhasz hide caption

Brittni Robertson Powell, with the New Orleans-based bookstore Baldwin & Co. looks through her choice for Black History Month: I Am Ruby Bridges.

Each February, the U.S. honors the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have shaped the nation. If you're struggling with the best way to educate children about Black history, this month or year-round, experts often suggest turning to literature to assist.

Books can help children engage with all kinds of history, but can be particularly helpful for the nuanced aspects of Black history, said Meg Medina, an award-winning children's author and the 2023-2024 National Ambassador of Young People's Literature.

"I think when we give kids really rich texts, and trust them with the information, trust them to be curious, allow them to follow their curiosity, we do them an enormous service," she said.

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And 2024 is a wonderful time to find the best texts to do this, Medina said.

"I tell people we are in a golden age of children's books. So many incredible people are producing really meaningful work that respects kids intelligence, respects their curiosity," she said.

Here are six picks for Black History Month reading, recommended by authors, librarians and book shop employees, appropriate for a range of ages from toddlers to teens.

Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden recommends A Library and Bright April

Dr. Carla Hayden, the nation's Librarian of Congress, holds her picks for Black History Month reading: A Library and Bright April. Jaclyn Diaz/NPR hide caption

As the Librarian of Congress, Carla Hayden oversees the national library of the United States, which contains a collection of approximately 164 million items. For Black History Month, she has two recommendations for children — firstly, A Library by Nikki Giovanni, with colorful illustrations by Erin K. Robinson.

"It's a book that I would recommend for anyone, and particularly though, in Black History Month because it features a young African American girl and she takes so many adventures through books. And to have a young African American child having those adventures in a library at this time is very significant when so many things are being challenged ," Hayden said.

"Books can do so much. And during Black History Month, I think we owe it to the young people in our lives to introduce them to that free resource: The library," Hayden said. "I'm a little prejudiced."

Hayden shows a photo of herself as a young girl who loved the book Bright April. Jaclyn Diaz hide caption

Hayden shows a photo of herself as a young girl who loved the book Bright April.

She said A Library also reminded her of her second pick, a lifelong favorite book of hers, Bright April by Marguerite de Angeli.

The book, published in 1946, is about a young African American girl named April who experiences racial prejudice for the first time. The main character has pigtails and is a Brownie — a Girl Scout in the second or third grade of elementary school — which blew the mind of a young Hayden, who also was a Brownie with pigtails.

Bright April "even now makes me smile, because it was the first time I saw myself in a book," she said. "I thought that I was April."

She now owns a well-worn copy of the book, which serves as an important reminder: "It's important during African American History Month, too, that we present materials, especially for children, where they can have windows on the world, of course, but also mirrors and they see themselves."

Brittni Robertson Powell, a bookstore program director, recommends I Am Ruby Bridges

Brittni Robertson Powell, with the bookstore Baldwin & Co. in New Orleans, holds her pick, I Am Ruby Bridges. Aubri Juhasz/Aubri Juhasz hide caption

"I didn't know what being the first really meant until the day I arrived," Ruby Bridges writes in I Am Ruby Bridges , channeling the voice of her 6-year-old self.

Brittni Robertson Powell, program director for the New Orleans bookstore Baldwin & Co. , said she picked the picture book to highlight her hometown's not-so-distant history.

"Ruby is younger than my mom," Robertson Powell said. "How is that possible?"

Robertson Powell said she and her 10-year-old son regularly drive past the New Orleans elementary school Bridges integrated in 1960 in the wake of Brown v. Board of Education.

"I told him, 'This is where it happened.' He cannot fathom that," she said.

They recently read Bridge's book together, and since then, he's been applying the story to his own life, she said. When someone didn't want to play with him recently, "He was like, 'I wonder if that's how Ruby felt?," she said.

Robertson Powell likes the lessons the book teaches — among them, to be confident, be kind and accept people who are different from you.

"I'm glad she's penned it because it's being told by her, as opposed to other individuals who want to tell her story," she said.

The importance of telling your own story, she said, is an important lesson for kids. too.

Meg Medina, children's book author, recommends Schomburg: The Man Who Built A Library

Meg Medina, the 2023 – 2024 National Ambassador of Young People's Literature and a children's author, holds her book choice for Black History Month. Meg Medina hide caption

Picture books aren't just for little kids, said Meg Medina.

That's partially why she chose Carole Boston Weatherford's book Schomburg: The Man Who Built A Library.

"Even though it is a picture book, I think we should think about picture books as everybody books, especially a book like this," she said.

The book tells the story of Arturo Schomburg, a historian, writer, book collector and activist who lived during the Harlem Renaissance.

As a child, he asked a teacher why the class wasn't learning about the contributions of Black men and women to their country. The teacher told him that Black culture had nothing worthy to preserve.

"And that horrible statement stayed with him and fueled his lifelong passion for discovering, documenting and collecting proof and evidence of Black greatness across the globe," Medina said.

Schomburg's initial collection of around 5,000 items eventually led to the creation of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, a research library within the New York Public Library which now holds about 11 million items.

The book highlights some of the many people that Schomburg collected books and other items about, including Frederick Douglass and Phillis Wheatley , who is considered the first African-American author of a published book of poetry.

He was also from Puerto Rico, born of African and German descent, so the book highlights Afro-Latino history and identity as well.

"I love the idea of intersecting identities, which sometimes get cast aside when when we're forcing people to sort of think of their identity as one thing or another," Medina said.

Medina said the book is a springboard for learning about a man who wanted to discover the truth about his culture and its contributions. From there, the reader can learn about the many other people Schomburg highlights in his collection.

The depth of contributions of Black Americans to the country's history and greatness are vast, Medina said. "I think kids deserve to know those things and deserve to learn about it and at least have the information so that they themselves can become little Arturo Schomburgs."

Juno Kling, a Denver teen librarian, recommends The Black Kids

Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library teen librarian Juno Kling holds some of her favorite books. Jan. 16, 2024. Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite hide caption

The Black Kids by Christina Hammonds Reed follows a Black teenager named Ashley, who attends a predominantly white high school in Los Angeles and has lived a fairly cushioned life. Then, her world is upended by the Rodney King riots, which broke out in 1992 after four L.A. policemen, three of whom were white, were acquitted for the brutal beating of King, a Black man. Afterwards, Ashley is left questioning her life, identity and her position in society.

"I feel like it's kind of an untold story because it talks about the intersection of race and class," said Juno Kling, a teen librarian at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library in Denver.

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Kling said she recommends the book for teens ages 14 through 18, because it's easy for readers to relate to Ashley, since the book reads like a memoir or autobiography. While the King riots might be a heavy topic, Kling said reading about these issues through Ashley's eyes gives people a "safe way to interface with those difficult topics."

"These are lived experiences that teens have and they deserve to see themselves represented," Kling said. "For teens who don't share those identities, they deserve to know what their peers are going through and be able to have an understanding of that."

The book also touches on how teens inadvertently find themselves in the middle of political issues, Kling said.

"You might not set out to be an activist and be a voice but sometimes events happen in real life and you have to step up and talk about those things," Kling said. "That's one of my favorite things about working with teens is the way that they're starting to find those issues that are really key and important to them...That's the age where your identities start to get politicized and you have to react to that."

Jameka Lewis, a Denver library branch manager, recommends ABC Black History and Me

Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library senior librarian Jameka Lewis holds some of her favorite books. Jan. 16, 2024. Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite hide caption

ABC Black History and Me by Queenbe Monyei is a classic ABC picture book, featuring Black historical figures for to each letter of the alphabet.

Jameka Lewis, the branch supervisor at the Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library, recommends the book for children under the age of 5, because it's geared toward learning the alphabet while also introducing young minds to key figures in history.

"I think it's really important that kids are able to kind of put a face with a name," she said.

It's also one of the few board books — tough enough to withstand a toddler's hands and mouth — that she's come across that feature Black characters, she said.

Lewis also loves the illustrations of the historical figures, because they show a wide variety of Black skin tones.

"This book does a really good job of just highlighting how diverse and how eclectic and how unique Black people are, in different industries and in different ways that we've made history," she said

Lewis said her favorite letter in the book is "P" for president, which features former President Barack Obama and current Vice President Kamala Harris.

Desiree Mathurin is a reporter with Denverite, part of Colorado Public Radio. Aubri Juhasz is an education reporter with WWNO in New Orleans. This story is part of NPR's collaborative initiative with member stations.

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Black History Month: Picture Book Biographies

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Your current subscription allows you to be actively logged in on up to three (3) devices simultaneously. click on continue below to log out of other sessions and log in on this device., 20 picture books to celebrate black artists this black history month and year round.

The theme for Black History Month 2024 is "African Americans and the Arts. "  In these titles, young readers can learn about people who loved to express themselves through visual art, dance, song, and other forms of artistic creation.

Little Rosetta and the Talking Guitar: The Musical Story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Woman Who Invented Rock and Roll by Charnelle Pinkney Barlow. illus. by author. Doubleday. ISBN 9780593571071.  Gr 2-6 –This recounting of Rosetta Tharpe’s life sets itself apart by focusing on the period in her early childhood when she learned to play guitar, and the close relationship she had with her mother, both of which greatly influenced her larger life story.  VERDICT An overdue narrative of one of early rock’s most influential figures, and an additional purchase for most biography collections.

Rock, Rosetta, Rock! Roll, Rosetta, Roll!: Presenting Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Godmother of Rock & Roll by Tonya Bolden. illus. by R. Gregory Christie. HarperCollins. ISBN 9780062994387.  Gr 1-4 –Rosetta Tharpe was an American singer and guitarist who rose up in gospel music and broke into the mainstream of American music in the 1930s and 1940s. Told in free verse, this picture book biography chronicles her life.  VERDICT A fresh and female addition to the music legend canon. Purchase where picture book biographies, especially those about musicians/rock history, circulate well.

Miles of Style: Eunice W. Johnson and the EBONY Fashion Fair by Lisa D Brathwaite. illus. by Lynn Gaines. Lee & Low. ISBN 9781620143124.  Gr 1-5 –Eunice Walker Johnson loved fashion. She and her husband John, observing that newspapers and magazines didn’t show Black people in a favorable light, set out to change that by forming the Johnson Publishing Company.  EBONY , named for the precious black-colored wood, was the company’s second publication. Johnson shared her long-lasting love of fashion and design in a column called “Fashion Fair.”  VERDICT This informative biography will be an excellent addition to Black history collections, the fashion shelves, or any celebration of innovators of the 20th century.

Ordinary Days: The Seeds, Sound, and City That Grew Prince Rogers Nelson by Angela Joy. illus. by Jacqueline Alcántara. ­Roaring Brook. ISBN 9781250797032.  PreS-Gr   3 –The formula for biographies aimed at children can feel stale after a while: a person is born, overcomes hardship, and succeeds. This is a fresh take, expertly marrying pictures and text to the spirit of legendary musician Prince. Details of Prince’s life are told through swirling purple-tinged pictures. This frees up the text to take on a more lyrical slant.  VERDICT This is a bold biography, finding inspiration from the subject and universalizing Prince’s creativity through a gentle approach. It’s perfect for elementary schools, especially as applied to music and art.

You Gotta Meet Mr. Pierce!: The Storied Life of Folk Artist Elijah Pierce by Chiquita Mullins Lee & Carmella Van Vleet. illus. by Jennifer Mack-Watkins. Penguin/Kokila. ISBN 9780593406502.  Gr 1-4 –Elijah Pierce was an African American folk artist whose work was discovered by the art world late in life. His wood carvings, voice, and representation within the African American community are valuable.  VERDICT A quality selection for informational books about artists and BIPOC individuals, this is likely to spark some real love in conversations surrounding the role of folk art, community outposts such as neighborhood barbershops, and more.

Legends of Hip-Hop: Queen Latifah: An A-B-C Biography by Pen Ken. illus. by Saxton Moore. HarperFestival. ISBN 9780063234291. Gr 1-4 –Legendary rapper, singer, actor, and more, Queen Latifah is an entertainment powerhouse. In this installment of a new early concept board book series, “Legends of Hip-Hop,” Ken takes readers from A to Z through her rise to fame.  VERDICT Despite some flaws, the queen of hip-hop will move children to dream big in this upbeat alphabet board book.

Mary’s Idea by Chris Raschka. illus. by author. Greenwillow. ISBN 9780063210509.  PreS-K –It is rare to discover a picture book biography that is accessible to very young children, but this is one such story. Very few words are used throughout the book; every phrase reinforces the fact that the decisions Williams made in her life were her own.  VERDICT This is a widely accessible introductory biography of a lesser-known pianist from 20th-century America.

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