Books for Young Readers During Black History Month

We encourage you to share these stories with the young person in your life this Black History Month.

We encourage you to share these stories with the young person in your life this Black History Month. 

Ages 4 and up

Swing Sisters book cover

Swing Sisters by Karen Deans

This colorful picture book tells the story of Dr. Laurence Clifton Jones and the young musicians he helped break barriers of discrimination through swing music. 

Fancy Party Gowns: The Story of Fashion Designer Ann Cole Lowe book cover

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

The life of Ann Cole Lowe is told with colorful illustrations giving life to the little known fashion designer who faced adversity and designed for the wives of presidents. 

I Am Enough book cover

I Am Enough By Grace Byers

Inspires children to love who they are, reinforcing lessons of kindness and respectfulness.

Skin Like Mine book cover

Skin Like Mine by LaTashia Perry

This picture book celebrates diversity among youth. 

Ages 5 and up

Heart and Soul book cover

Heart & Soul: The Story of American and African-Americans by Kadir Nelson

This narrative chronicles the contributions of African Americans from the beginning of American history until the presidency of Barak Obama. 

Ages 7 and up

The 1619 Project: Born on the Water book cover

The 1619 Project: Born on the Water by Nikole Hannah Jones

Through beautiful illustrations and poetic prose, this book chronicles slavery and the aftermath of it as told through the lens of a child uncovering their own family history.

Playing to Win book cover

Playing to Win by Karen Deans

Tells the story of tennis legend Althea Gibson. 

Ages 8 and up

What Color is My World? book cover

What Color Is My World?: The Lost History of African American Inventors by Kareem Abdul Jabar

Throughout this book readers will learn about inventions, scientific and medical discoveries from African Americans whose creations impact our everyday life.  

Ages 8-12

Little Leaders book cover

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison

Youth will be inspired by the stories of 40 trailblazing women in American history. 

Ages 9-13

Black Boy Joy book cover

Black Boy Joy: 17 Stories Celebrating Black Boyhood by Kwame Mabalia 

Readers discover the meaning of black boy joy in 17 short stories sure to make you smile.