Celebrate the richness of Black History Month with inspiring reads! This month, delve into the world of captivating stories from talented black authors. Grab some exceptional literature that's perfect for you and your young ones. Dive into moments of joy, wisdom, and adventure — all while commemorating the heritage and achievements of the black community. It's a chance to not only read but also to share in the collective cultural narrative. Make this Black History Month come alive with the conversation expanded and bonds strengthened through the power of books.
Book List:
Hair Love by Matthew Cherry & Vashti Harrison (2019)
Based on the Oscar-winning short film, this is the story of Zuri, her dad, and her hair. Zuri's hair is beautiful, but it can have a mind of its own. For a special occasion, Zuri and her daddy need to work together to style her hair, and show that natural is brilliant! A wonderful book that celebrates the love of fathers and daughters, as well as putting black hair front and center.
Recommended reading age: 5-7 years
Link to Book and Oscar Nominated short film
How High the Moon by Karyn Parsons (2019)
Bullied for her light skin tone and missing her absent mother, life isn’t always sunny for 12-year-old Ella, growing up in segregated Alcolu in 1944. So, she’s ecstatic when her mother – pursuing her jazz singer dreams in Boston – invites her for Christmas. But whilst there, Ella discovers the secrets of her mother and the father she never knew – and her most unexpected family history. Upon her return to the South a month later, life changes even more with the news that her classmate has been arrested for the murder of two local white girls. Nothing will ever be the same…
Recommended reading age: 9-12 years old
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison (2018)
From singer Ella Fitzgerald to abolitionist Sojourner Truth, pilot Bessie Coleman to poet Maya Angelou and so many more, this educational and inspirational book features biographies of forty trailblazing black women in history. They may not have always been accepted, but with their powerful voices, extraordinary actions, and unswayable beliefs, each one has made the world a better place for generations to come. These brave, bold black women broke boundaries and exceeded all expectations – their stories demand to be told.
Recommended reading age: 5-7 years old
Pig-Heart Boy by Malorie Blackman (2004)
When you’re 13, you just want a normal life. To be like all the other teenagers, doing normal things. But most teenagers don’t need heart transplants. You’re the unlucky one. You think there’s no chance to live an ordinary life… but what if you’re wrong? What if there’s a doctor who says there might be a chance for you – though it’s risky. It’s experimental and controversial – and it’s never been done before… A powerful, thought-provoking story from the brilliant, award-winning Malorie Blackman, shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal.
Recommended reading age: 9-11 years old
Black in Time by Alison Hammond & E. L. Norry (2022)
Get ready to take a trip back in time with TV presenter Alison Hammond as she takes a look at some of the great Black people who have helped shape the world. From writers Olaudah Equiano and Phillis Wheatley to thespian Ira Aldridge, you'll read all about the interesting life stories of these brilliant people from the past as well as some of the amazing feats being made by Black Britons today.
Recommended reading age: 9-11 years old