Books to Read During Black History Month

Kids of all ages can learn during Black History Month from books that tackle history five years ago or 50. 

Check these out at your local library or bring them home from the neighborhood bookstore to read this February.

Parker Looks Up: An Extraordinary Moment by Jessica Curry & Parker Curry

Parker is visiting a museum with her family when she discovers Amy Sherald’s portrait of First Lady Michelle Obama. But to Parker, she sees a queen. Find out how this painting encounter becomes an impactful moment for a young girl. Best for ages 4-8.

Bedtime Inspirational Stories: 50 Amazing Black People Who Changed The World by L. A. Amber

Short stories make easy reading for parents or young learners. Each tale contains questions — like “Have you ever heard of a place called Haiti?” or “Are you courageous?” — that kids can answer and learn about historical figures. From Thomas L. Jennings (the inventor of dry cleaning) to Jackie Joyner-Kersee, kids have a chance to see themselves in each story. Best for ages 4-8.

Ride to Remember: A Civil Rights Story by Amy Nathan and Sharon Langley

Based on a true story, this book shares the story of a community that worked together to peacefully fight integration for the Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in Maryland. Co-author Sharon Langley was the first African-American child to ride the carousel. Best for ages 6-9.

If You Were A Kid During The Civil Rights Movement by Gwendolyn Hooks & Kelly Kennedy

Kids will get a primer on segregation as a youngster starts a new school and another is trying to learn about demonstrations through her older brothers. By using characters the same age as the reader, youngsters can put themselves in the shoes of a segregated student. Best for ages 6-10.

Changing the Equation: 50+ US Black Women in STEM by Tonya Bolden

There are so many Black women in the United States that have changed the STEM world. Now you can read about more than 50 of these extraordinary women in this inspiring book celebrating their accomplishments. Best for ages 10-14. 

The Watsons Go To Birmingham – 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis

Winner of the Newberry and Coretta Scott King awards, this is the tale of a summer trip from Michigan to Alabama in the midst of the Civil Rights Movement. The family happens to be in Birmingham when Grandma’s church is blown up. Best for tweens and teens.

Looking for more information and resources for Black History Month? Check out the Talking About Race page at MetroParent.com.