As your kids work on biographical reports or wax museum presentations, encourage them to dig into the lives of some of the country’s best-known African-Americans. You’ll find an assortment of inspirational accounts in the following biography series and stand-alone titles featuring famous African-Americans.
1. Elementary Grades: Amazing Athletes
The Amazing Athletes set appeals to newly independent readers, particularly those in second through fifth grade. Colorful covers and abundant photographs are just right for hooking this age group, and sports fans will find the series especially appealing. The collection’s top African-American biographies include Russell Wilson, Serena Williams, and Gabby Douglas.
2. Middle Grades: Gateway Biographies
Somewhat older readers can dive into Gateway Biographies instead. These titles for fourth through eighth graders cover well-known people from all walks of life. In John Lewis: Courage in Action and Martin Luther King Jr., Walking in the Light, kids will learn about prominent figures from the Civil Rights Movement.
Muhammad Ali: The Greatest covers a well-known African-American athlete, and Michael Jackson: Ultimate Music Legend is a top choice for music fans.
3. Reluctant Readers: Athletes Who Made a Difference
Kids who shy away from regular books may be drawn in by the plentiful illustrations and limited text of graphic novels. The Athletes Who Made a Difference series relies on a graphic style to teach upper-elementary kids about must-know sports stars. Jesse Owens and Jackie Robinson will introduce young readers to impressive athletes from a few generations back. For a star from more recent headlines, check out Colin Kaepernick.
4. Female Inspiration: Boss Lady Bios
All children should read about incredible women. The Boss Lady Bios series draws attention to an assortment of famous females from diverse backgrounds. In Mae Jemison: Trailblazing Astronaut, kids can read about a STEM hero. Misty Copeland: Principal Ballerina features a dancing queen, and Serena Williams: Tennis Superstar talks about this athlete’s success on and off the court.
5. Additional Must-Read Biographies
Do your kids need additional suggestions for African-American biography books? For a look at a famous Black American of the past, young readers can handle the short chapters in Benjamin Banneker: Pioneering Scientist. Teens may be ready for the firsthand account in Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass: An American Slave.
NASA Mathematician Katherine Johnson highlights a monumental figure from the not-so-distant past, and Beyoncé: R & B Superstar features a powerful musician who’s still going strong today.
Don’t forget that LightSail’s Biography Center offers a treasure trove of encyclopedia articles about famous people. Also, the African-American History Classics Unit Study will get your students started with a variety of autobiographies, videos, and other resources.
Posted on 2.Feb.22 in Book Recommendations
