African-American culture is diverse, historical, rich, and worth exploring with all children. But where do you even start when it comes to sharing different views of cultural and historical events? With books, of course! Picture books offer young kids — and family members of all ages — meaningful looks at African-American life and culture with content appropriate for their age and developmental level.
1. Books to Build Confidence
Growing up involves getting to know yourself. As parents, we want our kids to discover that they are incredible people with passions, gifts, and unique attributes. We want them to love who they are, and many books contain messages that can help. The picture books Hair Story, Looking Like Me, and A Girl Like Me feature confident Black characters. The Thing About Bees is a powerful message from a parent to a child.
2. Books About Days Gone By
African-American culture has roots that go back for centuries, but stories about noteworthy Black people haven’t always made it into mainstream textbooks. With African-American picture books, you can make sure that your kids gain a better appreciation for Black history.
Mumbet’s Declaration of Independence is set in colonial times. Like a Bird reflects on the music of enslaved people, and Overground Railroad introduces kids to the Great Migration.
Unspeakable tells the story of the Tulsa Race Massacre on a child’s level, and Ruth and the Green Book covers Jim Crow laws. Martin and Anne talks about the early life of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
The incredible illustrations coupled with historical truths make these picture books valuable reads for students of any age…and even adults!
3. Books by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson
If you’re looking for picture books by Black authors, be sure to check out Vaunda Micheaux Nelson. She’s a prolific writer with powerful stories to tell. LightSail’s collection of picture books by Nelson includes Let ‘Er Buck!, The Book Itch, Don’t Call Me Grandma, Bad News for Outlaws, and Juneteenth. Through Nelson’s captivating books, kids will learn important lessons about African-American history and culture while experiencing the richness of illustrations.
4. Books about Art and Culture
Do your kids start to sway and bob whenever they hear a catchy tune? If so, they may latch right onto books about music and musicians. Strange Fruit and The 5 O’Clock Band are two top choices. Strange Fruit contains some sensitive content that might not be appropriate for younger children. We recommending prereading before you share this book.
Of course, African-American contributions to art and culture don’t stop at music. Rise! provides a beautiful introduction to poet Maya Angelou.
Explore the LightSail libraries to find these resources and other picture books and audiobooks about African-American culture.
Posted on 2.Feb.22 in Book Recommendations
