Black History Month Children’s Book List

(early elementary, grade K)

Tosh learns about his family’s history from his grandmother while making tea cakes together. This book illuminates the power of food as a means of storytelling and connecting across generations.

(early elementary, grades K-2)

This book shares the story of Charles Henry Turner, remembering how he never stopped asking questions and doing what he could to answer them. He ultimately became one of the leading African American scientists of his time, encouraging and mentoring other young students of color – and always, learning and asking questions.

(4-8 years, grades K-2)

Where’s Rodney? follows a young boy who struggles in a traditional classroom. He wants to be outside! This story recognizes how children learn differently, and how impactful outside experiences can be.

Video of Author Read Aloud 

(all ages of elementary)

This story is a beautiful picture book that celebrates differences between people, whether it be a difference of race, religion, ability, or background, as strengths within a community.

(early elementary, grades 1-4)

This book shares the story of well-known writer Zora Neale Hurston, and what she learned from her mother as a child – that her dreams are always within reach.

(6-12 years, grades 1-5)

Will Allen turns an abandoned city lot into a farm to feed his community. With the support of his community, red wiggler worms, and the ability to see what others can’t, Will Allen does what he can to share food and knowledge.

*Common Threads will publish a read aloud video of this book in late February*

(early elementary, grades 1-5)

Author Jacqueline Woodson empathizes with the experience of feeling different, using this to empower children to embrace their uniqueness as a beautiful strength. This story shows kids that being themselves can lead to building connections and relationships they may not have previously thought possible.

Video of Author Read Aloud

(8-12 years, grades 3-5)

Michael is in a new city at a new school and feeling lonely. Yet when he discovers the school garden this all changes. Learning in the garden becomes a source of joy and acceptance for Michael.

(upper elementary, grades 3-5)

This book shares the story of Lilly Ann, an enslaved woman who taught hundreds of others to read and write in secret. Lilly Ann’s story shows how powerful an education can be.

(upper elementary)

A Sweet Smell of Roses follows two young girls as they sneak out of their house to join a march for freedom. This story offers readers a glimpse into an important historical moment from a youth perspective, offering insight into the role of children during the civil rights movement.

(upper elementary)

This story illuminates the strength and courage of thousands of enslaved people during the civil war as they escaped their owners in the south by fleeing to the north where they developed contraband (refugee) camps. These camps became the first Black communities in the US.