It's Black History Month and we're really proud that our kids have been coming home from school full of chat and enthusiasm about what they've been learning about this essential topic over the past few weeks. They've been teaching us a thing or two too! To keep up the momentum, we're busy adding these books to their home reading library, all of which feature Black characters, role models and underlying messages to bring about a bit of much needed understanding and harmony.
1. Not My Idea: A Book About Whiteness
Anastasia Higginbotham
This picture book focuses on racism and racial justice, inviting White children (age eight to 12 years) and their parents to accept that racism is real and deals with how to cultivate justice.
2. The Youngest Marcher
Cynthia Levinson
A moving picture book (for kids age five to eight years) that proves you’re never too little to make a difference. Nine-year-old Audrey Faye Hendricks had only intended to go places and do things like anybody else, but ended up being the youngest civil rights protester to ever be arrested...
3. Resist: 25 Profiles of Ordinary People Who Rose Up Against Tyranny and Injustice
Veronica Chambers
A perfect tool for young readers (age nine to 12 years) as they grow into the leaders of tomorrow, Veronica Chambers’s inspiring collection of profiles—along with Senator Cory Booker’s stirring foreword—will inspire readers of all ages to stand up for what’s right.
4. Let It Shine: Stories of Black Women Freedom Fighters
Andrea Davis Pinkney
Suitable for kids age six to nine years, this tells the stories of 10 Black women activists and their tales of courage in the face of oppression, and about speaking out for their beliefs, even when it felt like no one was listening.
5. My Hair Is A Garden
Cozbi A. Cabrera
After a day of being taunted by classmates about her unruly hair, Mackenzie cant take any more so seeks guidance from her wise and comforting neighbour, Miss Tillie. And Miss Tillie has a thing or two to say when it comes to teaching Mackenzie how beautiful her hair really is. Suitable for kids age five to eight years.
6. The New Small Person
Lauren Childs
We're big fans of the Charlie and Lola series, but Lauren Childs has plenty of other cool reads including this one, aimed at kids age three to six years, to get busy with. An endearing tale featuring Elmore Green, an only child who suddenly has to share his life with a new sibling...
7. Look Up!
Nathan Byron and Dapo Adeola
Perfect for small, wannabe astronauts, this lovely picture books for kids age three to seven years, tells the story of Rocket: a little girl who wants to be an astronaut when she grows up, just like her hero, Mae Jemison, the first African-American woman who went into space.
8. Blackberry Blue
Jamila Gavin
Written for older kids age nine to 12 years, this collection of beautifully written stories leads readers into a magical world of talking animals, wicked witches, enchanted forests and plenty of magic, following Blackberry Blue as she stumbles through a whole heap amazing adventures.
9. Fly Me Home
Polly Ho-Yen
Leelu dreams of flying back to her father and a life she left behind to move to a new country. She hates London and is tired of feeling lonely... until that is she realises someone is leaving her wondrous gifts that bring her magical powers. An unforgettable tale of one family's battle to belong, this was written with nine to 11 year olds in mind.
10. Last Stop On Market Street
Matt de la Pena
This award-winning picture book is about CJ, who doesn't want to ride the bus across town with his grandma, and wonders why he doesn't have a car like his friend. But CJ's dissatisfaction with his life soon get put into perspective by his supportive grandma, who helps him to see the beauty and fun in their world. Little ones age three to six years will love this.
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