Black History is U.S. history! That’s true all year long, and Black History Month offers a time to curate displays, activities, and events that engage families and young learners. From picture book bios to graphic novels, here are five titles that bring Black History Month to life for library patrons of all ages.
How Sweet the Sound by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Charly Palmer. This stunning informational picture book explores the influences of Black artists and traditions, on American musical history, from gospel and jazz to hip-hop and more with bold art that brings the lyrical text to vivid life.
Go Tell It: How James Baldwin Became a Writer by Quartez Harris, illustrated by Gordon C. James. A gorgeously illustrated picture book biography that introduces the extraordinary literary life of Baldwin to young readers.
Rooting for Plants: The Unstoppable Charles S. Parker, Black Botanist and Collector by Janice N. Harrington, illustrated by Theodore Taylor III. Young readers will grow their knowledge and love of plants when they meet this trailblazer, professor, and scientist! (Bonus book: from the same team of Buzzing with Questions: The Inquisitive Mind of Charles Henry Turner).
One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia, illustrated by Sharee Miller. Three sisters from Brooklyn, NY head to Oakland, California in the summer of 1968 to visit their mother, and Williams-Garcia’s critically-acclaimed, award winning novel has been reintroduced in graphic novel format.
Through the Telescope: Mae Jemison Dreams of Space by Charles R. Smith, Jr., illustrated by Evening Monteiro. A storytime-ready picture book that glimpses at the wonder inspired by the stars, with backmatter that highlights Jemison’s accomplishments.
If you’re reading aloud, consider adding a STEAM program tie-in to build in hands on exploration and craft to inspire a generation of scientists, musicians, writers, and scholars. Explore the educator resources from the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), that include book recommendations for 3rd – 12th grade, early childhood downloadables, and more. Check out this recent ALSC blog for more Black History Month programming ideas.
ALSC Core Competencies: I. Commitment to Client Group IV. Collection Knowledge and Management
Cover art courtesy of Quill Tree Books and Calkins Creek