These fiction and nonfiction books star Black children expressing their self-confidence, displaying tender moments with family, and just being their wonderful extraordinary everyday selves. Read on for some excellent titles that can (and should!) be enjoyed year-round.
Hey Black Child by Useni Eugene Perkins
An empowering story that celebrates Black children and seeks to inspire all young ones to dream big and achieve their goals. Ages 4-8.
My People by Langston Hughes
A tribute to the glory, the beauty, and the soul of being a Black American. Ages 4-8.
Woke Baby by Mahogany L. Browne
Woke babies are up early. Woke babies raise their fists in the air. Woke babies cry out for justice. Woke babies grow up to change the world. This lyrical and empowering book is both a celebration of what it means to be a baby and what it means to be woke. With bright, playful art, Woke Baby is an anthem of hope in a world where the only limit to a skyscraper is more blue. Ages 0-3.
Black is a Rainbow Color by Angela Joy
From the wheels on a bicycle to the robe on Thurgood Marshall's back, Black surrounds our lives. It is a color to simply describe some of our favorite things, but it also evokes a deeper sentiment about the incredible people who helped change the world and a community that continues to grow and survive. Ages 4-8.
All Because You Matter by Tami Charles
All Because You Matter is a lyrical, heart-lifting love letter to black and brown children everywhere: reminding them how much they matter, that they have always mattered, and they always will. Ages 4-8. Also available as an eBook.
I Am Enough by Grace Byers
We are all here for a purpose. We are more than enough. We just need to believe it. This gorgeous, lyrical ode to loving who you are, respecting others, and being kind to one another comes from Empire actor and activist Grace Byers and talented newcomer artist Keturah A. Bobo. Ages 4-8.
Welcome to the Party by Gabrielle Union
A festive and universal love letter from parents to little ones, perfect for welcoming a baby to the party of life! Ages 4-8.
Bedtime for Sweet Creatures by Nikki Grimes
A beloved and very sleepy little boy resists his mother's efforts to put him to bed. Ages 4-8.
You Matter by Christian Robinson
Illustrations and easy-to-read text remind the reader that no matter what happens or how one feels, he or she matters. Ages 4-8.
