6 Must Read Kids Books for Black History Month

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February is Black History Month, a time to honor the triumphs and struggles of African-Americans throughout U.S History. Here are 6 Must-Read kids books celebrating the African-American women and men who shaped history!

 

It’s Her Story Josephine Baker: A Graphic Novel

“An engaging tribute to an extraordinary woman…” 

— LoveReading4Kids

Josephine Baker left a segregated America in 1925 and became the most famous entertainer in Paris, France. She went on to be the first Black woman to star in a movie, a volunteer spy during World War II, and the mother of twelve adopted children from around the world. Then, she returned to the States to dance for American audiences and bring her voice to the Civil Rights Movement. This is her story.

Buy it here: It’s Her Story Josephine Baker: A Graphic Novel

Black Swans

“… a super collection of mini biographies of black dancers, detailing some of the barriers they had to overcome to achieve their dream of dancing.” —Reading Zone

The stories of six daring, groundbreaking Black ballet dancers leap off the pages of this beautifully illustrated nonfiction picture book. Meet Essie Marie Dorsey, who in 1926 opened one of the first ballet schools for Black students; Arthur Mitchell, the first Black dancer with the New York City Ballet; Christian Holder, a principal dancer with the Joffrey Ballet; choreographer Dwight Rhoden; and present-day ballerinas Misty Copeland and Michaela DePrince. With a leap of faith and a love of dance, these Black Swans overcame obstacles and opened doors for all the children who dream of dancing.

Buy it here: Black Swans

It’s Her Story Shirley Chisholm: A Graphic Novel

“An interesting portrait of an American mover and shaker refreshingly presented in graphic novel format.” — Kirkus Reviews

Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress, where she served for seven terms. She worked to improve the lives of children in need and was an outspoken champion of women’s rights. In 1972, she was the first Black person ever to seek the nomination of President of the United States from a major party. This is her story.

Buy it here: It’s Her Story Shirley Chisholm: A Graphic Novel

A Stitch Through Time

“… boldly colored, digitally airbrushed illustrations, featuring figures of varying skin tones in this educational primer centering fashion.” — Publishers Weekly

What’s inside Aunt Jo’s treasure chest? That’s what Ava wants to know. Then, one night, Aunt Jo hands her the key…and the two take a magical journey back in time to visit three daring, gifted, and visionary Black fashion designers: Elizabeth Keckley, a former slave who became one of the most celebrated designers of her time and personal friend of Mary Todd Lincoln; Ann Cole Lowe, a designer for Jackie Kennedy; and Mildred Blount, milliner to the stars! The bold achievements of these inspiring women of history are celebrated in this fashion fairy tale that spotlights iconic style moments…and sparks a child’s imagination.

Buy it here: A Stitch Through Time

Its Her Story Ida B. Wells: A Graphic Novel

“A sweeping and inspiring young readers’ introduction to Ida B. Wells.” —Kirkus Reviews

Ida B. Wells was a groundbreaking journalist and civil rights activist in the decades after the Civil War. She worked fiercely for the equal treatment of Black people in schools, in society, and at the voting booth. With her powerful voice, she spoke out against injustice wherever she saw it. This is her story.

 Buy it here: It’s Her Story Ida B. Wells: A Graphic Novel

Its Her Story Rosa Parks: A Graphic Novel

“Rosa’s story is brought to life for a young audience in this wonderfully accessible picture book…” — Book Trust

Rosa Parks was the courageous thinker and leader known as the Mother of the Civil Rights Movement. Long before the Montgomery Bus Boycott made her famous, she was a social justice activist and organizer. In honor of her work, she received a Congressional Gold Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. This is her story.

 

Buy it here: It’s Her Story Rosa Parks: A Graphic Novel

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