Black History Month is an opportunity to celebrate the stories, voices, and achievements that have shaped our country and children’s books are one of the most powerful ways to begin those conversations at home. Reading together helps kids build empathy, understand history, and see themselves reflected in the pages they turn. This list of 15 children’s books highlights inspiring leaders, important moments, and powerful stories that honor Black history, not just in February, but all year long.
Jonah Winter & Shane E. Evans
Lillian’s Right to Vote
This powerful story follows a 100-year-old woman as she climbs a hill to vote, reflecting on her family’s history from slavery to the Civil Rights Movement. It’s an inspiring introduction to voting rights and perseverance for young readers.
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Paula Young Shelton & Raul Colon
A Child of the Civil Rights Movement
Told through a child’s perspective, this memoir shares what it was like growing up in a family deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement. It’s an honest, age-appropriate look at activism, courage, and standing up for justice.
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Jonah Winter & Shane E. Evans
How Do You Spell Unfair?: MacNolia Cox and the National Spelling Bee
This true story follows MacNolia Cox, a brilliant young speller who faced racism at the 1936 National Spelling Bee. It’s a powerful look at injustice, resilience, and a young girl who refused to let discrimination define her.
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Michelle Lord
Patricia’s Vision: The Doctor Who Saved Sight
This inspiring picture book tells the story of Dr. Patricia Bath, a groundbreaking ophthalmologist who invented a device to help restore sight. It’s an empowering read about perseverance, innovation, and breaking barriers in medicine.
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Rio Cortez
ABC’s of Black History Month
A rhythmic and engaging alphabet book that introduces kids to important figures, moments, and themes in Black history. It’s a powerful, accessible way to spark meaningful conversations with young readers.
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Educational Parade
The Story of Us: Why Black History is American History
This engaging and accessible book shows how Black history is deeply woven into the story of America. It helps young readers understand that Black history isn’t separate — it’s essential to our shared national story.
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Kimberly Brown Pellum, PhD
Black Women in Science
This inspiring book highlights groundbreaking Black women scientists whose contributions have shaped medicine, technology, and research. It’s an empowering celebration of innovation, brilliance, and representation in STEM.
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Don Tate
William Still and His Freedom Story: The Father of the Underground Railroad
This powerful biography introduces young readers to William Still, a key figure of the Underground Railroad who documented the stories of those escaping slavery and helped reunite families.
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Ebony Joy Wilkins
5 Minute Genius Stories: Simone Biles
This short, engaging biography introduces kids to Simone Biles’ journey to becoming one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, highlighting perseverance, confidence, and hard work.
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Katheryn Russell-Brown
She Was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm
This inspiring biography introduces young readers to Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress, and celebrates her courage, leadership, and commitment to equality.
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Vashti Harrison
Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History
This beautifully illustrated collection introduces young readers to trailblazing Black men who changed history through courage, creativity, and leadership.
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Katheryn Russell-Brown
Little Legends: Exceptional Women in Black History
This inspiring companion book highlights remarkable Black women whose achievements continue to shape the world, encouraging kids to dream big and lead boldly.
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Floyd Cooper
Juneteenth for Mazie
This heartfelt story follows young Mazie as she learns about Juneteenth and the long journey toward freedom for enslaved people in America, making an important piece of history accessible for children.
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Lesa Cline-Ransome
The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne
This inspiring biography introduces young readers to Ethel L. Payne, a fearless journalist who used her voice and reporting to challenge injustice and demand accountability.
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Alexandra Penfold
All Are Welcome
This uplifting picture book celebrates diversity, kindness, and inclusion, reminding children that every background, culture, and family belongs.
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Black history is American history and these stories help children understand the resilience, brilliance, and leadership that continue to shape our world. Whether you read one book this month or work your way through the entire list, each story offers an opportunity to spark meaningful conversations and celebrate voices that deserve to be heard year-round.
