Children’s Books By Black Authors

February is Black History Month. But why wait? The next few blog posts will be a celebration series of black stories, leaders, authors in children’s books.

I Promise, by LeBron James, illustrated by Nina Mata

I thought it was really cute how there was a nod and wink to basketball throughout, tying it all back to applying all the advice to real life. Promising to get back up, do better, be more, keep reaching beyond, all while being respectful and kind. “Nothing is given. Everything is earned.”

You Matter, written and illustrated by Christian Robinson

A gentle reminder when everything in life can be so chaotic, so overwhelming, and make you feel so small and so lonely – you matter.

Sulwe, by  Lupita Nyong’o, illustrated by Vashti Harrison

Sulwe’s skin is darker than the rest of her family, as dark as midnight. For this reason, Sulwe doesn’t feel she is beautiful. Her mother reminds Sulwe that her name means star and that real beauty comes from within. That night Sulwe has a magical adventure where she learns about sister stars Night and Day. Day is loves by all, Night isn’t treated with the same kindness. When Night leaves, people realize the benefits and importance of Night. Waking up the next morning, Sulwe can now see the brightness within her darkness and that she truly is beautiful. This book is so beautiful and will give children the confidence to love themselves the way they are.

A is for Activist, written and illustrated by Innosanto Nagara

Reece and Kat have sadly aged out of this ABC board book and have been donated so I don’t have a picture. But, this is a great book for ABC learning for any future activist.

The Day You Begin, by Jacqueline Woodson, illustrated by Jafel López

“There will be times when you walk into a room and no one there is quite like you until the day you begin – to share your stories.” All those moments you feel different, separate, othered, until you begin. to share your. stories and find commonalities to connect you to others.