It has been encouraging to see so many books and resources shared over the last few weeks to help all of us gain a deeper level of understanding about modern racism in America.
However, in this moment when anti-racism books are flying off the shelves, please don’t forget that children of color also deserve to see themselves thrive, to experience the joy of being a part of a loving community, and to not be stuck in a cycle of oppressive narratives that can shape how others view them.
Here are 10 joyful children’s books featuring Black characters to add to your shelves now:
Bedtime Fun
by Barbara J. Newkirk, illus. by Laura Freeman
Grades Pre K-1
At bedtime, a boy finds all kinds of things to do instead of going to bed. Also available in Spanish.
Jazz Baby
by Carole Boston Weatherford, illus. by Laura Freeman
Grades Pre K-2
A celebration of music and movement, this story in verse is inspired by the riffs, rhythms, and freedom of jazz. Also available in Spanish.
Allie’s Basketball Dream
by Barbara E. Barber, illus. by Darryl Ligasan
Grades 1-4
A story of self-determination about a young girl who gets a new basketball of her own and hits the neighborhood courts.
In Daddy’s Arms I Am Tall: African Americans Celebrating Fathers
by various poets, illus. by Javaka Steptoe
Grades 1-6
An intergenerational collection of poetry celebrating Black fatherhood.
The Hula-Hoopin’ Queen
by Thelma Lynne Godin, illus. by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
Grades 1-5
A spunky girl has a hula-hooping competition with her friends in Harlem, and soon everyone in the neighborhood—young and old alike—joins in on the fun. Watch Oprah read this book!
Black All Around
by Patricia Hubbell, illus. by Don Tate
Grades PreK-3
Join a young girl as she discovers all the wonderful things around her that are black.
Poems in the Attic
by Nikki Grimes, illus. by Elizabeth Zunon
Grades 1-6
During a visit to her grandma’s house, a young girl discovers a box of poems in the attic, written by her mother who grew up in a military family and traveled around the world.
Sunday Shopping
by Sally Derby, illus. by Shadra Strickland
Grades K-3
In this whimsical story, Evie and her grandmother go on an imaginary “shopping spree” through the catalogs of their neighborhood stores.
Sweet Music in Harlem
by Debbie A. Taylor, illus. by Frank Morrison
Grades 1-4
An action-packed romp inspired by a historic photograph from Harlem’s jazz heyday.
The Jones Family Express
written and illustrated by Javaka Steptoe
Grades 1-4
Steven wants to make something special to give his Aunt Carolyn, who sends him postcards from all around the world.
Great list of books, as are so many other lists. Librarians, please read these books; don’t just hand them out. If you don’t read them, if you don’t booktalk them, if you don’t let your patrons know what you think about these wonderful titles, it is all in vain.