As educators, it’s crucial to understand and share the rich history of Black Americans, not just during Black History Month, but year-round. Exploring these stories with students honors the resilience and contributions of Black individuals while also providing essential context to the struggles and triumphs that have shaped our society. By educating ourselves, we can more effectively guide our students in appreciating the full scope of Black history.
To support these efforts, we’ve created a book list that includes a mix of well-known and lesser-known figures, each offering unique insights and lessons that can spark meaningful discussions in the classroom. Whether you’re reading for your own enrichment or sharing with your students, these stories help build a deeper appreciation for the richness of Black history all year long.
Early Elementary (PreK-3)
The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne
Lesa Cline-Ransome
Ethel L. Payne used her pen as a tool for justice, breaking barriers as the only Black female journalist in the White House briefing room. From reporting in Chicago to covering World War II in Japan, she fearlessly questioned presidents and leaders, earning the title “First Lady of the Black Press.” This inspiring biography is a great way to introduce students to the power of journalism and the importance of representation in media.
There Was a Party for Langston
Jason Reynolds
This vibrant tribute to Langston Hughes brings his legacy to life with rhythm, energy, and celebration. Jason Reynolds weaves poetry and history together, capturing Hughes’s impact on generations of writers like Maya Angelou and Amiri Baraka. It is a perfect read-aloud for exploring the Harlem Renaissance and the power of words to inspire change.
Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History and Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History
Vashti Harrison
With Vashti Harrison’s signature illustrations and engaging storytelling, these books introduce young readers to figures like Katherine Johnson and Diane Abbott. They are perfect for sparking classroom discussions on perseverance, leadership, and the diverse contributions of Black men and women throughout history. These beautifully illustrated books are perfect for introducing students to a wide range of Black historical figures beyond the well-known names.
All Rise: The Story of Ketanji Brown Jackson
Carole Boston Weatherford
This inspiring biography follows Ketanji Brown Jackson’s journey from a determined student to the first Black female Supreme Court justice. With hard work and perseverance, she broke barriers in the legal field, paving the way for future generations. It is a great addition to lessons on civic engagement, perseverance, and the impact of representation in leadership.
Unstoppable John
Pat Zietlow Miller
Unstoppable John tells the powerful story of John Lewis, who fought for equality after being denied something as simple as a library card. This inspiring biography highlights his lifelong dedication to civil rights and his role in transforming American society. With a detailed author’s note and timeline, it’s an excellent resource for teaching students about activism, the importance of education, and how one person’s fight can change the world.
Elementary (4-6)
Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me ‘Round
Kathlyn J. Kirkwood
A powerful memoir-in-verse that recounts the struggle to make Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday a national holiday. Through Kathlyn J. Kirkwood’s poetic storytelling, students will gain insight into the dedication of everyday heroes who fought for justice and equality. This book is a great way to discuss activism, perseverance, and the impact of collective action in the classroom.
Hidden Figures: Young Readers’ Edition
Margot Lee Shetterly
Four brilliant Black women—Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden—used their exceptional math skills to help launch rockets and astronauts into space during the Space Race. Despite facing racial and gender barriers, they made history at NASA and changed the course of science and technology. This inspiring story is ideal for teaching students about perseverance, the importance of STEM, and the untold contributions of women in history.
Very Important People Series
Multiple Authors
The VIP series features stirring adventures and fun facts about some of history’s greatest trailblazers—smart, tough, persevering innovators who will excite today’s kids. Featuring icons such as Mahalia Jackson, Lewis Latimer, and Stacey Abrams, this series focuses on fun and appealing nonfiction biographies for leaders in science, activism, and the arts. Perfect for sparking curiosity, this series also reinforces lessons on perseverance, the impact of STEM, and the often-overlooked achievements of individuals throughout history.
Brown Girl Dreaming
Jacqueline Woodson
Woodson’s vivid poetry captures her experiences growing up as an African American in South Carolina and New York during the 1960s and 1970s, a time of great social change. Through her reflections on identity, family, and the Civil Rights movement, she shares her journey of finding her voice as a writer despite early struggles with reading. This book is an excellent resource for discussing personal growth, resilience, and the impact of history on individual lives.
My Selma: True Stories of a Southern Childhood at the Height of the Civil Rights Movement
Willie Mae Brown
Willie Mae Brown recounts her childhood in Selma, Alabama, during the Civil Rights movement, offering a mix of everyday experiences and extraordinary moments. From secretly babysitting for a white mother, to attending a rally where she heard Martin Luther King Jr.’s impassioned speech, each story provides a unique perspective on the struggles and triumphs of that time. This collection is an insightful way to teach students about the personal side of history, the complexities of growing up during social change, and the courage it took to stand up for justice.
Middle School (7-8)
Never Caught, the Story of Ona Judge
Erica Armstrong Dunbar and Kathleen Van Cleve
From her time as George and Martha Washington’s “favored” dower slave, to her bold decision to flee, Ona Judge’s journey reveals the hardships and risks faced by those who fought for their freedom. This book offers a powerful way to explore themes of resistance, slavery, and the fight for freedom in the classroom.
42 is Not Just a Number
Doreen Rappaport
After years of playing in the Negro Leagues, Jackie Robinson was recruited by the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1946, becoming the first Black player in the major leagues. This biography offers a compelling look at his struggles and triumphs, making it an ideal resource for discussing perseverance, racial equality, and the transformative power of sports.
Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March
Lynda Blackmon Lowery
Jailed multiple times before turning fifteen, Lowery’s courageous activism alongside Martin Luther King, Jr. shows the strength and determination of youth in fighting for civil rights. This memoir offers an inspiring and accessible way to introduce students to the Civil Rights Movement, highlighting nonviolent resistance and the impact of young people in shaping history.
Strange Fruit: Uncelebrated Narratives from Black History
Joel Christian Gill
Through dynamic illustrations and captivating stories, readers learn about figures like Bass Reeves, one of the first Black lawmen in the West, and Henry “Box” Brown, who escaped slavery in a wooden crate. This book provides a unique way to explore untold stories of courage, perseverance, and historical significance, making it an engaging resource for students learning about Black history.
Strong Inside (Young Readers Edition)
Andrew Maraniss
Perry Wallace made history as the first African American athlete to play college basketball in the Southeastern Conference, breaking racial barriers in a time of intense segregation. This powerful story highlights the struggles and triumphs he faced, both on and off the court, as he navigated racism and discrimination in a deeply divided society. Perfect for middle school readers, this book connects sports with the fight for civil rights, offering an inspiring narrative of perseverance and courage.
High School (9-12)
Claudette Colvin: Twice Toward Justice
Phillip Hoose
At just 15 years old, Claudette Colvin courageously stood against segregation when she refused to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama—months before Rosa Parks became a symbol of resistance. Despite facing rejection and being overlooked by the broader movement, Colvin played a pivotal role in the legal fight against segregation, serving as a key plaintiff in the historic case that ended bus segregation. This biography brings attention to a little-known but powerful figure in the Civil Rights Movement, highlighting her bravery and determination.
Victory. Stand! Raising My Fist for Justice
Tommie Smith, Dawud Anyabwile, Derrick Barnes
Tommie Smith’s memoir recounts his journey from rural Texas to Olympic gold and the powerful moment that made history when he raised his fist in protest on the victory podium in 1968. Despite facing immense backlash, death threats, and ostracism, Smith reflects on how the act of defiance led him to be a symbol of resistance for racial justice. His story is a testament to courage, conviction, and the long road to equality.
Black Birds in the Sky
Brandy Colbert
In a chilling exploration of one of the most violent and destructive racial events in American history, this book delves into the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Through a thorough examination of the historical context—white resentment, economic jealousy, and the media’s role—the author uncovers the deep-seated causes behind the attack on the prosperous Greenwood District, known as Black Wall Street. The story of this tragedy is a painful but necessary part of America’s history, and this account sheds light on the devastating consequences that continue to echo through the fight for justice and racial equality today.
And We Rise
Erica Martin
With sparse yet impactful verse, the book brings to life the resilience and struggles of Black Americans in the 1950s and 1960s, using vivid imagery and white space to deepen the emotional resonance. Interspersed with historical photos, an author’s note, and a timeline, it serves not only as a powerful reminder of past struggles but also as an essential conversation starter for today’s world.
Paul Robeson: No One Can Silence Me
Martin Duberman
Born to an ex-slave and excelling academically, Paul Robeson defied societal expectations, leaving behind a promising law career to pursue a groundbreaking path in the arts. His international success as a singer and actor garnered admiration, but his outspoken activism and radical views eventually led to his ostracism. This book introduces young readers to Robeson’s unwavering commitment to justice and his courageous stand against oppression, making it an essential read for understanding both the power and cost of speaking out.
For You
As educators, it’s important to read the same books we recommend to our students. This allows us to better explain the content and engage in meaningful discussions with them. But it doesn’t stop there—these stories are powerful for us, too. Here are a few books to add to your own reading list, share with colleagues, or even discuss with friends. By exploring these works, you’ll deepen your own understanding of Black history and the lasting impact of these remarkable figures.
The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration
Isabel Wilkerson
In this moving work, Isabel Wilkerson chronicles the Great Migration, the mass exodus of six million Black Americans who left the South in search of better opportunities from the early 20th century through the 1970s. Through the lives of three individuals—Ida Mae Gladney, George Starling, and Robert Foster—Wilkerson paints a vivid picture of their courageous journeys and struggles. As they travel from the South to cities like Chicago, Harlem, and Los Angeles, they seek freedom, education, and improved prospects. This compelling narrative not only sheds light on personal experiences but also exposes the broader implications of this migration on American society and the legacy it left behind.
Wake
Rebecca Hall
This graphic novel uncovers the hidden stories of enslaved women who led revolts during the Middle Passage and throughout the Americas. Through both research and personal reflection, the author brings these powerful narratives of resistance to life, challenging their erasure from history.
The Swans of Harlem
Karen Valby
This captivating narrative explores the lives of five remarkable women in Black ballet, celebrating their groundbreaking careers and the powerful bond of female friendship. It sheds light on the often-overlooked history of Black ballet, offering a rich and inspiring look at its legacy.
Twice as Hard: The Stories of Black Women Who Fought to Become Physicians
Jasmine Brown
This book uncovers the untold stories of nine pioneering Black women physicians, from the first Black woman to enter medical school in 1860 to trailblazers like Dr. Joycelyn Elders, the first African American U.S. surgeon general. Through extensive research and personal perspective, it highlights their resilience and impact in the face of systemic racism in medicine.
As educators, we have the incredible opportunity to shape the future by inspiring our students with the stories of those who’ve paved the way before us. So, let’s dive into these books, both for ourselves and for the students we guide. Let them fuel important conversations, ignite curiosity, and bring us all closer to a deeper understanding of Black history. Happy reading—and learning!
