Observed every February, Black History Month is a time to reflect on struggles and triumphs of Black individuals, acknowledging their profound impact on society, culture and history. For parents, observing Black History Month with their children provides an opportunity to educate kids about diverse perspectives, challenge stereotypes and foster empathy and understanding. By learning about Black history, children develop a more complete and accurate view of the world, promoting inclusivity and respect for all cultures, helping to build a more equitable future.
These Black History Month books for kids touch on tough topics that remain pertinent today. Read them with your kids to help start a conversation during Black History Month and beyond.
If You Were A Kids During The Civil Rights Movement
Geared towards the seven-to-nine-year-old age group, readers follow the POV of two young girls, Joyce Jenkins and Connie Underwood, who find themselves at a civil rights demonstrations. Where to buy: amazon.ca
Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer: The Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement
Frannie Lou Hamer never stopped advocating for equal rights. Even after she was nearly beaten to death for it. This book uses mixed-media art to tell Hamer's story and honour her legacy as a champion of civil rights. Where to buy: amazon.ca
The ABCs of Black History
Lively verses and bright illustrations celebrate Black culture, history and people. Each letter of the alphabet represents an important part. Like K for Kwanzaa and H for Harlem and Zora Neale Hurston. Or, R for reaching for the top. Where to buy: amazon.ca
Change Sings: A Children's Anthem
“I can hear change humming in its loudest, proudest song. I don't fear change coming, and so I sing along.” Powerful words from poet and activist Amanda Gorman, who recited The Hill We Climb at Joe Biden's inauguration. The lyrical picture book tells a story of a young girl leading others on a musical journey. Because when we join our voices, anything is possible. Where to buy: indigo.ca
Elijah of Buxton
Elijah is 11 and lives in Buxton, Canada, a place near the American border where runaway slaves live. He's the first child in town that was born free, but he's forced on a mission to track down a thief when a former slave steals money from a friend who had been saving to buy his family from captivity. It's a dangerous journey, but he knows he needs to embark on it. Where to buy: amazon.ca
Before She Was Harriet, Ages 4-7
A powerful story told in beautiful prose and accompanied by stunning watercolour, we know about Harriet Tubman's bravery leading hundreds to freedom, but who was she before that? This book unpacks her life as a slave with an unbreakable spirit who learned early on about the stars, which would eventually take her to freedom. Where to buy: amazon.ca
Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race, Ages 8 and up
Based on the Academy Award-nominated film and the bestselling book, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson and Christine Darden worked as mathematicians at NASA and overcame racial and gender barriers, providing calculations that aided in some of the greatest space missions. Where to buy: amazon.ca
Let The Children March, Ages 6 and up
This book takes us back to 1963, telling the powerful story of thousands of African American children marching for their civil rights in Birmingham, Alabama after hearing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speak. They faced hate and danger to protest the laws of segregation but used their voices to take a stand. Where to buy: amazon.ca
Little Leaders: Bold Women In Black History, Ages 8 and up
Beautiful illustrations help give an inspiring history lesson on the Black leaders who have all done big, inspiring things. Ranging from hero to role model to everyday women, this book shines a light on 18 important trailblazers whose beliefs and actions helped shape a better world for the next generation of women and girls. Where to buy: amazon.ca
Underground To Canada, Ages 9-12
In this fictional tale, based on studies of real events and routes, two girls dream of going to Canada where slavery isn't allowed. With the help of workers from the Underground Railroad, they make a break, but slave catchers are hot on their trail. Where to buy: indigo.ca
The Story of Ruby Bridges, Ages 4-8
Ruby Bridges was six years old in 1960. She and her family moved to New Orleans from Mississippi to seek out a better life. When it came time to start school, Ruby was ordered to attend first grade at all-white William Frantz Elementary where she bravely faced a mob of angry parents who refused to send their kids to school with her. Where to buy: indigo.ca
Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
In this age-appropriate biography, kids will learn about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and his dreams for a better world. Including reading some of his powerful words, all accompanied by beautiful artwork. Where to buy: indigo.ca
Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story From The Underground Railroad, Ages 6 and up
Slaves don't have birthdays because no one keeps record. After a life of no birthdays, Henry makes a risky move and mails himself in a box to the north. It's his first birthday celebration, freedom. Where to buy: indigo.ca
Granddaddy's Turn: A Journey To The Ballot Box, Ages 5-8
Michael is a little boy living in the segregated south, one day his granddaddy heads into town in a fancy suit to vote for the very first time. Where to buy: indigo.ca
Skit-Scat Raggedy Cat: Ella Fitzgerald, Ages 5-9
Before Ella Fitzgerald was the jazz singer we all know, she was an orphan who would dance on the street for loose change. This book chronicles her young life and that fateful day when she realized she had a gift for song at amateur night at Harlem's Apollo Theatre. Where to buy: amazon.ca
Follow the Drinking Gourd
Based on a folktale about a sailor teaching slaves a song to “follow the drinking gourd” (which is the Big Dipper) to find safety in the north. This colourful story highlights the importance of the Underground Railway and the vital role it played in helping thousands find freedom. Where to buy: indigo.ca
