Picture Books for Black History Month

February 8, 2019

The 28 days of February will never be enough to highlight the full depth and breadth of black history in the United States and around the world. Picture books are an ideal (and beautiful) way, however, to address the gaps in our knowledge of the contributions of African Americans to History writ large.

An acquaintance of mine is fond of saying "28 days will never be enough," to refer to Black History Month. That is, one month out of the year (and the shortest month at that) is not enough time to highlight the full depth and breadth of black history in the United States and around the world. Nor should it be limited to one month out of the year. Black History is History writ large. But during African American History Month it is important that we bring our particular attention to the contributions of African Americans. Picture books are an ideal (and beautiful) way to address the gaps in our knowledge.

 

 

Check out the catalog widget above for a selection of picture books from our collection focusing on African American activists, explorers, musicians, artists, freedom fighters, artists, scientists, scholars, athletes, and more. For example, did you know that there is a picture book version of Hidden Figures, our selection for Nashville Reads?

 
The list above is by no means exhaustive, but it includes some of my favorites, which I've written about before. Some of these books are perfect for younger readers and read-alouds, while others are specially well suited for older readers, even into middle school and high school.
 
 
Others have a connection to our community of Middle Tenneseee.
 
And there are other books that introduce us to figures that may not be as well known as others.
 
But do not limit your reading about black history to just one month out of the year! Black history is for every month, every day of the year. If you are a teacher, read books featuring black characters across seasons and subjects. If you are a parent, choose books featuring a diverse range of children and people. Only this way will we be able to say that we are well educated.
 
Klem-Mari Cajigas

Klem-Mari

In a former life, Klem-Marí was a Religious Studies scholar. She much prefers being the Family Literacy Coordinator for Bringing Books to Life! She wants you to read and share books with the children in your life, and for those children to see you to read as well. Originally from Puerto Rico, Klem-Marí also enjoys her cat, baking, yoga, and the works of Octavia Butler.

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