February is Black History Month, and these new books are the perfect way to introduce young readers to important topics and inspirational figures. These new Black History Month books for kids include nonfiction guides, informational biographies, and inspirational books for little ones.

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The 1619 Project Born on the Water

Written by Nikole Hannah-Jones and Renee Watson and illustrated by Nikkolas Smith

When a young girl is given a school assignment to trace her family’s heritage, she gets stuck after counting back 3 generations. So her grandmother gathers the family together to share the history of their family, and the legacy of those who came before them. The story is written in verse, paired with breathtaking illustrations that bring the emotions off the page. From the pride their ancestors had in their culture, to the strength and determination they showed during their voyage and enslavement, the text is full of strong emotions. The story ends with a message of hope and pride, as the young girl learns to celebrate the legacy of those that came before her. The book ends with notes from the author and the illustrator.

Soul Food Sunday

Written by Winsome Bingham and illustrated by C.G. Esperanza

This brightly colored book follows an extended family gathering together at Granny’s house for a Sunday dinner of soul food. The descriptive text highlights the traditions that the family follows, as the grandmother teaches her grandson to create some of their favorite dishes. This book is a celebration of family traditions, and gathering together over delicious soul food. The illustrations are bursting with vibrant colors and the feeling of joy, making readers feel at home at the family’s table. The end of the book includes the macaroni and cheese recipe the family prepares together in the book.

Related Post: More Children’s Books for Black History Month

We Shall Overcome

Written by Bryan Collier

This illustrated version of the gospel song and Civil Rights anthem follows a young girl as she goes about her day. The lyrics along the bottom of the page add to the remarkable illustrations which layer the young girl’s day with historical landmarks, and powerful figures and events from the Civil Rights movement. The back of the book includes information on the song’s history and the monuments and landmarks in the illustrations. From Rosa Parks on the bus to the Black Lives Matter mural, the book spans decades of moments in history.

Ida B. Wells, Voice of Truth

Written by Michelle Duster and illustrated by Laura Freeman

This picture book biography explores the life and legacy of Ida B. Wells, the legendary journalist and civil rights activist. The book explores her life and accomplishments from her birth through her death. The illustrations are beautiful, highlighting the many things she did in her life, and the big moments she celebrated. Quotes from Wells are sprinkled throughout, and the end of the book includes a timeline of her life.

Why? A Conversation about Race

Written by Taye Diggs and illustrated by Shane W. Evans

This picture book explores the difficult events of the last few years through the eyes of young children. As the children ask their parents why people are shouting, crying, and marching in the streets, their parents do their best to explain why. In the end, the children hope for peace, love, and understanding for a brighter future. The brightly colored illustrations show the pain, the sadness, and the confusion of the children, and the hope that they have for the future.

Related Post: Books to Read Aloud for Black History Month

Your Legacy

Written by Schele Williams and illustrated by Tonya Engel

This beautiful book explores African American history through an inspirational text and beautiful, detailed illustrations. The book starts by exploring life in Africa before 1619, and the pride that those living there had for their culture. While the text touches on the tragedy of the slave trade and the voyage to America, it focuses on the strength and determination of the people. The rest of the book introduces the reader to inspirational figures in African American history, and the characters that they possessed. The book ends on a positive, inspiring message encouraging kids to follow in the footsteps of those before them and make their positive mark on the world.

Racial Justice in America: Topics for Change

Written by Hedreich Nichols, Leigh Ann Erickson and Kelisa Wing

This book explores racism, white privilege and other issues through age appropriate language. The book is broken up into 3 sections: What is Anti-Racism? What is White Privilege? and What is the Black Lives Matter Movement? Each section is further broken down into separate headings and questions, explaining the concepts to young ones in a less intimidating way. There are lots of photographs and illustrations throughout the brightly colored pages, making it more inviting for young readers.

Marching for Change: Movements Across America

Written by Joyce Markovics

This informative guide introduces readers to 3 powerful movements through history. The book is broken down into 3 sections: 1963 March on Washington, 2017 Women’s March, and 2020 Black Lives Matter Marches. Each section starts out with a powerful quote.  Then it walks readers through the historical background of the march, what lead to it, and the events that followed. The text is broken up with tons of photographs, and facts sprinkled throughout the colorful pages.

William Still and His Freedom Stories

Written and illustrated by Don Tate

This picture book biography explores the life and legacy of William Still. The story begins with his family’s life in slavery before they escaped up North. It follows William through his childhood, and shows how his experiences shaped his life and inspired him to work against slavery, and start writing the records of the freedom seekers that came through the Underground Railroad. The back of the book includes a timeline of William Still’s life, and a note from the author about his inspiration for writing the book.

Carter Reads the Newspaper: The Story of Dr. Carter G. Woodson

Written by Deborah Hopkinson and illustrated by Don Tate

This biographical picture book introduces the reader to Dr. Carter G. Woodson, the founder of Black History Month. The book starts with Woodson’s childhood as the child of former slaves. He spent a lot of time listening to the stories his parents shared, and reading the newspaper. Eventually he earned his doctorate in history. All of this inspired him to establish Negro History Week (later Black History Month). The back of the book includes a bibliography, an author’s note, an illustrator’s note, and additional information on the black leaders pictured throughout the book.

Going Down Home with Daddy

Written by Kelly Starling Lyons and illustrated by Daniel Minter

This Caldecott Honor Book follows a family as they head down home for a family celebration. As the adults and children gather and reminisce together, Lil Alan hears stories about his ancestors and their family history. The acrylic wash illustrations are full of bright colors, and highlight the love of the multigenerational family.

What are your favorite new Black History Month books for kids? Share them in the comments below!

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