February is Black History Month! Honor this month by learning about black history and celebrating diversity with these beautiful picture books for children. From black inventors to the first female firefighter, these inspiring stories are certain to bring joy to your students as you honor the accomplishments and achievements of African Americans throughout history.
Teachers can use these books with K–5 students by: reading these books aloud books with preschool, kindergarten, and first grade students; using them in conjunction with science and social studies lessons; or making them accessible for independent reading in the classroom for third, fourth, or fifth grade students. We can’t think of a better way to celebrate African Americans and their history than by sharing their stories.
Check out our list of children’s books to read for Black History Month:
- Let the Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson
Set in 1963 in Birmingham, Alabama, this book tells the story of thousands of brave children who marched to protest segregation laws.
- Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport
With breathtaking illustrations, this biography introduces children to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
- Mr. Crum’s Potato Predicament by Anne Renaud
Did you know the potato chip was an accidental invention? Delight students with the story of George Crum, a chef who created one of our favorite snacks.
- Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library by Carole Boston Weatherford
Arturo Schomburg is a collector of African art, books, and music. Read to find out what happens when his valuable collections begin to overflow his house!
- Anna Carries Water by Olive Senior
Anna can’t carry water on her head quite like her siblings can. This story shows how Anna perseveres and achieves her goal to bring water from the spring.
- Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly
The true story of four black women who played critical roles in one of NASA’s greatest successes.
- Molly, by Golly!: The Legend of Molly Williams, America’s First Female Firefighter by Diane Ochiltree
Spunky, brave, and little-known, Molly Williams was the first female firefighter in the U.S.
- Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad by Ellen Levine
This award-winning book tells the story of a slave determined to gain his freedom and his dramatic struggle to reach the North.
- The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson
Two young girls begin a friendship, but there’s one major problem: they live on opposite sides of their segregated town.
- Ruby Bridges Goes to School: My True Story by Ruby Bridges
The remarkable true story of the first African-American child to integrate a Louisiana school, written by Ruby Bridges herself.