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I am so excited to introduce my “For the Culture” series on Legal and Abroad. Each month I will focus on keys, gems, and trends that will celebrate and bring awareness to African American culture and heritage. For Black History Month, I am showcasing a variety of books from my son’s library that I believe are excellent reads for children (and adults too!). I have also included a few books that I have purchased for the Magic Black Girls out there. I hope you enjoy!
The ABC’s of Black History
by Rio Cortez
The ABC’s of Black History wraps up Black History through the alphabet and exposes children to history, culture, and influential figures throughout history. The vibrant illustrations do not disappoint. Additionally, there is a reference guide at the end of the book that explains the events, terms, and figures mentioned throughout the book.
Little Legends: Bold Women in Black History and Exceptional Men in Black History
by Vashti Harrison
The author created this book with hopes that young readers go after the things they are passionate about and become little leaders. After purchasing Exceptional Men in Black History, my son requested that I purchase Bold Women in Black History. He stated that it was important for him to know about Black women in history as well! It melted my heart to hear him say that. I love both of these inspirational books because they highlight the biographies of trailblazers in African American history and exposes diversity to young readers.
The Joys of Being a Little Black Boy
by Valerie Reynolds
The Joys of Being a Little Black Boy encourages our little black boys to be proud and confident in their own skin through rhymes and a trip through history. There is a Parent/Teacher guide at the back of the book that discusses brief biographies of each influential man mentioned in the book,
CROWN: An Ode To The Fresh Cut
by Derrick Barnes
Crown celebrates the history and tradition of the barbershop in Black culture so eloquently. I love how this book uplifts young Kings while celebrating all crowns from fresh cuts to locs, to cornrows. Additionally, this book takes you on journey on what to expect and how young Kings will feel in the ‘shop. In the words of the author Derrick Barnes, “This is where it all begins. It is how we develop swagger, and when we begin to care about how we present ourselves to the world. It is also the time where most of us become privy to the conversations and company of hardworking black men from all walks of life.” As a bonus, the imagery and metaphors are magnificently captivating. This is a BIG favorite for Jailen and I from his library and I highly recommend this book for the culture.
I Am Every Good Thing
by Derrick Barnes
This is one of our newest additions to our library. I was excited for the release of I Am Every Good Thing. This book is full of positive affirmations for Black boys. The title of the book speaks for itself. Young boys will believe that they are EVERY GOOD THING that makes them amazing, special, different, mighty, gentle, fearless and beyond. The possibilities are endless. “I am not what they might call me, and I will not answer to any name that is not my own. I am what I say I am.” This book is a must have.
Series: I AM… (Positive Affirmations for Brown Boys and Brown Girls)
by Ayesha Rodriguez
These positive affirmation books for boys and girls are great additions to a child’s library. Children will learn at a young age the importance of words having power when positivity into themselves. These transformative books help build self-esteem and encourage children to be bold, confident, and to love and accept themselves.
Sonny’s Bridge
by Barry Wittenstein
Sonny’s Bridge is based on a true story and gives children insight to the world of Jazz during the height of the Harlem Renaissance. The lyrical text captures reader’s imagination and takes them through Sonny’s journey of falling in love with Jazz and his passion with Henrietta (his beloved saxophone) as he becomes a legendary musician. Liner notes, timelines, and quotes are available at the back of the book.
Dancing in the Wings
by Debbie Allen
Dancing in the Wings is loosely based on Debbie Allen’s experience as a young dancer. This book discusses a fierce young girl’s (Sassy) passion for dance. Sassy is determined and works hard for her moment in the spotlight to become a successful ballet dancer. Throughout the book, Sassy moves past the naysayers, embraces her gift and has a greater appreciation for her beautiful features for ballet.
Hair Love
by Matthew A. Cherry
Many people fell in love with Hair Love and how it displayed the special relationship between a black father and his daughter, Zuri. I love how this book teaches young children to embrace their tresses and be confident and proud of the versatility black hair offers. Readers will follow the journey of a father figuring out how to properly and lovingly style Zuri’s hair. As the book states, “There is nothing my hair can’t do!”
Hair Love is also an Oscar-winning short film based upon the book and is a true tear jerker.
The Ellises & The Time Machine: Why Do We Have to Say Black Lives Matter?
by Devale Ellis
The Ellises and The Time Machine is another new book in our collection. The author did a great job using their hidden time machine to teleport his family and readers through 400 years of Black history in America. This insightful book provides an educational roadmap of how history has shaped current events. Readers will learn the truth about slavery, The Vagrancy Act, convict leasing, redlining, The War on Drugs, The Black Lives Matter Movement and much more!
I Know My Rights: Bill of Rights
by Mysonne Linen
I love I Know My Rights because it breaks down the first ten amendments of the U.S. Constitution so that young children can comprehend and informs them about their guaranteed rights and protections. The book provides impeccable illustrations and leaves readers having a clear knowledge of the law.
If You Were A Kid During the Civil Rights Movement
by Gwendolyn Hooks
In If You Were a Kid During the Civil Rights Movement, Connie and Mark travel through time as they fight for freedom and equality during the middle of a civil rights demonstration. This book is a great introduction for young children to Black History and the Civil Rights Movement. The end of the book includes important cities of the Civil Rights Movement, timelines, and a brief “Words to Know” section that explains terms throughout the book. It brought joy to my heart when my son and I visited a museum and he recalled some of the things from this book that he saw at the exhibits.
Show Me History! Martin Luther King, Jr.
by James Buckley, Jr.
My son is comic book enthusiast so Show Me History! was a perfect addition to his collection. He could not put this book down. The format of the book coupled with the comic like illustrations keeps young readers engaged. This book captures Martin Luther King’s early adult life through his activism and the aftermath of his passing. Additionally, the book provides a glossary, timeline, and other resources to learn more information about Martin Luther King, Jr.
Black Women In Science
by Kimberly Brown Pellum, PhD
Black Women In Science celebrates and explores the lives of notable trailblazers that have excelled in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Young readers will learn about 15 influential women that have significantly contributed to the advancement of our world today.
Black Pioneers of Science Invention
by Louis Haber
Black Pioneers of Science and Invention discusses the lives of 14 gifted men who played crucial roles in scientific and industrial progress. Readers will learn how these pioneers have saved lives and transformed the world with their research and inventions. My son found this book to be interesting because it captures the lives of revolutionary heroes that deserve recognition for their contributions to society.
WHOOSH! Lonnie Johnson’s Super Soaking Stream of Inventions
by Chris Barton
Whoosh! is based on a true story and discusses a young innovative engineer named Lonnie who loves to build things. The book follows his journey of designing and building different inventions from childhood, college, and adulthood. Through his many experiments (and sometimes failures) Lonnie continues to perseveres and perfect his inventions. His determination led to one of his greatest inventions, The Super Soaker!
Whoosh! inspires young readers to keep moving towards your dreams and never give up!
Series: Jaden Toussaint, The Greatest
by Mardi Dumas
Jaden Toussaint, a five year old who truly believe he knows it all, takes you on a grand adventure with each book. The quick wit and humor are enjoyable for both children and adults. Additionally, the ninja dance move breaks are fun. Each installment get better and better. This was the first book series that I exposed to my son and he LOVED it.
Episode 1, Episode 2, Episode 3, Episode 4, and Episode 5 can be purchased on Amazon.
Stay tuned for our next “For the Culture” series!
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This is a good selection list of good reads for kids to learn about history or current issues. These are books essential for them to adapt to changes or understand the past. Good for comparison of the past and present circumstances.