Filled with Hope and Courage: 9 Picture Books for Black History Month

28 Days: Moments in Black History that Changed the World, by Charles R. Smith, Jr. and Shane W. Evans
Begin every story time this month with an extraordinary event in African-American history, and after 28 nights, you will have re-acquainted yourself with a peerless group of influential visionaries—people like Dred Scott, Daniel Hale Williams, Matthew Henson and Rosa Parks. More than a history book, this exciting new picture book reveals Black History in a bite-sized format that will spark an essential dialogue in your house.

Lillian’s Right To Vote, by Jonah Winter and Shane W. Evans                                                                                   Lillian is weary. 100 years of walking, talking, loving, and living have made her lean heavily on her marled walking stick. But, while her ascent is slow, she will surely climb her mountain, and claim her right as an American citizen—Lillian will vote. Along her journey, Lillian recounts the painful history of the black vote in America, for she carries the tribulations of her ancestors deep within her bones. Their stories are her stories. Released 50 years after the Voting Act of 1965, this moving tale has both art and a message to savor.

The Quickest Kid in Clarksville, by Pat Zietlow Miller and Frank Morrison                                                         Growing up in Clarksville, Tennessee in the 1960s certainly isn’t easy, but Alta is lightning-fast, and she can’t wait for the town’s favorite daughter, Wilma Rudolph, to join a fabulous parade through Main Street. Alta thinks it couldn’t get any sunnier in Wilma’s shadow, when Charmaine shows up and threatens her neighborhood domination. Charmaine has guts—and new shoes. Will she show Alta up? This touching story of friendship and fortitude should not be missed.

Marvelous Cornelius: Hurricane Katrina and the Spirit of New Orleans, by Phil Bildner and John Parra
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, heroes surfaced in all corners of New Orleans. These were the extraordinary men and women who bravely met the mighty Mississippi head-on, led frightened people to safety, and, in doing so, helped preserve the city they loved so much. Most of them are humble, and content to remain unrecognized. But Bildner highlights, in beautiful prose, the accomplishments of one incredible garbage man who helped change the fate of the city he treasured in the wake of a devastating disaster. Rich text and vibrant art render Cornelius’ story nothing short of marvelous, and, ultimately, unforgettable.

My Name is Truth: The Extraordinary Life of Sojourner Truth, by Ann Turner and James Ransome
A century before the Civil Rights Movement was underway, Isabella Baumfree was a slave on a Southern plantation. Just as her parents and grandparents before her, Isabella was dehumanized, and subject to daily backbreaking labor and occasional beatings. When Isabella finally escaped to freedom, she changed her name to Sojourner Truth, and soon became a celebrated orator, and powerful voice for equal rights. Told through emotional watercolor illustrations, and Truth’s own voice, this thoroughly researched book will inspire readers of all ages.

How did Barack Obama Make History?, by Jane Sutcliffe
In fewer than 50 pages, Schott offers us answers to all the questions our kids have always wanted to know about our President (and a few we’re probably curious about too!). Obama’s childhood nickname, love of basketball, education, and path toward politics are all described in detail here. And we learn even more about his work with underprivileged groups in Chicago. Barack Obama became the first Black president in 2008, but there’s a lot more to him than his presidential portrait alone—allow your kids to get to know this inspirational man!

Coretta Scott King: Dare to Dream, by Angela Shelf Medearis and Anna Rich
Coretta Scott King wasn’t simply the wife of the most well-known leader of the Civil Rights Movement. She was a courageous woman who fought alongside her husband, and continued the struggle for equality long after he was gone. A compelling addition to the Women of Our Time series, Dare to Dream is a concise, easy-reading biography of an exceptionally pragmatic, devout woman who worked peacefully and tirelessly to ensure that people of all races, ethnicities, and philosophies would be treated with dignity and respect.

I Have a Dream, by Martin Luther King, Jr. and Kadir Nelson
Rendered in deeply moving illustrations, this lightly edited version of Dr. King’s unforgettable speech is the ideal way to introduce your young ones to this seminal moment in American history. The concepts here are easy to understand, and, therefore, easy for kids to carry forward. From the deep lines of consternation and concentration in the Reverend’s face at the podium, to hands of all colors clasped in unity, Nelson’s award-winning paintings are powerful, triumphant, and perfect for any age.

We Shall Overcome: The Story of a Song, by Debbie Levy and Vanessa Brantley-Newton
“We Shall Overcome.” The words may be simple, but they’re powerful, and this story explains why they have endured and inspired for over 100 years. From the time of slavery until today, this song has embodied hope, and remained a battle cry for oppressed groups, instilling strength in all who utter its strains. Read the book, and sing the song with your little reader—long after you’re finished, you’ll be tuning into Levy’s hopeful, beautiful message.
What picture books are you reading to celebrate Black History Month?