I wanted to post a book list of books from a variety of genres and reading levels in celebration of Black History Month. I've read quite a few of these titles and others are on my ever-growing to be read pile. This is by no means a comprehensive list. There are hundreds of titles out there to choose from. All of these titles are either feature Black and/or African characters and/or are written by own voices authors from these backgrounds. If I have reviewed the book, I will link my review.


 Crown: An Ode to a Fresh Cut by Derrick Barnes: The barbershop is where the magic happens. Boys go in as lumps of clay and, with princely robes draped around their shoulders, a dab of cool shaving cream on their foreheads, and a slow, steady cut, they become royalty. That crisp yet subtle line makes boys sharper, more visible, more aware of every great thing that could happen to them when they look good: lesser grades turn into As; girls take notice; even a mother’s hug gets a little tighter. Everyone notices. A fresh cut makes boys fly.

Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall: Jabari is definitely ready to jump off the diving board. He's finished his swimming lessons and passed his swim test, and he's a great jumper, so he's not scared at all. "Looks easy," says Jabari, watching the other kids take their turns. But when his dad squeezes his hand, Jabari squeezes back. He needs to figure out what kind of special jump to do anyway, and he should probably do some stretches before climbing up onto the diving board.

In Your Hands by Carole Boston Weatherford: A black mother expresses the many hopes and dreams she has for her child in this powerful picture book.

Hey Black Child by Useni Eugene Perkins: This lyrical, empowering poem celebrates black children and seeks to inspire all young people to dream big and achieve their goals.