Black History Month gives us an opportunity to educate our young readers about the contributions and experiences of African Americans and celebrate diversity through read alouds. Selecting the right books will not only inform students but also help inspire students to understand and appreciate contributions made by African Americans.
Reading books about African Americans gives us elementary librarians the opportunity to promote understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures through read alouds. These books not only celebrate the contributions of African Americans but also foster an understanding of their cultural significance within American history.
Here are a few of my favorites to use in the library during Black History Month.
The Oldest Student by Rita L. Hubbard: The true story of Mary Walker, a formerly enslaved woman who learned to read at the age of 116, becoming known as the “nation’s oldest student”.
Mae Among the Stars by Rhoda Ahmed: Mae dreams of dancing among the stars and becomes an astronaut with unwavering determination and support from her family.
Henry’s Freedom Box by Ellen Levine: The true story of Henry “Box” Brown, an enslaved man who, after being separated from his family, decides to mail himself in a wooden crate to freedom in Philadelphia.
Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry: Dad has to step in to help Zara do her hair but things don’t go as expected.
Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly and Winifred Conkling: The story of three African American women who helped during the Space Race.
Not Quite Snow White by Ashley Franklin: Tameika wants to play Snow White in the school play but negative comments by classmates and her own self doubt could keep her from trying out for the part.
The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer: The true story of William Kamkwamba, a young boy from Malawi who builds a windmill to bring electricity to his village during a drought.
Kick Push by Frank Morrison: The story of a skateboarder named Epic who learns to be himself and finds new friends in the process.
The Year We Learned to Fly by Jacqueline Woods on: A brother and sister learn from their grandmother to use their imaginations to “fly” above their difficulties.
Shop my store for Black History Month activities.
Not Quite Snow White: Google Slides Reading Companion
Henry’s Freedom Box: Google Slides Reading Companion
Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry: Google Slides Reading Companion
Tech Fun In The Library 