Black History Month is a time to pay homage to our ancestors, honor the trailblazers and innovators of the past, present, and those who will shape the future. It's a reflection of resilience, of achievements across every facet of society, and of the beauty and joy in our community.
These stories aren't just for February. They're American stories. They belong on our shelves, in our laps, and in our conversations every single month of the year. I hope this list gives you somewhere to start.
Below are the titles that had a permanent spot on our bookshelf this month.
Find the full book list on Bookshop or click on the individual titles listed below:
Parker Looks Up by Parker Curry and Jessica Curry, illustrated by Brittany Jackson
Kids may not always find museums the most exciting place, but this book captures the moment a museum visit becomes something unforgettable. When Parker Curry visits the National Portrait Gallery and stops in front of Amy Sherald's portrait of Michelle Obama, she looks up. And in that moment she sees more than a painting. She sees possibility, promise, and herself. Based on a true story, this moving picture book is a powerful reminder of what representation means to a child and why every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the world around them.
Seven Million Steps: The True Story of Dick Gregory's Run for the Hungry by Gregory Miller, illustrated by David Wilkerson
Dick Gregory ran 3,200 miles across America in 1976 to raise awareness about poverty and hunger, and this book puts kids right there with him every step of the way. Lyrical, powerful, and told in second person so young readers feel it personally, Seven Million Steps is more than a biography. It is a call to action. A book that asks every child what they would do if they had a big idea to stand up for something they believe in.
Troubled Waters: A River's Journey Toward Justice by Shari Swanson, illustrated by Holly McGhee
What if a river could tell you everything it has seen? Troubled Waters gives the Alabama River its voice, and what it has witnessed spans centuries. From the earliest settlers on its shores to the historic march in Selma in 1965. This breathtakingly original picture book is more than a history lesson. It is a story about strength, hope, and a river that has always been flowing toward justice.
Teaching for Change: How Septima Clark Led the Civil Rights Movement to Voting Justice by Yvonne Clark-Rhines, illustrated by Monica Clark-Robinson
Septima Clark believed literacy was power. Known as the Mother of the Civil Rights Movement, she dedicated her life to teaching adults to read and write so they could register to vote. A beautiful and inspiring reminder that change can begin in a single classroom, one person at a time.
Ice Cream Man: How Augustus Jackson Made a Sweet Treat Better by Glenda Armand and Kim Freeman, illustrated by Keith Mallett
This one brought pure joy to our house. Everyone loves ice cream, and this book makes you love it even more. Augustus Jackson, known as "the father of ice cream," was born free in Philadelphia in 1808, made his way to the White House at twelve, and worked his way up to cook, serving presidents Monroe, Adams, and Jackson. He then opened his own ice cream parlor, figured out how to ship it by train, and made it accessible to everyone.
Extraordinary Magic: The Storytelling of Virginia Hamilton by Nina Crews
This one is for every kid with a dream. Virginia Hamilton was nine years old when she knew what she wanted to be. She grew up listening to her family's stories and never stopped believing in the power of her own voice. A beautiful, lyrical tribute to a dreamer that will inspire the next generation of creators, thinkers, and storytellers.
These six books sparked big conversations and brought a lot of joy to my family. I hope they find their way into your home too, this month, next month, and beyond.
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