In honor of Black History Month, we have compiled a list of our favorite books that champion diversity and encourage important conversations about life lessons between you and your child. These books promote peace, love, and kindness, and it's never too early to start teaching these values.
- Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison
Synopsis: This book is a beautifully illustrated and informative collection of 40 biographical profiles of influential black women throughout history. Vashti Harrison's book highlights the accomplishments of women like Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, and Harriet Tubman, among others, and provides a great starting point for young readers to learn about the significant contributions black women have made to history. - Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History by Vashti Harrison
Synopsis: This book is a collection of short biographies that showcase the accomplishments of black men throughout history. From musicians to activists, each story is accompanied by beautiful illustrations that bring their lives to life. It's an inspiring read that both adults and children can enjoy. - A is for activist by Innosanto Nagara
Synopsis: This children's book aims to inspire and empower young readers to fight for social justice. The book takes readers on a journey through the alphabet, using each letter to highlight a particular social issue, such as feminism, LGBTQ rights, and environmentalism. With colorful illustrations and engaging text, "A is for Activist" is a great tool for parents and educators to introduce important topics to children in an accessible and engaging way. - Antiracist Baby by Ibram X. Kendi
Synopsis: The book provides nine easy steps for babies and young children to follow in order to become antiracist. It teaches young readers to recognize and celebrate differences, speak up when they see injustice, and to work towards building a more equitable world. The book is a valuable tool for parents and caregivers who want to start conversations about race and racism with their young children. - An ABC of Equality by Chana Ginelle Ewing
Synopsis: This book offers a comprehensive guide to equality and diversity for children. It is designed to educate young minds about social justice issues and encourage them to take action to make the world a more inclusive place. The book covers topics such as gender identity, racism, and privilege in a simple and easy-to-understand format, making it an ideal tool for parents, teachers, and caregivers. - The Sneetches by Dr. Seuss
Synopsis: Are you a plain belly sneetch or a star belly sneetch? As only Dr. Suess can he teaches a wonderful lesson in equality with his rhymes and silly stories; As the sneetches remove stars and add stars to find out Who is better? Who is Who? In the end it does not matter at all "That day, they decided that Sneetches are Sneetches, and no kind of sneetch is the BEST on the beaches. That day, all the Sneetches forgot about stars, and whether they had one of not upon thars." - Tacky the Penguin by Helen Lester
Synopsis: Tacky the Penguin is just plain odd! Tacky is annoying and his friends all let him know. The illustrations in this story help to depict the story of acceptance when Tacky's friends learn to accept Tacky for who he is after he helps to save the day. - And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson
Synopsis: Based on a true story about the penguins that lived at New York City's Central Park Zoo, the author captures something "a little bit different" about two penguins in particular. Two male penguins that is. Uplifting, and eye opening their story is irresistible as we discover they "must be in love" but their nest remained empty until one day Tango made three! - Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes
Synopsis: Everyone in Chrysanthemum's class laughed at her funny name that takes up 13 letters. Chrysanthemum's spirit is wilted by the bullying at school. Through the story children can see the effects such "teasing" can have on someone and the importance of kindness and respect. With the love and support of her family, Chrysanthemum learns to love who she is and her name that she loves. - Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae
Synopsis: This is a great book for teaching diversity and acceptance and the power of our words. The encouraging words from a new friend help a "clumsy Gerald" learn that he can dance even with his crooked knees and thin legs, no matter what anyone says! - Jack & Jim by Kitty Crowther
Synopsis: A blackbird and a (white) seagull become friends even when the others didn't like this strange friendship. Diversity is the theme throughout the story’s innocent plot of friendship regardless of race. - The Family Book by Todd Parr
Synopsis: Every family is different and comes in many varieties, as Todd Parr points out for all to see. "Some families have a stepmom or stepdad and stepsisters or stepbrothers. Some families adopt children. Some families have two moms or two dads. Some families have one parent instead of two." Todd and his vibrant illustrations celebrate ALL types of families with love. - Children Just Like Me: A Unique Celebration of Children Around the World by Anabel Kindersley
Synopsis: Real interviews with young children provide an educational and eye opening look into different cultural backgrounds and diverse lives. You and your children will not only learn about the differences, but also discover how similar we all are! - Spaghetti in A Hot Dog Bun: Having the courage to be who you are by Marisa Dismondy
Synopsis: Lucy may look different and she may like to eat different foods but does that mean she is “different?” Lucy feels sad when the classroom bully makes fun of her and is ready to give up when she gets her last bit of courage to continue being Lucy. A wonderful book to teach respect and accepting differences! - The Sandwich Swap by Queen Rania of Jordon Al Abdullah
Synopsis: A story about just what the title says - a sandwich swap. This story can lead to lessons from trying new things to having the courage to learn and try new experiences. - Elmer by David McKee
Synopsis: Elmer the colorful elephant helps to teach children about individuality and the power of laughter when he learns to love his brightly-colored patchwork even when the other elephants laugh at him for being different. The humor used in this story is one of a kind and the lesson is valuable for all. - Special People Special Ways by Arlene Maguire
Synopsis: Through sweet rhymes, the author helps children to discover and respect disabilities. "Share a joke or a dream. Make someone feel good. We need laughter, hugs, and to be understood...Though we seem different, inside we're the same. Our hearts are for caring, no matter our name." - The Skin You Live In by Michael Tyler
Synopsis: A simple rhyme, a lively story, and an important lesson - Social acceptance no matter what shade you come in! Accepting others for what's on the inside is as simple as that. - It's Okay To Be Different by Todd Parr
Synopsis: Another favorite by Todd Parr with bright colors, silly scenes, and inspiring and simple text that gets right to the point and celebrates individuality through acceptance of others and self-confidence. - Same, Same But Different by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw
Synopsis: Pen-pals from across the world - one lives in America and the other India - learn that even though their worlds look different, they certainly do have a lot in common.
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You can purchase these titles and other great books at your local bookstore, online at Amazon or Barnes and Noble, or check them out at your local library!
- Celebrate Black History Month With These 10 Books and Movies
- 5 Kid Books About MLK Jr. & Other Civil Rights Heroes
- Get the Most from Your Local Library
- Find a Little Free Library in SE Kansas City
- 5 Reasons Your Kids Should Have a Library Card
A version of this article was originally published by Christel M. Hoydic, a previous Macaroni KID publisher.
