Books About Black History · 173 titles considered

The Best Black History Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about black history? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

Martin Luther King Jr.: A Peaceful Leader

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Black History

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 2007

Nikki & Deja

By Karen English, Laura Freeman (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Nikki & Deja series

Two best friends navigate the ups and downs of elementary school and friendship

80 pages· 9,647 words· Est. 2 hour read

3.9/5 Goodreads · 327 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Summary: Nikki and Deja, inseparable best friends, navigate the ups and downs of third grade together. Their bond is tested when a new girl arrives, sparking jealousy and prompting them to form an exclusive club. As their plan unfolds, they face unforeseen challenges that threaten their friendship. Will they learn the true meaning of inclusion and friendship, or will their actions drive them apart? This engaging tale explores the complexities of young friendships and the impact of cliques with warmth and humor, inviting readers to reflect on the choices we make and their consequences.

Sale price

$759

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2017

It All Comes Down to This

By Karen English

In 1965 LA, Sophie faces racial tensions, family struggles, and unexpected challenges.

368 pages

3.9/5 Goodreads · 690 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Summary: In 1965 Los Angeles, twelve-year-old Sophie navigates a new, predominantly white neighborhood, her sister's departure for college, and her parents' troubled marriage. As riots break out in Watts and a friend is unjustly arrested, Sophie confronts the harsh realities of racial injustice and her own identity. Can she find her place amidst the chaos and change? Discover a poignant journey of growth and resilience in a world where kindness and bigotry wear many faces.

Sale price

$574

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2018

Martin Luther King Jr.: A Peaceful Leader

By Sarah Albee, Chin Ko (Illustrator) · I Can Read History series

Discover how peaceful protest changed history.

32 pages· 626 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 96 ratings

Summary: Explore the inspiring journey of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a leader who transformed the civil rights movement with his powerful words and peaceful actions. This engaging biography for young readers reveals key milestones in his life, complete with illustrations and historical photographs. How did his leadership shape the world we know today? Dive into the story of a man whose legacy of nonviolence and equality continues to inspire generations.

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2018

Harriet Tubman

By Nadia L. Hohn, Gustavo Mazali (Illustrator) · I Can Read History series

Discover Harriet Tubman's daring escapes and secret missions during the Civil War.

32 pages· 674 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 73 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Summary: Born into slavery, Harriet Tubman risked everything for freedom, leading daring escapes on the Underground Railroad. As the Civil War raged, she recruited soldiers, served as a spy, and even led a battle. This early reader biography unveils her incredible life, filled with courage and determination. Young readers will explore her milestones through engaging stories and historical illustrations, learning about the woman who defied the odds to change history. What secrets did she uncover, and how did she inspire others to fight for freedom? Dive into the life of this extraordinary freedom fighter.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2013

All Different Now

By Angela Johnson, E.B. Lewis (Illustrator)

A little girl witnesses the first Juneteenth, marking freedom's arrival.

40 pages· 280 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

6.1/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 970 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Summary: In 'All Different Now,' a young girl experiences the first Juneteenth, the day freedom reached the last enslaved people in the South. As dawn breaks, her world transforms, capturing a pivotal moment in history. This beautifully illustrated tale invites readers to reflect on the significance of June 19, now celebrated as African American Emancipation Day. What does freedom truly mean, and how does it change lives? Discover the joy and hope of a new beginning through her eyes, as the story unfolds with vibrant imagery and heartfelt storytelling.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 1973

I Have a Dream

By Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Kadir Nelson (Illustrator)

Discover the power of a dream that changed history.

Coretta Scott King Honor (2013)

40 pages· 585 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

6.1/7 Bookroo experts·4.5/5 Goodreads · 3,762 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: Step into history with Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic speech, brought to life through vivid illustrations. This picture book captures the essence of his dream for freedom and equality, inspiring young minds to carry the torch forward. Experience the unforgettable words that echoed from the Lincoln Memorial, paired with an audio CD, and explore the enduring impact of a vision that continues to shape our world.

Sale price

$1498

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2016

Maya Angelou

By Lisbeth Kaiser, Leire Salaberria (Illustrator) · Little People, BIG DREAMS series

Discover how Maya Angelou found her voice and became a beloved writer and activist.

32 pages· 395 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

6.1/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 899 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Summary: Maya Angelou's journey from a silent child in Arkansas to a celebrated writer and civil rights activist is a tale of resilience and inspiration. After a traumatic event silenced her for years, Maya found solace in books, eventually becoming a powerful voice for change. This beautifully illustrated biography captures her incredible life, offering young readers a glimpse into her struggles and triumphs. What sparked Maya's transformation, and how did she rise to become a beacon of hope and empowerment? Dive into her story and uncover the dreams that shaped her legacy.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2018

Pies from Nowhere

By Dee Romito, Laura Freeman (Illustrator)

A cook's secret efforts fuel a pivotal civil rights movement.

40 pages· 1,253 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

6.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.4/5 Goodreads · 656 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Summary: Discover Georgia Gilmore, a cook who secretly fueled the Montgomery Bus Boycott. As boycotters walked, she organized women to cook and fundraise, supporting the cause with her Club from Nowhere. Her home became a hub for civil rights leaders, proving one person's passion can ignite change. What recipe for change will you find?

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2020

R-E-S-P-E-C-T

By Carole Boston Weatherford, Frank Morrison (Illustrator)

Discover Aretha Franklin's journey from church singer to civil rights icon.

Coretta Scott King Award (2021)

48 pages· 357 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

5.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.0/5 Goodreads · 1,462 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Summary: Explore the life of Aretha Franklin, a musical prodigy from Detroit who became the Queen of Soul. Her powerful voice not only earned her Grammy Awards and a Rock & Roll Hall of Fame spot but also became a beacon for civil rights. This vibrant picture book captures her inspiring story of talent and activism, inviting young readers to witness her legacy of music and justice.

Sale price

$1498

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2017

Rosa Parks

By Lisbeth Kaiser, Marta Antelo (Illustrator) · Little People, BIG DREAMS series

A brave act on a bus ignites a movement for equality.

32 pages· 567 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

5.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,207 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Summary: Rosa Parks, raised in segregated Alabama, learns to stand up for her rights. In 1955, her refusal to surrender her bus seat sparks the Montgomery Bus Boycott, challenging racial injustice. This pivotal moment in history leads to the end of segregation on public transport. Discover how one woman's courage became a catalyst for change, inspiring generations to fight for equality. With engaging illustrations and insightful facts, this story celebrates Rosa's enduring legacy and the power of dreams to transform the world.

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Browse by age

Black History Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about black history for the youngest readers and listeners.

Sale price

$899

Dream Big, Little One

Ages 0–3 · 2018

Discover 18 women who defied odds and changed history.

Sale price

$899

The Story of Rap

Ages 0–3 · 2019

Discover rap's roots and legends in a playful baby book that inspires swagger.

Sale price

$999

Ali

Ages 0–3 · 2018

Discover how a stolen bike led to a boxing legend's rise.

Sale price

$899

Black Jack

Ages 2–6 · 2010

A boxer defies odds to break the color barrier and claim the heavyweight title.

Sale price

$1599

Wilma Rudolph

Ages 0–3 · 2019

Overcome polio to become an Olympic champion. Discover Wilma Rudolph's inspiring journey.

Sale price

$899

Follow Your Dreams, Little One

Ages 0–3 · 2020

Discover the inspiring stories of trailblazing black men who shaped history.

Sale price

$799

I am Brave

Ages 2–5 · 2019

Discover the inspiring traits of Martin Luther King, Jr. in a fun, interactive board book.

View all black history board books

Browse by age

Black History Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about black history for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Sale price

$2095

Dream Builder

Ages 4–9 · 2020

Discover the architect whose vision shaped a museum celebrating African American history and culture.

Sale price

$1595

Juneteenth for Mazie

Ages 6–9 · 2015

A young girl prepares to honor the day her ancestors gained freedom.

Sale price

$1999

A Ride to Remember

Ages 6–9 · 2020

A carousel ride becomes a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights movement.

Sale price

$1799

The Undefeated

Ages 6–9 · 2019

A tribute to the black individuals who paved the way for future generations in America.

Sale price

$1899

Before She Was Harriet

Ages 4–8 · 2017

Discover the many lives of Harriet Tubman, from slave to spy to liberator.

Sale price

$1699

I am Rosa Parks

Ages 5–8 · 2014

Discover how one woman's courage sparked a movement for equality.

Sale price

$1999

I Am My Ancestors' Wildest Dreams

Ages 4–8 · 2023

A child uncovers his heritage through the achievements of Black leaders, igniting his own potential.

Sale price

$1999

Ablaze with Color

Ages 4–8 · 2022

Discover art's transformative power through a trailblazing artist's journey.

Sale price

$1899

The Power of Her Pen

Ages 4–8 · 2020

A journalist breaks barriers, seeking truth and justice in a divided world.

Frederick's Journey: The Life of Frederick Douglass

Sale price

$1799

Frederick's Journey: The Life of Frederick Douglass

Ages 6–8 · 2015

A slave's journey to freedom through the power of words.

Sale price

$1799

The United States v. Jackie Robinson

Ages 4–8 · 2018

A soldier defies segregation, facing trial for standing up for justice.

Sale price

$1899

Light in the Darkness

Ages 4–8 · 2013

A mother and daughter risk everything to learn to read in secret.

View all black history picture books

Browse by age

Black History Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about black history for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$695

The Underground Railroad

Ages 8–12 · 2007

Choose your path: escape, pursue, or aid in the quest for freedom.

Sale price

$1799

The Fierce 44

Ages 10–12 · 2019

Discover 44 trailblazers who shaped America against all odds.

Sale price

$1699

Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'Round

Ages 8–12 · 2022

A young activist fights to make a hero's birthday a national holiday.

Sale price

$799

A Sky Full of Stars

Ages 10–12 · 2018

In 1955 Mississippi, a young girl faces racial tensions and must choose between violence and peaceful protest.

Sale price

$1999

Choosing Brave

Ages 8–11 · 2022

A mother's grief ignites a civil rights movement.

Sale price

$1699

Armstrong & Charlie

Ages 10–12 · 2017

Two boys from different worlds face sixth grade's challenges, forging an unexpected bond amidst rivalry and change.

Sale price

$1999

The People Remember

Ages 6–9 · 2021

Discover the journey of African descendants through Kwanzaa's principles.

Sale price

$1195

Catching the Moon

Ages 6–10 · 2005

A girl defies all odds to play professional baseball in a male-dominated world.

Sale price

$599

What Was the Underground Railroad?

Ages 8–12 · 2013

Escape to freedom through a perilous journey on the Underground Railroad.

Sale price

$599

Who Is Michelle Obama?

Ages 8–12 · 2013

A biography of Michelle Obama, from her childhood to her time as First Lady of the United States

Sale price

$1799

Reaching for the Moon

Ages 10–14 · 2019

A mathematician defies racism and sexism to help launch Apollo 11.

Sale price

$799

Under the Quilt of Night

Ages 6–9 · 2002

A young girl follows a quilt's secret message to freedom.

View all black history chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about civil rights movement Books about Harriet Tubman Books about Juneteenth Books about Martin Luther King, Jr.Books about prejudice and racism Books about prison or jail Books about slavery Books about the Underground Railroad

Our 10 Favorite Books About Black History

Great books, picked for their age.

Black History Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Black History Picture Books

Black History Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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