This Black History Month, we invite educators, parents, and caregivers to honor the rich, diverse tapestry of Black experiences and achievements by sharing stories that spark critical conversations and inspire children to see themselves as agents of change.
Every book on this list aligns with CLI’s commitment to culturally sustaining instruction. We know that high-quality, diverse books have the power to shape inclusive classrooms, deepen historical understanding, and help children develop critical thinking skills. When children see themselves and others accurately represented in literature, they gain the confidence to imagine a brighter, more equitable future.
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Betty Before X Before she became an icon of the civil rights movement, eleven-year-old Betty Shabazz was a girl searching for belonging. Growing up in 1945 Detroit, Betty found solace in church and purpose in activism, inspired by powerful voices like Paul Robeson and Thurgood Marshall. Through volunteering with the Housewives League, she discovered the strength of community and the impact of standing up for what’s right. Co-written by her daughter, Ilyasah Shabazz, this powerful novel brings to life four formative years of Betty’s journey. A moving story of self-discovery, resilience, and the early spark of a future leader. |
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Crown of Stories Before she became a literary legend, Toni Morrison was a young girl named Chloe Ardelia Wofford, enchanted by the power of words. As the only Black child in her first-grade classroom, she stood out—not just for being different, but for her extraordinary ability to read. This beautifully illustrated picture book traces Morrison’s journey from an eager young reader to a Nobel Prize-winning author whose stories shaped generations. A celebration of her legacy, A Crown of Stories inspires young readers to embrace their creativity, find their voice, and tell their own stories. |
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Stamped This is not a history book—it’s a wake-up call. Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi take readers on a fast-paced, eye-opening journey through the history of racist ideas in America, revealing how they were created, spread, and can be dismantled. With a gripping and conversational style, Stamped challenges young readers to think critically about race, power, and identity. This essential read empowers the next generation to recognize and reject racist ideas, moving toward a more just and equitable future. |
Additional Titles Recommended for Kindergarten through 8th GradeTo further enrich learning and celebrate the depth of Black history, we’ve curated a list of high-quality books that highlight themes of resistance, liberation, voting rights, Black artistry, literature, and more. These books are designed to engage children in grades K–8 with age-appropriate, meaningful content that fosters both historical understanding and a love of reading. |
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Call Me Miss Hamilton Carole Boston Weatherford |
Go Forth and Tell Breanna J. McDaniel |
The Day Madear Voted Wade Hudson |
They Call Me Teach Lesa Cline-Ransome |
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Dear Yesteryear Kimberly Annece Henderson |
Choosing Brave Angela Joy |
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Seeking Freedom Selene Castrovilla |
When the Schools Shut Down Yolanda Gladden |
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Curve and Flow Andrea J. Loney |
Glenn Burke, Game Changer Phil Bildner |
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Small Shoes, Great Strides Vaunda Micheaux Nelson |
Do You Know Them? Shana Keller |
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Evicted! Alice Faye Duncan |
The Door of No Return Kwame Alexander |
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Claudette Colvin Phillip Hoose |
The Port Chicago 50 Steve Sheinkin |
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Brown Girl Dreaming Jacqueline Woodson |
A Wreath for Emmett Till Marilyn Nelson |
Preschool leaders, join us for an engaging webinar designed to enhance your ability to foster joyful learning, improve teacher-child interactions, and prepare children for[..]
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