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Picture Books to Read to Celebrate Black History Month

Guest post by Tonya Duncan Ellis, 2026 Author Sponsor 

 

Black History is American history, and Black History Month is a time set aside to focus on African-American contributions, which have been historically ignored. Sharing picture books featuring notable Black historical figures and events is a great way to educate children about African-American achievements. 

 

What we now celebrate as Black History Month began a century ago as Negro History Week. Author and Historian, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, initiated the holiday in 1926 to instill pride in Black accomplishments. February was chosen as the month for recognition because it included the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, notable figures in the history of African-Americans.

In 1970 students and educators at Kent State University expanded their Black History Week celebration to a full month, and the idea spread. Six years later, during a bicentennial message, President Gerald Ford recognized Black History Month, and in 1986, Congress passed Public Law 99-244, which designated February 1986 as “National Black (Afro-American) History Month.”

Below are a few picture books to celebrate African-American contributions during Black History Month and throughout the year. 

The Six Triple Eight: A True Story of the Black Woman Battalion of World War II by Tonya Abari

A powerful account of the resilience and dedication of the unsung Black heroines who played a major role in World War II. Former teacher turned multi-genre writer and editor Tonya Abari and debut illustrator Lance Evans honor these women with a stunning nonfiction picture book sure to educate and inspire future generations.

How Sweet the Sound: A Soundtrack for America by Kwame Alexander

Listen to the sound of survival, courage, and democracy—the soundtrack of America.
Come dance to Kwame Alexander’s melodious narrative of the history of Black music in America, accompanied by the vibrant illustrations of Charly Palmer.

A Flea for Justice: Marian Wright Edelman Stands Up for Change by Valerie Bolling 

A Flea for Justice is an accessible read with a unique, kid-friendly structure; award-winning educator Valerie Bolling directly poses questions to child readers, like–“Do you know what Sojourner told that man?” to engage them in the story. An inspiring, call-to-action biography about Civil Rights activist Marian Wright Edelman that’s sure to make readers itch to make positive change! 

That Flag by Tameka Fryer Brown

In That Flag, Tameka Fryer Brown and Nikkolas Smith graciously tackle the issues of racism, the value of friendship, and the importance of understanding history so that we move forward together in a thought-provoking, stirring, yet ultimately tender tale.

A perfect conversation starter for older and younger generations alike, this book includes back matter on the history of the Confederate flag and notes from the creators. 

Memphis Martin and the Mountaintop: The Sanitation Strike of 1968 by Alice Faye Duncan 

Author Alice Faye Duncan based the character of Lorraine Jackson on a teacher who participated in the Memphis Sanitation Strike as a child. Using a riveting combination of poetry and prose, Alice Faye reveals the inspiring story of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s final stand for justice in this award-winning book illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. 

They Built Me for Freedom: The Story of Juneteenth and Houston’s Emancipation Park by Tonya Duncan Ellis 

In the voice and memory of the park itself—its fields and pools, its protests and cookouts, and, most of all, its people—the 150-year story of Emancipation Park is brought to life. Through lyrical text Tonya Duncan Ellis and Jenin Mohammed have crafted an ode to the struggle, triumph, courage, and joy of Black America—and the promise of a people to remember.

Before the Ships: The Birth of Black Excellence by Maisha Oso

With sparse yet moving text, Maisha Oso takes us back in time to before the advent of the Transatlantic slave trade. We see the grandness of African royalty, the bravery of warriors like the Queen of Kush, and stories being told in song with griots and drums. Candice Bradley’s gorgeous and reflective illustrations illuminate the strength of Black history and Black joy, reminding readers about the power within us all.

I Am My Ancestors’ Wildest Dreams by Tanisia Moore

In this electrifying anthem to Black boy joy and pride, written by author Tanisia Moore and illustrated by Robert Paul Jr., a young child discovers his place in a distinguished lineage. As the child meets ten exceptional Black men–historical and contemporary figures who have paved the way for his own future success–he internalizes their greatness.

Just Like Tina: Inspired by the Life of Tina Turner by Ebony Lynn Mudd

With moving text from Ebony Lynn Mudd and heartwarming illustrations from Maruga Koops, Just Like Tina encourages readers to find the balance between celebrating their favorite performers while staying true to themselves, using that inspiration to forge their own paths. This story honors Tina Turner and strives to keep her memory alive for many generations of readers to come while reminding readers that being themselves is simply the best.

A Voice of Hope: The Myrlie Evers-Williams Story by Nadia Salomon

Nadia Salomon’s lyrical text and London Ladd’s exquisite artwork honor and celebrate the legendary life of Civil Rights activist Myrlie Evers-Williams and share her message of hope with the world.

Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon by Kelly Starling Lyons

Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon celebrates Phillip Freelon, a Black STEAM role model, whose work enabled the creation of the extraordinary Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. With a stirring text by Kelly Starling Lyons, vibrant pictures by Laura Freeman, and an afterword from Philip Freelon himself, it is sure to inspire the next generation of dreamers and builders.

The Gift of Freedom: How Harriet Tubman Rescued Her Brothers by Glennette Tilley Turner

This historical picture book from bestselling illustrator and Coretta Scott King honoree Laura Freeman and award-winning author Glennette Tilley Turner about the legendary Underground Railroad conductor, abolitionist, and suffragist was written based on personal interviews with Tubman’s last surviving relative. A story of courage, hope, and family, The Gift of Freedom takes readers on an inspiring journey during one of America’s darkest times.

Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre by Carole Boston Weatherford

Celebrated author Carole Boston Weatherford and acclaimed illustrator Floyd Cooper provide a sensitive and powerful introduction to the Tulsa Race Massacre, helping young readers understand the events of the past so we can move toward a better future for all.

I Am the Spirit of Justice by Jemar Tisby with Malcolm Newsome

I Am the Spirit of Justice is the picture book companion to Jemar Tisby’s The Spirit of Justice and is cowritten by author and poet Malcolm Newsome with art by illustrator and activist Nadia Fisher. This beautiful and sweeping book is a great introduction to the history of civil rights for the youngest readers and an important addition to the libraries of anyone working for justice.

Tonya Duncan Ellis is author of the 2025 SCBWI Crystal Kite Honor Book THEY BUILT ME FOR FREEDOM: THE STORY OF JUNETEENTH AND HOUSTON’S EMANCIPATION PARK (HarperCollins 2024), COOKOUT CHEMISTRY (Charlesbridge 2027) and the SOPHIE WASHINGTON chapter book series. She is based in Houston, Texas.
www.tonyaduncanellis.com
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