Black Joy
SUGGESTED READING LIST
Because Claudette by Tracey Baptiste, illustrated by Tonya Engel
When 15-year-old Claudette Colvin boarded a segregated bus on March 2, 1955, she had no idea she was about to make history.
Blue by Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond, illustrated by Daniel Minter
Discover a world of creativity and tradition in this fascinating picture book that explores the history and cultural significance of the color blue.
Papa’s Free Day Party by Marilyn Nelson, illustrated by Wayne Anthony Still
Based on a true story about the author’s grandfather, Papa’s Free Day Party is a powerful celebration of storytelling, strength, and the importance of family.
Kwame Nkrumah’s Midnight Speech for Independence by Useni Eugene Perkins, illustrated by Laura Freeman
Shares the story of Nkrumah’s historic declaration of Ghana’s independence and the years of struggle that led to that celebrated event.
Black Gold by Laura Obuobi, iIllustrated by London Ladd
This lyrical picture book is a joyous, poetic, celebration of Black children and a reminder of the Universe’s unconditional love
Maya’s Song by Renee Watson, illustrated by Bryan Collier
This unforgettable picture book introduces young readers to the life and work of Maya Angelou, whose words have uplifted and inspired generations of readers
Hands Up! by Breanna J. McDaniel, illustrated by Shane W. Evans
A young Black girl lifts her little hands up to greet the sun, reaches her hands up for a book on a high shelf, and raises her hands up in praise at a church service.
All Because You Matter by Tami Charles, illustrated by Bryan Collier
A lyrical, heart-lifting love letter to Black and brown children everywhere: reminding them how much they matter, that they have always mattered, and they always will.
Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon by Kelly Starling Lyons illustrated by Laura Freeman
Celebrates a contemporary Black STEAM role model, a man whose quiet work enabled the creation of an iconic building reflecting America’s past and future.
I Am Every Good Thing by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James
The confident, Black narrator of this book is proud of everything that makes him who he is.
Born on the Water: The 1619 Project by Nikole Hannah-Jones and Renée Watson, illustrated by Nikkolas Smith
The 1619 Project’s lyrical picture book in verse chronicles the consequences of slavery and the history of Black resistance in the United States.
Max and the Tag-Along Moon, by Floyd Cooper, illustrated by Floyd Cooper
A quiet, warm look at the bond between grandfather and grandson.
Tar Beach by Faith Ringgold, illustrated by Faith Ringgold
Acclaimed artist Faith Ringgold seamlessly weaves fiction, autobiography, and African American history into a magical story that resonates with the universal wish for freedom and will be cherished for generations.
Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly
The phenomenal true story of the Black female mathematicians at NASA whose calculations helped fuel some of America’s greatest achievements in space.
The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles, Illustrated by George Ford
The story of six-year-old Ruby Bridges, who, in 1960o, integrated the school system in New Orleans.
I’m A Big Sister Now, By Katura Hudson, Illustrated by Sylvia Walker
This charming picture book explores the anticipation, excitement, and pride a young girl experiences as she helps to welcome a new baby to the family.
Stamped: (For Kids)
Racism, Antiracism and You by Jason Reynolds & Ibram X Kenti
The crucial, empowering, #1 New York Times bestselling exploration of racism—and antiracism—in America.
