February is a busy month filled with many celebrations: Groundhog Day, Valentine’s Day, and even Umbrella Day. All month long, we also celebrate Black History Month to learn and honor the achievements of black men and women all over the globe. One way your family can celebrate Black History Month (not just in February but all year long) is to read! Here are just a few of many books that recognize the heritage, accomplishments, and culture of African-Americans.

PICTURE BOOKS (Ages 2-5)

This Jazz Man by Karen Ehrhardt

This jazzy tribute teaches children about nine well-known jazz musicians, including Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, through the familiar counting song “This Old Man.” You’ll find yourself singing along!

Henry’s Freedom Box by Ellen Levine

Henry Brown doesn’t know how old he is because he is a slave, and no one keeps records of slaves’ birthdays. One day, he decides to mail himself in a crate to freedom. Will Henry find himself a free man?

Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by Doreen Rappaport

This biography shares the life of the civil rights activist and how he used his words to fight injustice. Kids of all ages will enjoy the moving illustrations and powerful texts as they show how Dr. King’s dream changed the world.  

Follow the Drinking Gourd by Jeanette Winter

This story follows Peg Leg Joe as he befriends slaves and teaches them a special song. Follow along and discover how the “Drinking Gourd” helped slaves escape to freedom. 

Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman

Grace enjoys stories and acting, and she can’t wait to fly when she lands the role of Peter Pan in her class play. However, her peers don’t think she is right for the part because “Peter is a boy” and “Peter isn’t black.” Despite these comments, Grace is determined to play Peter Pan!

CHAPTER BOOKS (Ages 6-12)

The Watsons Go to Birmingham–1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis

Follow 10-year-old Kenny and his family as they drive from Flint, Michigan, to Birmingham, Alabama, to visit Grandma Sands. There they experience funny, touching, and tragic events during the Civil Rights Movement.

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

Three sisters travel to California to visit their mother where they attend a day camp run by the Black Panthers and learn about what is happening in the country.

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

This verse novel discusses key events during Woodson’s childhood as an African-American girl growing up in the 1960s and ’70s. She highlights segregation along with peaceful Civil Rights marches as she tries to find her place in the world.