6 Best Black History Books For Kids and Teens
What is one black history book you’d recommend for kids and teens? To help you identify the best black history books for kids and teens, we asked avid readers and mature parents this question for their best recommendations. From The Black Pearl by Scott O’Dell to The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley and Malcolm X, there are several black history books that are considered great reads for kids and teens for one reason or the other.
Here are six black history books these trusted readers recommend for kids and teens:
- The Black Pearl by Scott O’Dell
- A Ride to Remember: A Civil Rights Story by Amy Nathan and Sharon Langley
- We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball by Kadir Nelson
- Black Heroes Matter by Jamia Wilson
- A Soft Place to Land by Janae Marks
- The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley and Malcolm X
The Black Pearl by Scott O’Dell
When I was younger, I loved reading books about history. My favorite stories were always the ones that transport you back in time and make you feel like you’re living in another world. That’s why I would highly recommend “The Black Pearl” by Scott O’Dell for kids and teens interested in black history. The book tells the story of a young slave girl who escapes from a plantation and joins a group of runaway slaves. Together, they travel down the Mississippi River on a raft, encountering danger and adventure along the way. Not only does “The Black Pearl” offer a fascinating glimpse into America’s past, but it also provides an inspiring example of strength and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Antreas Koutis, Administrative Manager, Financer
A Ride to Remember: A Civil Rights Story by Amy Nathan and Sharon Langley
The book takes us back in time through the events of 1963, a remarkably important time for America. Not only did Martin Luther King Jr’s March on Washington take place, but the Gwynn Oak amusement park in Maryland was desegregated and opened to the public. As the first African-American child to ride the park’s carousel that day, co-author Sharon Langley shares her story in this new book about how the community came together for positive change. It’s a book that tells the story of difficult change and important values in a positive and gentle way.
Natalia Brzezinska, Marketing & Outreach Manager, US Visa Photo
We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball by Kadir Nelson
One black history book for kids and teens that I would recommend is called “We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball” by Kadir Nelson. This book tells the story of the Negro League baseball players and their journey to become professional athletes. It is a great book for kids and teens to learn about black history and the important role that black athletes have played in American society.
Aviad Faruz, CEO, FARUZO New York
Black Heroes Matter by Jamia Wilson
If I were to recommend one black history book for kids and teens, it would be “Black Heroes Matter” by Jamia Wilson. This unique book tells the stories of 20 black heroes who made significant contributions to society in a variety of fields, from science and mathematics to activism and the arts. What makes this book so special is that it not only educates young people about important historical figures but also encourages them to pursue their own dreams and make a difference in the world.
Alysha M. Campbell, Founder and CEO, CultureShift HR
A Soft Place to Land by Janae Marks
The book I would recommend for kids and teens that pertains to black history is, ‘A Soft Place to Land’ by Janae Marks. The author describes how she had to relearn her understanding of a “home” after her father lost his job. This forced the family to relocate to another home. The book would help kids and teens accept that sometimes life comes with changes and it is okay to accept those changes and make adjustments in life. The book also helps kids of all ages and backgrounds to appreciate the need to fully accept themselves for who they are. Most importantly, it shows children that people can look physically different, and have different backgrounds in many ways, while sharing many of the same values. This book is a powerful tool for raising awareness and empathy in children.
Grant Barra, InsurTech Founder, Operations Executive & Investor, RELI Exchange
The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley and Malcolm X
One black history book that I would recommend for kids and teens is “The Autobiography of Malcolm X.” This book chronicles Malcolm X’s journey from a troubled childhood to his involvement in the Nation of Islam and his eventual assassination. It is an incredibly powerful story that highlights the importance of black pride and self-determination. Additionally, the book includes a number of valuable lessons about the role that education can play in empowering marginalized communities. As a result, I believe that “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” is an essential read for any young person interested in learning more about black history.
Ludovic Chung-Sao, Lead Engineer & Founder, Zen Soundproof
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