As we step into Black History Month, we at Read to Them wanted to take the time to highlight books in our catalog that are written by black authors. Each of the titles below demonstrates incredible heart, showing characters in a wide-range of settings and scenarios. Above all else, there is black joy, and both black boy and black girl magic that can be appreciated by all beyond the month of February.
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
Josh and Jordan are identical twins who absolutely live and breathe basketball. Sure, there’s loads of good-natured taunting between them, but the moment they step foot on the court? It’s game time. But when middle school crushes, fierce competitiveness, and the consequences of neglected health combine, Josh’s pain, confusion, and anger collide in a dazzling series of poems that only Kwame Alexander could deliver.
Finding Langston by Lesa Cline-Ransome
The Great Migration, Chicago Renaissance, the poetry of Langston Hughes, and a touching look at loss and grief are powerfully woven together. While dodging a group of schoolyard bullies, young Langston finds himself in an unknown building – the library. Here, he discovers the poetry of his namesake, a love of reading, and (most importantly) himself. Readers are sure to fly through this story, and better understand that both books and poetry can help us express feelings when we just can’t put them into words ourselves.
From the Desk of Zoe Washington by Janae Marks
Zoe Washington has dreams of being a pastry chef and (eventually) auditioning for Kids Bake Off Challenge. She’s also navigating a rough patch with her longtime best friend, Trevor. However, everything Zoe knows about her roots changes when she receives a birthday letter from her father, Marcus, who is writing her from prison. The Marcus she corresponds with is kind, thoughtful, caring… and he may just be innocent. Join Zoe as she endeavors to learn the truth – and creates some tasty sweets, too.
Simon B. Rhymin’ by Dwayne Reed
Meet Simon Barnes – known by most as the Notorious D.O.G… well, Simon’s rap career is a work in progress. He’s only in the fifth grade, and he’s afraid to use his voice. But when Simon’s new teacher assigns an oral presentation on something that affects their community, Simon sets out to prove that one voice can create huge, positive changes.
Ghost (aka Castle Cranshaw) is a professional at running. Everything changes when he spontaneously challenges an elite sprinter to a race… and wins! The track coach sees real promise in Ghost, but Ghost is harboring a lot of anger over his past, something that’s getting harder and harder to outrun.
Some Places More than Others by Renée Watson
Travel with Amara Baker as she goes to New York for her twelfth birthday. Here, we’ll journey along with Amara as she learns about the history of her family, the history of Harlem, and how both intersect. Both students and families will feel empowered to talk and learn about the people and places in their own family histories. And the food – we can’t forget those delicious descriptions of food!
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What children’s novel is on your radar this Black History Month? Let us know in the comments below – and happy reading!
