"It is time for parents to teach young people early on that in diversity there is beauty and there is strength."
Maya Angelou
As an Adoption Consultant, pointing families to helpful resources is a passion of mine. Whatever color your family is or will become, diversifying your child's library is extremely valuable! This Black History Month, I'm thrilled to share with you 9 wonderful children's books written by black authors. Though this list is certainly not exhaustive, the treasure of children's literature written by black authors is abounding. I hope this short list helps point you to a few great books to make your own family library more richly reflective of the beauty and strength found in diversity.
2. "God's Very Good Idea" by Trillia Newbell
The rescuing work of Jesus is on full display in this celebration of diversity by author and speaker, Trillia Newbell. Children are invited through these important words and vibrant pictures to discover God’s very good idea-to have lots of different people enjoying loving him and loving each other!
3. "Colorfull" by Dorena Williamson
Bridge-builder, speaker, and author Dorena Williamson's delightful story shows us that God made so many colors intentionally and beautifully. Come alongside the children in this sweet book to discover and celebrate afresh how amazingly colorful our world is.
4. "Little Leaders" series by Vashti Harrison
Author, illustrator, and filmmaker, Vashti Harrison's Little Leaders series will inform and inspire. "Bold Women in Black History," "Visionary Women Around The World," and "Exceptional Men in Black History," share powerful stories of incredible history-shapers.
5. "I Am Every Good Thing" by Derrick Barnes
Best-selling author Derrick Barnes powerfully speaks to the beauty and brilliance of black boys. With every sentence and each scene, we see the priceless worth of their lives-they are truly every good thing.
6. "Hair Love" by Matthew Cherry
This heart-warming book is based on the short film by the same name that won an Academy Award in 2020. As the title suggests, beautiful "hair love" is on display in these pages, as is the faithful, devoted love of a father for his daughter.
7. "Raising Dragons" by Jerdine Nolen
This is a sweet, magical tale about a young girl who has a special gift for training dragons. Jerdine Nolen beautifully takes children on an enchanted adventure that's sure to get their imaginations rolling!
8. "So Much" by Trish Cooke
Author Trish Cooke's award winning "So Much" is a joyful celebration of love and family. The fun characters and delightful repetition throughout the book will charm listeners.
9. "Splash, Anna Hibiscus" by Atinuke
Nigerian author and storyteller, Atinuke, has created an incredibly lovable character in her "Anna Hibiscus." Readers will quickly find themselves connecting with this creative and energetic young girl as she learns about life and family.
(Note: By recommending these books, I'm simply doing that- recommending these particular pieces of children's literature. I don't necessarily endorse everything about each author or all of their works.)
