On the Shelf: Black History Month and more
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Learning Black History can certainly start this month, it can continue all year with new stories for all ages. And just in time for Valentine’s Day, don’t miss the new book co-authored by Chrissy Metz from “This is Us” – it will send kids off to sleep with a peaceful prayer.
“Black Boy, Black Boy”
By Ali Kamanda and Jorge Redmond, illustrated by Ken Daley (Sourcebook, ages 4 and older)
“With joy and love, this is written for you. Believe in yourself and all you can do.”
This beautiful picture book celebrates the future and the power of black boy joy, as a young boy is inspired by those who came before him. This is a wonderful book for all children and a celebration of Black History that can continue long after the month ends.
“Love is Loud”
By Sandra Neil Wallace, illustrated by Bryan Collier (Paula Wiseman/ Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, ages 4 – 8)
With illustrations by Caldecott Medal recipient Bryan Collier, this bright, engaging book tells the story of Diane Nash and her role in the Civil Rights Movement, where her courage proved that “love is fierce…strong…loud!” Don’t miss the timeline, bibliography, and more included here – extensive resources for a picture book and wonderful for classroom use.
“When I Talk to God, I Talk About You”
By Chrissy Metz and Bradley Collins, illustrated by Lisa Fields (Flamingo Books, ages 4 – 8, available Feb. 14)
Beloved for her role as Kate in “This is Us,” Chrissy Metz puts her faith front and center in this sweet tale that makes for the perfect bedtime story. Send littles off to sleep knowing they are safe and loved. (You might need some tissues to get through this one.)
“Sunny and Oswaldo”
(Algonquin Young Readers, ages 4 – 8, available Feb. 7)
Sometimes a bad attitude comes from fear. While that’s true for people, in this case, it applies to scruffy Oswaldo, the mean little cat who only wants to be with Sunny’s dad. Can the girl and the feline meet in the middle?
“100 African Americans Who Shaped American History”
By Chrisanne Beckner, illustrated by Briana Arrington-Dengaue (Sourcebooks, ages 8 and older)
Originally published in 1995, this reissue features new illustrations. Though it is missing more recent history makers, it is still a rich resource for learning the true stories of many unsung heroes. Kids can read a page a day and have a wealth of history knowledge in no time.
This article originally appeared on Asheville Citizen Times: On the Shelf: Black History Month and more
