Have you ever found yourself looking for black representation in books with black main characters? you may love this list and have fun going through it with your family.
It may not be black history month, but we don’t need that excuse to celebrate representation all year long.
You are reading: Books with black main characters
I love finding black representation in books, more specifically children’s books. I want them to see themselves not only as characters in stories, but also as characters leading the story and characters who would not have a story to tell without them.
here are 20 must-read books with black protagonists that my family and I love to read:
1. sulwe by lupita nyong’o
lupita nyong’o isn’t just an academy award winner, she’s also an amazing author! in her first illustrated book by her, nygong’o tackles colorism and self-esteem. it’s a tribute to loving the skin you’re in, no matter the shade.
2. love for hair by matthew cherry
This beautiful picture book is not only a reminder to love the hair you have, but it’s also a celebration of fathers and daughters! Academy Award winner Jordan Peele says we need more stories like this, and I totally agree.
3. Little Leaders: Exceptional Men in Black History by Vashti Harrison
vashti harrison is a pioneer in children’s literature on the black experience. She illustrated this book (and the two previous books), along with authoring this significant summary of prominent black men in history, such as James Baldwin and Oscar Devereaux Micheaux.
4. betsey magic by malorie blackman
A story of courage, determination and magic! People may not be impressed with Betsey’s magic tricks, but that doesn’t stop her. Teach your children that their dreams are valid and possible through this colorful book.
5. last stop on market street by matt de la peña
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It’s a modern classic and one of my kids’ favorite stories! The last stop on Market Street is about CJ and the many questions he has for his grandmother during a bus ride. addresses issues of privilege and family through inclusive text and vibrant images.
6. Search! by nathan bryon and adeola dapo
I love books that not only show black girls, but also black girls who love science. Search! it’s just that you’ll leave this book with a lingering desire to explore nature a little more each day.
7. ben morley’s silence seeker
Sometimes as a parent you may need help when talking to your kids about not-so-pleasant topics, and books can be an effective tool here. The Silence Seeker is a warm and moving story that could spark discussions in your home about the refugee crisis.
8. Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison
Did you really think it would only cover men? Vashti Harrison once again adds some knowledge and color to our homes through her comprehensive roundup of prominent black women in history.
9. jamila gavin blueberry
sometimes just one story is not enough! Blackberry Blue brings you six enchanting tales about wizards, princesses, talking animals and more. Readers of all ages can find something to relate to in this Black female-driven narrative.
10. the almanac of young wizards and thieves by nick mohammed
This is a longer novel, but my older kids love to read as many pages as possible before they go to school! is full of adventure and a diverse cast of characters that reflect the world we live in.
11. beyond the shining sea by lauren wolk
There’s a reason this book has won so many awards! beyond the glittering sea is vivid and harrowing. is sincere in telling the reality of an orphan and his dynamics with the family.
12. how high is the moon by karyn parsons
This is another great example of using literature to introduce complex topics to your children. How High the Moon explores a black girl’s journey to reconnect with her mother and learn about her father as she navigates the tumultuous times of the Jim Crow South.
13. grace for president by kelly dipucchio
In my opinion, we can’t get enough of these kinds of books in the world! girls, especially girls of color, should be encouraged to pursue careers that were historically unavailable to them. why not the presidency?
14. moon girl and evil dinosaur vol 1: bff
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We’re big wonderland fans in my house, so having a story about a preteen black super genius with inhuman genes and an unlikely pairing with a teleported red-scaled savage tyrant from the past? well, that was just our cup of tea!
15. far from leila del duca
Who doesn’t love a good coming-of-age fantasy? This beautiful and insightful story revolves around two main black characters who teach us a thing or two about family and courage.
16. When Grandma Gives You a Lemon Tree by Jamie L.B. deenihan
“when life gives you lemons, make lemonade”. we all know the saying. but how do you teach that message to your children in a practical way? this book is your answer. is a charming story about perseverance, hard work, and patience.
17. the colors of us by karen katz
This book is a special reminder that brown comes in many shades, an important message for black and brown children everywhere. celebrate your skin.
18. not quite snow white by ashley franklin
I cried when I read this to my children. This inspiring story follows Tameika, a black girl who loves to sing and act and wishes to play the lead princess in her school’s production of Snow White. others, however, think that she is not quite right for the role and express it in not-so-pleasant ways. If you think she’s letting this stop her, you’re tragically wrong!
19. the nutcracker in harlem from t. me. tomorrow
It’s the well-known story of the nutcracker with the soulful touch of jazz! this beautiful book has illustrations that will leave you in awe and a vital summary of our history in the u
20. tristan strong blasts a hole in the sky for kwame mbalia
Packed with action, Tristan Strong blasts a hole in the sky and will bring some energy into your home in those precious moments between its pages. Jayda loves this one in particular!
we need more representation of black people in the media, and books are no different! Having people who look like us on the screen and in the page reinforces our value to society and encourages children to pursue their dreams because they see that it is possible.
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