A must read: 8 children’s books by Black Authors

This is definitely a Must-Read. Here are 8 children’s books by Black Authors. These authors are from the Americas and Africa.

Winner of the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award. I, Too, Am America is an excellent picture book by Langston Hughes. it is a famous poem about equality. There is also the illustrated memoir by Martin Luther King III. The book, My Daddy, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.. This book provides an insight into one of the most adorable families in history and the special bond between father and son.

In a different light, this children’s book is fantastic in many ways. My Brother Charlie teaches autism in a way that children can understand. Holly Robinson Peete also shows children how to love and understand people who have autism in their own family.

Hair Love by Mathew Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison, is an adorable tribute to fathers and daughters that encourages kids to embrace their natural hair and feel confident. A good first book that moms can read to their kids as it artistically illustrates all sorts of tender loving motherly moments.

Njinga of Ndongo and Matamba is the true story of a girl who had a difficult birth but went on to become the Queen of two ancient African kingdoms. In this children’s book, she introduces children to their own history from the motherland.

An adorable little picture book about everything brown guys love. Brown Boy Joy features vivid illustrations by Cathy Ann Johnson, award-winning children’s book illustrator and owner of Soul Ah-Mazing Productions.

Just two more amazing children’s books

Tata and the Big Bad Bull is a fun story about determination and overcoming fear with compassion. Written from his own life experience, Ghunta brings the message home beautifully.

With poetic language full of imagery, this final award-winning book offers a glimpse into a little girl’s soul and her journey of self-discovery. With bold black-and-white illustrations, this unique graphic novel allows teens to learn about the history of the civil rights movement. In this lush and critically acclaimed book, award-winning author and illustrator Kadir Nelson tells the story of world icon and Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela in moving free poetry with gorgeous illustrations.

Finding books with black characters can be difficult. Finding books written by black authors and illustrators can be even more difficult. Please, keep looking they are there and this site will help.