It’s Black History Month! Every February, we honor the history and achievements of the Black community in America. We’ve picked out some of our favorite children’s books written by Black authors so that you can spend this month (and beyond!) celebrating Black excellence. 

Big by Vashti Harrison
This endearing Caldecott Award-winning picture book by renowned author Vashti Harrison follows a little girl’s journey to self-love and teaches readers about the power words have to both hurt and heal. Harrison made history with Big, becoming the first Black woman to win the Caldecott Medal! (Ages 4-8)

Holding Her Own: The Exceptional Life of Jackie Ormes by Traci N. Todd; illustrated by Shannon Wright
This award-winning biographical picture book is a tribute to the legacy of Jackie Ormes, who made history with her groundbreaking syndicated cartoons, which were some of the first to depict the experiences of Black women in America. Jackie was also a journalist, fashionista, philanthropist, and activist who used her platform to advocate for civil rights in a post-World War II society. (Ages 7-10)

Eb & Flow by Kelli J. Baptist
Eb & Flow, from award-winning author Kelly J. Baptist, tells the story of tweens Ebony (aka Eb) and De’Kari (aka Flow), who absolutely do not get along. When the two get into a fight at school that ends with an at-home suspension, they’re given two weeks to think about their behavior and explain themselves. As they take this time to reflect on their home lives, it’s revealed that Eb and Flow may have more in common than they realize. (Ages 8-12)

Nigeria Jones by Ibi Zoboi
Winner of the Coretta Scott King Book Award, Nigeria Jones is a YA coming-of-age story about Nigeria Jones, whose mother mysteriously disappears. As Nigeria searches for her mother, she uncovers the truth about her mother’s past and discovers family secrets that will lead her to question everything she thought she knew. Nigeria Jones is a powerful story about having the courage to find your place in the world. (Ages 13+)