Black History Month 2026: 11 children’s books that tell the stories of Black Americans

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The African American Children’s Book Project is a national non-profit organization with the slogan “A Book Opens a World of Opportunity.” They believe that reading is the key to a child’s well-being. To help children read more, they focus on giving them access and choice. Their programs include book fairs, signings, workshops, a “Read to See Me” program, sharing information about youth literature trends, and tips for building home libraries.

Black History Month is a great time to explore children’s books that celebrate black history. Picture books are a good starting point, offering fun stories and bright illustrations about food, art, architecture, business, sports, fashion and music for everyone to enjoy. These are the top recommendations from the founder of the African American Children’s Book Project, Vanessie Lloyd Sgambati.

11 children’s books that tell the stories of black Americans:

Dream Building Plan: Dr. The King’s message to the youth

There are many children’s books about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., but this book takes a fresh look at his famous “Sweep the Streets” speech that he gave to students at Barrett Junior High School in Philadelphia. Alice Faye Duncan wrote the book, and E. B. Lewis illustrated it. The story shares Dr. King’s advice for overcoming challenges. He asked the students to write down their dreams, believe in themselves, work hard in school, make good choices, and keep moving forward with courage. Although he first shared this advice in 1967, it still helps young people today.

The Ice Cream Man: How Augustus Jackson Made Dessert Better

The Ice Cream Man: How Augustus Jackson Made a Better Candy, written by Glenda Armand and Kim Freeman, with illustrations by Keith Mallett. Augustus Jackson was born free in Philadelphia in 1808 and became a chef in the White House. There, he served as chief of staff to Presidents James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, and Andrew Jackson. Jackson’s interest in ice cream began during his time in the White House. He improved the method of making ice cream by adding rock salt to the ice, which also allowed him to ship his ice cream to New York City, 100 miles away.

Building Dreams: The Story of Architect Philippe Freelon

Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philippe Freelon, written by Kelly Starling Lyons and illustrated by Laura Freeman, tells the story of a remarkable architect. As a child in Philadelphia, Freelon struggled with reading, but later moved on to designing museums and public spaces across the country. He used his talents to celebrate his heritage and inspire others. His greatest accomplishment was leading the design of the National African American Museum of History and Culture, making his dream and the dreams of many others a reality.

curve And Flow: The Elegant Vision of Architect Paul R. Williams

curve & Flow: The Elegant Vision of LA Architect Paul R. Williams is an illustrated biography about one of California’s most successful black architects. His story is one of rising from humble beginnings to great success. He designed homes for famous stars such as Frank Sinatra and Lucille Ball, and many of his buildings in Los Angeles are now landmarks. Written by Andrea J. I colored the book, and Keith Mallett illustrated it.

May Makes a Way: The True Story of May Reeves, Hat And history maker

May Makes a Way: The True Story of May Reeves, a Milliner and Historymaker, shares the inspiring journey of a woman who overcame obstacles to become a famous milliner in the United States. Its stores were open to everyone and helped people feel special. Through her kindness and community work, she made society more just and beautiful. The book is written by Ologbemisola Rudai Berkovich and illustrated by Andrea Pippins.

Sugar Pie Lullaby: The spirit of Motown in song

Get ready to read, dance and celebrate Motown with Sugar Pie Lullaby. Written by young adult poet Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Sawyer Cloud, this book introduces readers to the music and artists of Motown’s famous artists through lively words and images. It’s a fun way to start a family dance party.

Chef Edna: The Queen of Southern Cooking, Edna Lewis

Chef Edna: Queen of Southern Cooking tells the story of Edna Lewis, who introduced black American Southern food to a wider audience. The book, written by Melvina Noel and illustrated by Cosby A. Cabrera’s award-winning book tells how Edna Lewis celebrated and preserved black cuisine through her cooking. It follows her path from Virginia to national recognition, sharing her recipes, ideas, and lasting influence.

When Alexander decorates the table

Alexander Smalls is a James Beard Award-winning chef, restaurateur, author, and television personality, and winner of a Tony and Grammy Awards. When Alexander Graces the Table, written by Alexander Smalls and Deneen Milner and illustrated by Frank Morrison, shares how Alexander found his passion for food by cooking for his family as a child.

Basketball: The Story of the All-American Game

Basketball: The Story of the All-American Game is a great choice for basketball fans of all ages. Award-winning author and illustrator Kader Nelson explores the history of basketball from its beginnings more than 125 years ago in this well-researched and beautifully illustrated book. It features stories about legends like Wilt Chamberlain, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry, along with other key figures in the sport. The book can also be used as a teaching guide.

Full of Questions: The Inquisitive Mind of Charles Henry Turner

Full of Questions: The Inquisitive Mind of Charles Henry Turner tells the story of the first black entomologist in the United States—a scientist who studied insects. The book, written by Janice Harrington and illustrated by Theodore Taylor III, showcases Turner’s love of science and ability to overcome obstacles.

Take off! How the Apollo Moon Missions Elevated the Art of Alma Thomas

The Apollo astronauts changed the way people saw the world, as did Alma Woodsey Thomas, a black American artist and educator. In 1969, people everywhere watched the Apollo 10 astronauts send the first live color television broadcast from space. Thomas also watched and, subsequently, created a series of bright, bold artworks inspired by moon missions. This story links key moments from the Apollo 10 mission to the Alma process in the making of Snoopy Sees a Sunrise. It gives readers a unique STEAM-themed look at a major scientific event and an important black artist.

If you’re in the Philadelphia area, don’t miss the 34th Annual African American Children’s Book Fair at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on Saturday, February 7, from 1 to 4 p.m. The event will feature over thirty children’s book authors and will be free to attend.

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