Children’s Books That Tell Black History Truthfully

When intentionally selected, children’s books for teaching history should be accurate and humane. Through story and illustration, these books tell the truth about Black history in ways children can understand, without omission of the truth and without fear.

Below are titles that accurately convey Black history across grade bands.

---

K–2 Book Recommendations

1. Freedom on the Menu by Carole Boston Weatherford – A child’s view of the Greensboro sit-ins that introduces activism, courage, and community.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/4r17Ole

2. Henry’s Freedom Box by Ellen Levine – A true story of enslavement and escape told with honesty and restraint, centered on resilience.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/4bnqc2Z

3. Rosa by Nikki Giovanni – A clear, dignified portrayal of Rosa Parks that situates her actions within collective resistance.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3LMaSmd

4. The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander – A lyrical celebration of Black history, perseverance, and joy, paired with powerful illustrations. This book is one of my personal favorites!

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/4bsPb4V

5. Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney – A developmentally appropriate but truthful account of the Civil Rights Movement.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/4qQ099x

---

Grades 3–5 Book Recommendations

1. Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges – A firsthand account of school desegregation told by Ruby Bridges herself.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/46nIZrr

2. The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis – A family story that addresses racial violence, history, and humanity with care and honesty.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3NGqnN9

3. Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson – A poetic memoir that explores identity, history, and growing up during the Civil Rights era.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/3LLZw1A

4. One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia – Introduces the Black Panther Party through the lens of family, community, and social justice.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/4c80tf4

5. Freedom Over Me by Ashley Bryan – Centers the voices and humanity of enslaved individuals through poetry and art.

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/46nJ7Hr

---

Children deserve books that tell the truth, identify injustice, honor humanity, and reflect lived experiences. If history is being restricted in schools, families deserve access at home.

---

We want to hear from you!

Have you read any of these books? Which one are you most excited to read?

---

Follow us on Facebook!

_{Affiliate links were used in this post.}