Get ready for a celebration of black culture and an understanding of black history through the eyes of children with these new titles that can be enjoyed all year round.
Love Is Loud: How Diane Nash Led the Civil Rights Movement
Simon & Schuster (Paula Wiseman Books)
January 10, 2023
4 – 8 years
Love Is Loud is a nonfiction children’s book that is based on the true story of Diane Nash and how she became a civil rights movement leader at such an early age. The striking illustrations demonstrate her journey with bright colors and heartwarming imagery. Diane’s story is a reminder to be strong, determined and brave in the face of adversity.
Lovely Day, based on the lyrics by Bill Withers, Illustrated by Olivia Duchess
Scholastic
January 10, 2023
4 – 8 years
Lovely Day is a visual guide through the famous lyrics of the song by Bill Withers. The lyrics on their own are positive, uplifting and reassuring. The whimsical illustrations highlight the bond of a black family and their beautiful neighborhood; this story inspires happiness to the beat of an iconic song.
Sugar Pie Lullaby
Carole Boston Weatherford, Illustrated by Sawyer Cloud
Sourcebooks Explore
February 7, 2023
4 – 8 years
Sugar Pie Lullaby is a children’s fiction book about family, togetherness and the unity. The music of Motown pumping through the veins of this story makes this a soulful read. The simple prose amplifies the love of family and the joy of music with references to songs like “Don’t You worry ‘Bout A Thing” by Stevie Wonder, “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy” by Brenda Holloway and “You’re All I Need to Get By” by Nickolas Ashford.
We Are Here
Tami Charles, Illustrated by Bryan Collier
Scholastic (Orchard Books)
January 3, 2023
4 – 8 years
We Are Here is a children’s fiction book that celebrates impact, legacy, and heritage. The book follows a young black girl and those around her through a discovery of black culture and empowerment. The author penned this story as a tribute to their deceased child, making sure that their memory lives on by sharing the appreciation of blackness and black culture. “We Are Here” is a proclamation that explains why it is important for others to learn about black history throughout the generations.
You So Black
Theresa Tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D., Illustrated by London Ladd
Simon & Schuster (Denene Millner Books)
January 10, 2023
4 – 8 years
You So Black is a popular poem that has now transformed into this inspiring children’s book. The emotionally fulfilling poem in this story, paired with the intricately beautiful artwork of the illustrations, is striking and captivating. “You so black,” was once an insult to black people, but this author reclaims the phrase and turns it into empowerment for black culture.
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