One of the most important goals of the black lives matter movement is educating others and thanks to these books, this can start from any age. These 9 picture books make the information and ideas accessible for any age group from preschoolers to teens and are perfect for kids in 2020, take a look below.
Not Nice Donny! by Daniel A Stevens
This product was recommended by Daniel Stevens from DanielStevens
As a father of 2 black boys and seeing the strong influence that Donald Trump has on the impressionable minds of the youth, Daniel created his illustrative solution. The children’s book, “Not Nice Donny!” was born in late 2018. This is a humorous children’s book about a socially inept child that learns much-needed lessons about morals and empathy.
Say Her Name (Poems to Empower) by Zetta Elliott
This product was recommended by Veronique Ehamo from United Nations Association
The collection of poems have been inspired by another crucial rally cry of the Black Lives Matter movement, advocating for acknowledgment of an unjust system neglecting the lives of African American women. Too often violence against women of color receives very little media coverage. This picture book is recommended for young readers ages 14 and older.
Hands Up! by Breanna J. McDaniel
This product was recommended by Veronique Ehamo from United Nations Association
As a principal slogan in many Black Lives Matter rallies, “hands up don’t shoot” has become a chant that symbolizes activism. Breanna McDaniel depicts her understanding of how “hands up” gesticulates advocacy, and how it reoccurs through a young Black girl’s daily life. This picture book is recommended for children ages 4 to 7.
Dream Big Little One By Vashti Harrison
This product was recommended by Melanie Musson from CarInsuranceCompanies
This book will help even the youngest children understand the important things people of color have accomplished to help the world be a better place. Despite adversity, the way makers highlighted in this book pressed on. The illustrations are beautiful and diverse and help make this book a favorite for toddlers and preschoolers.
Black Lives Matter by Shondra Quales
This product was recommended by Stefanie Lesser from Hope & Love Radio
This is a book to empower children by reminding them that they matter no matter what they look like. The author hopes to remind us that diversity is a part of unity. Highly recommend.
I Am Human by Susan Verde
This product was recommended by Jessica Hofmann from Buzz Media Solutions
Susan wrote I Am Human for parents, caregivers and teachers to read with children and spark conversations about the things we all have in common and how to learn from mistakes and treat each other with kindness. I Am Human is the story of what it means to be a human being as both an individual and within our worldwide human community. It teaches children to have empathy and to choose love, and compassion, even in the face of difficulty and challenge.
Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio
This product was recommended by Ally Bush from Reading Partners
This book features a young black girl as the main character. It shows young readers that they can do anything they set their minds to– even becoming president. It also teaches readers about the American electoral system, proving that anyone can change the world.
I am Enough by Grace Byers
This product was recommended by Ally Bush from Reading Partners
This award-winning book teaches young readers a simple message: that they are enough. Empowering and uplifting, this book perfectly reflects the mission of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry
This product was recommended by Ally Bush from Reading Partners
A love story between a black girl and her hair, this book champions natural hair in a way that society sometimes doesn’t. A message like this would teach self-love and self-acceptance, two important traits for young black readers to have.