Movements are born from the stories we share. On the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s assassination, we remember his legacy and share stories inspired by his amazing life.
We remember the movements that changed the world as we know it, and use these histories to continue to create change. We are re-sharing our book list for Black History Month today. This book list includes something for every age group, and demonstrates the power of everyday people, including children and youth to make an impact through civil engagement.
Ages 4-9
Martin’s Big Words written by Dorreen Rappaport and illustrated by Bryan Collier
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was one of the most influential and gifted speakers of all time. Doreen Rappaport uses quotes from some of his most beloved speeches to tell the story of his life and his work in a simple, direct way. Bryan Collier’s stunning collage art combines remarkable watercolor paintings with vibrant patterns and textures. A timeline and a list of additional books and web sites help make this a standout biography of Dr. King. The book also includes free teaching resources.
Ages 4-6
Dream March: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the March on Washington (Step into Reading, Level 3) by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson
Young readers can now learn about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and how he lead the historic march on Washington in the summer of 1963. A moving story and powerful illustrations combine to illuminate not only one of America’s most celebrated leaders, but also one of America’s most celebrated moments.
Ages 7-9
Let the Children March by Monica Clark-Robinson
In 1963 Birmingham, Alabama, thousands of African American children volunteered to march for their civil rights after hearing Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. speak. Facing fear, hate, and danger, these children used their voices to change the world. Frank Morrison’s emotive oil-on-canvas paintings bring this historical event to life, while Monica Clark-Robinson’s moving and poetic words document this remarkable time.
Ages 10-12
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History
by Vashti Harrison
Featuring forty trailblazing black women in American history, Little Leaders educates and inspires as it relates true stories of breaking boundaries and achieving beyond expectations. Whether they were putting pen to paper, soaring through the air or speaking up for the rights of others, the women profiled in these pages were all taking a stand against a world that didn’t always accept them.
Ages 13+
March Forward, Girl: From Young Warrior to Little Rock Nine by Melba Pattillo Beals
This is the autobiography of Melba Pattillo Beals. Long before she was one of the Little Rock Nine, Beals was a warrior. Frustrated by the laws that kept African Americans separate but very much unequal to white people, she had questions. Why couldn’t she drink from a “whites only” water fountain? Why couldn’t she feel safe beyond home – or even within the walls of church? Adults all told her: Hold your tongue. Be patient. Know your place. Beals had the heart of a fighter – and the knowledge that her true place was a free one.
Find these books and more incredible nonfiction titles on the First Book Marketplace.
This post first appeared on January 16, 2018 as “Book List: Celebrating Black History Month With Stories.“