There’s something powerful in a story — especially when children see themselves in the pages. During Black History Month, we have a chance not only to remember struggles, but to celebrate joy, innovation, resilience, and voices that more often go unheard. A great way to begin is by reading books together — picture books, narrative nonfiction, and joyful celebrations of Black history and culture.

But first, a little context. Black History Month in the UK has a distinct role: to surface stories of Black Britons, Caribbean and African heritage, diaspora experiences, and contributions often omitted from mainstream narratives.

So when we read Black History books with children, we are doing more than marking a month — we are helping them understand identity, belonging, complexity, and hope.

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How to Use These Books (Tips for Families)

• Read aloud together and pause to ask open questions: “What surprised you about this person?” “What would you have done?”
• Mix voices: rotate books by Black authors, stories about local (UK) Black history, and stories across the diaspora.
• Don’t just limit to October — let these books be part of your shelf year-round.
• Offer extension activities: draw, write, role-play, compare with local stories in your own area.

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10 Books to Celebrate During Black History Month

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Here are 10 wonderful children’s books (many suited for ages 3–8, with some stretching older) that celebrate Black history, culture, and voices. (I’ve focused on ones with broad appeal, especially in the UK market.)

Black and British: An Illustrated History

by David Olusoga (Author), Jake Alexander (Illustrator), Melleny Taylor (Illustrator)

This is a beautifully illustrated, accessible overview of Black British history — perfect for school-age children who can browse and absorb. It offers context, faces, and stories that too often go missing in standard history lessons.

Black in Time: The Most Awesome Black Britons from Yesterday

by Alison Hammond (Author), E. L. Norry (Author)

A vibrant celebration of Black figures in British history — scientists, artists, activists — with short biographies and bold visuals that make it easy for children to dip in and out.

Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History

by Vashti Harrison (Author, Illustrator)

A lovely book that profiles men across the diaspora — from pioneers, scientists, to leaders — in bite-sized spreads. Great for bedtime sharing and introducing role models.

My First Heroes: Black History

by Campbell Books (Author), Jayri Gómez (Illustrator)

With simple text and beautiful imagery, this is a gentle, inspiring introduction to key figures like Harriet Tubman and Martin Luther King Jr. For younger children or early readers.

Black Heroes: A Black History Book for Kids

by Arlisha Norwood (Author)

Definitely for the older kids, but a great read regardless. This is a broad collection of 51 inspiring people — from ancient Africa to recent times. It’s a rich source for discussion, and children can bookmark, revisit, and build their own hero lists.

Bright Stars of Black British History

by J.T. Williams (Author), Angela Vives (Illustrator)

Also another for the older kids: focused on British figures, this is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for people your children might see or hear about in the UK context — giving them more immediate connection.

The Story of Afro Hair

by K. N. Chimbiri (Author), Joelle Avelino (Illustrator)

A book that celebrates identity, self-image, and beauty — especially important for children who see their hair as part of their heritage. It offers pride, understanding, and affirmation.

You Come from Greatness: A Celebration of Black History

by Sara Chinakwe (Author), Ken Daley (Illustrator)

This is a lyrical, celebratory book — less history, more affirmation — reminding children of the legacy they inherit. It’s ideal for younger readers or as a companion to more factual volumes.

What Kids Need to Know About Black History

by Hillcrest History (Author)

A broader survey book with engaging snapshots. Great for children who are ready to move beyond picture books into early nonfiction.

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What You’ll Notice When Reading Together

• Intersectionality: Many books show that race intersects with gender, class, migration, and identity — inviting deeper conversation.
• Local ties: Even “global” stories often tie into UK history — migration, Windrush, Commonwealth connections.
• Stories of joy and creativity, not just struggle. Celebrating resilience is important, but children also need to see laughter, invention, cultural flourishing.
• Artistic voice matters. Illustrators and authors from Black communities bring authenticity — their perspectives, style, and detail often make all the difference.

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Bringing the Books to Life: Ideas After Reading

• Let children choose one person from a book and draw or write a postcard “to them.”
• Map travel: Where were these people born? Where did they travel or settle?
• Role-play conversations or short scenes.
• Create a “hero wall” in your home with faces and mini-bios.
• Ask children: “Who in your life is a hero? Why?”

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Final Thought

Books are small portals — through them we travel in time, learn new voices, and stretch our empathy. This Black History Month, let your child’s bookshelf be a place of discovery, pride, and connection.

As your shelf of heroes grows, may your child feel seen, inspired, and grounded in the knowledge that they carry a story far bigger than themselves.

And yes, I’ll probably be curled up reading Black and British while my boys argue over whose hero goes on the “wall.”

With books strewn on the rug and quiet awe in my heart,
Lily Luz
Spoon & Sky