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With so much going on in the world today, it can be difficult to explain certain events to your kiddos and help guide them down a path of hope for a better future amongst surrounding uncertainty. In the current social climate, many are seeking to properly educate their children on the importance of social progression for all (such is the goal of the Black Lives Matter movement). We’ve gathered nine books that will help you raise informed, aware and inspired children who will seek to make their world and the future a much better place for everyone in it.
Sulwe by Lupita Nyong’o
Academy Award–winning actress Lupita Nyong’o , along with illustrator Vashti Harrison, created a book that tackles colorism, self-esteem and learning the true power of your unique beauty. The actress has previously stated that the book was inspired by her own experience with colorism.
Buy book here.
A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara
This book by Innosanto Nagara sets out to unapologetically teach young children about the importance of championing social causes — environmental justice, civil rights, LGBTQ rights (to name a few). Laid out in an ABC board-style, Innosanto’s alliteration, rhyming, and vibrant illustrations will jump from the pages and help parents teach their children about the value of true equality and justice.
Buy book here.
I Am Enough by Grace Byers and Keturah A. Bobo
Empire actress and activist Grace Byers and artist Keturah A. Bobo join together for their first book together seeks to teach and remind children how important it is to love who you are, respect others and, more importantly, how to be kind to one another.
Buy book here.
A Kids Book About Racism by Jelani Memory
African American entrepreneur, thinker and author Jelani Memory takes the tough topic head on in his book. In it, kids will find a clear explanation about the topic and how to recognize it when they see it. He also dives into how it makes those who have experienced it feel.
Buy book here.
One Family by George Shannon and Blanca Gomez
Author George Shannon and illustrator Blanca Gomez dive into the topic of diverse families and how there isn’t a ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to them. This interactive book from the veteran author and up-and-coming artist depicts how families can come in all sizes (big and small) and can be made up of people of all races and genders.
Buy book here.
Let It Shine: Stories of Black Women Freedom Fighters by by Andrea Davis Pinkney and Stephen Alcorn
This book talks about all the greats and their incredible journey to changing the world around them. From Sojournor Truth to Biddy Mason to Harriet Tubman to Ella Josephine Baker to Rosa Parks and many more, there is no way for children and parents alike to not be inspired by their great feats.
Buy book here.
Sofia Valdez, Future Prez by by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts
Sofia Valdez, Future Prez follows in the footsteps of its STEM predecessors Iggy Peck, Architect; Rosie Revere, Engineer; and Ada Twist, Scientist. The book sets out to inspire kids to speak up about the world around them and fight for what they believe in.
Buy book here.
Viola Desmond Won\'t Be Budged by Jody Nyasha Warner and Richard Rudnicki
In Viola Desmond Won’t Be Budged, Jody Nyasha Warner beautifully details the story of Viola one night in 1946 Nova Scotia, Canada, at the Roseland Theatre. After having sat in the lower level and being asked to move in a very disrespectful manner, she refused to budge and was arrested. The book seeks to tell her story through the lens of historical accuracy and sympathy.
Buy book here.
White Flour by David LaMotte and Jenn Hales
White Flour tackles the topic of social injustice with a whimsical and effective response to racial violence. Based on a true story of a rally in 2007, kids follow the events about how the Coup Clutz Clowns took down the KKK using a creative non-violent approach.
Buy book here.
Woke: A Young Poet\'s Call to Justice by Mahogany L. Browne, Elizabeth Acevedo, Olivia Gatwood, Theodore Taylor III, Jason Reynolds
Poets Mahogany L. Browne, Elizabeth Acevedo and Olivia Gatwood set out to leave kids truly inspired with Woke: A Young Poet‘s Call to Justice. Their eloquent prose, backed by Theodore Taylor’s art, creates a space were kids can reflect on their passion for social justice, how to approach moments of discrimination with empathy and the importance of speaking out.
Buy book here.
I Believe I Can by Grace Byers and Keturah A. Bobo
The New York Times bestselling creators of I Am Enough create another powerful and empowering book that reminds kids of their incredible potential and that everyone deserves to love and believe in themselves.
Buy book here.