Best African-American children’s books & Authors – 2024

Are you looking for some of the most amazing children’s books by African-American authors for your kid? We got you covered on this one. We have selected some of the best children’s books by black authors your kid will love. It doesn’t matter which level your child is, 3-5 or 9-12, there is a suitable book for you.

5 African American children’s books ages 3-5

If your child is 3-5 years, here are the most suitable children’s books by African-American authors he will love. Note that, these books celebrate diversity, promote positive messages, and offer engaging stories and illustrations that will captivate young readers ages 3-5.

1. Hair Love – by Matthew A. Cherry, illustrated by Vashti Harrison

This heartwarming picture book tells the story of a young African American girl named Zuri who wants to style her own hair with the help of her father. With vibrant illustrations and a touching narrative, “Hair Love” celebrates family, self-expression, and loving one’s natural hair.

2. Sulwe – by Lupita Nyong’o, illustrated by Vashti Harrison

In this beautifully illustrated book, Sulwe learns to embrace her dark skin and recognize her own beauty. Written by Academy Award-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o, “Sulwe” is a powerful and empowering story about self-acceptance and diversity.

3. The Snowy Day – by Ezra Jack Keats

This classic picture book follows a young African American boy named Peter as he explores his neighborhood on a snowy day. With its charming illustrations and simple yet evocative storytelling, “The Snowy Day” captures the wonder and joy of childhood adventures in the snow.

4. Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut – by Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C. James

Winner of the Coretta Scott King Book Award, “Crown” celebrates the experience of getting a fresh haircut at the barbershop. Through poetic language and dynamic illustrations, the book celebrates self-confidence, community, and the transformative power of a good haircut.

5. Last Stop on Market Street – by Matt de la Peña, illustrated by Christian Robinson

This award-winning picture book follows CJ and his grandmother as they take a bus ride through their city. Along the way, CJ learns valuable lessons about gratitude, kindness, and the beauty of the world around him. With its lyrical prose and vibrant illustrations, “Last Stop on Market Street” is a touching story about finding beauty in everyday moments.

5 African American children’s books ages 9-12

If your child is 9-12 years, then, these are of children’s books by African-American authors you must consider for your child. They offer engaging stories, relatable characters, and thought-provoking themes that will resonate with readers ages 9-12.

1. The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis

This Newbery Honor-winning novel follows the Watson family as they embark on a road trip from Michigan to Alabama during the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Through the eyes of 10-year-old Kenny, the story explores themes of family, identity, racism, and resilience.

2. Brown Girl Dreaming – by Jacqueline Woodson

In this autobiographical novel-in-verse, Jacqueline Woodson shares her childhood memories of growing up as an African American girl in the 1960s and 1970s. Through lyrical poetry, Woodson reflects on her experiences with family, community, and the power of storytelling.

3. Ghost – by Jason Reynolds

The first book in the “Track” series, “Ghost” follows Castle “Ghost” Cranshaw, a talented young runner with a troubled past. When Ghost joins a local track team, he discovers a sense of belonging and purpose as he strives to overcome his obstacles and reach his full potential.

4. One Crazy Summer – by Rita Williams-Garcia

Set in 1968 Oakland, California, this Newbery Honor-winning novel follows three sisters—Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern—as they spend a summer with their estranged mother, who is involved in the Black Panther movement. Through their adventures, the girls learn about activism, identity, and the complexities of family relationships.

5. The Jumbies – by Tracey Baptiste

In this middle-grade fantasy novel inspired by Caribbean folklore, 11-year-old Corinne La Mer must confront ancient spirits known as jumbies who threaten her island home of Trinidad. With its rich storytelling, atmospheric setting, and strong heroine, “The Jumbies” is a captivating adventure that explores themes of courage, friendship, and the power of storytelling.

Conclusion

These are just a few examples of the many exceptional African American children’s books and authors who have made significant contributions to children’s literature. Each of these books offers valuable insights, representation, and inspiration for young readers of all backgrounds.