5 Books that Affirm Black Kids
By Nosakhere Griffin-EL, Ph.D.
I Promise by LeBron James is a must read book for children. This book provides roadmap for kids to achieve academic excellence. The familiar and peaceful images of children playing allows caregivers the opportunity to discuss the importance of learning. For parents and educators, this book is a tool to provide kid-friendly advice on how to become a champion in the classroom. At the back of the room, the author provides a pledge that parents, educators, or caregivers can use to inspire their young dreamers. I took the creatively liberty to creatively remix this pledge to speak directly to my sons’ reality. This is an amazing must buy book.
Dear Black Boy Martellus Bennett is a powerful must-read book. The author brilliantly uses sports as a metaphor to discuss how Black boys can pursue bigger dreams, achieve academic excellence, and work to make the world better. This book challenges to Black boys to dream dreams that go beyond sports and entertainment. The powerful illustrations offer your young dreamer the chance to imagine himself in the story. For parents and educators, this book is a tool to begin or continue the conversation about dreams and dreaming.
Parker Looks Up by Parker Curry and Jessica Curry is a powerful book must read! When Parker’s mother takes her on a surprise trip to the museum, she did not know she would have a life changing experience. As this little girl goes on a fun and playful tour of the museum with her friend, she looks at beautiful paintings and portraits of famous people. She sees a painting of a ballerina, and she begins to dance. As Parker finishes her dance, she looks up and sees a picture of Michelle Obama. This inspirational portrait captures Parker’s inner Queen and who she wants to be in the future.
The bright and colorful illustrations by Brittney Jackson capture the beauty of a child dreaming out loud. These engaging images allows the reader to visually walk alongside Parker as she goes on a captivating journey of finding her aspirational self! For parents and educators, this book is a powerful tool to begin the conversation about dreaming. A way to recreate the Parker moment is to ask children what they want to be when they grow up. Then find a biography of a person who represents that dream. Here are some books that can aid you in the aforementioned: Little Legends, Black Heroes, Little Leaders, Queen Like Me and Superhero Like Me. In sum, Parker Looks Up is a must have book!
Brilliant Bobby: The Wax Museum by Kevin Rakeen White is an empowering read. The author walks the reader through the life of a curious boy who is loved by his parents, encouraged by his teacher, supported by his friend, and inspired by Black history. The author presents the importance of Black history in aiding Black children in developing their dreams. I love the way the author integrates important historical figures and events in a children friendly manner. The study guide in the back of the book offers families an opportunity to have a rich conversation about the book.
Chocolate Kings by Erika D. Collins is an amazing book about character development for future kings. The author’s ability to discuss complex character development topics in a kid-friendly manner creates an enjoyable reading experience for your young dreamer. She discusses topics like: leading, kindness, intelligence, a child of God, honesty, and honoring one’s parents, etc… The illustrations in the book depict the main character enacting these values within real life contexts. For parents with boys, this book serves as a tool to reinforce good character traits. This is a must read book that stays in my sons reading rotation!
