8 Great Kids’ Books to Read for Black History Month

Now that February is here, we're celebrating Black History Month. And since we're all about having conversations with our kids about the importance of accepting others—especially right now—we've selected some great kids' books that explore diversity, identity, and race. Here are our top picks.

Age range: 1 -3 years This sweet little book has gorgeous, warm illustrations and an adorable story to go with it—making little ones gravitate to it. The playful language and phrases, like ‘Little Princess Honeydew', are cute and endearing. But what we love most is the focus on a strong, loving Dad-and-Daughter relationship. This one is definitely a great first book for little pre-readers that parents will love to read too. $8.41, available at amazon.ca

Age range: 3 – 6 years Books that help with self-esteem and building confidence are definitely our favourites. And this one is designed to do just that! The main character is a little girl named Lola with really, really big hair. But, as Lola puts it, 'Even though the kids may stare, I lift my hands up in the air, then smile and say… I love my hair!' You've got to love a girl with confidence! And the emphasis on being okay with the things that make you different makes this a great choice for young readers. $16, available at amazon.ca

Age range: 3 – 5 years This book is close to our hearts for so many reasons. It tells the story of a close, loving relationship between a grandson and his grandmother through stunning images, while also leaving kids with a gentle reminder about the importance of acceptance and appreciation. Its focus on kindness and thankfulness also sends a great message and makes it a book you'll love to read over and over again. $15, available at amazon.ca

Age range: 3 – 8 years This simple but beautiful book features a mom and daughter during their end-of-the-day routine. As the main character gets her hair brushed by her mom, they reflect together on why she's so lucky to have beautiful hair like hers. Whether it's styled in rows of braids or an afro that also signifies that people “were proud of who they were and where they came from”, this story emphasizes self-acceptance and why it's important to be proud of your heritage. $8, available at amazon.ca

Age range: 5 – 7 years One of our favourite picks, this fun book features a strong heroine who constantly questions everything around her and wants to know what the world is all about. Whether she's making up science experiments or developing hypotheses, Ada Twist demonstrates that it's a good thing to have passion and perseverance. Our kids love the silly parts of the story (Why are there hairs up inside your nose?) and the rhyming language —and you'll love the fact that it helps celebrate young, strong girls of colour...and the theme of STEM. $14, available at amaxon.ca

Age range: 5 – 9 years This brand new book tells a historical story from a nine-year-old little girl's perspective. Through cute pictures and the curiosity of the young heroine, kids learn about her experience being the youngest child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, Alabama in 1963. We love the encouraging message in this book about the power one person can have and why it's crucial to stand up for what you believe in. $16, available at amazon.ca

Age range: 8 – 12 years Featuring smart, funny 10-year-old Bud, this book follows along as the main character embarks on a journey to find his father in depression-era Michigan. Bud will capture your kids' attention immediately and carry them with him throughout the story as he discovers how hopeful and heartwarming humanity can be. $9, available at amazon.ca

Age range: 8 – 12 years Three sisters reunite with members of their family in the rural South one summer in this book while exploring themes of history, community, race, loyalty and the ties that bind family together. This is the third book in a series about the Gaither sisters and young (and even old) readers will love the funny, sad, heartwarming writing. A great series for your kids to enjoy! $15, available at amazon.ca