February is Black History Month, and I chose three new book releases for you to check out for various age groups. There are also several resources through PBS and National Geographic if you are looking for more ways to learn. Each has videos, books, art, questions and more that you can use all month long!
We Are Here By Tami Charles
Recommended Ages 3-7
A poetic picture book in an extra-large format where the illustrations are just as lovely as the story. Both imaginative and real, they make a delightful pairing as we follow a young girl on the journey to discover who we are. “We are seeds, you and me, roots thick with dreams and stars and possibilities.” At the end of the book, there is a brief introduction to historic figures; Dr. Martin L King Jr, Muddy Waters, Ella Fitzgerald, Howlin’ Wolf, and Marian Anderson, as well as a brief on food, fashion, and a glossary.
A Celebration of Black Leaders and the Words that Inspire Generations
Recommended Ages 7-12
A multi-sensory book that includes real voice clips from brominate black leaders from James Baldwin, Toni Morrison to Katherine Johnson, John Lewis and Jay-Z. Each page highlights someone new. With a few paragraphs on each individual, a brief highlight blurb and follow-up questions readers can use this book as a short guide to deeper exploration. The book also includes a glossary, a further reading list, and a page dedicated for you to journal or draw whatever you feel inside.
We Are Your Children Too By P. O. Connell Pearson
Recommended Ages 10-14
A nonfiction chapter book with real life photos scattered throughout, tells the gripping story of life in 1950s in south central Virginia. After Brown v. the Board of Education was passed, a decision was made in one county to close all its public schools rather than integrate. "While the affluent White population of Prince Edward County built a private school _ for White children only - Black children and their families had to find other ways to learn. Some Black children were home-schooled by unemployed Black teachers. Some traveled thousands of miles away to live with relatives, friends, or even strangers. Some didn’t go to school at all. But many stood up and became young activists, fighting for one of the rights America claims belongs to all: the right to learn.”
Amanda is a preschool teacher, mother and avid Central Park picnicker. She values community and is an advocate for families in the foster care system. One day she hopes to publish a children's book of her own. In the meantime, you can follow her Instagram, Enchanted Literacy, which encourages imagination and passion for reading.
