Black history month at HopSkipDrive: 8 must-read children's books

HopSkipDrive celebrates Black History Month. This February, we honor and remember the many accomplishments of Black innovators, leaders, educators, parents and children who dedicate(d) their lives to equality.

To continue meaningful conversations, we will be sharing content and resources over the next few weeks that celebrate individual’s stories and the impacts they’ve made in their community.

We first wanted to share a list of wonderful children’s books that celebrate Black characters, and tell stories about the achievements, traditions and history of generations of African Americans. 

Look What Brown Can Do by T. Marie Harris  (History) This book teaches readers about inspiring contributions to Black history, encouraging kids to dream big. 

Mae Among the Stars by Rhoda Amhed (History) This historical work is inspired by the story of Mae Jemison, the first Black women who went to space. In it, Mae as a child dreams of dancing in space among billions of stars, showing that if you dream it, you can do it.

Kofi and His Magic by Maya Angelou (Fiction) The is the story of an eight-year-old girl named Thandi, her village, her mischievous brother, her best friend–a chicken–and the beautiful mural art that is produced by the Ndebele women. Learn from the passing of traditions from parent to child while introducing readers to a new culture.

Ada Twist, Scientist also Andrea Beaty (Fiction) Ada Twist is a second grader and budding scientist. An inquisitive child, she questions everything she encounters and performs science experiments with interesting results. Especially fitting for children interested in STEM. 

I am Rosa Parks by Brad Meltzer (History) This book shares the story of Rosa Parks and the childhood incidents that led her to involvement in the civil rights movement and her now famous refusal to give up her seat on a bus, which inspired the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats (Fiction) This story, about a boy’s adventures during a snowy day.  A beautiful depiction of childhood wonder.

This Jazz Man by Karen Ehrhardt (History) A fun introduction to nine Black jazz greats, this book not only teaches children to count but shares music history 

Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña. (Fiction) This book highlights the relationship between a child and his grandmother, who shows him what he’s overlooking in their day-to-day life. 

We hope you and your family enjoy these wonderful reads