It’s February 2020 and Black History Month is more important than ever. Why? Because although this year may imply clear vision, we still haven’t achieved 20/20 hindsight when it comes to Black history. So yes, we should seize the opportunity to shine an extra bright light on it in February and then carry that focus throughout the year. Let’s work to ensure that Black history and culture are seen, understood, honored, and reflected upon by all. And ultimately, that they are fully integrated into and viewed as American history. Period.
Here are twenty or so titles that we’d like to highlight for you and your students this Black History Month. These books are part of our literacy programs and libraries, so if you are already using Collaborative Classroom’s materials, you’ll likely find some or all of the books on your shelves. If not, you can find them at your local library or bookstore (ask them to order the titles that are not in stock at the store—they can easily do this for you!).
The list below includes old and new favorite fiction and nonfiction titles that will appeal to students from kindergarten to grade 6. Each of the books provides a window into some aspect of the history—the challenges, the achievements, the incredible power and creativity and resilience—of the Black community.
Let this group of books be a starting point for the rest of the school year. If you’re looking for additional resources for reading material try The Brown Bookshelf, Helping Kids Rise, and Lee & Low Books.
You might also consider reading the following Collaborative Classroom interviews:
Reading List for Black History Month and Beyond
