Children’s Books With Strong Black Characters

This Coretta Scott King award-winning picture book is about Sulwe, who is darker than everyone in her family and wishes she had lighter skin. With the help of her mother and a shooting star, Sulwe embarks on a heartfelt journey to embrace her unique beauty that comes from within.

When Daddy has to help style Zuzu’s hair for a special occasion, he has a lot to learn. After a few failed attempts, he carefully combs, parts, and twists until Zuzu’s hair is all set for the special day.

A lyrical reminder that we all feel like outsiders sometimes. It may be from the way we look, where we’re from, and even how we talk. This book is all about finding the courage to share our stories and make connections to celebrate our differences.

Regardless of gender, race, religion, or ability, this moving text inspires children to never give up.Through powerful affirmation, children feel empowered to believe in themselves and their potential to make their dreams a reality.

When Mack gets teased and taunted at school about her unruly hair, she turns to her neighbor Miss Tillie for comfort and help. To help Mack learn to care for her hair — and appreciate herself — Miss Tillie uses the metaphor of her lush garden to show Mack the many kinds of beauty and all the nurturing they require.

Grace loves to act, but one day some kids tell her she can’t play the part of Peter Pan because of the way she looks. Grace’s grandmother helps this young girl realize that with effort anything can be achieved. It's an inspiring and heartwarming story.

This ode to female empowerment is the perfect gift for any little girl in your life. It’s all about loving who you are, kindness, and respecting others.

Henley has a difficult time finding books that are “just right” for him. Most books are too long, too big, or simply too boring. When Henley is asked to bring in his favorite book to share with his class, he goes on a mission to find the perfect book for the assignment.

On a rainy day stuck inside with nothing to do, a little boy decides to build a rocket ship. With the help of his parents, a cardboard box, and a strong imagination, he sets off on a fun-filled adventure in outer space.

Layla shares all the things around her that make her happy. From planting seeds and watching them grow to looking at the moon and catching sand dollars, Layla is truly comfortable in her own skin within her loving community.

Rocket is an aspiring astronaut and stargazer prepared for the Phoenix meteor shower. She hands out flyers for the event, but when the meteor shower takes too long to begin, many people begin to leave. Rocket is devastated, but right at the last moment a surprise lights up the night sky.