Black History Month gives us an opportunity to highlight the lives of African American leaders, thinkers, and innovators in U.S. history. This collection of nonfiction books are sure to become fast favorites for your class.
Each book takes a deep dive into the life of a Black history hero — exploring the social and historical context behind their accomplishments and the impact they continue to have on our lives today.
1. Martin Luther King Jr., Civil Rights Leader
Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy is one of courage, strength, and empowerment. A civil rights leader, activist, and minister, King's life and work is beautifully detailed in Martin's Big Words through stunning collage art and watercolor paintings, using his own words.
2. Serena Williams, Pro Athlete
Ranked among the greatest tennis players of all time, Serena Williams is a tried-and-true champion on and off the court. Winner of 23 Grand Slam singles titles and Olympic gold among many other accolades, Williams's hard work, grit, and talent have led her to dominate tournaments worldwide. Your class can learn more about Serena's life, her sport, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy in Serena Williams.
3. Malcolm X, Human Rights Activist
Rising to prominence during the civil rights movement, Malcolm X was a Muslim minister, human rights activist, and proponent for racial justice and equality. Working tirelessly to bring awareness of racial disparities in society, Malcolm X was a fierce proponent of civil liberties and positive change for the African American community in the U.S. Students will be riveted by his life story in Malcolm X: By Any Means Necessary and make real-world connections with his work and legacy in modern times.
4. Katherine Johnson, Mathematician
Calling Katherine Johnson a math whiz is an understatement. Known as one of NASA’s “human computers” — along with Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, and Christine Darden — she helped calculate the flight path that took Apollo 11 to the moon. In Hidden Figures, students will learn about her accomplishments, build knowledge about the history of the civil rights movement and segregation, and get a glimpse of her work to get mankind to the moon.
5. Ruby Bridges, Civil Rights Activist
At the tender age of six, Ruby Bridges would make history. As the first African American child to attend a predominantly white elementary school in 1960 New Orleans, Louisiana, Bridges showed strength, resolve, and courage as she was escorted to and from school everyday by U.S. Marshals. Amidst protests, threats, and other dangers, Bridges continued to persevere in getting her education, being taught alone in a class until the following year at great cost to her and her family. Learn more about Bridges' experiences during the civil rights movement and beyond in her own words in Ruby Bridges Goes to School.
6. Duke Ellington, American Composer
Born Edward Kennedy Ellington in 1899, the jazz pianist and composer earned the nickname "Duke" from his handsome looks and flashy clothes early on as he made a name for himself in Washington, D.C., and New York City jazz clubs. Considered a musical genius and one of the greatest American composers of all time, Ellington has penned more than one thousand compositions during his storied career. Have fun learning more about his vibrant life in Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and His Orchestra by award-winning duo, author Andrea Davis Pinkney and illustrator Brian Pinkney.
7. Madam C.J. Walker, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
As the first female self-made millionaire in America, Madam C.J. Walker has many achievements to her name, including being an accomplished inventor. Walker created a vast array of groundbreaking and pioneering products and tools for textured hair in the 1800s. She also invented the "Walker System" of haircare for hair and scalp disorders like alopecia. In addition, Walker was also a philanthropist and a political and social activist. Read Madam C.J. Walker (Bright Minds) together as a class to learn more.