Books and resources amplifying black voices and accomplishments.
Look for these books at your local library or indie bookstore. If you'd like to purchase online, click "buy now" to have it shipped from Brick and Mortar Books.
Jabari Asim
Preaching to the Chickens by Jabari Asim tells the inspiring true story of young John Lewis, who grew up on a farm in Alabama dreaming of becoming a preacher. With a tender heart and a powerful voice, he practiced his sermons on the only congregation he had—his chickens. This beautifully illustrated book shows how his early passion for justice and compassion grew into a lifetime of courageous leadership and civil rights advocacy.
Yolanda Gladden
When the Schools Shut Down tells the true story of Yolanda Gladden’s childhood during a time when public schools in her Virginia town were closed to resist integration. Through her eyes, families see how the Black community came together to create schools in churches and homes so children could keep learning. It’s a powerful reminder of resilience, community, and the importance of equal education.
Jonah Winter
Thurgood introduces children to Thurgood Marshall, the first Black U.S. Supreme Court Justice, tracing his journey from a young boy in segregated Baltimore to a civil rights lawyer who argued—and won—the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case. The book highlights how his father's encouragement to debate and his own experiences with injustice fueled his passion for equality. With dynamic illustrations by Bryan Collier, this biography offers an inspiring look at how determination and courage can lead to monumental change.
Jacqueline Woodson
The Other Side tells the story of Clover, a young Black girl, and Annie, a white girl, who live on opposite sides of a fence that segregates their town. Despite being told to stay on their respective sides, the girls form a quiet friendship by sitting together on the fence, symbolizing their hope for a future without barriers. This beautifully illustrated book gently introduces children to themes of segregation, empathy, and the power of friendship to challenge unjust divisions.
Cynthia Levinson
Audrey Faye Hendricks was just nine years old when she stood up for what was right and joined a civil rights march in Birmingham, Alabama. She believed kids could make a difference—and she was brave enough to go to jail to help end segregation. Audrey’s story shows that no one is too young to change the world!