African American Picture Books - Fiction

Picture books and read-alouds for small children.

Updated May 16, 2025
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Kwesi and Nana Ruby Learn to Swim
Commeh, Kobina/ Quintino, Br?bara (ILT)
Paper Book
★ "A wonderful story to show how it is possible to overcome our fears of doing something new by accepting help from others" -- School Library Journal, starred review Kwesi doesn't know how to swim... and discovers his grandmother doesn't either! Can they...
Yaya and the sea
Good Marable, Karen
Paper Book
A 2024 New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children's Book A family goes on a trip from the city to the sea in search of renewal in this "lively and lovely...beautiful" (Jacqueline Woodson, National Book Award-winning author of Brown Girl Dreaming...
Brown Girl, Brown Girl
Honor,? Lesl/? Cabrera, Cozbi A. (ILT)
Paper Book
This powerful and hopeful picture book--inspired by the historic election of Vice President Kamala Harris--celebrates brown and Black girls and is magnificently illustrated by a Caldecott Honor-winning artist. Brown girl, brown girl, what did you see?...
Before the ships : the birth of Black excellence
Oso, Maisha
Paper Book
Before the Ships is a powerful and poetic celebration of the early roots of Black history. The great achievements and accomplishments across Africa prior to the Transatlantic slave trade are told through melodious text and evocative illustrations, that culminate into the strength and...
Soul step
Rhodes, Jewell Parker
Paper Book
Follow one girl's journey to discover the joy and history of step dancing- an ode to sisterhood and a strong mother-daughter bond, perfect for fans of Bunheads. What does sisterhood sound like? STOMP, CLAP! How does pride move? ...
Juneteenth is
Tripplett, Natasha
Paper Book
2024 Golden Poppy Award Winner An intimate look at Juneteenth, this story is a warm exploration of a family and a community.  Juneteenth is the smell of brisket filling the air. Juneteenth is the sounds of music, dancing, and...
Summer is here
Watson, Renée
Paper Book
Celebrate iconic childhood joys in this love letter to summer featuring bright, sun-drenched art, from New York Times bestselling creators Renée Watson and Bea Jackson. Summer is here! No dark clouds in the sky, it's a perfect day for play. What joy...
Dante Plays His Blues
Wells, Allen R.
Paper Book
"A resonant tale of a boy dealing with change in his own way." --Kirkus Reviews From debut author Allen R. Wells and New York Times bestselling illustrator Shamar Knight-Justice comes a tender and heartwarming picture book about a boy affected by housing insecurity who learns...

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