Children's Book Suggestions | Black History Month

This list shares some of our favorite nonfiction and chapter books for readers in Grades 3-8.

For younger readers, see our Children's Book Suggestions: Black History Month Picture Books list.

For nonfiction books about Black Americans and their contributions to US History, look for biographies of individuals in 921 (by subject last name) and general Black history in 973.0496.

For more of the best children's books by Black authors and illustrators, check out the Coretta Scott King Awards awarded annually by the American Library Association since 1970.

Updated January 30, 2024
LINCC (Libraries in Clackamas County) Oregon City Public Library
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Crowned : magical folk and fairy tales from the diaspora
Bethencourt, Kahran
Paper Book
*NAACP Image Award Winner for Outstanding Literary Work - Children* *NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER* From the New York Times bestselling duo who brought you GLORY: Magical Visions of Black Beauty, comes CROWNED: Magical Folk and Fairy Tales...

Traditional stories from Africa and the Black diaspora, illustrated with stunning photographs of kids in traditional clothing. (Children's Nonfiction Age 8-12)

New kid
Craft, Jerry
Paper Book
Winner of the Newbery Medal, Coretta Scott King Author Award, and Kirkus Prize for Young Readers' Literature!  Perfect for fans of Raina Telgemeier and Gene Luen Yang, New Kid is a timely, honest graphic novel about starting over at a new school where diversity is low...

The first graphic novel to win a Newbery Medal is popular with young readers of all backgrounds drawn to the familiar story of starting over in a new place. (Young Teen Graphic Novel Grades 5-7)

Ghost
Reynolds, Jason
Paper Book
A National Book Award Finalist for Young People's Literature Nominated as one of America's best-loved novels by PBS's The Great American Read Ghost wants to be the fastest sprinter on his elite middle school track team, but his past is slowing him down in this...

The first of four novels of kids on a track team, perfect for runners and sports enthusiasts. (Young Teen Fiction Grades 5-7)


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