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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The Watsons go to Birmingham--1963
Curtis, Christopher Paul.
Paper Book
During one of the most important times in the civil rights movement, one unforgettable family goes on a road trip in this Newbery and Coretta Scott King Honoree, from author Christopher Paul Curtis, recipient of the Coretta Scott King-Virginia Hamilton Award for Lifetime Achievement. ...

A classic Newbery Award-winning book from powerhouse Christopher Paul Curtis, which tells the story of a family road trip to Birmingham that coincides with the bombing at the 16th St Baptist Church in September 1963. (Children's Fiction Grades 3-5)

The great Greene heist
Johnson, Varian
Paper Book
Saving the school -- one con at a time. (And in paperback!)"A political heist page-turner set in middle school? Is that even possible? Varian Johnson shows us how it's done." - Gordon Korman, author of SWINDLE "Do yourself a favor and start reading immediately." - Rebecca Stead, author of WHEN YOU...

Ocean's Eleven but set in a middle school, with a group of friends teaming up to stop a classmate from tampering with the student council elections. (Young Teen 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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