Black History Month Read-Aloud Books for Elementary School

Here’s a list of great read-aloud books for Black History Month, featuring inspiring stories, historical figures, and cultural celebrations:

For Younger Readers (Pre-K – 2nd Grade)

• "Hair Love" by Matthew A. Cherry – A heartwarming story about a father styling his daughter's hair.
• "Sulwe" by Lupita Nyong’o – A beautiful tale about self-love and embracing one's unique beauty.
• "Mae Among the Stars" by Roda Ahmed – Inspired by Mae Jemison, the first Black woman in space.
• "The ABCs of Black History" by Rio Cortez – A rhythmic celebration of Black history.
• "Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut" by Derrick Barnes – A vibrant tribute to Black barbershop culture.

For Elementary Readers (Grades 3 – 5)

• "The Undefeated" by Kwame Alexander – A powerful poem honoring Black history and excellence.
• "Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race" by Margot Lee Shetterly – A kid-friendly version of the inspiring NASA pioneers.
• "Freedom in Congo Square" by Carole Boston Weatherford – A look at how enslaved people found joy in New Orleans.
• "Let the Children March" by Monica Clark-Robinson – A powerful story about the 1963 Children’s March for civil rights.
• "Opal Lee and What It Means to Be Free" by Alice Faye Duncan – The inspiring story of Opal Lee and Juneteenth.

Reading Black History books aloud is a powerful way to engage children in meaningful conversations about resilience, achievement, and cultural pride. It helps foster empathy, broaden perspectives, and inspire young minds by introducing them to historical figures and untold stories. By sharing these narratives, we not only honor the past but also empower the next generation to appreciate diversity and strive for a more inclusive future.