Book List

30 Young Readers’ Books for Black History Month

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

SOMETHING LIKE RIGHT

by H.D. Hunter

An original setting for a highly relatable and memorable story about first love and second chances. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

IDA, IN LOVE AND IN TROUBLE

by Veronica Chambers

A vivid, timely, and immersive introduction to an activist and her enduring legacy. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

FLAMBOYANTS

by George M. Johnson ; illustrated by Charly Palmer

A sincere and beautifully illustrated ode to queer Black figures who shaped the Harlem Renaissance. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

MY FAIRY GOD SOMEBODY

by Charlene Allen

A richly drawn story that explores the precarious construction of identity and the pain of complex family dynamics. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

KING

by Jonathan Eig with Yohuru Williams & Michael G. Long

A frank and nuanced character study, though its subject remains an august and somewhat remote figure. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

KNUCKLEHEAD

by Tony Keith Jr. ; illustrated by Julian Adon Alexander

Will resonate deeply with readers and poets on a path of self-discovery. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

ONE BIG OPEN SKY

by Lesa Cline-Ransome

A deeply moving story that centers a distinctive part of the African American story. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

WARRIOR ON THE MOUND

by Sandra W. Headen

An outstanding blend of history, sports, and coming of age: not to be missed. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

THE CREEPENING OF DOGWOOD HOUSE

by Eden Royce

A thrilling, hair-raising story with strong cultural roots and a well-developed sense of place. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

THE LONELY BELOW

by g. haron davis

A chilling ghost story and an affirming tale about believing in yourself when no one else does. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

BLACK STAR

by Kwame Alexander

A powerful and thoroughly satisfying blend of sports, history, family saga, and self-discovery. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

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