Since February is Black History month, many people will want to educate themselves on the event and how African American history has shaped the culture in the United States. Below are some highly recommended books to find out about Black History month as well as African American history in general. There are books for adults as well as for children to expand your knowledge of how African Americans influenced history in America. The top ten books for recommended reading on African American History are:
1. The Black Cowboys (African-American Achievers) by Gina De Angelis – This book is great for fourth graders through adult. This book details African American’s participation in settling the West, focusing on cowboys and ranch hands. This is a wonderful book for people interested in the Wild West and how blacks contributed to the culture and building of society in this age. For school aged children who are writing essays for Black History Month, this is a great starting point to get a vision of how life was in the West during the late 1800’s.
2. Fifty Black Women Who Changed America by Amy Alexandra – This book contains accounts of how various African American women have contributed to American history and culture. Each person is highlighted with her story and personal accounts of the challenges and successes that shaped society and African American History. The lives of women from the civil war through modern times are depicted. Older children through adults are recommended for this book and it will be especially beneficial for females of all races to get inspiration on how one person can affect society in positive ways.
3. Bill Wyman’s Blues Odyssey: A Journey to Music’s Heart and Soul by Bill Wyman – No music style defines America more than the blues. African American history is where the blues originated and this poignant look at how the music began and the musicians who contributed is ideal for adult music lovers. Included are African American musicians as well as musicians from all races who were influenced by this genre. It depicts an even deeper issue, though: that of how the arts can help mold societal views.
4. In Our Own Image: Treasured African-American Traditions by Patrik Henry Bass and Karen Pugh – This book is ideal for people of all ages. It gives a realistic, sometimes surprising and often anti stereotypical view of African American history. There is an abundance of pictures and memorabilia from the Civil War, civil rights movements and modern times so you can get an image of black culture. The book is sectioned into “Family”, “Community” and “Heroes and Headliners” to get a comprehensive picture of life from all sides. This book is a great coffee table book. This is a great book to open up conversation between parents and children regarding racism and how African American history has changed, grown and shaped America.
5. Martin’s Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport – This is the ideal book to introduce young children to African American history. Suitable for children four years and up, this picture book takes Martin Luther King, Jr.’s words and presents them in an easy to read and understand format. The book illustrates the struggle black Americans had to attain freedom and equality. It will inspire and educate. Teachers and parents will delight in this book and it is perfect for story time during Black History Month.
6. Dreams from My Father: A Story of Race and Inheritance by Barack Obama – This year’s Black History Month is an ideal time to read this book since the author will be sworn in as America’s first black president. This is a time to see African American History unfold right in front of us. This book is intended for adults and mature readers but will be enjoyed for its heart warming and candid accounts of one black man’s life, struggle through racism and accomplishments through life. This is an inspirational book that will give insight into our forty fourth president.
7. Bound for Canaan: The Epic Story of the Underground Railroad, America’s First Civil Rights Movement by Fergus M. Bordewich – Many people are familiar with the Underground Railroad, a significant part of African American history. However, this book is complete detailing of the movement and includes many sources for an often startling look at the complexity of this part of American history. Recommended for adults and perfect for Black History Month, this is a great way to educate yourself more fully about the intricacies, challenges and triumphs of the Underground Railroad.
8. Slavery by Another Name: The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II by Douglas A. Blackmon – Not everyone is aware of this often overlooked tragic period of American history, one that should never be forgotten. This is an essential part of understanding African American History even though the accounts are often unsettling. This book is intended for adults and tells the story of the sale of convicted criminals to companies for labor starting at the end of the 19th century. It’s unrelenting tale of harsh conditions and neo slavery is often disturbing but incredibly poignant. It shows how easily we can take freedoms for granted and how current political climates can twist legislation. This book is a great accounting of African American history that brings past mistakes into the forefront of consciousness.
9. Not a Genuine Black Man: Or, How I Claimed My Piece of Ground in the Lily-White Suburbs by Brian Copeland – This lighthearted look at stereo types, even among one’s own race, is a wonderful accounting of how black people fit in, or don’t fit in, to white society. Even though the book has a comedic tone to it, the truths that are included are a great way to discuss racism and hypocrisy. This book was written for adults but older children can also find the book useful. This is a great way to discuss Black History Month, how African American history has made huge strides and how some of those strides seem to be an illusion. This is perfect for African Americans who live or work in predominantly white areas.
10. Strength to Love by Martin Luther King, Jr. – No top ten list would be complete without hearing from the most influential leader in African American history. This book is perfect for older children and adults alike. It is a collection of his sermons and is the ideal choice for Black History Month. Read this book together as a family and discuss the ideals and messages found in his own words and discuss how the views of the past are still applicable today.
