Though we strive to have books that reflect all of our students available throughout the year, it's nice to highlight books that are appropriate to Black History during February. Some new books have arrived recently that are perfect for this purpose. All four middle schools have copies of each of these titles and several are perfect for reading and sharing aloud--including pictures and photos that work well under a document camera.
Written in poetic format, this picture book (and winner of multiple awards) tells the story of Civil Rights advocate Fannie Lou Hamer. Starting with her childhood and leading into her political career, this book is a captivating story of an important figure.
Weatherford, Carole Boston and Ekua Holmes
Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer
At a recent
SLJ Summit,
Adam Lerner of Lerner Publishing stood up to talk about the importance of a new book he was publishing.
The Book Itch, written from a child's viewpoint, tells the story of the National Memorial African Bookstore in New York City owned by Lewis Henri Michaux. The illustrated story tells of famous African Americans who visited the store and Mr. Michaux's passion for words. A bibliography of the author's research is included for further reading on this topic.
Nelson, Vaunda Micheaux and
R. Gregory Christine The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth & Harlem's Greatest Bookstore
The life and poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar are highlighted in this unique biography which also includes black and white illustrations. Students may be familiar with certain famous African Americans (Civil Rights activists come to mind), but I like the idea of helping them become familiar with poets, inventors, singers, athletes, actors, and entrepreneurs as well. By displaying books that highlight people who have contributed to the arts, students will have the opportunity to see a variety of ways in which they might use their talents and strengths in the future.
Derby, Sally and
Sean Qualls Jump Back, Paul: The Life and Poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar
Through stunning black and white photography, the history of Motown is told including the people and places that made Motown sound famous. As a resident of Michigan, I have long been interested in the rise and fall of Detroit. This book includes information about the rich cultural heritage of the city. An extensive timeline and bibliography are included for those with further research interest.
Davis, Andrea Pinkney Rhythm Ride: A Road Trip Through the Motown Sound
