Inspiring Board & Picture Books by Black Children’s Authors

Based on a viral video comes the story of one boy’s positive energy and how a sunny outlook can turn everything around. It’s a new day, and Ayaan has woken up on the wrong side of the bed. But as he sets out that morning, all it takes is a few reminders from his mom and some friends in the neighborhood to remind him that a new day is a good day.

(Ages 3 – 7)

From the National Book Award-winning author of Stamped from the Beginning and How to Be an Antiracist comes a new full-sized picture book that empowers parents and children to uproot racism in our society and in ourselves, now with added discussion prompts to help readers recognize and reflect on bias in their daily lives.

(Ages 0 – 3)

Celebrate confident, empowered girls with this flower-filled, nature-loving, read-together children’s book that encourages growth, positivity, and the love of natural Black hair.

(Ages 3 – 7)

Boys will love seeing strong, happy reflections of themselves in this vibrant, rhythmic book full of hip Black hairstyles. From a ‘fro-hawk to mini-twists and crisp cornrows, adorable illustrations of boys with cool curls, waves, and afros grace each page, accompanied by a positive message that will make kids cheer. It’s a great read-aloud to promote positive self-esteem to boys of all ages, building and growing the foundation of self-love (and hair love!) and letting every boy know that “You are born to be awesome!”

(Ages 3 – 7)

The instant New York Times bestselling Bunheads by Misty Copeland gets a second act. And this time, Misty and her best friend, Cat, are excited to learn the ballet Don Quixote — a wondrous tale about a brave knight searching for his Dulcinea, his one true love. But when Cat is injured and unable to perform, she weathers her disappointment with courage and a dose of girl power. Bunheads, Act 2: The Dance of Courage is an inspiring tale for anyone who’s ever suffered a setback or had a dream deferred.

(Ages 5 – 8)

A tall tale inspired by the life and works of American writer, folklorist, and anthropologist Zora Neale Hurston. Filled to the brim with references to Zora Neale Hurston’s classic characters and details from her own life, Small-Girl Zora and the Shower of Stories is a joyful tribute to an icon of American literature and the everlasting power of storytelling.

(Ages 4 – 8)

Join author Jaylene Clark Owens as she pens an ode to Black girls and braids, a dynamic duo. Based on the viral poem, braids of all lengths, looks, parts, and styles are explored and cheered on in this vibrant picture book celebrating the versatility of Black hair.

(Ages 3 – 7)

Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex’s first children’s book, The Bench, beautifully captures the special relationship between father and son, as seen through a mother’s eyes. The book’s storytelling and illustration give us snapshots of shared moments that evoke a deep sense of warmth, connection, and compassion.

(Ages 3 – 7)

Inspired by Corinne Bailey Rae’s award-winning hit song, this picture book celebrates music’s unique power to soothe or energize us when we need it most.

(Ages 4 – 8)

From Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts comes an empowering story about friendship, the power of teamwork, and achieving goals together. Told with Jalen’s signature wisdom and gorgeous art by Nneka Myers, Better than a Touchdown carries a message we can all learn from: That by working together, there’s nothing we can’t accomplish.

(Ages 4 – 8)

This jubilant picture book filled with powerful affirmations celebrates the beautiful magic that makes each of us special. This is the perfect heartfelt gift for a birthday, graduation, or other new beginnings.

(Ages 4 – 8)

From multi Grammy-award winning artist and songwriter Victoria Monét comes a lyrical picture book that’s perfect for children with separation anxiety, while also offering some healing for hard working parents.

(Ages 2 – 5)

An intergenerational story about a nonbinary child who learns the tradition of well digging in this picture book about community, hope, and protecting the Earth’s water.

(Ages 4 – 8)

A lyrical picture book from the award-winning author of Heavy, about three Black boys who form a deep connection during a transformative summer trip down South to visit family. With text brimming with love by award-winning author Kiese Laymon and deeply evocative illustrations by Alexis Franklin, City Summer, Country Summer illuminates the tenuous and tender bonds of friendship Black boys forge with one another.

(Ages 5 – 9)

A picture book that celebrates the community built at the hair salon and the dynamic variety of Black hairstyles! From coils and long locs to waves and braids, Salon Saturday offers a vibrant portrayal of Black hairstyles, cherishing them as both a ritual and an ever-evolving journey of self-expression.

(Ages 3 – 7)

From self-taught, award-winning director Morgan Stevenson Cooper comes a heartfelt picture book about a girl on a mission to make her first movie — and lift her grandpa’s spirits along the way.

(Ages 4 – 8)

In this heartwarming celebration of sisterhood, three girls explore the natural world and discover the harmony of being the littlest, middle, and oldest sister.

(Ages 4 – 8)

A touching story of the friendship between a young boy and his elderly neighbor, and how that boy helps jog the man’s disappearing memory. Exuding warmth, this story displays kindness and neighborliness, and portrays dementia with gentle authenticity.

(Ages 5 – 8)

From the award-winning author and illustrator of Standing in the Need of Prayer comes a joyous picture book about an intergenerational Black family cooking a delicious feast and appreciating their quality time together.

(Ages 4 – 8)