Black and British: A Short, Essential History
not part of a series
on Goodreads (1,837)
What’s inside...
This book is a children's version of the bestseller Black and British by David Olusoga. It provides an essential introduction to 1800 years of Black British history, from Roman Africans guarding Hadrian's Wall to contemporary times. It answers various questions about Black British history and is illustrated with maps, photos, and portraits. Macmillan Children's Books will donate a portion of the proceeds to The Black Curriculum, and the book was shortlisted for Waterstones Book of the Year 2020.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
11-12
Length
217 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did the stories of different Black individuals in the book make you feel?
Why do you think it's important to learn about the history of Black people in Britain?
What are some ways the people in the book contributed to British society?
How can we apply the lessons from this book in our daily lives to support inclusivity and diversity?
Which person or event in the book did you find most inspiring or surprising, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, explore with your child what they already know or think about Black history in Britain.
Encourage your child to relate the historical events and figures to current events and figures in their own world.
Discuss the importance of diversity and inclusion, and ask your child how they can contribute to these values in their daily interactions.
Use the stories from the book as a springboard to research more together about Black history and its impact on modern society.
Reinforce that it's okay to ask questions when they're unsure or curious about certain topics discussed in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Diversity
Explanation: This book explores the rich and often overlooked history of Black individuals in Britain, showcasing a diverse tapestry of cultures and experiences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect cultural diversity in their own classrooms and communities, fostering a more inclusive environment.
Example Lesson: Importance of History
Explanation: David Olusoga provides a concise yet informative overview of the historical contributions and struggles of Black Britons, highlighting the importance of understanding history.
Real-World Application: This knowledge encourages children to value history as a tool to understand the present and shape the future, promoting informed citizenship.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: The book details the resilience of Black Britons through challenging historical periods, illustrating the power of perseverance against adversity.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of resilience in overcoming personal challenges and the importance of persisting toward their goals despite obstacles.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: By exposing readers to the experiences and historical challenges faced by Black Britons, the book nurtures empathy and a deeper understanding of others' perspectives.
Real-World Application: Promoting empathy helps children develop healthier interpersonal relationships and aids in conflict resolution.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking
Explanation: Olusoga’s narrative invites readers to analyze and question historical narratives, encouraging critical thinking about how history is recorded and taught.
Real-World Application: This skill helps children approach information with a questioning mind, enhancing their academic skills and decision-making processes.