The ABC's of Black History
What’s inside...
The ABCs of Black History, written by Baltimore-based black attorney Craig Thompson, is a celebration of 26 notable figures in black history, presented in a colorful and engaging format ideal for children of all ages. The book features short rhymes and vivid illustrations of historical figures like Booker T. Washington, Fannie Lou Hamer, Malcolm X, and Oprah Winfrey, as well as lesser-known individuals such as Garret Morgan and Lee Elder. Thompson's motivation for writing the book was to provide a culturally relevant resource for his daughter and other children, encouraging them to learn about their history. The ABCs of Black History aims to educate children of all races about significant people, places, and events in black history, while also supporting parents with the developmental needs of their children through rich colors and rhyming patterns.
Age
4-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some ways people in the book showed courage and strength? How can we show courage in our lives?
Which historical figure in the book did you find most interesting and why?
How have the contributions of Black leaders shaped our world today?
What does equality mean to you, and why is it important?
How can we celebrate and honor the cultures and histories of all people?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the stories in the book to their own experiences or those of their friends to build empathy and understanding.
Before starting, let your child know that it’s okay to ask questions at any point, reinforcing that learning is an open dialogue.
Use the illustrations and historical events in the book as a springboard to dive deeper into topics of interest with supplementary materials like children’s documentaries or museum visits.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character, and describe why they chose it, to foster creative expression along with comprehension.
Praise your child’s insights and curiosity, providing positive reinforcement that will encourage ongoing interest in history and social justice topics.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding diversity and equality
Explanation: The book covers significant historical figures and events in Black history, illustrating the importance of diversity and the impacts of inequality.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect individual differences in their classrooms and communities, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: Through the stories of various Black leaders and their struggles for civil rights, children see examples of perseverance and resilience.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to persist despite challenges in their studies or personal endeavors, understanding that effort can lead to impactful outcomes.
Example Lesson: The importance of self-identity and heritage
Explanation: The book encourages pride in one's heritage through positive representations of Black culture and history.
Real-World Application: Children can develop a strong sense of self and pride in their background, enabling them to confidently navigate their social environments.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Stories within the book introduce children to the concepts of empathy and understanding by exposing them to diverse life experiences and perspectives.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in developing the ability to empathize with peers who may have different life experiences, fostering a supportive community environment.