Young Gifted and Black: Meet 52 Black Heroes from Past and Present
What’s inside...
Join us on a journey across borders, through time and even through space to meet 52 icons of color from the past and present in a celebration of achievement. Meet figureheads, leaders, and pioneers such as Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Rosa Parks, as well as cultural trailblazers and sporting heroes, including Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey, and Serena Williams. Discover how their childhood dreams and experiences influenced their adult achievements. This book will help the next generation to chase their own dream... whatever it may be. Written in the spirit of Nina Simone’s song “To Be Young, Gifted, and Black,” this vibrant book is a perfect introduction to both historic and present-day icons and heroes. Highlighting the talent and contributions of black leaders and changemakers from around the world, readers of all backgrounds will be empowered to discover what they too can achieve.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
64 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Who is one of the heroes you learned about in this book that you admire the most, and why?
How do the achievements of these heroes inspire you in your own life?
What challenges did these heroes face and how did they overcome them?
If you could meet any of the people featured in this book, who would it be and what would you ask them?
How can we apply the lessons from these heroes' lives to our own community or school?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about famous historical figures, and see if the book expands their knowledge.
Pause at each hero's story to discuss their major achievements and the obstacles they encountered.
Encourage your child to relate the stories to their personal experiences or current events.
After reading, ask your child to draw or write about a hero from the book that particularly resonated with them.
Discuss how diversity and representation in stories can be empowering and why it’s important to learn about people from different backgrounds.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: The book showcases the struggles and triumphs of 52 Black heroes who faced significant challenges but persevered to achieve great success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by not giving up when facing difficulties in their own lives, whether in school or during extracurricular activities.
Example Lesson: Diversity and inclusion
Explanation: By highlighting the achievements of people from diverse backgrounds, the book teaches the importance of embracing all cultures and perspectives.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to appreciate and respect people who are different from themselves, promoting inclusivity in their interactions with peers.
Example Lesson: The importance of education
Explanation: Many featured individuals used their education as a stepping stone to success. The stories emphasize how knowledge and learning can lead to empowerment.
Real-World Application: Kids are inspired to take their studies seriously and understand the role education plays in achieving one's dreams.
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The characters in the book often stood up against injustice and fought for their rights, demonstrating bravery and moral courage.
Real-World Application: Children learn to stand up for what is right, defend their beliefs, and be brave when confronting injustices in everyday situations.
Example Lesson: Inspiration through role models
Explanation: Each figure in the book serves as a role model showing that success is achievable regardless of race or background.
Real-World Application: Children can find inspiration and motivation to pursue their passions and dreams, knowing that they too can achieve great things regardless of their circumstances.