Books like 28 Days: Moments in Black History That Changed the World
Award winning
My People
Charles R. Smith Jr., Langston Hughes, 2009
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and diversity.
Enhances vocabulary with poetic, simple language.
Inspires pride and self-identity in young readers.
Invites discussion about history and community.

My People
Charles R. Smith Jr., Langston Hughes, 2009
Award winning
Brick by Brick
Charles R. Smith Jr., Floyd Cooper, 2012
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates creativity and teamwork in engaging rhyme format.
Introduces basic architecture and engineering concepts to young minds.
Inspires perseverance and cooperation through charming illustrations.
Ideal for interactive read-alouds in classrooms or homes.

Brick by Brick
Charles R. Smith Jr., Floyd Cooper, 2012
Award winning
Black Jack: The Ballad of Jack Johnson
Charles R. Smith Jr., Shane W. Evans, Dion Graham, 2010
40 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of resilience and perseverance.
Inspires courage and self-confidence in young readers.
Vivid historical context enriches learning experience.
Promotes cultural awareness and racial understanding.

Black Jack: The Ballad of Jack Johnson
Charles R. Smith Jr., Shane W. Evans, Dion Graham, 2010
Award winning
Bessie the Motorcycle Queen
Charles R. Smith Jr., Charlot Kristensen, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and female empowerment through engaging storytelling.
Encourages exploration and adventure in relatable settings.
Enhances vocabulary and historical knowledge.
Inspires independence and self-confidence in young readers.

Bessie the Motorcycle Queen
Charles R. Smith Jr., Charlot Kristensen, 2022
Award winning
Dance with Me
Charles R. Smith Jr., Noah Z. Jones, 2008
24 pages
Why to read
Vibrant, rhythmic storytelling enhances language development.
Encourages physical activity through dance movements.
Cultivates emotional expression and social skills.
Interactive and engaging for young readers.

Dance with Me
Charles R. Smith Jr., Noah Z. Jones, 2008
Award winning
Justice Rising: 12 Amazing Black Women in the Civil Rights Movement
Katheryn Russell-Brown, Kim Holt, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Highlights influential Black women in civil rights history.
Encourages empowerment, equality awareness in young readers.
Inspires with real stories of courage and leadership.
Supports discussions on justice and societal impact.

Justice Rising: 12 Amazing Black Women in the Civil Rights Movement
Katheryn Russell-Brown, Kim Holt, 2023
Coretta Scott
Ntozake Shange, Kadir Nelson, 2008
32 pages
Why to read
Illustrates Coretta Scott King’s inspiring, impactful life.
Empowers children with themes of equality and justice.
Vibrant illustrations complement the powerful narrative.
Encourages discussions on history and civil rights.

Coretta Scott
Ntozake Shange, Kadir Nelson, 2008
Award winning
Let It Shine : Stories of Black Women Freedom Fighters
Andrea Davis Pinkney, Stephen Alcorn, 2000
120 pages
Why to read
Celebrates achievements of Black women in history.
Inspires courage and perseverance in young readers.
Empowers children with real-life role models.
Engaging storytelling that enriches historical knowledge.
