What Not to Read for Black History Month

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February is among us. This short month exists to celebrate a generation of people who symbolize innovation, creativity, and resilience. Usually, schools will focus on reading about the two most popular figures for Black History Month, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Ms. Rosa Parks. Some might even encourage kids to read about Malcolm X and the influence of the Black Panthers. As a teacher, I believe it is important to read these monumental narratives. They helped eradicate the debilitating effects of Jim Crow and slavery. However, focusing on the dominant narrative leaves so many other powerful leaders behind.

Black History is not the Past, it is the Present

It is also important to read non-fiction books and articles that speak about Black History in the present tense. Many kids mistakenly believe that Black History is in the past. This promotes a false sense that the work has already been done and encourages the idea that their reality cannot change. However, that is far from the truth.

Many children are well aware that racism still exists. However, they must look to what our Civil Rights leaders did in the past as a template and modify it into actionable steps to take in the future. Boycotts today can look like putting more money into Black-owned businesses. Protesting and sit-ins can act as models of bringing awareness to an issue. We must equip our children with books that treat Black History as a living organism. Every day our children exist on this earth, is another opportunity to take a step towards systematic and historical change for the Black community.

Where to get the Books

As a reading teacher and avid bookworm, I cultivated a Black History Reading list. So, every purchase from this site will support me, a Black Business owner, and a Black-owned bookstore.

My Book Recommendation List

Find a list of books here that you can read with your child that are anti-racist and bring Black History into the present.