The 10 Best Children's People of Color Biographies Books
Book RaiderBuckle up, kiddos, and book-loving grownups too. We're going on a wild ride through time and across cultures! You’ll meet heroes and heroines who changed the world and more than broke the ‘norm’s’. These are the big dreamers, the movers and shakers, all captured in ink and paper, in the vibrant, colorful and fascinating world of children's biographies.
These aren't just any biographies. Oh no, they're stories of mesmerizing individuals from diverse backgrounds who scarfed down adversity for breakfast. So, whether you're helping your tots cut their reading teeth or you're a bibliophile, you'll find something here in our curation of the best children's people of color biographies books. Prepare to be inspired and to inspire in turn - there's a whole world of wonder waiting in these pages!
Fearless Mary: Mary Fields, American Stagecoach Driver
by Tami Charles
Why Fearless Mary: Mary Fields, American Stagecoach Driver is on this list: True to the spirit of our list, this book brings to life the story of a remarkable person of color who had a significant impact on American history. Mary Fields was a trailblazer in every sense, making it a potent narrative for children eager to learn about diverse characters from history.
Every page of 'Fearless Mary' is a journey into the life of Mary Fields, an African-American woman who refused to let any obstacles stand in her way. Known for her unwavering spirit and being one of the first African-American women to carry mail on a stagecoach in the Montana Territory, Mary's life was anything but ordinary. She was tough as old boots and never shied away from a challenge, inspiring everyone who came across her path. Tami Charles brings Mary's inspiring story to life, perfectly capturing her unique spirit and determination.
What readers like: Readers are drawn to this book for its historical depth, the empowering narrative, and groundbreaking representation. The vivid illustrations complement the story and bring Mary's world to life. It's an inspiring story of courage and resilience that has both children and adults flipping pages - intrigued by Mary's audacious adventures and charmed by her determined spirit.
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Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History
by Vashti Harrison
Why Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History is on this list: As you've probably guessed from our list title, we're all about showcasing biographies of colorful heroes from around the globe - and this gem of a book absolutely nails it. Filled with tales of incredible African-American women, it adds a splash of much-needed diversity to your child's library.
This book isn't just filled with pretty pictures (although the illustrations are gorgeous). It gives kids the low-down on 40 powerful African-American women who defied the odds, made history, and changed the world. From abolitionists to film directors, there's a whole world of success stories in these pages. And the best part? Each story is bite-sized, perfect for little attention spans.
What readers like: Parents are giving this one two thumbs up for its inspiring stories, and kids can't get enough either - whether it's the captivating art or the amazing tales, it's a big hit. Don't be surprised if your kiddo turns to you one day and proudly says they want to be just like Sojourner Truth or Katherine Johnson when they grow up.
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Six Dots: A Story of Young Louis Braille
by Jen Bryant
Why Six Dots: A Story of Young Louis Braille is on this list: This marvelous book represents inclusivity and diversity, telling the heroic tale of the young Louis Braille, a person of color, breaking through barriers and society's limitations.
Six Dots takes us on a journey with young Louis Braille, a witty, resourceful French boy who lost his sight as a result of a childhood accident. Yet, he is defined more by his intellectual curiosity than his physical limitations. Deterred by the limitations of the world around him, Louis uses his savvy skills to create a reading system for the visually impaired, forever altering their world. In other words, he kind of became a superhero. But here's the catch: no cape, no flying, just a humble little tool and six dots.
What readers like: Readers are drawn into the tale by the spunky and resilient Louis and are kept hooked by his remarkable journey. They enjoy the inspiring message of the story - that a kid can change the world with just their wit, determination, and six tiny dots. Oh, and let's not forget the illustrations, they're absolutely top-notch, bringing a unique charm to the page.
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Whoosh!: Lonnie Johnson's Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions
by Chris Barton
Why Whoosh!: Lonnie Johnson's Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions is on this list: This engaging biography perfectly fits our list as it highlights the life and achievements of Lonnie Johnson, a brilliant African-American inventor. It introduces younger readers to an inspiring person of color whose creativity has had an incredible impact on the world.
Lonnie Johnson has done some seriously cool stuff. You might know him as the dude who invented the Super Soaker water gun. But did you know he also worked for NASA? Yeah, the space people. This book tells the story of his life in a super fun and interesting way. It gets the kids fired up about science, invention, and following their dreams, no matter what the odds.
What readers like: Kids love how fun and interesting this book is, with its bright colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling. Parents applaud it for being educational and inspirational, highlighting a person of color making a huge splash (literally) in the fields of science and invention. It's a seriously cool book, teaching kids they can truly achieve anything they put their minds to.
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We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices
by Wade Hudson
Why We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices is on this list: This powerful read is a unique collection of diverse voices, sharing stories of resilience, resistance, and empowerment. It perfectly encapsulates the experiences of People of Color, and thus fits like a glove on our list of top Children's People of Color Biographies Books.
It's not just a book, it's a celebration of our strength and spirit. This eye-opening anthology brings together 50 remarkable authors and illustrators, each contributing their own take on what it means to rise, resist, and raise our voices in today's world. Splashed with vibrant art and filled with soul-grabbing narratives, it offers a roller-coaster ride of emotions and experiences that instill hope, resilience, and empowerment.
What readers like: Readers rave about the relatable characters, the inspiring stories of strength, and the beautiful illustrations in this book. It's a slap-on-the-forehead moment when they realize that 'normal' is a rainbow of experiences and not just one color or one story. And let's not forget about the cherry on top - the sheer joy of seeing life from a different vantage point that challenges the 'business-as-usual' narrative.
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Saving Savannah
by Tonya Bolden
Why Saving Savannah is on this list: Our list of The 13 Best Children's People of Color Biographies wouldn't be complete without Tonya Bolden's riveting historical account of the life of a young African American girl named Savannah, set in the vibrant era of the 1900s.
Bolden takes us on a journey with Savannah as she navigates the tumultuous social currents of Washington D.C during the advent of the suffragette movement. This book captures the courage and resilience of its protagonist, offering readers a stirring view of an era filled with both despair and lustrous hope.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the detail and authenticity of the historical backdrop, as well as Savannah's triumphs amid adversity. Tonya Bolden's storytelling is a gift - equal parts warmth, charm and wisdom. If you're a fan of historical dramas, you'll adore Saving Savannah. It is an empowerment story that resonates with kids, invoking in them a sense of awareness and appreciation for those who struggled for the rights we now enjoy.
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Let the Children March
by Monica Clark-Robinson
Why Let the Children March is on this list: This book brings the efforts and struggles of the civil rights movement to life for younger readers, focusing on the important contributions of children of color. It shows young readers that even they can make a world of difference.
This powerfully moving book tells the story of thousands of African-American children who marched for their civil rights in 1963, against the racism in Birmingham, Alabama. It transports you back in time through the eyes of a girl, around the same age as the target audience, narrating her own experiences. With vibrant illustrations and heart-rending words, it paints a true picture of courage and determination.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the authenticity of this book, from the history to the emotion. They love the way Monica weaves the main character's personal narrative into the larger story of the children's march. The message of children's strength and their power is especially engaging. Plus, most readers agree, the illustrations are just beautiful.
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Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt
by Deborah Hopkinson
Why Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt is on this list: Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt offers a vibrant perspective from an often overlooked group: young black girls. It gracefully sews together history, adventure and inspiration making the reader root for Clara's success while also getting a firm grasp of the injustices of the past. This people of color biography will make any kid (and honestly, it may get some adults too) appreciate the strength and resourcefulness of children their age in the face of adversity.
Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt is an enthralling tale recounting the life of Clara, a young enslaved girl with a big dream — freedom. Using her intelligence, Clara not only learns to sew from an old seamstress but also ends up creating a map in the form of a quilt, leading to the road of freedom. The story is based in fact, making it an intimate, relatable look at a part of American history.
What readers like: Readers enjoy the heart-tugging narrative, the bravery of young Clara and the realistic illustrations which transport them right into the cotton plantations of the time. The suspense of whether Clara's quilt will indeed lead to freedom, and the sheer will and determination of this extraordinary young girl, make the book a page-turner. It's not just a book, but an experience; one that subtly teaches resilience, bravery, and the history of resistance by people of color.
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Punching the Air
by Ibi Zoboi
Why Punching the Air is on this list: Punching the Air is a brilliant work of art that sheds light on the life of a young Black boy, making it fit perfectly in our list of best Children's People of Color Biographies Books.
The book takes a deep dive into the gripping story of Amal Shahid, a talented artist and poet, who finds himself in a juvenile detention center after a fateful night. His journey is one of hope and resilience, portraying how a young boy uses his love for art to navigate his way through this challenging part of his life.
What readers like: Readers greatly appreciated the depth of Ibi Zoboi's storytelling, providing a heart-wrenching yet vibrant representation of young people fighting their battles against racial bias. The poetic narration and strong imagery give readers a powerful insight into the protagonist's life and struggles. It's also a plus that this book is relatable for young readers, making them feel seen and understood.
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Funny Bones: Posada and His Day of the Dead Calaveras
by Duncan Tonatiuh
Why Funny Bones: Posada and His Day of the Dead Calaveras is on this list: If you love exploring different cultures with your kiddos, this book sparkles. It centers around Jose Guadalupe Posada, an influential Mexican artist. Not only does it offer a jaunt through Mexican history and culture, but it's also a biography of a beloved person of color.
The book journeys into the life and work of Posada, the man behind the iconic Dia de Los Muertos skeletons, also known as 'calaveras'. Readers will learn about how his work, from the famous 'La Catrina' to political cartoons, reflected on society and became part of Mexican folklore. Tonatiuh's gorgeous, award-winning art flourishes on every page, merging modern crispness with ancient Aztec influences.
What readers like: Families enjoy that there's something for every age in this book. Younger kids grasp onto the vibrant illustrations and the 'calaveras', while older kiddos dig into the historical elements. For adults, it's a chance to look at how art interacts with society. Everyone will appreciate the depth, humor, and humanity that 'calaveras' bring to remembering our loved ones.
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