Our collection of picture books featuring Black and Indigenous people and People of Color (BIPOC) is available to the public. *Inclusion of a title in the collection DOES NOT EQUAL a recommendation.* Click here for more on book evaluation.
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Thirteen Months of Sunshine / ʼAśrā Śostu Ṣaḥayāmā Warāt
"In the Ethiopian calendar, a year is divided into 13 months. Ethiopia’s position near the Earth’s Equator exposes it to more sunlight than many countries, a feature that helped turn Ethiopia into an international travel destination. Ethiopian scholar Dr Worku Mulat wrote this insightful look into the unique calendar system of Ethiopia and how an innovative leader used it to boost worldwide interest in the ancient country’s abundant natural and cultural assets. Gorgeous portraits of the towns and countryside of this beautiful African nation by brilliant Ethiopian artist Daniel Getahun help illustrate why Ethiopia is home to 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and remains a top travel destination." -- publisher
Thirteen Months of Sunshine / Nāy ʻĀsarta Salasta ʼĀwareḥ Berhān Ṣaḥāy
"In the Ethiopian calendar, a year is divided into 13 months. Ethiopia’s position near the Earth’s Equator exposes it to more sunlight than many countries, a feature that helped turn Ethiopia into an international travel destination. Ethiopian scholar Dr Worku Mulat wrote this insightful look into the unique calendar system of Ethiopia and how an innovative leader used it to boost worldwide interest in the ancient country’s abundant natural and cultural assets. Gorgeous portraits of the towns and countryside of this beautiful African nation by brilliant Ethiopian artist Daniel Getahun help illustrate why Ethiopia is home to 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and remains a top travel destination." -- publisher
Pigskins To Paintbrushes
"From acclaimed author and illustrator Don Tate, the rousing story of Ernie Barnes, an African American pro football player and fine artist. Young Ernie Barnes wasn’t like other boys his age. Bullied for being shy, overweight, and uninterested in sports like boys were “supposed” to be, he instead took refuge in his sketchbook, in vibrant colors, bold brushstrokes, and flowing lines. But growing up in a poor, Black neighborhood during the 1930s, opportunities to learn about art were rare, and art museums were off-limits because of segregation laws. Discouraged and tired of being teased, Ernie joined the school football team. Although reluctant at first, he would soon become a star. But art remained in Ernie’s heart and followed him through high school, college, and into the NFL. Ernie saw art all around him: in the dynamic energy of the game, the precision of plays, and the nimble movement of his teammates. He poured his passion into his game and his craft, and became famous as both a professional athlete and as an artist whose paintings reflected his love of the sport and celebrated Black bodies as graceful and beautiful. He played for the Baltimore Colts (1959–60), Titans of New York (1960), San Diego Chargers (1960–62), and the Denver Broncos (1963–64). In 1965, Barnes signed with the Saskatchewan Roughriders in Canada, but fractured his right foot, which ended his professional football career. Soon after, he met New York Jets owner Sonny Werblin, who was impressed by Barnes and his art. In 1966, Barnes had a debut solo exhibition in New York City, sponsored by Werblin at the Grand Central Art Galleries; all the paintings were sold. Barnes became so well-known as an artist that one of his paintings was featured in the opening credits of the TV show Good Times, and he was commissioned to create official posters for the Los Angeles 1984 Summer Olympics. From award-winning author and illustrator Don Tate, Pigskins to Paintbrushes is the inspiring story of Ernie Barnes, who defined himself on his own terms and pushed the boundaries of “possible,” from the field to the canvas." -- publisher
Your Legacy
"A proud, empowering introduction to African American history that celebrates and honors enslaved ancestors. Beginning in Africa before 1619, Your Legacy presents an unprecedentedly accessible, empowering, and proud introduction to African American history for children. While your ancestors’ freedom was taken from them, their spirit was not; this book celebrates their accomplishments, acknowledges their sacrifices, and defines how they are remembered—and how their stories should be taught." -- publisher
Black Music Greats
"Meet 40 of the most important and exciting black musicians the world has ever seen. The biggest names…the coolest sounds…the 40 most inspirational movers, shakers, and innovators in black music are here! In this fun, fact-packed book from the 40 Inspiring Icons series, learn how these black musicians changed music, from the creation of blues to the invention of rap. Meet the Godfather of Funk, the High Priestess of Soul, and the King of Reggae. Learn how Marvin Gaye shaped the sound of Motown, how N.W.A. redefined rap, and what made the Supremes, supreme. From Robert Johnson, who recorded one of the first examples of the blues in 1936, to rap superstar Drake, whose 2012 album Views spent 13 weeks at number one on the US Billboard 200, these are the 40 black artists to be listened to and learned about by all: Robert Johnson; Nina Simone; James Brown; Sly & the Family Stone; Miles Davis; Diana Ross & the Supremes; The Jackson 5; Marvin Gaye; Stevie Wonder; Aretha Franklin; Earth, Wind & Fire; Isaac Hayes; Tina Turner; Donna Summer; Bob Marley & the Wailers; Prince; Fela Kuti; The Last Poets; Chic; The Sugarhill Gang; Run-DMC; Eric B. & Rakim; Public Enemy; N.W.A.; Whitney Houston; 2Pac; The Fugees; Snoop Dogg; The Notorious B.I.G.; Erykah Badu; Jay-Z; Missy Elliott; Kanye West; Beyoncé; Pharrell Williams; Rihanna; Lil Wayne; Drake; Nicki Minaj; The Weeknd. Each spread presents a single musician or band, highlighting key facts about their background, most popular songs, most iconic shows, genre-defining techniques, friends, rivals, and nicknames, along with a fun, illustrated depiction of them that calls out elements of their signature style. With so many icons to choose from, which will you add to your playlist?" -- publisher
I’m Going to Sing, Black American Spirituals, Volume Two
"I’m Going to Sing is a collection of spirituals songs brought to life from award winning children’s book author and illustrator Ashley Bryan. Lovingly updated and with a foreword from Dr. Henrietta Mays Smith, recipient of the 2011 Coretta Scott King–VirginiaHamilton Practitioner Award for lifetime achievement, this edition includes favorites songs accompanied by linocut illustrations that capture the strength and spirit of the music." -- publisher
Walk Together Children, Black American Spirituals, Volume One
"Walk Together Children is a collection of spirituals songs brought to life from award winning children’s book author and illustrator Ashley Bryan. Lovingly updated and with a foreword from Dr. Henrietta Mays Smith, recipient of the 2011 Coretta Scott King–Virginia Hamilton Practitioner Award for lifetime achievement, this edition includes such favorites as “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands;” “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot;” and “When the Saints Go Marching In.” Each song is accompanied by linocut illustrations that capture the strength and spirit of the music." -- publisher
I Affirm Me
"Learn the power of language and love with this empowering alphabet book of affirmations to inspire and remind Black children of their inner power, strength, and worth. From A is for Afro, to J is for Justice, to R is for Rally, this alphabet book offers affirmations featuring Black children and role models to help children nurture and embrace their authentic selves and to enjoy the magic of childhood." -- publisher
Jump at the Sun
"From the Newbery Honor–winning author of Genesis Begins Again comes a shimmering picture book that shines the light on Zora Neale Hurston, the extraordinary writer and storycatcher extraordinaire who changed the face of American literature. Zora was a girl who hankered for tales like bees for honey. Now, her mama always told her that if she wanted something, “to jump at de sun”, because even though you might not land quite that high, at least you’d get off the ground. So Zora jumped from place to place, from the porch of the general store where she listened to folktales, to Howard University, to Harlem. And everywhere she jumped, she shined sunlight on the tales most people hadn’t been bothered to listen to until Zora. The tales no one had written down until Zora. Tales on a whole culture of literature overlooked…until Zora. Until Zora jumped." -- publisher
Clap Your Hands
"The inspirational blend of poetry, art, and music in Clap Your Hands is a joyous celebration of African-American gospel music. as it relates to the spiritual and social evolution of Black people in America. Clap Your Hands is an inspirational, joyous celebration of poetry, art, and rhythm, tracing the history of African American gospel music and the poets, singers, and thought leaders who have fearlessly and soulfully contributed to the spiritual and social evolution of America. This powerful and poetic read bursts with vibrant artwork and is rich in personal notes and information that will interest any history buff or music enthusiast. Created by the dynamic author and illustrator team of Toyomi Igus and Michele Wood, winners of the Coretta Scott King Award for I See the Rhythm, Clap Your Hands shares the Black history behind gospel music that has courageously broken all color barriers, influencing both worship and popular culture in America for hundreds of years. Clap Your Hands is great for children ages 4 to 8. Inside, you’ll find: Notes from the author and the illustrator sharing their personal inspirations and influences, as well as their research on the roots and evolution of gospel music Historical notes about the events covered in the book, exploring the cultural importance of gospel music throughout history Further reading section, discography, and discussion questions to encourage learning and engagement A running timeline of all historical milestones—from the first slaves to President Obama’s inauguration" -- publisher