Honor and celebrate the faith of Black Christians with these beautiful stories for little readers.
February is Black History Month in the United States, and many families are taking the opportunity to learn more about Black history and Black leaders.
One of the best ways for little kids to learn at home is through well-written and illustrated books, and there are many withBlack protagonists that include beautiful details about faith and virtue.
If you’d like to celebrate Black History Month with the little ones in your life, check out some of these inspiring books that focus on faith, prayer, and love for God.
Great Black Catholics: Saints Like Me
This book is a beautiful witness to the fact that all of God’s children are called to be saints. In a durable board book format, it’s sure to last and be a treasured read-aloud in your family!
Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom
This gem of a book is a resounding, reverent tribute to Harriet Tubman, the woman who earned the name “Moses” for her heroic role in the Underground Railroad. I have never before seen a picture book with dialogue that is a back-and-forth conversation with God. It’s a moving book to show children the power of prayer.
The Story of Ruby Bridges
This book tells the inspirational true story of a brave little 6-year-old who was the first to integrate her local elementary school. The book shares her incredible witness of faith and prayer, as this extraordinary little girl lived out Christ’s command to “love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).
He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands
What began as a spiritual has developed into one of America’s best-known folk songs, and now for the first time it appears as a picture book, with dazzling images that capture the joy of living in and engaging with God’s world.
When God Made You
Through playful rhyme and vivid illustrations, this delightful book inspires young readers to learn about their own special gifts and how they fit into God’s divine plan and—most of all, how deeply God loves them.
Martin de Porres: The Rose in the Desert
This vibrantly illustrated book introduces the youngest children to the life of St. Martin de Porres, a remarkable and courageous saint who is the patron of mixed-race people, barbers, innkeepers, public health workers, and those seeking and working for racial harmony.
Martin’s Big Words
Martin Luther King, Jr., was a very influential and gifted speaker, and this book uses quotes from his speeches to tell the story of his life and his work for children. The author movingly emphasizes his love for Christ, the Bible, and prayer.
Ellen’s Broom
This book tells the story of a Black couple with four children who are finally able to be legally married after the end of slavery, told through the eyes of their young daughter. It’s a joyful celebration of family and faith, and especially honors the enduring love of marriage.
Read more:
Black saints who were “firsts”
Read more:
6 Saints for Black History Month
