When I think of celebrating Black History Month, I think of the culture and the various sacrifices so many great leaders in the African American community have made so that I can live a more fulfilling life. When tasked with providing books for the Bayview’s Black History Celebration this year, I made it my mission to provide books that promotes self-love, embracing one’s own uniqueness, and celebrating families.

By promoting imaginary play, encouraging curiosity, and strengthening critical thinking skills, children grow to be brave learners, to strive for any and everything they set their minds to, despite the hurdles they may experience. This month, let us all celebrate our culture and our perseverance, our accomplishments, and most of all – our own uniqueness.

Full, Full, Full of Love
by Trish Cooke

This book celebrates traditions as the family joins together over Grandma’s cooking on a Sunday afternoon, sharing stories and laughs and enjoying each other’s company. It’s a great book about creating memories that can be passed down to generation after generation. What are your family traditions? Talk about what makes your family gatherings unique with your little one, and share some of your favorite memories as you read together.

Mixed Me!
by Taye Diggs

This book encourages children to embrace their heritage, builds confidence, and accepting the unique things that make them who they are. This is a great book to start a conversation with your child about what makes them special and unique!

Emi’s Curly, Coily, Cotton Candy Hair
by Tina Olajide

This title is great for building self-esteem in children. What I love about this book is how it celebrates the various textures of hair, promotes healthy hair care, and highlights a beautiful mother-daughter relationship.

Trombone Shorty
by Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews

This book explains the challenges that musician Trombone Shorty overcame to accomplish his goals to be a successful trombone player. What a great story to encourage children to follow their dreams!

Ada Twist, Scientist
by Andrea Beaty

This book is great for celebrating creativity and imaginative play! Ada’s curiosity and perseverance takes her on a journey full of explorations, questions, and fun experiments.