Teaching children about MLK and advocacy is a crucial tool in creating socially conscious thinkers. We wanted to share with you a few of our favorites to read to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy.

A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara is the perfect social justice centered alphabet book. Using words such as justice, human rights, and freedom; it teaches children the importance of using their voice.

Child of the Civil Rights Movement by Paula Young Shelton is the story of Dr. King’s niece. The author tells the story from her 4 year old perspective of when her family made the move south to be an active part of the civil rights movement.

I Have a Dream Book by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is Dr. King’s iconic speech in picture book form. A beautiful way to introduce MLK Day to your children and/or students.

Before She was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome tells a lyrical biography of who Harriet Tubman was before she was known. The poem this book tells is captured beautifully by the watercolor artwork and is a must have on your bookshelves.

Preaching to the Chickensby Jabari Asim is the story of a young John Lewis, prior to becoming the civil rights leader we all remember him being. It is a message of speaking up and showing kindness.

Change Sings by Amanda Gorman is about a little girl who takes everyone on a musical journey to see how everyone can make a difference in the world.

The Story of Martin Luther King Jr. By Johnny Ray Moore is a fantastic board book that teaches young children how Dr. King helped to end segregation.

***All stories that we have chosen are written by BIPOC authors. A major part in reading inclusive books is supporting BIPOC authors. The books we donate are 90% BIPOC, LGBTQ+, or Disabled authors and we encourage our supporters try to decolonize their libraries as well.