· By Kaitlin Johnstone
Our Favorite Children's Books for MLK Day & Beyond...
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Preaching to the Chickens by 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.
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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.
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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.