10 Picture Books Celebrating Black Figures in History

Happy Black History Month! This list highlights picture books that feature notable African-American/Black figures in history who have made significant contributions to the world. These pioneers show resilience, creativity, and remarkable leadership among their varied attributes, and their actions have made long-standing impacts on their communities and the Wider world landscape.

Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat

by Javaka Steptoe

This award-winning title takes a look at prolific artist Jean-Michel Basquiat’s artistic influences while growing up in New York City. Steptoe shares the artist’s powerful message through his illustrations: that art can be creative, non-conforming, yet incredibly influential.

Be a King: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Dream and You

by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by James E. Ransome

Weatherford's writing seeks to inspire as she parallels the life and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King to a set of students embarking on a new school project inspired by the Black icon. An uplifting read that encourages children to Be a King through kindness, humility, and justice.

I and I

by Tony Medina, illustrated by Jesse Joshua Watson

A picture book suited for older readers, Medina gives a joyous account of the life and contributions of Robert (Bob) Nesta Marley. His life as a musician, poet and champion of unity through Reggae music is depicted through beautiful painted illustrations.

I am Harriet Tubman

by Brad Meltzer, Illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos

Part of a more extensive series about iconic heroes, this title focuses on Harriet Tubman's heroism: a pivotal figure who led many Black slaves to freedom via the Underground Railroad. The illustrations are engaging, and the text relates more challenging aspects of Tubman’s life while still relaying hope.

Counting on Katherine

by Helaine Becker, illustrated by Dow Phumiruk

This book focuses on Katherine Johnson's ingenuity and how her computing power was essential for the success of the Apollo 13 launch. An informative read, especially for young readers with interest in mathematics, the history of space travel and Black women in science.

Charles Drew

by Mike Venezia

This lesser-known biography focuses on Charles Drew: the incredible physician who pioneered research on the properties and preservation of blood plasma and the establishment of blood banks. Another title suited for older children, fun cartoon illustrations accompany this introduction to his remarkable life.

Malcolm Little:The Boy Who Grew Up to Become Malcolm X

by Ilyasah Shabazz, illustrated by AG Ford

This picture book focuses on Malcolm Little’s (later known as Malcolm X) childhood and the experiences that shape him into being an influential leader that strived to bring justice during the civil rights movement. Written by his daughter, it creates a unique perspective into the teachings Malcolm received at an early age: most notably, the power of possibility.

Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan In Pursuit of a Dream

by Deloris Jordan & Roslyn M. Jordan, illustrated by Kadir Nelson

Written by his mother and sister, this ode to basketball legend Michael Jordan tells of a young Jordan who learns that the value of hard work and determination has the power to overcome any self-doubt.

Rise!: From Caged Bird to Poet of the People, Maya Angelou

by Bethany Hegedus, Illustrated by Tonya Engel

This story for older readers provides a thorough biography of Maya Angelou’s multilayered life. Ranging from her traumatic childhood to her later years as a renowned poet, the engaging illustrations tell a story of resiliency and triumph of one phenomenal woman.

Nelson Mandela

by Kadir Nelson

In this stunningly illustrated title, author/illustrator Nelson celebrates the life of Nelson Mandela. The South African anti-apartheid revolutionary and ex-president’s legacy is told richly in text and incredible paintings that capture some of the most pivotal moments of Mandela’s history.