In recognition and celebration of Juneteenth, a holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, today we are highlighting 5 books written by Black authors for babies and toddlers. These make great gifts and additions to your child's early learning library.
Lullaby (For a Black Mother) by Langston Hughes, Illustrated by Sean Qualls
Description from Amazon:
"With a few simple words as smooth as a song, the poet Langston Hughes celebrates the love between an African American mother and her baby. The award-winning illustrator Sean Qualls’s painted and collaged artwork captures universally powerful maternal moments with tenderness and whimsy."
See the book's video preview here.
Dream Big, Little One by Vashti Harrison
Description from Amazon:
"This beautifully illustrated board book edition of instant bestseller Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History showcases women who changed the world and is the perfect goodnight book to inspire big dreams."
Click here for a read-aloud.
Whose Knees Are These? by Jabari Asim and illustrated by LeUyen Pham
Description from Amazon:
"With lush, adorable pictures from New York Times bestselling illustrator LeUyen Pham, reminiscent of the beloved work of Ezra Jack Keats, this interactive rhyme full of toddler appeal is a perfect baby gift for parent-child playtime."
Watch a read-aloud video of this book.
Please, Baby, Please by Spike Lee and Tonya Lewis Lee and illustrated by Kadir Nelson
Description from Amazon:
"From moments fussy to fond, Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Spike Lee and his wife, producer Tonya Lewis Lee, present a behind-the-scenes look at the chills, spills, and unequivocal thrills of bringing up baby!"
See a read-aloud video.
Baby Boy, What Will You Be? by Terquoia Bourne and illustrated by Jerry Craft
Description from Amazon:
"On a cold winter day, a new mom snuggles with her baby boy and warms her heart with the thoughts of all the limitless possibilities that her baby can achieve in his lifetime."
Discover the book in this read-aloud video.
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Books Baby books Black Authors Juneteenth Black Families