February is Black History Month, a time to reflect on the contributions, achievements and stories of Black communities throughout history and today.
One way to celebrate and support representation is by reading books by Black authors. Reading is one of many meaningful ways to learn, amplify Black voices, share their stories and perspectives, empower conversations, and deepen our understanding.
Add these books to your reading list and discover powerful stories that inspire and educate:
Sparks (Ages 5-7):
Viola Desmond Won’t Be Budged! by Jody Nyasha Warner
A picture book celebrating Viola Desmond, a Black Canadian woman who stood against racial segregation, inspiring future generations.
Malaika’s Costume by Nadia L. Hohn
A vibrant story about a young girl’s determination to celebrate her culture during Carnival, reflecting empowerment and self-expression.
My Rainbow by Trinity and DeShanna Neal
A vibrant picture book about a Black transgender girl and the love and acceptance she receives from her family as she expresses her identity.
Big Dreamers: The International Black Women’s History Activity Book for Kids (Volume 3)
A colouring book for kids that celebrates the inspiring contributions of Black Women. Volume 3 is the third edition in a series published by Akilah Newton Projects Inc. that celebrates the inspiring contributions of Black women who overcame adversity and went on to achieve greatness while changing the course of history.
Embers (Ages 6-8):
Meet Viola Desmond by Elizabeth MacLeod
A beginner biography of Viola Desmond, showing how one woman’s courage and determination sparked change in Canadian civil rights.
A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara
This alphabet book includes themes of social justice, identity, and empowerment, featuring examples of Black Canadian women activists and leaders.
Malaika’s Winter Carnival by Nadia L. Hohn
The sequel to “Malaika’s Costume”, focusing on Malaika adjusting to life in Canada while holding on to her Caribbean roots.
When I Get Older: The Story Behind ‘Wavin’ Flag’ by K’naan
Somali-Canadian poet, rapper, singer, and songwriter K’NAAN tells his own story.
Guides (9-11):
Trailblazers: The Black Pioneers Who Have Shaped Canada by Tiyahna Ridley-Padmore
This book discusses stories of Black Canadians who defied societal norms and made significant contributions to history.
In the Key of Us by Mariama J. Lockington
At Harmony Music Camp, Zora and Andi are the only two Black girls in a sea of mostly white faces. In kayaks and creaky cabins, the two begin to connect, unraveling their loss, insecurities, and hopes for the future.
Viola Desmond: A Hero for Us All by Jody Nyasha Warner
This book explores a more in-depth look at Viola Desmond’s life and her pivotal role in fighting for justice.
Malaika’s Surprise by Nadia L. Hohn
Another installment in the “Malaika” series, when Malaika finds out she is going to have a new baby brother or sister, she worries that her mother will forget about her. But a surprise arrives on Malaika’s birthday that gives her reason to celebrate her family’s love.
Pathfinders (Ages 12-14):
Policing Black Lives (Youth Edition) by Robyn Maynard
Highlights the struggles and contributions of Black Canadian women, offering a broader understanding of their role in advocating for justice.
Pet by Akwaeke Emezi
A thought-provoking novel featuring a Black transgender girl in a utopian society. It tackles identity and justice, offering teens an imaginative and empowering narrative.
The Journey of Little Charlie by Christopher Paul Curtis
After 12-year-old Charlie’s father is killed in a freak accident, Charlie reluctantly agrees to pay off his father’s debt by accompanying a plantation overseer, the despicable Captain Buck, on a hunt for three runaways.
Where We End & Begin by Jane Igharo
In Where We End & Begin, two star-crossed lovers named Obinna and Dunni reunite at a wedding, rekindling their old high school romance. They had broken up when Dunni left Nigeria to go to college in America.
Rangers (Ages 15-17):
Righting Canada’s Wrongs: Africville by Gloria Ann Wesley
This second edition documents the continued fight for rights and compensation by Africville community members and their descendants. Gloria Wesley notes the spirit and resilience of Africville lives on in new generations of African Nova Scotians.
The Hanging of Angelique by Afua Cooper
A powerful non-fiction account of Marie-Joseph Angélique, an enslaved Black woman in Montreal who fought against injustice.
Shut Up You’re Pretty by Téa Mutonji
In Téa Mutonji’s disarming debut story collection, a woman contemplates her Congolese traditions during a family wedding, a teenage girl looks for happiness inside a pack of cigarettes, a mother reconnects with her daughter through their shared interest in fish, and a young woman decides to shave her head in the waiting room of an abortion clinic.
River Mumma by Zalika Reid-Benta
River Mumma is a magical realist story inspired by Jamaican folklore. The main character is a young Black woman having a quarter-life crisis while adventuring through the streets of Toronto.
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