African American Heritage Books for Ages 12–18

Explore our collection of children's books about african american heritage recommended for kids ages 12–18.

1,375 books

Overground Railroad (the Young Adult Adaptation) The Green Book and the Roots of Black Travel in America

For the teen exploring the hidden histories of America, this book reveals how Black families navigated the dangers of th

For the child grappling with the unfairness of history, this short but powerful story examines how systemic racism can s

Ages 8–12

Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer, Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement

Carole Boston Weatherford

For the child learning how one person's voice can change the world, this biography celebrates the courage to stand up ag

Ages 9–12

Letters from a Slave Boy: The Story of Joseph Jacobs

Mary E. Lyons

For the child grappling with the meaning of freedom and family legacy. This epistolary novel offers a poignant look at a

Ages 9–13

Christmas In The Big House, Christmas In The Quarters

Patricia C. McKissack

For the child curious about history and different perspectives, this award winning book reveals the starkly different Ch

For the teenager navigating the aftermath of poor choices and seeking a path toward healing after facing the darkest sid

Ages 14–18

Jump Back, Paul: The Life and Poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar

Sally Derby

For the young reader discovering the power of their own voice, this biography introduces Paul Laurence Dunbar, a pioneer

Ages 9–14

Like Sisters on the Homefront

Rita Williams-Garcia

For the teen navigating the weight of big mistakes and the search for where they truly belong within their family histor

Ages 12–17

Black Hands, White Sails

Patricia C. McKissack, Fredrick McKissack

Explore the hidden history of Black mariners who found freedom, leadership, and equality on the high seas when they were

Ages 9–14

The Lucky Ones

Linda Williams Jackson

For the child grappling with the reality of unfairness, this moving story explores how hope and education can light the

Ages 8–12

Ida, in Love and in Trouble

Veronica Chambers

For the teen navigating a life-altering choice or seeking her own voice when society tries to silence it, this novel exp

Ages 14–18

Unequal: A Story of America

Michael Eric Dyson, Marc Favreau

For the teenager asking why society feels unfair, this powerful history reveals how systemic inequality was built and th

Ages 12–18

I See the Rhythm

Toyomi Igus

For children discovering the power of their own voice and the deep history of music, this poetic journey traces the soul

Ages 6–12

A Girl's Guide to Love & Magic

Debbie Rigaud

For the teen exploring their heritage while navigating high school crushes, this vibrant story honors the power of famil

Ages 12–18

Charlotte Forten

Peter Burchard

For the child curious about how one person can make a difference during a time of great change, this biography explores

Ages 10–14

Trouble Don't Last

Shelley Pearsall

For the child grappling with big questions about justice and bravery, this story follows an unexpected journey from capt

Ages 8–12

Harlem Stomp!: A Cultural History of the Harlem Renaissance

Laban Carrick Hill

For the teenager seeking a deeper connection to their creative roots, this vibrant journey through the Harlem Renaissanc

For the child discovering how a voice can change the world. This accessible biography introduces Phillis Wheatley, who o

Ages 8–12

Bad News for Outlaws The Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U.S. Marshal

Vaunda Micheaux Nelson

For the child inspired by real-life heroes who stand for what is right. This biography celebrates the grit and integrity

Ages 8–12

Africa Is My Home A Child of the Amistad

Monica Edinger

For the child grappling with the weight of history and the meaning of belonging. A moving account of a young girl's jour

Ages 9–13

Seeds of America #1

Chains

Laurie Halse Anderson

For the young reader questioning the meaning of liberty. This powerful story explores the courage required to seek freed

For the young person grappling with the weight of history and the desire for independence, this story follows a teen see

Ages 12–18

Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Boy

Emmanuel Acho

For parents and educators seeking a way to discuss systemic racism and privilege with kids through clear, honest, and co

Ages 10–14

The Untold Story of John P. Parker Underground Railroad Conductor

Artika R. Tyner

For the child who asks how one person can change the world. This graphic biography follows a man who turned his pain int

Ages 8–12

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