Black History is American History. We should be teaching, or incorporating, rather, Black History into our homeschool lessons at every juncture; enter this list of six books to teach Black History year-round. This is by no means a comprehensive list of books covering the Black experience; there are a growing number of resources and novels with Black voices at the forefront. This is not that list. These books have been specially curated to give homeschooling parents a starting point toward a school year’s worth of information. Simply purchase one or a few of these books as a means to teach Black History year-round:
Teach Black History Every Day with these Comprehensive Resources
Black Pioneers of Science and Invention by Dr. Louis Haber
Your student will explore fourteen of the world’s most innovative Black minds in history, including George Washington Carver and Benjamin Banneker. It includes background information and insight into what was going on in the world at the time of each accomplishment or discovery as it chronicles the lives of seven Black scientists and seven inventors.
Geared toward upper middle and high school students, this book does, however, leave out the contribution of Black women in history. So, be sure to use it in conjunction with supplemental resources if you intend to teach accurate Black History year-round.
Black Heroes: A Black History Book for Kids: 51 Inspiring People from Ancient Africa to Modern-Day U.S. by Arlisha Norwood
Upper-elementary and middle school students can study one famous name in Black History per week with this resource. It includes important men and women in world history throughout the world. Black Heroes is a great jumping-off point for more in-depth learning if you so choose. It can also work as a stand-alone resource for more relaxed Black History lessons.
100 African Americans Who Shaped American History: Incredible Stories of Black Heroes by Chrisanne Beckner
Geared for students aged 7-12, these easy-to-read one-page biographies make for a quick and simple assignment for homeschooled students. Incorporate these historical profiles into your learner’s day and you’ve got reading and history covered for nearly the entire year, covered in one fell swoop. This book is just one in a series highlighting important (and often forgotten) names in history.
Whew! How’s that for a book title? If you have learners at home between the ages of nine and 12, this is the perfect resource that will keep them busy and engaged! It includes vocabulary, historical facts, names and dates, crossword puzzles, comic strip creation and so much more. So not only are they learning Black History, but they’re writing and creating on their own; it’s the perfect resource to teach Black History year-round for homeschooling and unschooling families.
Think and Write With African American History Prompts: An essay writing workbook for high school students by Jameelah Madyun
This workbook is set up journal-style. It includes Black History prompts to allow student essay writing practice. Each style of essay is included; persuasive, narrative, descriptive, and expository. While it does offer insight into each essay type with a brief description, it’s designed for self-motivated students who are not afraid to dive in and do their own research on the topics presented.
High on the Hog: A Culinary Journey from Africa to America by Jessica B. Harris
High school families, and especially those who are foodies and/or love to travel will appreciate this book. High on the Hog and the corresponding Netflix documentary, take an all-encompassing look at African-American food and Black culture and their influence on the country as a whole. Definitely a great resource for students who want to dive deep into the culinary history of Black America.
While Black History Month is important, it just isn’t enough. It is integral that we finally embrace the fact that without the influence of those who brought with them from Africa; a knowledge about rice and indigo, the wealth and growth of this nation would have been vastly different. We owe it to our culture and our families, to teach Black History year-round. This is especially true in a world where the very importance of this facet of history, is being wiped out in public schools and institutions every single day.