Tami Charles’ Favorite Picture Books That Celebrate Black Children

Tami Charles is well-versed in the universe of children's literature. After all, the teacher-turned-author has written several award-winning books herself. With titles like All Because You Matter and Muted, Charles celebrates Black voices and characters that resonate with children of varying ages and stages of growing up. Her newest book, We Are Here, the highly anticipated follow up to All Because You Matter, is a poignant ode to Black and brown heritage and communities, celebrating heroes, their achievements, and their legacies.

In All Because You Matter, Black and brown children are given the timeless and loving message that they have always, and will always, matter. This beautiful ode to Black and brown children reads like a poem and feels like an anthem, giving readers a lesson in self-love, confidence, and strength to make their world a better place for themselves and others. It is critically important for children to read picture books with Black characters and picture books that celebrate diversity — so that they can see themselves and others in books.

“Nothing makes my heart sing more than discovering picture books where Black children are centered and celebrated,” says Charles. “Growing up, I didn’t see Black and brown children in books living their best lives, doing bold, brave, and imaginative things. This is a common experience for many authors of color.”

When children see themselves and others in books, it can foster their self-esteem and their love of reading. That’s why Charles pulled together this list of books celebrating Black children. 

“I’ve compiled a list of children’s books that give me all the feels,” says Charles. “These are the types of books I would’ve loved reading as a child. Even more, these are stories that all children will love and appreciate. Full of gorgeous art and affirmative text, I invite you to share these with the little ones in your life and watch the magic unfold!”

Fill your child’s shelves with books with Black characters and Black stories with her favorite picks, below! You can find all books and activities at Scholastic Store. 

Ambitious Girl

This inspirational story introduces a young girl who sees a strong woman on TV labeled as “too assertive” and “too ambitious.” That moment leads her down a road of self-discovery about her own power as a girl, as she learns how to reframe and redefine words meant to knock women and girls down.

I Am Enough

This beautiful ode to loving yourself and respecting others will resonate with children — reminding them that they are enough, exactly as they are.

Of Thee I Sing

Former President Barack Obama’s loving letter to his two daughters comes alive in this beautiful picture book about the groundbreaking work of thirteen American heroes, ranging from artists to baseball players. In his daughters, President Obama sees similar strong, enduring qualities, and celebrates them in this encouraging ode.

My Very Favorite Book in the Whole Wide World 

In this playful, hilarious book, children read about Henley, a lovable kid who hates to read. In fact, he’d rather do just about anything else! But when his teacher wants everyone to bring in their favorite books to share with the class, Henley goes in search of the perfect match.