To follow up on my last blog post, in recent years, there has been a growing movement to diversify the children’s book industry, and one group of authors who have made a significant contribution to this effort are black female writers. In the video below, I will share with you five such authors and their wonderful books:

• Dream Big, Little One by Vashti Harrison

“Dream Big, Little One” by Vashti Harrison is at the top of my list of children’s books written by black female authors because it is a wonderful tribute to the accomplishments of black women throughout history and encourages young readers to dream big and become whomever they aspire to be.

• Magical Milk by Nasheeda Pollard

The prenatal nutritionist and certified breastfeeding specialist in me is OBSESSED with this book that highlights the benefits of breastmilk. I read this to my daughter when I was expecting my second child and I felt like it truly illustrated all the ways I would be sharing this “Magical Milk” with her new baby brother. This book is an absolute gem for all breastfeeding and pumping mamas. Also given the stats that show how black women have the lowest breastfeeding rates in North America, this book does an amazing job at aiming to tear down those barriers to breastfeeding in the black community and illustrate wonderful examples of how breastmilk is used.

• Just Like Your Daddy by Tiffany Parker

This heartwarming book tells the story of a young boy who wants to be just like his dad when he grows up. As they spend time together, the boy learns about his father’s daily routine and the values that guide his life. Through stunning illustrations and relatable characters, this book celebrates the special bond between father and son and the importance of positive role models in a child’s life.

• Koily Kurls Presents: The Girls With The Kurls by Shenika Paris, Kyra Milan Brown and Kali Brown

Shenika Paris, Kyra Milan Brown, and Kali Brown have created a book that empowers young girls to love themselves, their hair, and all their unique qualities. Through interactive step-by-step hair tutorials, the book promotes self-love and confidence. I wish I had this book growing up, I’m sure it would have encouraged me to appreciate and embrace my kinky kurls at a young age!

• Always With You, Always With Me by Kelly Rowland and Jessica McKay

This heart warming book is a celebration of working moms everywhere! All moms can relate to how hard it can be to leave their kids to go to work, run errands or even at bedtime. We’ve all needed to provide our child with some reassurance when it’s time to separate. In this story, a Mom collects some simple words that she and her child can repeat whenever they are missing each other or feeling overwhelmed.

Always with you,
always with me,
mommy and child,
together we’ll be.

 

 

These five children’s books written by black female authors offer a diverse range of stories and perspectives that are sure to capture the hearts and minds of young readers. These authors have brought their unique experiences and voices to the world of children’s literature, creating works that not only entertain but also educate and inspire.

Are there any children’s books written by black women you would recommend? Please share it in the comments!

 

Have a lovely day,

Kalifa Rodriguez M.Sc., RD, CBS

Author of Eating These Foods Makes Me…