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Many parents are finding themselves struggling to start conversations with their kids about race and racism. As protests, sparked by the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery, continue it's a crucial time for parents to discuss race and protest with children.
EyeSeeMe, a bookstore in University City, holds the largest collection of African American–focused children's literature. Owners Jeffrey and Pamela Blair, who are parents themselves, provide educators and organizations with resources for curriculum. Below, Jeffrey shares some of his favorite anti-racism books for each age group.
Baby Board Books: Ages 4 and under
A is for Activist, by Innosanto Nagara. “This is a colorful alphabet board book that uses the language of activism. In the current climate of change, the whole family will enjoy reading and discussing these concepts.”
WOKE Baby, by Mahogany L Browne. “This book follows a waking baby throughout the day with progressive affirmations that a WOKE baby is empowered to fight for justice and change the world.”
Antiracist Baby, by Ibram X Kendi. “Dr. Kendi has numerous adult books on antiracism. This is a great addition for families that want to not only learn the concepts of antiracism but also prepare the next generation to become antiracist.”
Babies Around the World Dancing, by Tamara Barker. “Beautiful illustrations of babies around the world dancing in their native culture. This book exposes children to the variety and beauty of our global diversity.”
Picture Books: Ages 4–7
The Undefeated, by Kwame Alexander. “One of our favorite books of 2019. The Undefeated is characterized as 'a love poem to Black America.' The book takes you through the journey of Black people in America over the past 400 years. Utilizing the captivating illustrations of Kadir Nelson, the reader is taken through a rollercoaster of emotions. It is done in such a respectful manner that you are left with pride and admiration for the resilience and ingenuity of an undefeated people.”
Let's Talk About Race, by Julius Lester. “This book does a great job of discussing the concepts of race and racism by utilizing the concept of a story. The author notes that stories are all around us but some stories are true while others are not. This book helps children become critical thinkers by not accepting every story they hear as true.”
Hair Love, by Matthew Cherry. “This is one of our favorites because there are not many children's books that highlight Black fathers. This book highlights the relationship between a Black father and daughter. EyeSeeMe was fortunate to host their book launch in 2019. This book was made into a theatrical short film and won the Oscar in 2020.”
Why Am I Me?, by Paige Britt. “A great book for parents and children to explore the concepts of identity and race by asking the existential questions, ‘Why am I me?’ and ‘Why is everyone who they are?’ It also illustrates that we are all asking ourselves the same questions, which helps build a sense of connection and community.”
All Are Welcome, by Alexandra Penfold. “A fun picture book which shows a school where everyone is welcome no matter their race, culture or physical ability. It helps imagine a world where everyone's unique culture is celebrated and valued.”
Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History and Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History, by Vashti Harrison. “Most people don’t know about the countless contributions of Black people to society. These two books are important for readers of all ages that bring to life true stories of black men and women in history.”
Ages 8–12
Black Brother, Black Brother, by Jewell Parker Rhodes. “This book is the latest from one of our favorite authors. In this book, she explores colorism in American society. The main characters are brothers, one dark-skinned and the other light-skinned, who can pass for white. As they live in a predominantly white environment the light-skinned brother is embraced, while the dark-skinned brother is shunned. The reader is given a glimpse into how difficult it can be for a young Black person to be all they can be when they are constantly being judged not by merit or character but by the color of their skin.”
We Rise, We Resist, We Raise Our Voices, edited by Wade Hudson and Cheryl Willis Hudson. “This is an empowering anthology from 50 of the most prominent contributors to children literature today, including Jason Reynolds, Jacqueline Woodson, and Kwame Alexander. Each unique contribution is thought-provoking and gives young people license to question and act to make positive change. This collection will help expose readers to these gifted writers and illustrators and hopefully desire to explore their other works.”
Ages 12+
This Book Is Anti-Racist: 20 Lessons on How to Wake Up, Take Action, and Do The Work, by Tiffany Jewell. “This book is a great resource for teachers to use in the classroom to help students explore the creation of racism in America and the many ways in which it continues to exist in our lives today. It also is a call to action by providing activities and suggestions for helping to dismantle it.”
The Autobiography of Malcolm X, by Alex Haley. “This timeless classic title is a must-read for anyone who is looking to understand racism in America and its effects on Black people. It follows the life of Malcolm Little and his fascinating transformation into becoming Malcolm X, one of the most significant yet controversial figures in the Civil Rights Movement. Malcolm X is characterized as 'The Shining Prince' of Black pride. The reader will gain better insight into why the Black Lives Matter movement and its predecessor, the Black Power movement is a necessary response to racial oppression in America.”
EyeSeeMe is currently only open for curbside pick up and online orders.
