14 Gorgeous Picture Books By Black Authors That Are Here To Inspire And Uplift Children

Sulwe tells the story of a dark-skinned girl who doesn't believe that her skin is as beautiful as lighter skin. In exploring the magic of the night sky, she discovers the beauty of her skin and the whimsy in all things.

It can be hard to be different and to feel like everyone is always noticing that you are. However, as this gorgeous picture book points out, what's more important is who you are and how you feel about yourself. It's powerful and lovely in its illustrations and message.

A rainy day won't stand in the way of a brother and sister's pursuit of fun. They remember that their grandmother taught them the power of their imaginations, and before they know it, they're soaring through the sky.

Not only does Hair Love celebrate the relationship between a Black child and her father, but it celebrates the multitudes Black hair holds. It instills confidence in children to love and appreciate their features.

This stirring picture book is by inaugural poet Amanda Gorman, who puts her beautiful way of spinning words to work in this gorgeous book illustrated by Loren Long. Little ones will learn that the possibility to make big changes is in each and every one of us.

The world is full of incredible sounds that a little girl and her mother feel coming to life as they walk to the park. It builds up to an impromptu dance that will get your little ones on their feet, too!

This fun picture book is a collection of poetry and mini stories that celebrate all the different ways you can be a girl. It's a powerful message that we don't all look or act or care about the same things, but we can celebrate our differences rather than ridicule others as a result of them.

A Story About Afiya shares the story of a girl with a special white dress that reflects on the happenings of her day. The surreal story allows readers to explore their imaginations while seeing the beauty in everything they're surrounded by.

This touching picture book by Jacqueline Woodson celebrates beginnings while acknowledging how tough they can be. Kiddos can all relate to their first day somewhere, be it summer camp or school or a new activity. It can be scary not to know anyone and to feel different from others.

This lyrical book looks through the fascinating career of Misty Copeland as a little girl who wonders how she can ever soar to the heights of her idol. Misty goes through the hard work and determination it takes to get there while cheering the little girl and all readers on to achieving their dreams.

The Night Is Yours is filled with beautiful, lyrical text that tells the story of a young girl named Amani by her father. He takes her to join in a nighttime game of hide-and-seek in her apartment complex. It celebrates the beauty of the night sky and the power of the moon.

Fly follows a little girl named Africa as she learns about her grandmother's legacy in competitive double Dutch. Her grandmother's story gives Africa the courage to break out of her comfort zone and try to succeed at something new.

Inspired by the real, viral moment when Parker Curry saw Michelle Obama's National Portrait Gallery portrait for the first time, this picture book explores the magic that happens in a child's mind when they see themselves represented. It tells the story of a family's trip to the museum and how it changed a child's vision of the future. Who knows? It may even spark a family trip idea for your family.

By the incredible Stacey Abrams, this darling picture book tells the story of little Stacey, a girl who loves words. When her teacher asks her to be in a spelling bee, she's more nervous than excited as she fears the opinions of bullies and her own ability to succeed. This book walks through those big feelings and teaches kids the importance of their words.