Parentology

Suggested Reading: Introduce Your Little Ones to Civil Rights History

Civil Rights Books for Kids

Today we’re going to check out a few children’s books that introduce the topic of civil rights but in a child-friendly, accessible way. 

Your children may have heard of some key Civil Rights figures, such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks.

But just knowing a few names is not enough; children should learn much from this crucial point in our history. 

From collections to stand-alone, there will surely be a book recommendation here for all readers, young and old.

The Little People, Big Dreams collection – Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

Age: 5 years +

Little People, Big Dreams on AMAZON

This series of books focuses on one famous person in history at a time. Take a deep dive into their world and the amazing things they did to transform our world. Maria has written books about multiple civil rights activists such as Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Emmeline Pankhurst, Josephine Baker, Nelson Mandela, and Mahatma Gandhi.

The illustrations are unique to each book, but there are also real photographs and facts about each historical figure! 

And suppose you’re looking for something for younger children. In that case, Maria also has a collection of board-books that still explains their life story but in fewer words!

Little Leaders collection: Bold Women in Black History / Exceptional Men in Black History – Vashti Harrison

Little Leaders on AMAZON

Age: 8 years +

Meet brave black historical figures! From pages dedicated to Ida B. Wells (journalist and segregation activist) to Paul Stephenson (British-African activist), this book will surely teach your little ones about exceptionally bold people that have fought and shaped our world.

Each page gives an abundance of facts about the individual, including where they were born, what job they had, and how they made their mark.

Peaceful Fights for Equal Rights – Rob Sanders

Peaceful Fights on AMAZON

Age: 5 years +

The little but lyrical text of this book is used to help teach and inspire children. It gives examples for children to be a part of a movement also by standing up for what they believe in, such as campaigns and camping out!

Written by an activist himself, Rob provides a gentle introduction to peaceful protests and working together to make a difference. 

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist – Cynthia Levinson

The Youngest Marcher on AMAZON

Age: 5 years +

“The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks” is a children’s book written by Cynthia Levinson and illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton. It tells the true story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a young girl from Birmingham, Alabama, who played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s.

In 1963, when Audrey was just nine years old, she decided to participate in a march against segregation and racial inequality in Birmingham. Despite her young age, she was determined to stand up for what she believed in and was one of the youngest marchers arrested for her involvement in the protests.

Through vivid illustrations and engaging prose, the book follows Audrey’s journey from her decision to join the marches to her arrest and subsequent time in a juvenile detention center. It highlights her bravery and determination and is a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and equality.

“The Youngest Marcher” is an inspiring, educational, empowering story, and is recommended for children ages 5-10.

Autumn Sykes

Autumn is a mother and a student, currently earning a Childhood Studies degree. In her spare time she's also a freelance writer focusing mainly on parenting and children.

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