Celebrating Black History Month at Story Time

February is here and it’s a time for celebration at The Malvern School as we recognize and remember the achievements, contributions, and accomplishments of African Americans. Black History Month provides a great opportunity to explore this topic with your child and deepen their understanding of African-American history.

At school, one of the ways we are studying the topic is with February’s Author of the Month: Philadelphia native, African-American author and illustrator Jerry Pinkney. Pinkney began drawing at the age of four while suffering from dyslexia. He quickly discovered his passion for drawing which brought

attention from others and boosted his self-esteem despite his disabilities in the classroom. This discovered confidence aided him in opening his own studios later in life, illustrating children’s books with a focus on diversity and celebrating multiculturalism.* We’re excited to share his work at The Malvern School while celebrating Black History Month.

Below are a few of our favorite books to share with your child this month and beyond. Whether its Jerry Pinkney’s beautifully illustrated tale of Uncle Remus or African folk tale Anansi the Spider, this collection of books provides a bite-size version of history and perspective easy for your child to digest and leave them eager to learn more. We invite you to incorporate these stories into story time at home to spark spirited discussion between you and your child about the importance of our nation’s African-American history. Use this list as a starting point to dive in! *Source

The Quilt by Ann Jonas Age Level: 0-3

A child’s new patchwork quilt recalls old memories and provides new adventure at bedtime. Source

Uncle Remus: The Complete Tales by Julius Lester and Jerry Pinkney. Age level: 3-6                                                         

The Uncle Remus tales were first published over a hundred years ago and serve as the largest collection of African-American folklore. The stories are beautifully illuminated by the slyly humorous full-color and black-and-white art of Jerry Pinkney.  Source 

Anansi The Spider by Gerald McDermott. Age Level: 3-6                                                                                                         

Have you ever wondered how the moon got where it is? According to this Ashanti tale, Nyame, the god of all things, put it there when Anansi could not decide which of his sons deserved it. Brilliant illustrations accompany this classic retelling of a traditional tale. Source

Bright Eyes, Brown Skin by Cheryl Hudson, Bernette Ford, and George Cephas Ford. Age Level: 3-6                 

In a charming picture book designed to build self-esteem, four African-American kindergartners enjoy their day together. As they draw with crayons, play games, eat their lunch, dress up, dance, and take a nap, they revel in each other’s company. Source 

Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman. Age Level: 3-6                                                                                                                   

Although a classmate says that she cannot play Peter Pan in the school play because she is black, Grace discovers that she can do anything she sets her mind to do. Source