What intrigues and inspires intermediate readers?  In my experience, stories of how others overcome struggles have enormous appeal for this age group. Youngsters know little about history and are often shocked to learn what life was like in the past. The month of February is dedicated to Black History. Literature for children that portrays the stories and struggles of Black Americans makes for a rich reading experience that will both intrigue and inspire. Children will empathize with  Ruby Bridges, the first black child to integrate schools in Alabama. Youngsters will cheer the courage of Rosa Parks, a simple black seamstress who garnered enough courage to say “no” to an unjust law and jumpstart a series of events that led to justice. Sports fans will love the story of the friendship that developed between teammates, Jackie Robinson and Pee Wee Reese and everyone will be awed by the story of Henry Brown, who “mailed” himself to freedom. Delve into these stories and others like them and you’ll walk away with a renewed appreciation for the history of Black Americans and a hearty dose of inspiration to overcome the struggles in your own life. Books of this nature resonate with readers and allow youngsters to reflect on history, life, and their own values. Don’t let February go by without introducing your children to some of these non-fiction picture books…

• Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges
• The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles
• Henry’s Freedom Box by Ellen Levine
• Team Mates by Peter Golenbock
• Rosa by Nikki Giovanni
• Dear Benjamin Banneker by Andrea Davis Pinkney
• Martin’s Big Words by Doreen Rappaport
• March On by Christine King Farris
• “Wanted Dead or Alive” – The True Story of Harriet Tubman by Ann McGovern