10 Powerful Picture Books by Black Authors and Illustrators

Picture books are my jam.

I can never have too many children’s books to read to my girls or to add to my collection. In recent years, I have attempted to diversify our bookshelves with beautiful picture books by black authors and illustrators. Sometimes this happens by accident, and sometimes it’s intentional. (Yes, I am known to judge a picture book by its gorgeous cover.)

Here are a few of my favorite picture books we’ve added to our stacks via the store or the library.

Feel free to add your favorite titles in the comments.

10 Powerful Picture Books by Black Authors and Illustrators

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson, Illustrated by Rafael López

God’s Very Good Idea: A True Story about God’s Delightfully Different Family by Trillia Newbell, Illustrated by Catalina Echeverri

Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry, Illustrated by Vashti Harrison

I Am Enough and I Believe I Can by Grace Byers, Pictures by Keturah A. Bobo

Just Us Women by Jeannette Caines (deceased), Illustrated by Pat Cummings

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History and Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History by Vashti Harrison

Poet: The Remarkable Story of George Moses Horton by Don Tate

Why Am I Me? by Paige Britt, Pictures by Sean Qualls and Selina Alko