Woke Babies aims to bring representation into educational spaces for young black men so here are some books to inspire, educate and bring overall black boy joy to your child’s life.
BOOKS TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE JOY OF A BLACK BOY!
ALBERT TALBORT – MASTER OF DISGUISE
Ben Manley’s text is original and brilliantly full of outlandish names and imaginings. The book is amazing, not only in its written context but also Guillerey’s illustration presents marvellous and humorous detail and verve. A young boy should always be encouraged to dream big and this book will make sure that they do! In this book young children are encouraged to go on a journey with Albert through amazing illustration.
The book is colourful, fun and full of the inspirational joys of being whoever you want to be… and the comfort of sometimes just being you! I love how it encourages children to tap into their creativity and imagination. This is a fun book to read aloud. Full marks to all concerned for addressing diversity issues in the inclusion of different ethnicities and even having a black man with a white mum.
JACKSON AND THE HAIRSTALK
A re-make of Jack and the beanstalk BUT with Jackson being black! This is the book we never knew we needed! As a young child, I remember being inundated with stories that had white protagonists. This book is amazing because it is something that parents can enjoy as it tells the story of an old classic but with a twist! The book also represents the different kinds of hairstyles that men can have and will create pride in young black men with these hair types.
Unfortunately, it is no secret that we see young men facing prejudice because of their hairstyles so a book like this which shows hairstyles like dreadlocks to be the norm are essential and create pride in its readers.
I AM EVERY GOOD THING
Affirmations are so important. Many people are only realising the importance of them in their adult life but how amazing would it have been if we were affirmed when we were younger? Writers like Derrick Barnes are so necessary, they give a voice to the voiceless. Oprah Magazine listed the book as one of its ‘essential books for discussing racism with kids’. I would recommend this as a book to really bond with your child over. The book is so important to our generation and the next generation of young black men and women.
These are my top three recommendations for creating black boy joy. I hope you enjoy them with those you love.
Happy reading!
Written by: Tobi
