Our Story
Welcome to Woke Babies, the UK’s leading provider of Black children’s books through our popular subscription boxes and online bookshop. We believe every child deserves to see themselves in the stories they read. That’s why we carefully curate books featuring Black protagonists, ensuring children can explore stories that reflect their culture, history, and everyday experiences.
From picture books to early readers and chapter books, our collection is designed to empower, educate, and inspire. By providing high-quality, engaging stories, we help children develop a love for reading, boost their confidence, and expand their understanding of the world.
Why "Woke Babies"?
The word "woke" has always meant being aware, informed, and conscious—especially about history, identity, and social issues. Long before it became a political buzzword, “staying woke” was about learning, thinking critically, and paying attention to the world around us. It was a call to be informed and engaged in the world. However, in recent years, the term has been co-opted and politicised, turning into a stereotype rather than a symbol of empowerment.
At Woke Babies, we embrace its original meaning: raising children who are curious, thoughtful, and engaged. Through books, we help children discover powerful Black stories, voices, and meaningful conversations that shape how they see themselves and others.
More Than a Bookshop – Our Subscription Boxes
While we offer a carefully curated online bookshop, we are best known for our children's book subscription boxes. We offer monthly book packages for children aged 0-11, delivering:
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Handpicked Black children's books
Celebrating Black joy and culture through carefully selected literature.
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Educational resources
Support learning at home with comprehensive and engaging materials.
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Fun and engaging activities
Encourage creativity and critical thinking through interactive learning.
Why We Make Learning Fun
At Woke Babies, we know that representation in education matters. Research has shown that Caribbean children in the UK are underachieving in schools, and we want to change that. Our subscription boxes are designed to make learning exciting, ensuring children see themselves positively reflected in the books they read. By providing authentic Black stories and interactive resources, we help build confidence, curiosity, and a genuine love for education.
Our Published Books & World Book Day Recognition
At Woke Babies, we don’t just sell books—we create them! We are proud to have published books in partnership with DK, one of the world's leading children's book publishers. Together, we have developed engaging and inclusive titles that highlight the richness of Black culture and storytelling.
We are also thrilled to be part of World Book Day 2025, with one of our books selected as an official £1 World Book Day title! This means thousands of children across the UK will have access to one of our books, helping to promote reading for pleasure and representation in storytelling.
Femi and The Mindfulness Machine (Woke Babies Books)
The Pond in the Park: Where Frogs and Friendships Grow
About Our Founder – Kelly-Jade Nicholls
Woke Babies was founded by Kelly-Jade Nicholls, a visionary entrepreneur committed to transforming children’s literature by increasing the visibility of Black protagonists. Before launching Woke Babies, Kelly-Jade had a successful career as a celebrity fashion stylist. Despite her achievements, she felt a deeper calling to create meaningful change and transitioned into publishing.
Her journey into children’s books began with the self-publication of a children’s Bible featuring a Black Jesus and diverse characters. The book became a bestseller in both the UK and the US, proving the demand for authentic representation in children's stories. Recognising the lack of diverse books available for Black children, she founded Woke Babies, a subscription service delivering curated Black children’s books and educational resources to homes and schools.
Kelly-Jade has since become a prominent advocate for representation in publishing, working with esteemed organisations like Book Trust, National Literacy Trust, and World Book Day. She also opened Melanin Dreams, a store in West Norwood, which celebrates Black-owned brands and provides a dedicated space for diverse storytelling.
Through Woke Babies, Kelly-Jade continues her mission to ensure Black children grow up seeing themselves reflected in books, fostering a love for reading, boosting literacy, and inspiring future generations.