Review Detail

What worked: Great condensed introduction to African American History that's perfect for classrooms and libraries. There's a sampling of history tidbits in this easy-to-follow non-fiction book. As a former first-grade teacher, I would have loved to share this book with my six-year-old students during Black History Month.

Some key mentions:

The beginnings of slavery

The Abolitionist Movement, Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, and the Dred Scott case.

Turn of the 20th century with mentions of what Juneteenth is, Jim Crow laws, Ida B. Wells, the horrific lynchings, and Black Wall Street.

There's much more! There are biographies of key African Americans. Plus, a removable historical timeline is the perfect addition to any classroom/library during Black History Month.

What I really liked was how the author includes recent parts of history, such as Trayvon Martin, Black Lives Matter, Tamir Rice, and Ferguson.

The illustrations are engaging and sure to have students asking for more. This is also perfect for homeschoolers and those who aren't familiar with the history.

Perfect addition to any classroom curriculum, not only during Black History Month but year-round.