By Yolanda T. Marshall

For children, black history, joy, and inspiration are necessary for healthy development.  Kofi Annan once said, “literacy is a bridge from misery to hope.” My Black history didn’t begin during the enslavement of my ancestors, it started in Africa, and to this day, we continue to make history. The younger generation has more access to literature, and it is only fair that we encourage them to read and confidently celebrate the heroes they can learn from. Here are a few books written by Black Canadian authors to teach kids that they can accomplish their dreams. After all, it is what many of us hope for.

The Kids Book of Black Canadian History

Written by Rosemary Sadlier, past President of the Ontario Black History Society, a social justice advocate, researcher, writer, DEI consultant, and international speaker on Black History, anti-racism, and women’s issues.

“From the first Black person who came to Canada about 400 years ago to the most recent wave of African immigrants, Black Canadians have played an important role in our country’s history. In this informative overview, kids will discover the inspiring stories and events of a people who fought oppression as they searched for a place to call their own. Featuring fact boxes, mini-profiles, a timeline and more, this book in the acclaimed Kids Book series offers a glimpse into an often-overlooked part of Canadian history.” – Published by Kids Can Press.

All Things Are Possible: Learn from African Canadian History Makers Volume 1

Written by Sean Liburd, a community builder, educator, and the founder and co-owner of Knowledge Bookstore in Brampton.

“Targeted to children ages 8 to 12, this book features six biographies of African Canadian History Makers whose lives exemplified strong character traits of perseverance, caring, excellence, critical thinking, fairness, and goal setting. Filled with interesting portraits of Viola Desmond, Rosemary Brown, Portia White, Elijah McCoy, Mifflin Wistar Gibbs, and Sam Langford, readers can learn more about these successful individuals and how they can develop these character traits in their own lives. The book includes fun activities (e.g., word search, crossword puzzle, creative writing, etc.) to reinforce key concepts.” – Independently published.

Imhotep of Ancient Kemet

Written by Ekiuwa Aire, an award-winning author born and raised in Benin City, Edo, Nigeria, passionate about sharing positive stories on African history.

“Over 4,000 years ago, a young boy named Imhotep was born in ancient Egypt. From a young age, he excelled and quickly became known as a genius. Imhotep could see through difficult problems and often tried new techniques and experiments. He had many talents, and as an architect, Imhotep designed the step pyramid at Sakkara–one of the most incredible structures in ancient history. The step pyramid still stands strong today. In the pages of this book, you’ll discover the Egypt known to Imhotep as he grows from a curious young man into one of the most successful, intelligent, and well-known men in ancient Egypt.” –  Our Ancestories.

Please visit the author’s website for more titles on African history www.our-ancestories.com

I Will Miss Kindergarten

Written by Miles Muchemi, a seven-year-old early reader and author of two books.

“This book is based on a kindergarten speech by a five-year-old early reader.

It will assist in teaching kids that there is nothing to fear about moving on to a different grade in school. It’s a story of a young Black student whose mother and teachers fostered his love of school, books and reading. Miles aspires to be a Judge when he grows up to protect others. This book will inspire other kids to read.” – Garnalma Press.

Yes, I Am

Written by Kwame Osei, a Ghanian born recruiter, teacher, speaker, coach, creator, author, actor and firm believer that children are the future.

“Words are powerful, and words are often the difference between a person’s ability to achieve and a person’s inability to achieve. The purpose of this book is to empower every child who reads it through powerful and affirming words. This book will help to build a foundation of undeniable confidence and self-assurance in children. When we wholeheartedly love ourselves and know ourselves, we can dream beyond the falsehood of our limited beliefs.” – 4 Publishing.

Please visit this author’s website for more inspiration  www.iamkwameosei.com