Books help shape how children see themselves and the world, so exposing them to books by strong role models is powerful. Introducing young children to books by fantastic black women authors is a way to expand their world and nurture their love of reading while opening them up to their own potential.
For young black girls, seeing themselves reflected in stories can build confidence, affirm their identity, and show them what鈥檚 possible. And for all children, these authors bring rich storytelling with compelling characters and messages to inspire the next generation. Whether you鈥檙e looking for books about everyday joy, resilience, or history, these must-read black female authors have stories your family will love.
Oge Mora is a fantastic author-illustrator known for her vibrant, collage-style artwork and heartfelt narratives. She won a Caldecott Honor and Ezra Jack Keats award for her debut picture book, Thank You, Omu!, which celebrates generosity and community. In addition to writing, she also illustrates books for other authors, including Everybody in the Red Brick Building, The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read, and Shaking Things Up: 14 Young Women Who Changed the World.
Andrea Davis Pinkney is a prolific author known for her powerful storytelling that highlights black history, culture, and resilience. From board books to chapter books, her work dazzles young readers with lyrical prose and rich narratives. She often collaborates with her husband, illustrator Brian Pinkney, creating stunning books like Sit-In and Martin Rising. With award-winning fiction and nonfiction, she brings history to life while celebrating black joy and excellence. Parents seeking inspiring black female authors will find her books must-reads.
JaNay Brown-Wood is a children鈥檚 author, educator, and literacy advocate known for her joyful, engaging stories that showcase black families, nature, and community. Her popular Where in the Garden? series introduces young readers to fruits, vegetables, and problem-solving, through Amara’s Farm, Miguel’s Community Garden, Logan’s Greenhouse, and Linh’s Rooftop Garden. Her award-winning Imani鈥檚 Moon showcases themes of perseverance and dreams. With rhythmic language and warm storytelling, her books are perfect for parents seeking stories that reflect and uplift diverse childhood experiences.
Faith Ringgold was an award-winning artist, author, and activist famous for her stunning story quilts and children’s books that elevate black history, identity, and resilience. Her iconic book Tar Beach won a Caldecott Honor and a Coretta Scott King Award, blending personal and historical themes with rich artwork. She also wrote We Came to America, a tribute to the diverse cultures that shape the United States. Her work continues to inspire young readers with its wonderful writing and artistry. You can also continue your learning and appreciation of Ringgold鈥檚 work by visiting exhibits of her quilt artwork in person or online.
Sharee Miller is a children鈥檚 book author best known for her joyful stories celebrating black hair, self-love, and identity. Her popular picture books, including Don鈥檛 Touch My Hair! and Princess Hair, empower young readers with affirming messages and bright, playful illustrations that will draw kids into the story. In addition to being a writer, she also illustrated the book Michelle鈥檚 Garden, about Michelle Obama鈥檚 White House garden. Parents looking for confidence-boosting stories will love her books!
Zora Neale Hurston is an author most commonly known for her adult works, in particular the incredible Their Eyes Were Watching God. But Hurston also spent much of her life as a folklorist in Florida, collecting stories across the southern United States, Jamaica, Haiti, and the West Indies. In fact, she was granted a Guggenheim Fellowship twice to do this work! In the past five years, with a renewed interest in Hurston鈥檚 legacy, authors like Christopher Meyers and Ibram X. Kendi have been adapting and republishing these folktales into resplendent picture books. Be sure to check out The Making of Butterflies and (my personal favorite) Magnolia Flower.
Vashti Harrison is deservedly acclaimed for her beautifully crafted children’s books. Her Little Leaders series, including Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History, introduces young readers to inspiring figures with engaging prose and lovely, detailed illustrations. She has also illustrated books like Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry and authored Big, a Coretta Scott King Honor book.聽
Vera Ahiyya is known as The Tutu Teacher. But in addition to being a teacher she is also a children鈥檚 book author and advocate for inclusive classrooms. Her picture books, including You Have a Voice and Rebellious Read Alouds, inspire young readers to embrace kindness and activism. She also writes books that help children transition into school, like KINDergarten and Getting Ready for Preschool!, which offer encouragement and reassurance for first-time students. Her Instagram page (@thetututeacher) is also a fantastic resource for books on any subject or theme.
Vanessa Brantley-Newton鈥檚 stories, including Just Like Me, Grandma鈥檚 Purse, and Becoming Vanessa, celebrate self-esteem, confidence, and family bonds. Yet another multi-talented author/illustrator on our list, you can also find her art in award-winning books like The King of Kindergarten. With vibrant, expressive illustrations, her books spark giggles and excitement, making every page a delight for young readers. Her charming, affirming poems encourage children to embrace their uniqueness.聽
Award-winning author Nikki Grimes writes everything from picture books to novels in verse, including Bedtime for Sweet Creatures, Thanks a Million, and the Coretta Scott King Honor book Bronx Masquerade, a young adult book. Her work often highlights resilience, creativity, and the power of words. With rhythmic language and vivid imagery, her books draw young readers in and keep them glued to the page. Her stories offer a mix of warmth, honesty, and inspiration for children of all ages.
Amanda Gorman, the youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history, brings her powerful voice to children’s literature through beautifully crafted picture books. Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem and Something, Someday use lyrical language and strong messages to inspire young readers to make a difference in their communities. Her books encourage children to see themselves as changemakers, capable of kindness and action. With rhythmic storytelling and hopeful themes, her work introduces big ideas in a way that feels accessible and empowering for young minds.
