Celebrating 100 Years of Legacy Through Storytime!
February marks 100 years of Black History Month, a time to honor stories of courage, creativity, leadership, and community. At Open Minds, we believe learning about history begins with stories that are meaningful, age-appropriate, and rooted in kindness and belonging.
Reading together is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to introduce young children to big ideas. Through books, children begin to understand fairness, empathy, confidence, and the importance of every person’s story.
This month, we’re sharing some of our favorite Black History Month book recommendations, including several with meaningful Kansas connections.
Kansas-Connected Book Recommendations
People, Pride, & Promise
Author: Prisca Barnes
Ages: 5–9
This inspiring story shares the true history of Ron Walters, a young leader in 1950s Wichita who helped organize peaceful sit-ins at the Dockum Drug Store. With support from the NAACP Youth Council, he worked to create change in his community.
Kansas Connection: Based on the Dockum Drug Store sit-ins in Wichita, Kansas.
Parent Tip: Focus on courage, teamwork, and standing up for fairness.
Separate Is Never Equal
Author: Duncan Tonatiuh
Ages: 4–8
This picture book tells the story of Sylvia Mendez and her family’s fight for fairness in education. Their actions helped change schools and reminded the nation that every child deserves equal opportunity to learn.
Kansas Connection: Inspired by the ideas behind Brown v. Board of Education, which began in Topeka, Kansas.
Parent Tip: With younger children, focus on fairness, kindness, and learning together.
Follow Me Down to Nicodemus Town
Author: A. LaFaye
Ages: 4–8
Based on the true story of Nicodemus, Kansas, this book follows a family seeking freedom and a new beginning. It highlights hope, resilience, and the power of community.
Kansas Connection: Inspired by the historic Black settlement of Nicodemus, Kansas.
Parent Tip: Ask your child, “What makes a place feel like home?”
A Place to Land
Author: Barry Wittenstein
Ages: 4–8
This beautifully illustrated book shares how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. found the words for his “I Have a Dream” speech. It highlights hope, teamwork, and the power of using your voice.
Kansas Connection: Connects to families who moved to Kansas seeking opportunity and freedom.
Parent Tip: Ask, “What are some kind things you hope for our world?”
General Black History Month Book Picks
The ABCs of Black History
Author: Rio Cortez
Ages: 2–8
A rhythmic and engaging ABC book that introduces children to culture, creativity, and important figures in Black history.
Parent Tip: Focus on a few letters at a time and discuss big ideas like dreaming big and kindness.
We’re Different, We’re the Same
Author: Bobbi Kates
Ages: 1–4
Featuring familiar Sesame Street characters, this book helps young children understand that while we may look different, we share the same feelings.
Parent Tip: Talk about shared emotions like happiness, friendship, and kindness.
All Are Welcome
Author: Alexandra Penfold
Ages: 2–6
A heartwarming story about a classroom where everyone belongs.
Parent Tip: Ask, “How can we help everyone feel welcome?”
All Because You Matter
Author: Tami Charles
Ages: 3–8
A lyrical reminder that every child is loved, valued, and important.
Parent Tip: Pause and remind your child that they matter just as they are.
Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History
Author: Vashti Harrison
Ages: 3–9
Short, engaging biographies highlighting inspiring Black men across history.
Parent Tip: Read one story at a time and ask, “What do you like to do?”
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History
Author: Vashti Harrison
Ages: 4–9
An illustrated introduction to trailblazing Black women who changed the world.
Parent Tip: Ask, “What makes someone brave?”
Why This Matters for Young Children
For Pre-K learners, Black History Month is not about heavy historical details. It is about introducing:
Kindness
Fairness
Belonging
Confidence
Community
When children learn early that every story matters, they grow into empathetic and thoughtful learners.
At Open Minds, we are committed to building inclusive classrooms where children feel seen, valued, and connected. Through books and conversations, families can continue these meaningful lessons at home.