10 Inspiring STEM Books for Black History Month
Celebrating Black History Month Through Reading … STEM style.
February marks Black History Month, a time to honor African Americans who struggled against adversity and achieved great things and to honor accomplishments that have been too-often neglected or erased. What better way to do that then through reading inspiring stories, both true and fictional. Here is a list of some of our favorite elementary-school level books that feature real-life (as well as a few imaginary scientists) of color to inspire your students with their boldness, creativity and grit.
Black Women in Science by, Kimberly Brown Pellum, PhD
From the publisher: Black Women in Science stands out amongst other Black history books for kids―featuring 15 powerful stories of fearless female scientists that advanced their STEM fields and fought to build a legacy. Through the triumphs of these amazing women, you’ll find remarkable role models.
Reaching for the Moon: The Autobiography of a NASA Mathmetician by Katherine Johnson
From the publisher: Katherine Johnson’s story was made famous in the bestselling book and Oscar-nominated film Hidden Figures. Now in Reaching for the Moon she tells her own story for the first time, in a lively autobiography that will inspire young readers everywhere.
Black Inventors: 15 Inventors That Changed the World, by Kathy Trusty
From the publisher: Throughout history, Black inventors have achieved some of the world’s greatest advancements in science, technology, engineering, and math. This book highlights 15 men and women who made a big impact with their inventions—from Marie Van Brittan Brown, who created the first home security system, to Mark Dean, who invented the personal computer. Learn all about each inventor’s creative process, their invention, and the way it’s benefited our world.
Little People, Big Dreams: Mae Jemison, by SANCHEZ VEGARA ISABE
From the publisher: Meet Mae Jemison, scientist, astronaut and the first ever black woman in space. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the groundbreaking astronaut’s life.
Black Men in Science: 15 Inspiring People You Should Know, by Bryan Patrick Avery
From the publisher: All throughout history, Black men have made important contributions to scientific discovery. This collection of biographies for kids explores 15 of these intelligent men and the extraordinary scientific accomplishments they achieved—even when they faced huge challenges. You’ll learn how they stood up against racism and inequality, and never stopped following their passions for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Dr. Maya, Ice Cream Scientist: Real Women in STEAM. by Aubry Andrus
From the publisher: kids meet and befriend Dr. Maya, a food scientist who gets to eat ice cream every day—it’s her job! Readers follow Dr. Maya’s journey from curious kid to confident grown-up, complete STEM activities like developing their very own ice cream flavor, learn the science behind frozen desserts, and more, all with engaging design and bright colors for even the most reluctant readers. Collect all five STEM/STEAM favorites in The Look Up Series.
Black Heroes: A Black History Book for Kids: 51 Inspiring People from Ancient Africa to Modern-Day U.S.A by, Arlisha Norwood
From the publisher: You’re invited to meet ancient Egyptian rulers, brilliant scientists, legendary musicians, and civil rights activists―all in the same book! Black Heroes introduces you to 51 black leaders and role models from both historical and modern times. This black history book for kids features inspirational biographies of trailblazers from the United States, Egypt, Britain, and more. Read about famous icons like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Harriet Tubman, as well as lesser-known pioneers like aviator Bessie Coleman and astronomer Benjamin Banneker.
Ada Twist, Scientist, by Andrea Beaty
From the publisher: Inspired by real-life makers Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie, this beloved #1 bestseller champions STEM, girl power and women scientists in a rollicking celebration of curiosity, the power perseverance, and the importance of asking “Why?”
Ada has always been endlessly curious. Even when her fact-finding missions and elaborate scientific experiments don’t go as planned, Ada learns the value of thinking her way through problems and continuing to stay curious.
Like Me, by Quinn Woodard
From the publisher: Zoey loves math and science, but she doesn’t know what she can be when she grows up. As she says: “It’s difficult to see what I can be when no one looks like me.”
With the help of a friend, Zoey learns all about the amazing things she can become if she follows her passions just like the pioneers who have come before her. Aimed at introducing new possibilities in STEM for young children, Like Me is perfect for the budding scientist in your family.
Bella The Scientist Goes to Outer Space, by Silvana Spence, Isabella Spence, and Darwin Marfil
From the publisher: Bella and Vicky are two sisters with a love for science. Wanting to learn more about the different types of scientists, they start their journey learning about astronomers. Their friend Cody the iPad takes them on an adventure through the stars to discover new facts about their solar system and the scientists who study it.
Together with Bella and Vicky, young readers will visit planets, asteroid belts, and more. After returning safely from space, readers can continue their adventure by following along with hands-on experiments and activities at the back of the book.
Looking for other STEM related lists? Take a peek at our STEM Recommended Reading List for Coding & Robotics that is jammed packed of motivating and fun reads or last month’s reading list, 10 Inspiring STEM Books for Girls of Color.
Have any favorites of your own? Share your finds with us on social!
