Select language, opens an overlay
  • General Recommendations
  • Staff-Created List

Black Legacy for Teens: The Shoulders We Stand On

Celebrate Black History Month with books highlighting this year's theme: The Impact of African American Contributions to Labor, Past and Present.

Contra Costa County Library

24 items

  • Nearer My Freedom

    The Interesting Life of Olaudah Equiano by Himself

    Edinger, Monica,
    This book shares Olaudah Equiano's own story of being enslaved and later gaining his freedom. It offers a powerful look at his life and the fight to end slavery.
    eBook[United States] : Lerner Publishing Group, 2023. — eBook hoopla
  • A Long Time Coming

    A Lyrical Biography of Race in America From Ona Judge to Barack Obama

    Shepard, Ray Anthony,
    This book explores the history of race in America through powerful poetry and storytelling. It highlights key events, figures, and struggles for justice, weaving together a moving narrative that reflects on the past and inspires hope for…
    eBookNew York : Astra Publishing House, 2023.
  • Through poetry and history, this book explores African American heritage and resilience. It celebrates family, culture, and the enduring hope that connects generations.
    BookNew York : Atheneum Books for Young Readers, [2023] — J WEATHERFORD, C.
  • Revolution in Our Time

    the Black Panther Party's Promise to the People

    Magoon, Kekla,
    A compelling look at the rise and impact of the Black Panther Party, this book highlights their fight for justice and equality. It examines their legacy, showing how their work continues to inspire movements for change today.
    BookSomerville, Massachusetts : Candlewick Press, 2021. — 323.1196 MAGOON
  • The novel follows two teen girls who start a school blog to challenge sexism and racism, sparking a movement. Through activism and creativity, they find their voices and inspire others to stand up for change.
    BookNew York : Bloomsbury, [2019] — YA FIC WATSON, R.
  • Black Enough

    Stories of Being Young & Black in America

    This collection of short stories explores the many experiences of being young and Black in America. Featuring diverse voices, it celebrates identity, culture, and the challenges and joys of growing up.
    BookNew York, NY : Balzer + Bray, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, [2019] — YA FIC BLACK
  • Double Victory

    How African American Women Broke Race and Gender Barriers to Help Win World War II

    Mullenbach, Cheryl,
    The stories of African American women who challenged racism and sexism during World War II are shared. Their contributions at home and abroad helped pave the way for greater equality and civil rights.
    eBookChicago : Chicago Review Press, 2013.
  • In this graphic memoir, Liz Montague shares her journey of discovering her passion for art while navigating life as a young Black woman. With humor and honesty, she reflects on challenges, self-expression, and the path to becoming a…
    eBookRandom House Children's Books, 2022
  • In the Shadow of Liberty

    The Hidden History of Slavery, Four Presidents, and Five Black Lives

    Davis, Kenneth C.
    This eye-opening book reveals the untold stories of enslaved individuals owned by four U.S. presidents. It sheds light on the contradictions of America’s founding ideals and the realities of slavery, offering a deeper understanding of this…
    eBookHenry Holt and Co., 2016
  • African Town

    Inspired by the True Story of the Last American Slave Ship

    Latham, Irene,
    Chronicles the story of the last Africans brought illegally to the United States on the Clotilda in 1860.
    BookNew York : G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2022. — YA FIC LATHAM, I.
  • Black Birds in the Sky

    the Story and Legacy of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre

    Colbert, Brandy,
    The Tulsa Race Massacre is one of the most devastating acts of racial violence in US history. But how did it come to pass? What exactly happened? And why are the events unknown to so many of us today?
    BookNew York, NY : Balzer + Bray, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers, [2021] — 976.68604 COLBERT
  • Those Who Saw the Sun

    African American Oral Histories From the Jim Crow South

    Avery, Jaha Nailah,
    Through firsthand accounts, this book shares the experiences of Black individuals who lived under Jim Crow segregation. Their stories offer powerful insights into resilience, injustice, and the fight for civil rights.
    BookMontclair : Levine Querido, 2023. — 305.896 AVERY
  • This collection of short stories celebrates the many ways to be young, Black, and uniquely yourself. Featuring sci-fi, fantasy, and contemporary tales, it highlights the joys and struggles of embracing identity and individuality.
    BookNew York : Viking, [2023] — YA FIC COOL.
  • A Man Called Horse

    John Horse and the Black Seminole Underground Railroad

    Turner, Glennette Tilley,
    John Horse, a Black Seminole leader, played a crucial role in resisting slavery and guiding his people to freedom. His bravery and determination shaped a remarkable chapter of history, highlighting the fight for justice and survival.
    BookNew York : Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2021. — JB HORSE, J.
  • Through personal stories and historical context, Tiffany Jewell examines how racism is embedded in the education system. She breaks down the ways schools reinforce inequality while empowering readers with tools to challenge and change it.
    eBookNew York, NY : Versify, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers, [2024]
  • Ida navigates the joys and struggles of growing up, discovering love, and finding her voice in a world that often underestimates her. Through lyrical storytelling, this novel explores identity, family, and the power of self-acceptance.
    eBookNew York : Little, Brown and Company, 2024.
  • Represent

    the Unfinished Fight for the Vote

    Dyson, Michael Eric,
    The fight for voting rights has been long and hard-fought, especially for marginalized communities. This book traces the history of voter suppression in the U.S. and highlights the activists who continue working to ensure fair access to…
    BookNew York : Little, Brown and Company, 2024. — 323.04209 DYSON
  • Through poetry and prose, Renée Watson weaves a powerful coming-of-age story about Black girlhood, resilience, and self-discovery. Themes of family, identity, and strength shine in this deeply personal and inspiring book.
    Downloadable AudiobookNew York : Kokila, 2024.
  • Flamboyants

    the Queer Harlem Renaissance I Wish I'd Known

    Johnson, George M. (George Matthew), 1985-
    This eye-opening exploration of the Harlem Renaissance highlights the often-overlooked contributions of Black queer artists and writers. Blending history with personal reflection, it celebrates the vibrancy, creativity, and resilience of a…
    BookNew York : Farrar Straus Giroux, 2024. — 700.92396 JOHNSON
  • A Quantum Life

    My Unlikely Journey From the Street to the Stars

    Oluseyi, Hakeem M. (Hakeem Muata),
    Hakeem Oluseyi’s memoir traces his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a NASA astrophysicist. His story of perseverance, curiosity, and breaking barriers offers an inspiring look at the power of science and self-determination.
    BookNew York : Ballantine Books, [2021] — B OLUSEYI, H. M.