COVID-19 took a toll on all of us, but the students who were forced to learn remotely as the pandemic forced us all into quarantine perhaps suffered the most.

Indeed, new research shows that the learning loss that many students suffered during the time they spent out of the classroom is still impacting them: According to a study from K-12 testing and research organization NWEA, students in third through eighth grade are reading at a lower level than students in the same grades in 2019, regardless of race or economic status.

While that’s not the kind of news you want to hear as President Donald Trump is moving closer to dismantling the Department of Education, parents can do their part to help bring their kids’ scores up at home. One of the best ways to help your kids become better readers is to encourage them to give up some of their screen time and read at home.

Fortunately, there are plenty of great reads from Black authors that will not only educate but also entertain and inspire your kids outside of the classroom. 

From color picture books to inspiring memoirs, we’ve pulled together a list of our favorite books by Black authors for kids of all ages that will make great additions to your home library.

“One Love: Based on the Song By Bob Marley” Adapted by Cedella Marley

The lyrics of legendary singer Bob Marley’s song “One Love” were adapted into a beautiful children’s picture book designed to reach toddlers and preschoolers about diversity and cooperation.

“Tallulah The Tooth Fairy CEO” by Dr. Tamara Pizzoli

Young readers ages 6 – 8 will love “Tallulah The Tooth Fairy CEO,” a hilarious story about Tallulah, the CEO of Tooth Titans Incorporated, who has been running her business by the book until she finds herself in a situation she’s never experienced before.

“Ada Twist, Scientist” by Andrea Beaty

If you’re looking for a book that will make science fun for your little one, “Ada Twist, Scientist” is a perfect choice.

“Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History” by Vashti Harrison

It’s never too early to learn about Black history. In “Little Legends,” author Vashti Harrison profiles some of the most legendary men in Black history, including Arthur Ashe, James Baldwin and John Lewis in a board book for readers up to age 2.

“From the Desk of Zoe Washington” by Janae Marks

“From the Desk of Zoe Washington,” is the story of a young girl who goes on a search for the truth when she gets a letter on her 12th birthday from the father she’s never met who tells her he’s in prison for a crime he didn’t commit.

“Becoming: Adapted for Young Readers” by Michelle Obama

Now, young readers ages 9 – 12 can learn all about Former First Lady Michelle Obama’s road from the south side of Chicago to the White House in a version of her bestselling memoir “Becoming” adapted for young readers. Her stories of balancing work with being their for b

“It’s Not Bragging If It’s True: How to Be Awesome at Life” by Zaila Avant-Garde

Zaila Avant-Garde made history in 2021 as the first African American winner of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Now, in her book, “It’s Not Bragging if It’s True,” she shares words of wisdom with young readers on how to overcome obstacles and make their dreams come true.

“As Brave As You” by Jason Reynolds

“As Brave As You” is an award-winning novel from Jason Reynolds about two brothers who learn a lot about life when they leave their Brooklyn neighborhood to spend the summer in the south with their grandfather, who is blind.

“A Song Below Water” by Bethany C. Morrow

“A Song Below Water” is a fantasy novel for young adult readers that centers around Black sirens who are trying to navigate their junior year of high school while navigating the challenges of racism, sexism and more.

“American Street” by Ibi Zoboi

National Book Award finalist “American Street” is the debut novel from Ibi Zoboi. The story is based on Zoboi’s personal experience of navigating life in America as a Haitian immigrant.

“Call Us What We Carry” by Amanda Gorman

Presidential inaugural poet Amanda Gorman pulled together a collection of poetry that will inspire young readers in “Call Us What We Carry.”

“New Kid” by Jerry Craft

It’s never easy being the new kid in school. And “New Kid” by award-winning cartoonist, Jerry Craft is the perfect read for middle schoolers who may be struggling with the transition. A young boy struggles to find his identity at a new school where is one of the few kids of color. Can he stay true to who he is while finding a way to connect with his new classmates? The book has received lots of praise as the winner of the Newbery Medal, Coretta Scott King Author Award, and Kirkus Prize for Young Readers’ Literature.