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Soul School: Taking Kids on a Joy-Filled Journey Through the Heart of Black American Culture
A must-have addition to the shelf for any parent hoping to introduce more inclusive books into the home, with 100+ essential titles for early readers through high school
Brimming with the history and culture of Black America, this one-of-a-kind resource is delivered in a package that all children find stories. Education expert Amber O'Neal Johnston—who homeschools her four children—offers masterfully curated booklists, sorted by age, for diving into the fullness of the African American cultural experience.
Soul School books are must-have mirrors for Black children and priceless windows for others, but first and foremost, they’re captivating stories. And while they’re sure to hold a special place in the hearts of Black families, they are unequivocally and without hesitation for all children.
In addition to the booklists, Johnston artfully weaves together knowledge of the past and awareness of the present by examining cultural values, historical highlights, and the power of storytelling while teaching families what to look for and how to enjoy prose, verse, and illustrations that celebrate Black American culture.
Soul School offers the best children’s, middle grade, and young adult books available today, each accompanied by discussion questions, activities, and related resource recommendations. Socially conscious parents who want to bring antiracist ideals into the home and supplement what their kids are learning at school will find an adult reading list as well. Covering toddlers to teens and everyone in between, Soul School is an education for us all.
Brimming with the history and culture of Black America, this one-of-a-kind resource is delivered in a package that all children find stories. Education expert Amber O'Neal Johnston—who homeschools her four children—offers masterfully curated booklists, sorted by age, for diving into the fullness of the African American cultural experience.
Soul School books are must-have mirrors for Black children and priceless windows for others, but first and foremost, they’re captivating stories. And while they’re sure to hold a special place in the hearts of Black families, they are unequivocally and without hesitation for all children.
In addition to the booklists, Johnston artfully weaves together knowledge of the past and awareness of the present by examining cultural values, historical highlights, and the power of storytelling while teaching families what to look for and how to enjoy prose, verse, and illustrations that celebrate Black American culture.
Soul School offers the best children’s, middle grade, and young adult books available today, each accompanied by discussion questions, activities, and related resource recommendations. Socially conscious parents who want to bring antiracist ideals into the home and supplement what their kids are learning at school will find an adult reading list as well. Covering toddlers to teens and everyone in between, Soul School is an education for us all.
304 pages, Paperback
Published January 28, 2025
29 people are currently reading
270 people want to read
About the author
Amber O'Neal Johnston
9 books131 followersAmber O’Neal Johnston is the author of A Place to Belong, a guide for families of all backgrounds to celebrate cultural heritage, diversity, and kinship while embracing inclusivity in the home and beyond. She is a regular contributor to the wildly successful Wild + Free homeschooling community, a frequent podcast guest, and a coveted speaker at homeschooling, parenting, and education conferences.
Amber lives in Georgia nestled among pine trees, hammocks and ziplines with her husband Scott and their four children. Her happy place is the back porch on a rainy day, preferably with a giant mug of hot tea and a good book. And although she was raised in the air conditioning, somehow the woods is where she feels most at home these days.
When they have the chance, her family enjoys extended worldschooling trips to immerse themselves in other cultures, so you can often find her researching their next home away from home. Amber writes and speaks about the beauty of an inclusive, culturally and socially conscious home environment, and she enjoys sharing diverse literary mirrors and windows on Heritage Mom website and @heritagemomblog (IG).
Amber lives in Georgia nestled among pine trees, hammocks and ziplines with her husband Scott and their four children. Her happy place is the back porch on a rainy day, preferably with a giant mug of hot tea and a good book. And although she was raised in the air conditioning, somehow the woods is where she feels most at home these days.
When they have the chance, her family enjoys extended worldschooling trips to immerse themselves in other cultures, so you can often find her researching their next home away from home. Amber writes and speaks about the beauty of an inclusive, culturally and socially conscious home environment, and she enjoys sharing diverse literary mirrors and windows on Heritage Mom website and @heritagemomblog (IG).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
January 21, 2025
Amber's newest book, Soul School, showcases her remarkable insight and wisdom, making it an invaluable resource for parents, particularly those seeking diverse perspectives. Within Charlotte Mason homeschool circles, a common question arises: "Does this book list include a broad view of history and culture?" Because we know “Char Char” (A nickname I love hearing Amber call her!) was a white woman in 19th-century England, her original booklists understandably lack representation of diverse cultures in America. I firmly believe that incorporating diverse voices is essential for a well-rounded American education and Amber can be your resource for living books that offer stories, history, and culture. I was thrilled to discover that our family has already read several titles from Soul School's booklists, providing us with a wonderful foundation to curate our reading selections for years to come. The booklists thoughtfully represent music, civil rights, history, and biography, catering to various age groups, from picture books for young children to titles suitable for high school students and beyond.
February 5, 2025
I always appreciate and enjoy Amber's writing. She shares her experiences with such grace and encouragement.
The first half of this book is more educational mixed with personal stories. I learned a lot about Black History and Culture.
The second half of this book is a reference guide broken down by ages. Amber gives book recommendations, discussion questions, and commentary about why she chose the book. It's incredibly well thought out.
I plan to use this as another trusted source that I can come back to over and over to choose books for my children in our homeschool, library adventures, or free reading.
The first half of this book is more educational mixed with personal stories. I learned a lot about Black History and Culture.
The second half of this book is a reference guide broken down by ages. Amber gives book recommendations, discussion questions, and commentary about why she chose the book. It's incredibly well thought out.
I plan to use this as another trusted source that I can come back to over and over to choose books for my children in our homeschool, library adventures, or free reading.
January 21, 2025
A must read! Soul School,it is more than what I could have imagine it’s not just for my kids but for me as well! The book gave me goosebumps and giggles. I felt seen but also checked in a good way. I see this book being a lighthouse not just for my home but hopefully for many homes.
January 19, 2025
The quintessential book about books for every home. It does the work of an ELA curriculum by having curated book lists, activities and related books that is every homeschoolers dream. Definitely worth a place on the bookshelf.
January 22, 2025
If you are a parent, educator, or in any way interact with the young people of today - get yourself a copy of this book! In a thorough, honest, concise, and conversational way, Johnston has crafted a resource that makes thoughtful book purchases and library trips as simple as possible. As a white parent raising white children, resources such as Soul School are immensely helpful to me in prioritizing culturally diverse and relevant texts that children will enjoy. I especially appreciate Johnston's brief descriptions of each book and "second helpings" for additional study, as well as the different indices included. I had the immense honor of being given a copy of this book for review and it did not disappoint. I have already procured copies of books recommended within Soul School and look forward to continuing to use this resource as my children grow.
It is truly evident that the author has poured so much of her own soul into this book and I'm so grateful for her gifting herself to us in this way.
It is truly evident that the author has poured so much of her own soul into this book and I'm so grateful for her gifting herself to us in this way.
January 23, 2025
I have desired for so long for a book that incorporates literature options of more than just predominantly white authors. Amber did it!!! She gave her authentic self throughout this skillfully crafted book, allowing the reader into black culture in such a beautiful way. I felt "soul schooled" more than once on black culture but appreciated the knowledge and insight into a culture that is not my own. My favorite feature of this book is the extensive age level book list with questions and activities. So many times black history is shared from a pain and oppressive views and while that is important to black history, Amber does an amazing job sharing literature options that have beautiful stories of achievement and success as well as stories of everyday individuals that we can all connect with. This book will be on my bookshelf right beside Sarah Mckenzie Read Aloud Family! This book is not just for black people, this book is for everyone!!
April 25, 2025
This is a reference book, not one you’d really read cover to cover. I borrowed it from the library but plan to buy my own copy so I can continue to use it!
Man - it is SO good and everything I want in a book list! Every book includes a brief description, reasoning behind its inclusion, questions for discussion/reflection, activities, and two additional book recommendations to go along with it. Oh - and organized by age group. This is an AMAZING book for any homeschooler, teacher, or school librarian.
Man - it is SO good and everything I want in a book list! Every book includes a brief description, reasoning behind its inclusion, questions for discussion/reflection, activities, and two additional book recommendations to go along with it. Oh - and organized by age group. This is an AMAZING book for any homeschooler, teacher, or school librarian.
January 23, 2025
Soul School was a beautifully, well-written book about the importance of Black history and why Black people should be talked about with our children. There’s so much beauty in the Black culture that our eyes need to be opened to see it. Amber does a magnificent job in opening our eyes to it throughout her book.
She curated a long list of beautiful books about Black culture that we should take the time to read to our children. She even divides them up by age groups!
Everyone should have a copy of Soul School in their homes and should refer to it for books to read! Teach your children about Black history because it is important!
She curated a long list of beautiful books about Black culture that we should take the time to read to our children. She even divides them up by age groups!
Everyone should have a copy of Soul School in their homes and should refer to it for books to read! Teach your children about Black history because it is important!
January 27, 2025
Soul School is a beautiful book - inside and out! A must-have for educators, home educators, and anyone who loves a book that delves into excellent literature. It is not only a fabulous resource, in essence an annotated bibliography of curated literature where the reader receives a brief summary of Amber's personal thoughts and reasons behind including each selection within, but it also weaves resilience, strength and hope through the stories shared. The writing invites the reader to dig further and understand the American story in a deeper and more meaningful way!
March 24, 2025
Great resource to have on hand. It is a comprehensive guide through children’s literature that will support you in teaching Black American history and Culture at home.
February 22, 2025
Amber is a respected leader in the homeschool community, deservedly so. She is passionate about encouraging all families to expand their views of what makes an education complete. She is always ready with a book recommendation, especially one that features well-developed Black main characters written by Black authors. She is gracious & patient in sharing her knowledge with others. She is also strong in her faith & filters all of this through the lens of Biblical truth. This book brings all of these things together. It is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to bring more diverse books into their home library. You don't have to be a homeschool mom (like Amber) to do this. You can just be a parent that recognizes the importance of providing a better education for your child than you received. She walks you through the reasoning behind what she does & then she lists dozens of books that she has personally vetted for kids of all ages.
January 31, 2025
Highly recommend this book.
Amber, does an amazing job once again reminding us of the need for windows and mirrors but in also infusing our reading lists with some soul. That starts with understanding what is soul in African American culture and literature. How we relate and engage with culture needs to reflect in our book choices. One cannot say they appreciate black culture and yet read no books that celebrate, reflect, and engage with black culture. And even with the horrors found in the history ot the black diaspora, the literature is not too complex or traumatic. Its informative and helps change the perspective.
The book it set up in two parts. Part 1 is where you learn about this term: soul school and what it looks like and feels like. What it encompasses. To understand how to infuse some soul into your school through literature that celebrates black culture.
The second part is a reference list of literature categorized by age group with book studies (including a summary and discussion questions/thought starters and similar books) of each book.
It is a great tool for homeschoolers and non-homeschoolers alike. It’s a great resource for black families and those who choose to understand, ally (or accomplice) with the black community.
Amber, does an amazing job once again reminding us of the need for windows and mirrors but in also infusing our reading lists with some soul. That starts with understanding what is soul in African American culture and literature. How we relate and engage with culture needs to reflect in our book choices. One cannot say they appreciate black culture and yet read no books that celebrate, reflect, and engage with black culture. And even with the horrors found in the history ot the black diaspora, the literature is not too complex or traumatic. Its informative and helps change the perspective.
The book it set up in two parts. Part 1 is where you learn about this term: soul school and what it looks like and feels like. What it encompasses. To understand how to infuse some soul into your school through literature that celebrates black culture.
The second part is a reference list of literature categorized by age group with book studies (including a summary and discussion questions/thought starters and similar books) of each book.
It is a great tool for homeschoolers and non-homeschoolers alike. It’s a great resource for black families and those who choose to understand, ally (or accomplice) with the black community.
February 5, 2025
First, a new booklist! Yay! Second, Amber O'Neal Johnston has filled the gap that has been staring us all in the face - a complete view of history. Soul School is a continuation of A Place to Belong, encouraging parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and any educator to add some color to their history narrative. This is not an effort to exclude anyone, but to include everyone. This book is a great deep-dive into an African American history exploration, giving a well-rounded balanced look at history and culture.
I read A Place to Belong and was encouraged to start finding other stories from history - the ones that are not well known. The stories of African Americans, Native Americans, Asians, Latinos, women, and others have been tucked away, unless you know where to look for them. Although it should not have been that way, we cannot go back and change the past - only ourselves going forward. Both of her books are a beautiful encouragement to do that, and she gives everyone a place to start, no matter the age.
I read A Place to Belong and was encouraged to start finding other stories from history - the ones that are not well known. The stories of African Americans, Native Americans, Asians, Latinos, women, and others have been tucked away, unless you know where to look for them. Although it should not have been that way, we cannot go back and change the past - only ourselves going forward. Both of her books are a beautiful encouragement to do that, and she gives everyone a place to start, no matter the age.
March 22, 2025
In A Place to Belong Amber explains to us so well why all children need access to mirrors and windows in the books they read.
In Soul School she makes it so easy for us to implement. With over 100 books ranging from toddlers to high school(and really adults), there is plenty for anyone to choose from. Each book listed has a section on why she chose the book along with thoughts and questions to consider about each book. What more could we ask for?
This paragraph from the book says it all:
“Our collective children belong together, and we owe them every opportunity to intimately sense each other’s humanity. These Black stories are indeed human stories, and every child who touches them will be changed, regardless of color or culture. Books themselves are not magic; they wont fix everything, but the priceless power they hold to delight hearts, heal hurts, and bond lives is piercingly magical.
Right down to the very soul.”
I very much appreciate the work and effort that went in to writing this book and giving us this gift.
In Soul School she makes it so easy for us to implement. With over 100 books ranging from toddlers to high school(and really adults), there is plenty for anyone to choose from. Each book listed has a section on why she chose the book along with thoughts and questions to consider about each book. What more could we ask for?
This paragraph from the book says it all:
“Our collective children belong together, and we owe them every opportunity to intimately sense each other’s humanity. These Black stories are indeed human stories, and every child who touches them will be changed, regardless of color or culture. Books themselves are not magic; they wont fix everything, but the priceless power they hold to delight hearts, heal hurts, and bond lives is piercingly magical.
Right down to the very soul.”
I very much appreciate the work and effort that went in to writing this book and giving us this gift.
July 11, 2025
"Soul School" by Amber Johnston is a fantastic book that takes readers on an exciting journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Here are a few reasons why it's so wonderful:
1. Relatable Stories
Amber shares her own experiences, making it easy for readers to connect with her. Her stories are honest and relatable, helping us understand our own feelings and challenges.
2. Helpful Advice
The book is filled with practical tips and exercises that encourage us to think about who we are and what we want in life. It teaches us how to be more mindful and aware of our thoughts and emotions.
3. Focus on Friendship and Community
One of the best parts of "Soul School" is how it highlights the importance of friendships and support from others. Amber reminds us that we don’t have to go through life alone; we can grow and learn together.
4. Positive Messages
The book is full of inspiring messages about being true to yourself and following your dreams. It encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and to be kind to themselves.
1. Relatable Stories
Amber shares her own experiences, making it easy for readers to connect with her. Her stories are honest and relatable, helping us understand our own feelings and challenges.
2. Helpful Advice
The book is filled with practical tips and exercises that encourage us to think about who we are and what we want in life. It teaches us how to be more mindful and aware of our thoughts and emotions.
3. Focus on Friendship and Community
One of the best parts of "Soul School" is how it highlights the importance of friendships and support from others. Amber reminds us that we don’t have to go through life alone; we can grow and learn together.
4. Positive Messages
The book is full of inspiring messages about being true to yourself and following your dreams. It encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and to be kind to themselves.
January 30, 2025
Soul School is the balm that the African American community has desperately sought and is a much-needed lesson for others to learn. Amber beautifully intertwines culture and the atrocities experienced, much like lacing up a shoe and tying it tightly in a bow, ensuring that no part is overlooked. Like many Trail Blazers before her, regardless of race or background, Amber has done an excellent job of inviting everyone to the table to touch, taste, and feel the experience.
While reading Soul School, I felt as if someone was constantly holding a mirror to my face, while at other times, I was peering through the window of a stranger's house, fully aware that I am the stranger, in a way. So, grab yourself a copy of this book and consider getting one for a friend or even an adversary, so that we can all work together to put ignorance in its rightful place. Amber, may the outcome of this book be just as rewarding for you as the process of writing it has been!
January 22, 2025
Amber has done it again (I have her first book and love it just as much)... I find myself rendered speechless and completely moved by reading this beautiful, unique piece of work. I will never be the same again and that... is the epitome of a great book.
God knows my heart and knew that this was exactly what I needed when I needed it as I continue to allow the Holy Spirit to navigate myself and my brown baby girls through this homeschooling journey.
I will be re-reading and referencing this book again, again, and again. It is truly a prayer answered and a breath of fresh air.
Thank you Amber, for allowing yourself to be used by the Lord, once again. May God Bless you for not only being inspired, but by following through by creating something truly needed by the world, a gift for the masses. I pray that everyone will make room on their bookshelves for this much-needed gem.
God knows my heart and knew that this was exactly what I needed when I needed it as I continue to allow the Holy Spirit to navigate myself and my brown baby girls through this homeschooling journey.
I will be re-reading and referencing this book again, again, and again. It is truly a prayer answered and a breath of fresh air.
Thank you Amber, for allowing yourself to be used by the Lord, once again. May God Bless you for not only being inspired, but by following through by creating something truly needed by the world, a gift for the masses. I pray that everyone will make room on their bookshelves for this much-needed gem.
January 29, 2025
Soul School is the well-written answer to the question "why are Black books so important?" Amber fully addresses the matter by masterfully breaking down the various aspects of Black culture, explaining how each aspect contributes to the Black experience, and emphasizing the importance of elevating Black stories and voices. The highlight is the curated list of books (categorized by age group) that celebrate the music, art, stories, and traditions that make up Black culture. While the book is absolutely for everyone, it is truly a must have for anyone looking to give Black children, of all ages, the mirrors they need to feel seen and proud of their heritage. It is a must have for anyone looking to diversify their children's exposure to Black culture. In fact, it is truly a must have for anyone who doesn't understand the need to do so.
January 29, 2025
Absolute abundance!
I am so thankful to have Soul School!
Soul School contains a feast! Stories of family and community, of parents and children, aunties and uncles, friends and cousins, told in fiction and non fiction, in poetry and prose, about science and nature and living, set in this world and in fantasy. Amber has read every book she recommends (360!) and provided detailed information for 120 of the books, including why the book was chosen.
Soul School gives book ideas for children of all ages, books set in many time periods and places, with influences of Africa, America, the Caribbean, and the rest of the diaspora. Books written by Black authors that communicate culture – complex relationships, joy, laughter, growth, and trials.
This resource will be valuable for all people who interact with children.
#soulschoolbook
I am so thankful to have Soul School!
Soul School contains a feast! Stories of family and community, of parents and children, aunties and uncles, friends and cousins, told in fiction and non fiction, in poetry and prose, about science and nature and living, set in this world and in fantasy. Amber has read every book she recommends (360!) and provided detailed information for 120 of the books, including why the book was chosen.
Soul School gives book ideas for children of all ages, books set in many time periods and places, with influences of Africa, America, the Caribbean, and the rest of the diaspora. Books written by Black authors that communicate culture – complex relationships, joy, laughter, growth, and trials.
This resource will be valuable for all people who interact with children.
#soulschoolbook
January 27, 2025
If you are a home educator, teacher, librarian, or simply someone who loves great books representing the richness of Black American culture, then Soul School by Amber O’Neal Johnston is a must-have in your library! Even though Amber’s carefully and thoughtfully vetted collection of 100+ books is for kids ages 2-17, her recommendations invite adults of all ages to read, learn, and explore alongside the younger generation. As a self-professed book hoarder, I look forward to purchasing and revisiting many of the Soul School books and adding them to our family library! I am so thankful for Amber and her work! What an essential voice she is in today’s world!
January 29, 2025
Reading ‘Soul School’ is like spending the day wandering around a newly discovered book store, warm beverage in hand, with a guide who knows all the hidden gems! The author has done all the heavy lifting supplying not only the booklists, but ways to effortless dig into each story through thoughtful questions and activities as well as by outlining cultural markers and threads that we can pull on that can lead us to connections between stories. Every teacher, librarian, homeschool mama and parent, do yourself a favor and get this book! And someone please alert my spouse because I want to buy every book listed 🤣
October 14, 2025
Amazing book! Such an important and beautiful resource for every parent to have. It has been so important for me to find books that represent my biracial kids and this gives me so many amazing books to search. I have requested books as I’ve read and they’ve all been a hit! I love how many historical fiction and biographies are included as well because my history lessons growing up were honestly lacking in so many ways. I love Amber’s heart and passion for kids in ALL families to have mirrors and windows. I highly recommend you not just read this book, but buy it so you can refer to it over and over.
January 24, 2025
What a delight and gift it is to have multi-talented Amber O’Neal Johnston curating stories (100+) for all families! “Soul School” centers the joy of the Black American experience in the United States through book recommendations. Some of the suggested books we have enjoyed are “Black is a Rainbow Color” by Amanda Joy, “Trombone Shorty” by Troy Andrews, “Bud Not Buddy” by Christopher Paul Curtis, and “Crossover” by Kwame Alexander. This collection is a celebration of books that will inspire and uplift readers of all ages.
January 28, 2025
Fantastic book. I highly recommend to anyone who wants to broaden their view of their world. The extensive book list is a blessing by itself. In addition to the list of 120 recommended books, Amber also includes notes on each book to help parents as they incorporate the books into their children's learning. I'm also really looking forward to introducing my children to the "second helpings" list of 240 additional books! Highly recommend adding this book to your libary!
January 28, 2025
We have needed this book and Amber's wisdom on having Blackness color every part of our childhoods. She provides book lists but the insight she gives about each and every book is pure generosity. I have already started gathering the books starting from the youngest age group and will move up without skipping any. I am in need of this education even more than my children do. This book has given us a road map to a culturally rich education that we eagerly dive into!
January 28, 2025
Soul School is a much needed and well-thought through book for anyone wanting to exposed their kids, no matter your own culture, to the roots of Black culture. Step into moments of reading with your kids, moments of deep discussion that will open of eyes of those who may not know much, moments that create confidence in those that see themselves in these books. As a homeschool mom, this book is a gem and has a permanent place on my bookshelf.
January 28, 2025
Soul School is an amazing resource for all educators! Whether you are a parent, teacher, or school administrator trust me when I say that you want this book! The booklists in here are so carefully and thoughtfully curated and the discussion questions and commentary are invaluable. I truly wish I had this resource when I was a classroom teacher. But rest assured, this book will benefit my own children and generations after them!
February 4, 2025
A treasure of a book. I cannot imagine the amount of hard work that went into this, but feel so grateful to have such a feast of books that encourage delight and reflection.Amber writes clearly but with a real emotional pull that transcends this work from a compilation of book lists to a guide on the importance and beauty of black literature for all children. I will be dragging this book with me to the library.
April 19, 2025
3.5 stars. I always appreciate Johnston’s perspective and this book was as thoughtful and thought-provoking as the rest of her writing. She makes a case for including African-American literature to some degree for all American students. And she offers detailed book lists (and conversation starters) that make it very simple to do. I’ll circle back to this especially when my kids are older since she’s a trusted source for when history gets complex.
May 12, 2025
This book is broken into two parts. The first part gives a brief synopsis of important topics, primarily historical, that all children but particularly African American children, should be learning about. The second part gives a hearty set of book recommendations from preschool through high school that help support the instruction of said topics. It’s an exceptionally valuable resource centering Black resilience and joy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews