The ABCs of Black History

by Rio Cortez, Lauren Semmer (Illustrator)

An alphabet book that presents key names, moments, and places in Black history with simple text lyrically written by poet Rio Cortez. This is an opportunity for children to learn their ABCs to the sound of words beyond apple, boy, and cat, and an opportunity for young thinkers to prepare for big ideas.
 

Genres: Picture Books, History, Nonfiction, Childrens, Poetry, Social Justice, Race

64 pages, Hardcover

First published December 8, 2020

About the author

Rio Cortez is the New York Times bestselling author of picture books The ABCs of Black History (Workman, 2020) and The River Is My Sea (S&S, 2024). Her debut poetry collection, Golden Ax, is forthcoming from Penguin Poets this August, 2022.

Reviews

[Raymond · Rating 4 out of 5]

I heard about this book on Kirkus Reviews podcast, Fully Booked. Its powerful and the illustrations are really good.

[Reading_ Tamishly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wholesome, amazing book on the history of the Black community all around the world!

This one is educational in a really fun manner with all that loud, vibrant illustrations and that powerful yet charming writing. All the way to go!

I got to learn about the various culture and important historical insights in this amazing picture book.

Let alone the kids, it is highly educational for whoever will read this.

A perfect picture book for reading groups and fun activity.

Thank you #NetGalley for the ARC.

[Mariah Roze · Rating 5 out of 5]

"An alphabet book that presents key names, moments, and places in Black history with simple text lyrically written by poet Rio Cortez. This is an opportunity for children to learn their ABCs to the sound of words beyond apple, boy, and cat, and an opportunity for young thinkers to prepare for big ideas."

[Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a stunning book in regards to both illustrations and content. I learned quite a bit from it as an adult and it can be used by homeschoolers to start many different lessons. Highly recommended!

This unbiased review is based on a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.

[Alejo Alvarez || babblewithale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gotta love history books, especially for young readers ✨️

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

The ABCs of Black History is a beautifully written and illustrated rhyming nonfiction book, perfect for all ages. From read alouds to individual reading and research, this book will educate and inspire students to learn even more about black history. It also includes a highly informative glossary that will continue to support student (and educator!) learning. Make sure you purchase this book for your school library!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

African American History Month - book number 2.

The ABC’s of Black History is not your typical ABC book. It is presented in lyrical rhyme, with thoughtful text that supports each letter. It is packed full of information about black history, black contributors to arts, science, justice, and more, black culture, ideals, and hopes. The book has big ideas for children that may need to be further discussed. It is an excellent conversation starter.

There is an appendix at the back of the book with additional information for each section. It is great for adults and interested children.

Part of the text for the letter “M”:

“Black lives MATTER. Every breath, every dream - Every thought, each idea, each impossible scheme.
The MIGHT of our MESSAGE is easy to hear:
The drumbeat of hope is louder than fear.”

(I added the capitals because there is no BOLD application on my phone.)

[Oyinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Workman Publishing Company for granting me free and early access to this book via Netgalley in exchange for my impartial review.

The author and illustrator both did such a great job here. I loved every part of this book, and it will make a great addition to every black kid's library. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and getting lost in the pages.

The entries: As explained in the blurb, this book goes beyond "A for Apple". This book serves to teach young black kids about their heritage, their power, and about role models. Entries featured important messages, events and defining moments in black history, notable black figures from all walks of life, and other important aspects of being black.

The illustrations: Lauren Semmer, the illustrator, did a wonderful job with creating such powerful images that conveyed the message of each entry. Each illustration was vibrant, colorful, and very informative.

The formatting: The formatting of this book will make it all the more easier for kids to read and assimilate.

I really enjoyed this book and will be posting a review on my blog and Instagram towards the release date.

https://instagram.com/oyindalovesbook...

https://oyindamolaadeoti.wordpress.co...

[Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance · Rating 5 out of 5]

A picture book is generally a taste; this picture book is a gourmet meal.

Rio Cortez writes a poem sharing the sadnesses as well as the celebrations of black history for each letter of the alphabet. I was amazed at how much Cortez packed into a picture book. She covers the a wide range of people and places and events and movements and ideals. The pictures are delightful, too.

[Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

See my full review here: https://www.yabookscentral.com/kidsno...

THE ABCS OF BLACK HISTORY is a fantastic picture book of a poetic walk through the alphabet related to Black history. The book is written with a beautiful poem that flows easily off the tongue on each page. Words that relate to the letter are bolded, and each letter gets several related words. There are also some basic details about each. For instance, "S is for scientists who charted the stars,/ studied the bees, took care of our hearts./ For Benjamin Banneker, Patricia Bath,/ for Katherine Johnson's beautiful math." S is also for soul on the other side of the page, with additional details there, giving so much information in such a beautifully lyrical way.

What I loved: This book covers so many topics, important people, and more, giving a great launching point to discussions about Black history. This would be perfect for classrooms (and, of course, at home) beginning to teach Black history, as there is so much information given throughout that could launch important discussions and further research. For instance, with S, children could look up these scientists to see what they did and find more Black scientists who have changed our lives. This alphabet book could spark even more learning and projects.

The writing is really beautiful with a great rhythm, and it rolls off the tongue perfectly. The illustrations are full page and really fantastic with lots of color and details that make them a delight to look through. The breadth of information contained in this alphabet book is really remarkable, and I would definitely recommend this book for beginning to explore Black history at home or at school.

Final verdict: With beautiful illustrations and a lyrical poem, THE ABCS OF BLACK HISTORY is a fantastic introduction to an important topic. Highly recommend picking this one up.

Please note that I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

The ABCs of Black History is a fantastic book for children to educate them not only on the alphabet (from a young age), but to also educate, inspire and evoke respect and recognition to the struggles that have occurred across history for people of colour, and even today.
This book shows the good and the bad times/events between its pages and mentions some of the influential people who fought for and helped make a change across history.

I loved the glossary at the back of the book which gives further information for each letter of the alphabet and helps to provoke further thinking too.

This is a book all schools and children should have the pleasure to read and access to read too to broaden their thinking and educate them on history and the world they are growing up in.

[QNPoohBear · Rating 4 out of 5]

Published in 2020 this book is very timely and political. Aimed at young school age Black children it teaches them to be proud of who they are, the struggles they have overcome and to keep fighting the good fight. Each letter has one two representations: people, movements, events. The simple rhyming text manages to cram a lot of interesting history on each page. While small children will have no idea who or what some of the letters represent, after the alphabet concluded, there are more pages with all the facts. It is a very interesting and informative book but not for everyone. The illustrations were too cartoons and abstract for me. Gabby Douglas looks like Simone Biles. I enjoyed learning about it Kwanzaa and the people I had not heard of before.

[Juli Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful grand tour, with substantial end notes.

[Justine Dymond · Rating 5 out of 5]

The art is glorious and the text joyous and uplifting. I bought this as a gift but now I want my own copy!

[Lovee Lonii · Rating 5 out of 5]

*listened with Hendrix*

[Alex Baugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Black History Month 2021 is coming to an end and I thought I would look at a book that has become one of my favorites and one I have used often with my young readers in the last two months. It is a bold and beautiful book that introduces kids to Black culture, heritage, and history. It is set up like a typical ABC book, but each letter of the alphabet is used to frame and celebrate important dates, events, people, and community structures like the church that are so much a part of the Black experience, with most letters used more than once, but no letter needing to be left out or glossed over. Told in rhyming stanzas, it is a look back at the past and what has been accomplished, a look at the present and what is being done, and a look forward to the future and what more can and needs to be done in the fight for freedom and equality, beginning with A is for anthem.

This is also a book that is meant to empower young readers with pride in who they are (B is for Beautiful - I'm talking to you!/ Your voice, your height, your hair, your hue.); what they can do (R is for rise, to reach for the top,/ relentlessly striving, refusing to stop.); and where they come from (D is for diaspora - pulled from our homes,/ we were carried away in ships on the foam/ to Haiti, Cuba, America, Brazil.) Included in this journey are important and influential roles models, such as scientists like Katherine Johnson, inventors, politicians like Shirley Chisholm and President Barack Obama, artists, musicians and writers among those celebrated are Toni Morrison. James Brown and, of course, James Brown, as well as places like Harlem where some were able to explore and hone their talent.

Everything included in this work is a unique part of Black history, and yet, the information never overwhelms readers with facts and dates, rather it serves as an invitation to find out more. The illustrations are bright, bold and beautiful, just like the message, digitally done in cut paper collage. There is extensive front and back matter with resources for anyone wanted to explore more, as well as list of Terms and Figures used in throughout the book. So, for example, if your reader doesn't know who Langston is, they can find more detailed information about him there. This is a book that is a wonderful celebration which not only empowers its readers, but it also serves as a call to action for them to add their voice.

I read this with my young readers several times, and while none are African American, they are nevertheless children of color who could relate to so much of what is included in this book. And I think that part of the beauty of it is that it will appeal to all children of color and open their eyes to some of the same ideas about themselves and who they are.

The ABC's of Black History is a beautifully thought out, well crafted book that every parent, teacher and child should own, read, discuss and use all year round.

This book is recommended for everyone who cares.
This book was gratefully received from the publisher.

[alisonwonderland (Alison) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been struck recently, as I’ve been learning more about US history, with an awareness of how much I still need to learn.

This picture book is in excellent primer on Black history, with bright illustrations and rhyming text to support each letter of the alphabet, making it great for young children. The appendix provides more details about each section, making the book relevant for older readers, including adults with lots to learn. I love how the basic text hints at more, fueling a curiosity for additional learning.

My favorite passage, part of the section for the letter M, goes like this:

Black lives matter. Every breath, every dream -
Every thought, each idea, each impossible scheme.
The might of our message is easy to hear:
The drumbeat of hope is louder than fear.

[joyce w. laudon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Put this title on a Christmas list for a young child in your life.  The messages for each letter are inspiring and the illustrations are gorgeously detailed, vibrant and expressive.  With its rhyming text and thoughtful choices for each letter, this book is a winner.  It also includes a helpful  section on terms and figures at the end of the book. This book should have a place in school libraries and homes.


Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest  review.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you yo NetGalley and the publisher for an electronic copy to read and review.

I cannot say enough amazing things about this book. Black history is told explored through the alphabet. The illustrations are perfect and the text provides the reader with so much information. I especially appreciate the links and suggestions for further reading. I will be getting copies of this for my classroom, my children, and my friends. It is an excellent book to any library.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book provides a solution to a much needed hole in children's literature!!! Not just an ABC book, it gives historical and modern context that is appropriate for elementary aged kids as they learn about Black History. Most importantly it weaves a larger picture of events and people through time. It also emphasizes universal qualities of all people enabling readers to build connections to history itself. Absolutely purchase this for home and school!

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this in a virtual Story-time with the children.

I also did a read ahead and adored this book! It’s a deep dive into Black history and even mentioned a few names that were new to me!

[Julie Senn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A-B-C, it's easy as: 1 2 3. As simple as: do re mi, A-B-C, you ready for Black History?!

Using the rhyming patterns of AA-BB as well as rhyming couplets, the ABCs of Black History by Rio Cortez is a beautifully illustrated picture book that introduces the alphabet to young readers integrating Black History keywords in the form of figures, events, and concepts. In addition to being informative and educational, it clarifies context that might not be apparent to everyone. For example: “J is for Juneteenth! We’re finally free! (Or so we hoped in this moment of glee.)” Due to white-privilege, we often do not see the sides of social bias, racism, prejudice, discrimination, etc. or what it’s like to walk in a POC’s shoes. Understanding the context of “Or so we hoped in this moment of glee” is essential as it highlights that, despite efforts to spark freedom, the journey is far from over. Additionally, this book also opens up the dialogue for further discussion and research about Black history and its relevance in modern day; Kwanzaa being an example listed in the book. Some topics such as that are briefly glazed over and don’t provide much detail, sparking curiosity and motivating children to dig deeper. This book is a great way for young people to begin learning about the depth and beauty of Black culture and its rich heritage/history.

The major themes in the book include: Black pride, cultural identity, achievements/accomplishments, legacy, resistance/resilience, empowerment, and educational.
This story would be considered an informational text for its genre.
Children reading this book can learn so much, including but not limited to: cultural appreciation, black history, rhyming and its associated rhythm, vocabulary – and in another language no less (ex: umoja, kujichagulia, ujamaa, nia, kuumba, and imani = Swahili words related to Kwanzaa), inquisitiveness, etc.
This book was a WOW book for me because it packs such a dynamic punch in such a small book. Designed for children (introducing/learned the alphabet), yet there’s a great amount of content to be obtained for any age. The illustrations are lively, bold, vivid, and detailed. I believe – and this is just my opinion/perception – that there’s such bright colors surrounding the black characters because it makes them pop more, which I love. A child at heart, I’m also a “sucker” for rhyming so that definitely elevates the overall experience for me, too. Lastly, I love being educated by children’s books because again, they’re meant for children, but here I am – a grown adult – learning from it. I love that our youth has the opportunity to learn and discover such enriching material. Sadly, such books did not exist in my yonder years and if they did, I was none-the-wiser; they were not spoken about nor displayed in any capacity near my surroundings.


A literary device used in this book is rhyming, in both couplet form and extended rhyming pattern (AA-BB). An example from the book: “B is for beautiful, I’m talking to you, your voice, your height, your hair, your hue.” Another one would be onomatopoeia when they use the word “drum-drum” to explain the sound of the drums the drummers beat.
I would consider this book to be an anti-bias book because it is inclusive, discusses justice and equality, promotes and celebrates Black pride, doesn’t shy away from the injustices Blacks have faced and been challenged with, diverse (while yes, it is about the Black community, it discusses various cultures and professions throughout), and embraces the significance of what the community provides and has to offer.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

History is not the past. It is the present. We carry our history with us. We are our history. – James Baldwin

“Letter by letter, The ABCs of Black History celebrates a story that spans continents and centuries, triumph and heartbreak, creativity and joy…it’s a story of hope and love.” (blurb on dust jacket flap)

The perfect book for Juneteenth and any day! Not just for children, the brevity of the book will provide an insightful introduction to Black history and pieces of American history that were traditionally brushed aside or eliminated from texts. Lauren Semmer’s lush, colorful illustrations add power and zing to Rio Cortez’s poetic words, both highlighting events and people connected with Black history. I was mesmerized by the double-page spread for “U is for United States” as the flag illustrated was one I had not seen before. The nine-pages of back matter provided context for the red & black striped flag with black stars on a green background: “It’s inspired by the work of artist David Hammons (1943-), who in 1990 created a pieced called African-American Flag. The colors have been used to represent African-American culture since Marcus Garvey used them in the Black Liberation flag: Red stands for the blood shed in the fight for freedom, Black stands for Black people, and green stands for growth.”

It appalls me that this beautiful picture book is on the M4L list of books to be challenged. I cannot see a child being made “uncomfortable” by the book or its contents: it is history, the history was not pretty, the history is important. We learn from the past in the hope we do not repeat it. Reading grows empathy and this treasure will be a springboard for further learning as readers want to know more and more about the topics and famous names mentioned on its pages.

The author and publishers provide starting points for that further learning by including suggested books, websites, museums, and poetry as well as the afore mentioned nine pages of The ABCs of Black History: Terms and Figures. Again, this is THE book to reach for to understand points of Black History, celebrate Juneteenth, and grow your compassion.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book that needs to be in all school and public libraries. Do not be fooled into thinking this is a book for toddlers, that is not the case. This is an amazing book on the history of the Black community all around the world. It is written in a fun and simple way with a lyrical rhythm, but the subject and information shared is important and powerful. The illustrations are amazing. They are large, vibrant and emotional. I learned a lot about Black History from this book and I was alive during much of this time. There are strong and important people showcased as well as historical events. I spent a lot of time searching the WWW, and listening to youtube after reading this book. It is one that should be read to students studying history, and especially during February, Black History Month. The back pages include information about the people and events that encourage further study. One I definitely recommend to readers of all ages.

[LaVonne Hanlon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gr. PreK-3. This beautiful picture book, filled with nuggets of knowledge about African American life, is a must-have for every library. Engaging rhymes by Rio Cortez form the text, while bold, bright paintings by Lauren Semmer adorn each two-page spread, reminiscent of Gee's Bend quilts and Faith Ringgold's ground-breaking artwork. The soaring images are a wonderful match for a multitude of stories, told A to Z, and complemented by a more comprehensive set of terms and figures at the end of the book. As Cortez says, "Black history is a story of heartbreak and triumph. Of incredible creativity, joy, and light..." Her work is a wonderful chronicle of that history, which needs to be shared with everyone. A goldmine of related resources is included in the front piece of the book as well as on Reading Rainbow's "Celebrating and Learning About Black History and Culture" at https://www.readingrockets.org/calend... – but share these lessons every day, not just during Black History Month.

[Addison Rike]

This book provides an alphabetical journey through key moments, figures, and events in Black history, from A to Z. Each letter is associated with a significant aspect of Black history, accompanied by a short description and vibrant illustrations. Some themes in this book are education, diversity, and legacy. The main genre was informational non-fiction. Through reading this book kids can learn about their own or others culture and the importance of historical figures. This was a WOW book for me because it shows so much culture and inclusivity while educating.

Some literary devices used by the author include the use of vivid imagery to describe historical figures, events, and concepts, helping readers visualize and connect with the material. For example, "M is for March on Washington, where a quarter million people heard Dr. King's call." I would consider this book to be anti-bias because the author points out not only black historical figures but also the impact they had, showing the author's pride and acceptance of people of color.

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC through NetGalley from Workman Publishing Company. This picture book has memorable illustrations and inviting prose. The words and poetry chosen to represent each letter are dynamic and the historical figures noted invite so much room for dialogue with children. This is a really nice conversation piece for caregivers and children. This book says so much with C for Community and P for Power, U for Unbroken and V for Vote and much more. Many ages can benefit from what is much more than a simple alphabet book.

[Natalie Park · Rating 5 out of 5]

This children’s book came to my attention due to an article about book bans in Florida. It highlights a certain issue or group of notable people from black history letter by letter starting with a perfect James Baldwin quote—“History is not the past. It is the present. We carry our history with us. We are our history.”—then we’re off with A is for Anthem. Each letter’s section is written in verse and briefly touches on a subject. At the end of the book, it goes into more specifics per each letter’s subject providing dates, biographical info, and explanations. This is a wonderful book that obviously shouldn’t be banned.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this! It's super informative. At first, some of the words seemed random, but when you get to the Terms & Figures section in the back, it explains the context. I loved the illustrations. The book is packed with information, but it's not dense -- like, if I were a teacher, I could discuss a single letter (and expand on a couple) every day of the month.

Highly, highly recommend to anyone, any age.

Real rating: 4.5 rounded up

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Teachers will use this book often to teach Black History, Famous Black People in history, and special words associated with history. Upper elementary students will be able to read on their own. The back of the book includes excellent details regarding vocabulary and people discussed for each letter.