Young Black girls deserve to see themselves well-represented in the books that they read. Books can help create a solid foundation of self-love. Words of affirmation is perfect for promoting positivity for young Black girls. Developing self-love and self-esteem is all about knowing your worth. It is super valuable to have a solid foundation of self-knowing as a young girl, as it can follow into adulthood.
Oftentimes, confidence is related to feeling naturally beautiful. It is affirmed through everything from your natural hair to how you are being heard. For young Black girls, it is important to feel inherently worthy and safe to show up according to their wishes. It garners a sense of connectedness to roots, identity and community.
Here is a list of books that embody self-love and good practices for young Black girls.
“ABCs For Girls Like Me” by Melanie Goolsby
“ABCs For Girls Like Me” is an alphabet book highlighting the wins and accomplishments of contemporary Black women. From Ava DuVernay to Serena Williams, there are multiple Black women worth celebrating in this book. The book holds 26 inspirational stories for young girls seeking an example of excellence.
“Sulwe” by Lupita Nyong’o
“Sulwe” is a fictional picture book by actor Lupita Nyong’o. It details the story of a young girl who wishes that her darker skin would be lighter. The book focuses on colorism and the East African publication sees translations into Kiswahili and Dholuo.
“Americanah” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie pens a masterpiece that teens and young adults can appreciate about culture and self-appreciation. “Americanah” tells the story of a young Nigerian woman who moves to the United States. The major themes include beauty standards, natural hair and the nuances of life in the States as a Black woman.
“Clap When You Land” by Elizabeth Acevedo
Elizabeth Acevedo wrote a book for teens that shows the more complex aspects of colorism, cross-cultural beauty standards, and privileges. It also delves into definitions of self-confidence. “Clap When You Land” tells the story of two sisters separated by their father’s secret, who discover themselves in their teen years, while also learning about family love and community. In the midst of the tough challenges of grief, the sisters learn how to love themselves despite the odds. Acevedo writes the book entirely in verse, which is great for teens who are into poetry.
“I Am Enough” by Grace Byers
“I Am Enough” is a debut picture book by Grace Byers and a New York Bestseller. Byers writes the story to uplift young children in self-respect and respect for others. Byers was bullied throughout her childhood, which made this book more special for her.
“Homemade Love” by Bell Hooks
Acclaimed author Bell Hooks has extended her offerings of self-love and self-respect to the younger generations. “Homemade Love” tells the story of warm family love and how this mirrors personal life. When the protagonist, a young Black girl referred to as ‘girlpie’ makes mistakes, her family lovingly corrects her. This serves as a lesson in self-love and self-correction, promoting a foundation of healthy and positive self-talk.