KS2: Teaching Black History

Delve into these brilliant books in and discover more about amazing Black people who made history, their incredible achievements and how they changed the world. You can use the Little Leaders Visionary Women Around the World , Writing Extraordinary Biographies and Amazing Muslims Who Changed the World resource packs based on these books, to bring learning to life in the classroom or at home.

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison

Meet the little leaders. They're brave. They're bold. They changed the world. 

Among these biographies, readers will find heroes, role models and everyday women who did extraordinary things. Featuring 40 trailblazing black women in the world's history, this book educates and inspires as it relates true stories of women who broke boundaries and exceeded all expectations.

Debut author/illustrator Vashti Harrison pairs captivating text with stunning illustrations as she tells the stories of both iconic and lesser-known female figures of black history - from nurse Mary Seacole, to politician Diane Abbott, mathematician Katherine Johnson, and singer Shirley Bassey.

Little Leaders: Exceptional Men in Black History by Vashti Harrison

All throughout history, Black men have stood up and fought for justice and what they believe in. This book tells the stories of 40 Black men, from campaigners, athletes, fashion journalists and musicians who realised their dreams and made the world a better place. Read about the amazing lives of Prince, Paul Stephenson and Kofi Annan with your own future little leader and learn about these great men together.

Little Leaders: Visionary Women Around the World by Vashti Harrison

Did you know that WIFI was invented by a glamorous Hollywood star? Or that the first computer programmer was a woman born in 1816? In the follow up to her beloved debut Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History, Vashti Harrison introduces little readers to even more trailblazing women, from writers to inventors, artists to scientists. These amazing little leaders have changed the world, all because they were talented, clever, and above all, determined. Discover inspirational heroines like Zaha Hadid, Frida Kahlo and Chien-Shiung Wu. With beautiful illustrations and incredible stories, this is the perfect book for every future leader.

The Extraordinary Life of Mary Seacole by Naida Redgrave

Mary Seacole is now known for her medical work in the Crimean war, and as a brilliant woman who combated the racial prejudice she experienced in her lifetime. But for a long time her story was lost. From growing up in Kingston, Jamaica as the daughter of a doctress to helping soldiers in the war, discover the details of the amazing life that Mary Seacole led in this beautifully illustrated biography filled with real-life stories, timelines and facts.

The Extraordinary Life of Michelle Obama

She is a role model and feminist icon. Born and raised in Chicago, she studied and worked hard to become a lawyer, and then took to the international stage as First Lady. This beautifully illustrated biography tells the extraordinary story of Michelle Obama's life, perfect for young readers everywhere.

The Extraordinary Life of Rosa Parks by Sheila Kanani

Rosa Parks, the woman known for refusing to give up her seat on the bus, triggered a great shift in the fight for civil rights. Raised in Alabama, Rosa Parks knew all about the racism of her society from an early age. Discover how she became the brilliant activist we know today, in this beautifully illustrated biography which includes timelines  and facts to bring her extraordinary story to life

The Extraordinary Life of Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela is known for dedicating his life to fighting for equality in South Africa and overthrowing racial segregation. He grew up hearing the elders' stories of his ancestors' fighting in the wars of resistance, and he dreamed of fighting for the freedom of his people. His childhood wish was granted when he became the first black president of South Africa, and an icon for hope, change and equality.

The Extraordinary Life of Serena Williams by Shelina Janmohamed

Serena Williams began playing tennis when she was just a child, and is now an Olympic champion who's won more Grand Slam singles titles than anyone else. Throughout her life she's battled many things, from life-threatening illnesses and sports injuries to sexism and racism in the tennis world. Now she's an icon in sport, fashion and activism, an inspiration to every young person who has dared to dream big.

The Extraordinary Life of Katherine Johnson

In 1969 history was made when the first humans stepped on the moon. Back on earth, one woman was running the numbers that ensured they got there and back in one piece.

As a child, Katherine Johnson loved maths. She went on to be one of the most important people in the history of space travel. Discover her incredible life story in this beautifully illustrated book complete with narrative biography, timelines and facts.

Amazing Muslims Who Changed the World by Burhana Islam (Author) Nabi H. Ali (Illustrator) Reya Ahmed (Illustrator) Saffa Khan (Illustrator) Aaliya Jaleel (Illustrator) Deema Alawa (Illustrator) Aghnia Mardiyah (Illustrator)

Do you think you know who first thought of the theory of evolution? Have you ever wondered who created the oldest university in the world? Is Joan of Arc is the only rebel girl who led an army that you've heard of? If so, then you need this stunningly illustrated treasure trove of iconic and hidden amazing Muslim heroes!  There are so many amazing Muslim men and women who have changed our world, from pirate queens to athletes, to warriors and mathematicians. Who will your next hero be?