Celebrate Black Boy Joy

The phrase "Black Boy Joy" emerged a few years ago as a way to challenge the way we view black masculinity in society. Rather than simply seeing black males as angry or tough, Black Boy Joy allows us to see them through a wide variety of lenses. These picture books cover many topics, but all feature phenomenal black boys!

For picture books with black girls, check out our Black Girl Magic booklist. 

Jabari jumps by illustrator Gaia Cornwall
Also available in: e-video
Hey black child by Useni Eugene Perkins
How to read a book by Kwame Alexander
The King of Kindergarten by Derrick D Barnes
Last stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña
Also available in: e-video
Going down home with daddy by Kelly Starling Lyons
Also available in: e-video
Trombone Shorty by Troy Andrews
Also available in: e-book
Windows by Julia Denos
The word collector by illustrator 1961- Peter H. (Peter Hamilton) Reynolds
The double bass blues by Andrea J. Loney
Whistle for Willie by Ezra Jack Keats
Also available in: e-audiobook
Yesterday I had the blues by Jeron Ashford Frame
Nighttime symphony by 1972- Timbaland
I am perfectly designed by Karamo Brown
Julián is a mermaid by illustrator Jessica Love
Leo can swim by Anna McQuinn
Puppy truck by illustrator J. Brian Pinkney
Looking for Bongo by illustrator Eric Velasquez