Books About Martin Luther King Jr. Especially For Kids
It’s the time of year again where we are celebrating an amazing figure in history. Today I am discussing books about Martin Luther King Jr. that are made especially for kids. There are some that are great for toddlers and school-aged children too.
As many of you know, I am a bookseller for at my local bookstore. Children’s books have always been a passion of mine, right behind my love for travel. Let’s get started with today’s book recommendations.
Uncover a treasure trove of kid-friendly books that illuminate the extraordinary journey of Martin Luther King Jr., perfect for fostering a love of learning and promoting equality.
Here are some of my favorite books about Martin Luther King Jr. to recommend to kids and their families!
Books About Martin Luther King Jr. Just For Kids
I Have A Dream: Photography By Kadir Nelson
Experience history with this picture book of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic speech, including an audio CD. This Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book will inspire young readers!
amazon.com
From Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s daughter, Dr. Bernice A. King: “My father’s dream continues to live on from generation to generation, and this beautiful and powerful illustrated edition of his world-changing “I Have a Dream” speech brings his inspiring message of freedom, equality, and peace to the youngest among us—those who will one day carry his dream forward for everyone.”
On August 28, 1963, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington, Martin Luther King gave one of the most powerful and memorable speeches in our nation’s history. His words, paired with Caldecott Honor winner Kadir Nelson’s magnificent paintings, make for a picture book certain to be treasured by children and adults alike. The themes of equality and freedom for all are not only relevant today, 50 years later, but also provide young readers with an important introduction to our nation’s past. Included with the book is an audio CD of the speech.
BUY THIS TITLE AT: Barnes & Noble
Who Was Martin Luther King Jr. by Who Was Series
The story of one of the most influential civil rights activist of our time.
Amazon.com
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was only 25 when he helped organize the Montgomery Bus Boycott and was soon organizing black people across the country in support of the right to vote, desegregation, and other basic civil rights. Maintaining nonviolent and peaceful tactics even when his life was threatened, King was also an advocate for the poor and spoke out against racial and economic injustice until his death—from an assassin’s bullet—in 1968. With clearly written text that explains this tumultuous time in history and 80 black-and-white illustrations, this Who Was? celebrates the vision and the legacy of a remarkable man.
BUY THIS TITLE AT: Barnes & Noble
I Am Martin Luther King Jr. by Brad Meltzer
As a child, Martin Luther King, Jr. was shocked by the terrible and unfair way African American people were treated. When he grew up, he decided to do something about it—peacefully, with powerful words. He helped gather people together for nonviolent protests and marches, and he always spoke up about loving other human beings and doing what’s right. He spoke about the dream of a kinder future, and bravely led the way toward racial equality in America.
Amazon.com
This friendly, fun biography series inspired the PBS Kids TV show Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. One great role model at a time, these books encourage kids to dream big. Included in each book are:
• A timeline of key events in the hero’s history
• Photos that bring the story more fully to life
• Comic-book-style illustrations that are irresistibly adorable
• Childhood moments that influenced the hero
• Facts that make great conversation-starters
• A virtue this person embodies: Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dreams of a better future propelled him into action.
BUY THIS TITLE AT: Barnes & Noble
My Little Golden Book About Martin Luther King Jr by Bonnie Bader
Learn all about Martin Luther King Jr. Day with this Little Golden Book biography all about the civil rights leader! The perfect introduction to nonfiction for preschoolers.
Amazon.com
This Little Golden Book captures the essence of Martin Luther King, Jr. for the littlest readers. They’ll learn how his childhood in segregated Atlanta—and in his father’s church—shaped the future civil rights leader. And they’ll gain a clear understanding of the way he became an eloquent, powerful voice for African Americans.
BUY THIS TITLE AT: Barnes & Noble
I Am Brave: A Little Book About Martin Luther King Jr. by Brad Meltzer
This friendly, fun biography series focuses on the traits that made our heroes great—the traits that kids can aspire to in order to live heroically themselves. In this new board book format, the very youngest readers can learn about one of America’s icons in the series’s signature lively, conversational way. The short text focuses on drawing inspiration from these iconic heroes, and includes an interactive element and factual tidbits that young kids will be able to connect with. This volume tells the story of Martin Luther King, Jr., the civil rights leader.
Amazon.com
BUY THIS TITLE AT: Barnes & Noble
Awesome Activities Related To Martin Luther King Jr.
Want to give something with the book? Why not print out some coloring pages or activities to get you started. Here is a couple that I recommend.
- 15 Martin Luther King Jr Activities and Unit Study
- Martin Luther King Jr Cursive Writing Practice Sheets
- Martin Luther King Jr Activities
- 8 Printout Activities For Martin Luther King Jr Day
There are so many more out there that you will find useful. While my kids are grown-up, someday I might have grandkids, so I like to keep up with what’s out there. Of course, being a bookseller is my #1 priority and I always like to give my customers lots of recommendations.
More Book Recommendations For You To Enjoy
Do you like reading book recommendations?? Here are some others you may find fun and educational.
Do you have favorite books about Martin Luther King Jr.? Leave a comment and let me know, I would love to hear them.
