Some days all you need is a happy story! It's important to read and learn about serious issues and tough topics. But when the world makes us feel down, books can also raise our spirits. What's a story that puts a smile on your face and makes you feel good and hopeful?
This Reading Challenge category is about Black joy, a movement that inspires and supports Black culture. Looking for more stories to celebrate and uplift Black voices? Ask a librarian or check out these booklists:
Black History Month 2023
Black Lives Matter
Coretta Scott King Book Awards 2023
100 Real-Life Tales of Black Girl Magic edited by Lilly Workneh
Get inspired by this amazing collection of mini biographies. Part of the Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls series.
Black Boy Joy edited by Kwame Mbalia
These 17 short stories, comics and poems from a wildly talented group of authors will make you laugh, clap and cheer.
The Electric Slide and Kai by Kelly J. Baptist and Darnell Johnson
Can Kai learn the steps in time to join his family on the dance floor at his aunt's wedding?
Granny's Kitchen by Sadé Smith and Ken Daley
Shelly-Ann's grandmother teaches her how to cook. Includes recipes you can try with your family! Make a delicious reading combo with Soul Food Sunday.
J. D. and the Great Barber Battle by J. Dillard and Akeem S. Roberts
When a bad haircut ruins his first day of Grade 3, J.D. decides to take matters into his own hands – with hilarious results!
Malaika's Costume by Nadia L. Hohn and Irene Luxbacher
Carnival is coming! What will Malaika wear? Find out in this first book of the Malaika series.
Ways to Make Sunshine by Renée Watson
Ryan tries her best to be optimistic, even though it's hard sometimes. Follow her sunny adventures with more books in the series!
Welcome to the Cypher by Khodi Dill and Awuradwoa Afful
A group of kids find their voices through the rhythm and poetry of rap. Read this one out loud!