Disclaimer: I was provided an advanced copy of this book from the author to facilitate this review. As always, all opinions are my own.
- The Facts: Bedtime Inspirational Stories: 50 Amazing Black People Who Changed the World, written by L. A. Amber, illustrated by T. Z. Nissen, published in the USA 2017 by CreateSpace Independent Publishing, 120 pages.
- Summary: Bedtime Inspirational Stories: 50 Amazing Black People Who Changed the World is a creative non-fiction book, bringing together the stories of 50 prominent black people with the intention of inspiring and delivering positive messages to children. This book is perfect for readers starting from the 3rd grade and up. With our children we have chosen to read this book together as part of our bedtime routine as the book title suggests. This book is truly inspirational for adults and children alike. The illustrations are beautiful and eye catching making it very easy to engage with the book. The use of personal quotes also gives voice and added context to each notable person.
- The Review: I was more excited than my children to receive this book because I have been looking for a book that pulls together prominent people in the African diaspora and Bedtime Inspirational Stories delivers in spades. As an African-American studies major in college, I pride myself on knowing and staying up on influential figures from within the African diaspora community and sharing that knowledge with my children. The beauty of this book is that while many of the people featured were new to my children there were a few that were new to me as well. This book is informative, sends a positive message to children of color, and instills a sense of pride in children who even in 2018 don’t always see prominent representations of themselves.