Post-Election Uncertainty: 10 Picture Books by Black Authors That Promote Self-Love and Acceptance

On November 9, 2016, children in America woke up to learn that Donald Trump had been elected President of the United States. According to some, Trump ran one of the most divisive and hate-filled campaigns in history. It is a fact that he unapologetically mocked a disabled reporter, made disparaging remarks about Mexican and Muslim immigrants and members of the military, implied that Black people lived in hell, regularly insulted people on Twitter, and was accused of sexual misconduct by many women.

James Baldwin once said, “Children have never been very good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.” As the presidential campaign progressed, educators reported an increase of bullying in their classrooms which resulted in distress and fear for some children. After the election, about 200 “incidents of election-related harassment and intimidation [were reported] across the country.” The incidents involved adults and children. As stated in a previous post about bullying, “educators and parents use…literature to spark difficult conversations.” Now, all over the nation, adults are grappling with how to assuage the fears of their children and students during this uncertain time. The picture books listed below promote self-love and acceptance of those who are different. Not only do elementary educators find using picture books in the classroom vital, but some middle and high school educators also find many reasons to use picture books. Hopefully, these books can offer our children some sense of inner resolve to continue to see the goodness and beauty in themselves and others. Peace and Blessings to you all.