For far too long the contributions of black women to science, engineering, and technology fields have remained hidden. These women have faced both gender and racial discrimination and have had to fight even harder to pursue their passion for working in STEM fields. As a brand, we work to confront stereotypes and rethink perceptions about women in science. We have put together this list of children’s books about black inventors that spark curiosity, inspire kids, and celebrate the strong, and smart black women who have made important contributions to STEM fields throughout history. The list includes biographies and fiction-based books that are ideal for kids from 4-12 years.
1. Black stars: African American Women Scientists and Inventors
A comprehensive collection that features African American women of science and invention from the early years to modern times. One of the great children’s books about black inventors for older kids to read and explore. For ages 10-14 years.
2. Black Women in Science
Throughout history, black women have blazed trails across the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Black Women in Science brings something special to black history books for kids, celebrating incredible black women in STEM who have used their brains, bravery, and ambition to beat the odds. For ages 9-12 years.
3. 101 Black Women in science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
101 of the most extraordinary black women across all the sciences from the 1800s to today. A book that honors incredible and inspiring black women who pushed past the bounds of human knowledge and broke down the thought barriers of their and our time. For ages 9+.
4. Sage Carrington, Eighth Grade Science Sleuth
Best friends Sage Carrington and Isabel Flores are making the most of their summer break when they discover an antique treasure map near the Washington Monument. But when faced with difficult clues and a bully in the form of Edwin Hooser, the tween girls must use every bit of imagination, drive, and intellect to outsmart Edwin and decipher the map. For kids ages 8-12 years.
5. Mae Among the Stars
A beautiful picture book for sharing and marking special occasions such as graduation, inspired by the life of the first African American woman to travel in space, Mae Jemison. An Amazon Best Book of the Month! For kids ages 4-8 years.
6. Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race
In this beautifully illustrated picture book edition, we explore the story of four female African American mathematicians at NASA, known as “colored computers,” and how they overcame gender and racial barriers to succeed in a highly challenging STEM-based career. For kids ages 4-8 years.
7. Smart Sarah and the Magic of Science
Smart Sarah’s story is the first in a series of children’s books about black inventors that follow her, her siblings, and her parents as they show how STEM and STEAM are a part of our world. They impact us all, every day and that it is important to be aware of it, engage, explore, challenge, and even pursue very rewarding careers in a wide variety of industries. For kids ages 4-8 years
8. Olivia’s Doctor Adventures
Olivia’s Doctor Adventures” allows children to explore the world of medicine by learning about different types of doctors through the eyes of a child. Take a journey with Olivia as she dives in and learns about surgeons, pediatricians, cardiologists and so much more! For kids ages 4-8 years
9. Abby Invents Unbreakable Crayons
Tired of coloring with broken crayons, Abby invents the world’s first UNBREAKABLE CRAYONS. She even gets a patent to prove it! Through Abby’s failures and eventual success, she playfully introduces young readers to the scientific method. This book also contains a fun activity page, encouraging young readers to create their own unbreakable crayons. For kids ages 5-8.
10. Jada Jones: Sleepover Scientist
Jada is hosting her first sleepover, and she has lots of cool scientific activities planned: kitchen chemistry, creating invisible ink, and even making slime! But when her friends get tired of the lessons and just want to hang out, can Jada figure out the formula for fun and save the sleepover? For kids ages 6-8 yrs.
11. Bella dear The Engineer
Bella dear The Engineer tells a story about a five-girl-old girl with a powerful mind, an active imagination, and a relatable personality. Bella will captivate children and in return, children will love her and learn, through her, about engineering and useful technology terms on which their future in STEM careers can be built. For kids ages 6-8 yrs.
12. Cece Loves Science
Cece, a budding and inquisitive scientist, and her equally curious best friend, Isaac, conduct experiments to see whether Cece’s dog, Einstein, will eat his vegetables. For kids ages 4-8 years
13. Ada Twist, Scientist
Inspired by real-life makers Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie, this beloved #1 bestseller champions STEM, girl power, and women scientists in a rollicking celebration of curiosity, the power perseverance, and the importance of asking Why? For kids ages 4-8 years
There you have it. 13 books to celebrate black women in science and introduce young children to inspiring role models who embody strength, perseverance, and a passion to make our world a better place. Share this list with anyone looking to educate their kids on diversity in STEM. These books inspire more girls and kids of color to see themselves in STEM.
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