Creating the book lists for Soul School was one of the most intricate and rewarding journeys of my writing life. I didn’t just compile a collection of books; I crafted an intentional narrative, carefully threading together stories that celebrate the richness, resilience, and artistry of Black American culture. Every selection reflects months of reading, shuffling, reflecting, and refining—a labor of love that unfolded like assembling a jigsaw puzzle, with books scattered across my dining room table until they formed a satisfying and harmonious picture.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how the book lists came to life.

The Selection Criteria

The books featured in Soul School were chosen to tell a story unlike what is typically found elsewhere, guided by these criteria:

• Superior Literary Quality: Each book showcases outstanding poetry or prose, ensuring the writing is as powerful as the stories it tells.
• Respectful and Honest Cultural Representation: I sought books that portray Black American culture with beauty, depth, and integrity.
• Visual Diversity: The illustrations feature various art styles, mediums, and visual storytelling techniques.
• Age-Appropriate Content: I considered children’s listening and reading levels across developmental stages, ensuring the selections are suitable for various ages and maturity levels.
• Availability: While some incredible books are tragically out of print, I focused on including titles that families and educators can access.
• Diverse Genres and Voices: The list includes an eclectic mix of genres, styles, and writing voices, offering a breadth of storytelling experiences.
• A Mix of Established and Emerging Creators: I paired the voices of seasoned authors and illustrators with those of fresh, innovative creators.
• Balancing the Familiar with the Overlooked: The collection combines well-known, award-winning titles with lesser-known gems, expanding children’s exposure beyond bestseller lists.

Two requirements guided the entire curation process:

1. Verification that the author (or, in a few cases, the co-author) of every book is Black
2. Assurance that as many as possible of the artists and illustrators are Black

Why Black Authors and Illustrators?

Throughout my work, I highlight stories featuring Black characters written by authors of all ethnicities. I deeply appreciate and celebrate books by creators outside of the culture who write thoughtfully and with care. However, Soul School is different.

This project was about creating an authentic, unfiltered celebration of Black American culture. To represent the soul of my people, I needed to honor the voices and artistry of Black creators. Black authors and illustrators often face greater challenges in gaining recognition, fair compensation, and marketing support within the publishing world. Choosing to feature their work exclusively was my way of giving deference to their lived experiences, talents, and contributions.

I wanted Soul School to be both a resource and a tribute—a tangible spotlight on the brilliance of Black creators. This book is my standing ovation for their efforts and a way of ensuring their voices are amplified and honored. Here’s what some of today’s most beloved Black authors have to say about Soul School:

The Challenges of the Curation Process

Curating the list wasn’t easy. Many books featuring Black characters are not written by Black authors, a reality I discussed in A Place to Belong. Knowing this and experiencing it firsthand while curating Soul School were entirely different challenges.

Finding stories created by Black authors often felt like navigating a maze, bumping into dead ends at every turn. Verifying the authors’ ethnicities added another layer of complexity. I relied on visual recognition, bios, interviews, and other sources to confirm whether authors self-identified as Black. In cases where the author’s identity wasn’t immediately apparent, deeper research often revealed their connection to the culture.

If there are any errors in my research, they are unintentional and should be charged to my head, not my heart. My dedication to this work was fierce, and I pushed through every obstacle for my children, your children, and every child who will experience and be uplifted by these stories.

What This Means for Readers

The result is a book list that tells a nuanced and heartfelt story of Black American culture, crafted with integrity and care. These books are not just for children—they’re for families, educators, and anyone who longs to experience the layered beauty of Black history, art, and identity.

Through this collection, I hope to inspire conversations, spark curiosity, and deepen the understanding of what it means to be part of a culture forged by fire yet overflowing with resilience and joy. I want children to see themselves in these stories, to recognize their worth and beauty, and to grow their appreciation for others.

My Gratitude to Black Creators

Black authors and illustrators are heroes. Their work brings light, joy, and understanding to a world that often undervalues their contributions. Soul School is my love letter to them, my way of saying, “I see you, I celebrate you, and I thank you.”

This curated collection is more than a list; it’s an invitation to dive into the soul of Black American culture and experience the vibrancy, struggle, and triumph that define it. I hope it will be a resource and a joy for years to come.

Order Soul School today to bring all this and more to your home!