The ABCs of Black History: a Children’s Guide

By Robin Caldwell

Author: Craig A. Thompson, Esquire

(Beckham House)

We are descended from kings and queens; great people who contributed by invention and leadership to the building of nations. Yet, the average black child is unaware of this cultural heritage.

The ABCs of Black History: a Children's Guide (Beckham) does a fine job of informing and introducing children of the African Diaspora to things not often mentioned in conventional textbooks or in schools.

The ABCs of Black History is a beautifully illustrated ( Roger James ), quality book for young children and their parents. Written by Craig A. Thompson for his daughter, Delaney , ABCs does an excellent job of using integral parts of the learning process (the alphabet, rhymes, and color) to inspire reading as an activity of empowerment.

“Martin Luther King wanted us to be free; he dreamed that God's people lived in harmony…” (Excerpt from “ABCs”)

Martin Luther King had a dream, but did you know that the traffic light and the umbrella stand were invented by black men? Did you know that Reginald Lewis was the first black to own a billion dollar corporation (Beatrice)? If your answer is “no,” then chances are your children do not know.

The ABCs of Black History is filled with well-known and little known historical facts about people (past and present) who have made substantial contributions to our culture and society. And, ABCs was designed to build a child's self-esteem while supporting literacy.

Thompson wrote ABCs , in part, due to the dearth of children's literature that offer a composite of black history trivia and rhyming words. Delaney, however, was his primary motivation for penning ABCs : He simply wanted his daughter to be inspired by her heritage.

The ABCs of Black History not only fills a void but it also creates an opportunity for parents and children to interact in a fun, positive activity. And, it gives children a reason to dream BIG.

Delaney's dad is a busy community activist, TV and radio personality, and attorney in the law offices of Baltimore Orioles owner Peter Angelos . Still, he finds time to read to his little girl.

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