Written by Ngozi Theodora Otiaba and illustrated by Francis Ude

Seven-year-old Afam travels from the U.S. to Nigeria and experiences the vibrant traditions of the New Yam Festival.

This book is great for African Diaspora kids who visit the continent during summer break and experience cultural immersion through family, community, celebration, and food. It features beautifully colorful illustrations and is a joy to read.

The book celebrates the richness of Igbo culture, fostering a deeper appreciation for cultural heritage. 

Featured Country: Nigeria

Recommended Children Ages: 5 - 9 years

Quick Description: Fun, festive, great bedtime story

Written by Page McBrier and illustrated by Lori Lohstoeter

Beatrice dreams of going to school, but her family can’t afford it—until the arrival of one special goat changes everything. This true story shows how a small gift can transform an entire family's future. It’s a heartwarming, hopeful tale that highlights the power of education and generosity.

The one word to describe this book is heartwarming. This story truly tugs on the heart strings.

Featured Country: Uganda

Recommended Children Ages: 6- 10 years 

Quick Description: Heartwarming, thought-provoking, social themes

Written by Erica Asante and illustrated by Chengetai Lerato Masalethulini

When Ama brings her beautiful Kente cloth to school for show and tell, she teaches her classmates—and herself—the rich history and symbolism woven into every thread. It’s a celebration of Ghanaian culture, pride, and self-expression. You’ll finish the book feeling like culture is something to wear boldly and share proudly.

The book emphasizes the importance of cultural pride and sharing one's heritage with others.  

Featured Country: Ghana

Recommended for Children Ages: 5 - 9 years (elementary)

Quick Description: Classroom sharing, cultural pride and family traditions

Written by Maxine Beneba Clarke and illustrated by Van Thanh Rudd

A group of kids living on the edge of a desert build a bike out of scrap materials and it’s the coolest bike ever. 

The story is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and pure joy in the face of hardship.

This book reminds me of just how much fun kids can have with imagination and also that the best things in life are the often the ones we make ourselves.

Featured Country: African Village

Recommended Children Ages: 4 - 8 years old

Quick Description: fun, imaginative, inventive

Written by Verna Aardema and illustrated by Beatriz Vidal

In this story we follow Ki-pat as he bravely brings rain to his dry land, saving his animals and people from drought. It’s a retelling of a traditional Nandi folktale that pulses with rhythm and hope. 

In 1983, James Earl Jones read Bringing the Rain to Kapiti Plain on episode 4 of Reading Rainbow. Reading it then and today still has the same effect on me. It's a true poetic masterpiece and is a timeless classic.

Featured Country: Kenya

Recommended Children Ages: 4 - 8 years old

Quick Description: Poetic storytelling, rhythmic and rural land traditions

Written by Sanyu Ntanda and illustrated by QBN Studios

Jama, a 9-year-old boy from an African village, sets off on a journey that tests his fears and helps him discover that courage was inside him all along. It’s an empowering story that gently guides children through the meaning of bravery. As we follow Jama through his quest, we learn that courage is not about being fearless, it's about facing fear. 

Featured Country: African Village

Recommended Children Ages: 4 - 9 years old

Quick Description: Fun, quick read and great bedtime story. Themes of adventure and courage.

Written by Chimamanda Ngozi Adiche writing as Nwa Grace -James and illustrated by Joelle Avelino

Little Chino cherishes her mama’s silky scarf, using it throughout her day as a comforting connection to her mother’s love and presence. 

It's a tender and beautifully illustrated story that captures the warmth of family routines and childhood imagination. 

Featured Country: African Household

Recommended Children Ages: 3 - 6 years old (toddlers & preschoolers)

Quick Description: Colorful, loving and family-oriented

Written by Katie Smith Milway and illustrated by Eugenie Fernandes

Kojo uses a small loan to buy one hen, which grows into a flock and eventually transforms his entire community. Based on a true story, this inspiring tale shows how microloans can spark real change. It’s a powerful lesson in economics, responsibility, and hope.

Incredibly inspiring and humbling.

Featured Country: Ghana

Recommended Children Ages: 7 - 10 years old

Quick Description: Educational, motivational with economic themes

Written by Jane Kurtz and illustrated by Katie Bradley

In this playful retelling of the “Gingerbread Man,” an injera bread escapes from the kitchen and causes a cheerful chase across an Ethiopian town. Along the way, readers are introduced to Ethiopian food, culture, and a touch of local humor. 

Featured Country: Ethiopia

Recommended Children Ages: 3 - 8 years old

Quick Description: Funny and playful

Written by Mary and Rich Chamberlin and illustrated by Julia Cairns

Mama Panya and her son Adika go to the market to prepare a modest pancake meal, but Adika keeps inviting more guests along the way. Despite limited money, Mama Panya’s hospitality blossoms into a joyful feast shared with the whole village. It’s a sweet reminder that generosity grows when shared.

Featured Country: Kenya

Recommended Children Ages: 4 - 8 years old

Quick Description: A story of kindness, community and food

Written by Jude Isabella and illustrated by Simone Shin

Leo’s beloved red bicycle travels across the world from Canada to Burkina Faso, where it finds new life helping a young girl and later a health worker. The story traces the bike’s journey, showing how giving can ripple into unexpected places. It’s a great introduction to global citizenship and reuse with heart. 

Featured Country: Burkina Faso

Recommended Children Ages: 8 - 12 years old

Quick Description: Thought-provoking with global themes, recycling and compassion