Nearly all preschool storytimes incorporate music, from fingerplays to movement rhymes. Music is a sure-fire way to hold the squirmiest preschooler. Music can also be a great way to expose preschoolers to their first Black History Month. Listed below are some picture books by noted African-American authors and illustrators, and some song books which feature African-American characters. For a craft project, try making this trumpet.
Gershwin, George, Dubose Heyward, et. al. SUMMERTIME. In this picture book version of the song from “Porgy and Bess,” deep oil paintings by Mike Wimmer illustrate the lyrics.
Isadora, Rachel. BENS TRUMPET. Set in the 1920s, young Ben wishes for a real trumpet he can learn to play to replace his imaginary one.
Pinkney, Brian. MAX FOUND TWO STICKS. A boy finds two sticks, then learns to drum on common household objects like hat boxes.
Raschka, Chris. MYSTERIOUS THELONIUS. This unusual book is not for everyone, but many can appreciate how the pictures use colors to depict musical notes.
Seeger, Pete. ABIYOYO. How the magic of music unites a father and son, who defeat a giant. From a South African folktale.
Weiss, George. WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD. In this picture book version of the popular song, a puppet show is performed to the lyrics. It features a puppet of Louis Armstrong.