Where to Dig Deeper Into African American History

Students looking to enrich their knowledge of African Americans and their contributions are often disappointed by standard history textbooks. Although more textbooks are addressing the historical roles of ethnic groups, they cannot do so as thoroughly as single volumes devoted exclusively to the subject.

In honor of Black History Month, consider some titles that can make your child’s study more complete and interesting.

“Black Scientists of America,” by Richard X. Donovan, highlights African Americans in fields such as chemistry, cancer research and plasma physics. The section on black women in science is especially thorough and impressive.

A companion book, “Black Inventors of America,” by McKinley Burt Jr., is my favorite on this subject. Besides the usual life stories and pictures of inventors, it also includes clear copies of actual blueprints and patent-approval documents.

Both of these books are best suited for readers in upper elementary grades and junior high school.

“What They Never Told You in History Class” presents world history from an Afrocentric view. For teen-agers and adults, this book tells how Africans were the first mathematicians and describes numerous inventions and discoveries by blacks throughout history. The 300-page paperback is written by Indus Khamit-Kush.

A study of Martin Luther King Jr. is virtually required reading for anyone hoping to master African American history. There are many excellent biographies of King, but James H. Cone’s volume, “Martin and Malcolm and America: A Dream or a Nightmare?” takes a unique approach that has won great praise from historians. It compares the goals, backgrounds, methods and legacies of both men. It is suited for readers in high school.

“The Tuskegee Airmen: The Men Who Changed a Nation,” by Charles E. Francis, describes the exploits of a World War II squadron that earned honors in campaigns in Greece, Germany, Sicily and elsewhere.

For a general survey of black history, try “1999 Facts About Blacks: A Sourcebook of African American Accomplishment,” by Raymond M. Corbin. It presents black achievements in history, art, literature, sports and entertainment by asking trivia-type questions, with answers at the back of the book. The illustrations are few and poor in quality, but the text more than compensates. Students in upper elementary and high school grades will undoubtedly enjoy and learn from this book.

Finally, for readers in the early grades, “Africa Is Not a Country--It’s a Continent,” by Dr. Arthur Lewin, will be a sure hit. The book describes the geography, people and cultures of Africa through puzzles and games.

These books are available at Midnight Special in Santa Monica and Eso Won Books in Inglewood. If driving is not a concern, try the Black and Latino Multicultural Book Center in Pasadena.