Celebrating Black History Month with StoryWalks©
Black History Month is a time to reflect, celebrate, and intentionally uplift Black voices. One meaningful way communities can do that—especially with kids—is through the stories we choose to share.
At Lark Signs, we believe StoryWalk© is about more than reading. It’s about bringing people together, encouraging movement, and creating shared moments around stories that matter. This Black History Month, we’re highlighting two StoryWalk© books written by Rian Jenkins, Shiela Keaise, and Yasini Carr, African American female authors whose work centers love, understanding, and belonging.
Why Book Choice Matters for Black History Month
StoryWalk© installations live in public spaces—parks, trails, libraries, and schools—where families naturally gather. Choosing books by Black authors during Black History Month helps ensure those shared spaces reflect a wider range of voices and experiences.
For StoryWalk© customers specifically looking for books by Black authors, these stories offer thoughtful, age-appropriate options that feel meaningful without being heavy-handed. They invite conversation, connection, and reflection—while still being accessible for young readers.
Featured StoryWalk® Books by Rian Jenkins
Heaven’s Jewel
By Rian Jenkins
https://www.larksigns.com/storywalk-book-shop/p/heavens-jewel
Heaven’s Jewel reads like a love letter—one that celebrates confidence, strength, and the power of being poured into. The story centers on a young Black girl whose confidence reflects the village that surrounds her and believes in her.
Through poetic language, the book reminds young readers—especially Black girls—that they are precious, worthy, and full of promise. It speaks to the importance of teaching our “young princesses” that they are the prize, instilling self-worth and inner strength that will carry them through life’s challenges.
Written by Rian Jenkins and illustrated by Naima Whitted, Heaven’s Jewel is a powerful, affirming story that feels especially meaningful when shared slowly, page by page, in a StoryWalk© setting.
This title works well for:
Family-focused StoryWalk© paths
Community spaces centered on connection and care
Black History Month displays that highlight love and legacy
A Blessing for the World
By Rian Jenkins
https://www.larksigns.com/storywalk-book-shop/p/a-blessing-for-the-world
A Blessing for the World asks a simple but powerful question: What would change if every child grew up knowing they are a blessing?
This poetic story invites readers to imagine a world where children are told early on that they matter—that they have purpose, destiny, and something meaningful to offer. When children grow up knowing they are needed, the story suggests, they move through the world with confidence, compassion, and intention.
With its gentle rhythm and hopeful message, A Blessing for the World is well-suited for StoryWalk© installations that encourage reflection, affirmation, and shared moments between children and caregivers.
This book is a great option for:
Libraries and parks planning Black History Month programming
Schools looking for inclusive, affirming stories
StoryWalk© installations meant to inspire gratitude and connection
Rian has written several books for all age groups! Check out more of Rian Jenkin’s books here!
Featured StoryWalk® Book by Yasini Carr
Nudgy Paws
By Yasini Carr
https://www.larksigns.com/storywalk-book-shop/p/nudgy-paws
Nudgy Paws is a heartwarming story inspired by both science and compassion. It follows a young boy named Cooper and his loyal dog, Nudge, who helps him move through daily routines, big feelings, and moments of uncertainty—always with a gentle, reassuring nudge.
At its core, the story celebrates friendship, patience, and the powerful bond between children and their dogs. It also offers a thoughtful, age-appropriate introduction to autism, reminding young readers that everyone faces challenges—and that with love and support, they’re never alone.
With its warmth and relatability, Nudgy Paws is a wonderful addition to StoryWalk® installations that aim to spark empathy, inclusion, and connection in outdoor reading spaces.
Featured StoryWalk® Book by Shiela M. Keaise
MeeMaw and DC Go Biking
By Shiela M. Keaise
https://www.readandwalk.com/storywalk-book-shop/p/meemaw-and-dc-go-biking
Meemaw and DC Go Biking is a joyful, intergenerational story about spending time together and enjoying the journey—even when the destination feels very important. As Meemaw and her grandson DC set off on a bike ride through the neighborhood, Meemaw makes sure the rules are followed and the moment is savored along the way.
DC is eager to reach the playground to see if anyone is playing soccer, while Meemaw enjoys stopping to chat and sing her cheerful song, “Let’s Go Biking Today.” The story gently explores patience, expectations, and the loving dynamic between grandparent and grandchild.
With its playful rhythm, built-in song, and focus on movement, Meemaw and DC Go Biking is a natural fit for a StoryWalk® installation—inviting kids and caregivers to slow down, laugh, and enjoy the walk together.
Together, these stories highlight the range of experiences and voices found in books by Black authors—from poetic affirmations and inclusive storytelling to playful, movement-filled adventures that celebrate family and community.
Supporting African American Authors Through StoryWalk©
For communities looking to honor Black History Month through literacy, choosing books by Black authors is an important place to start. Featuring stories by Black women—like Rian Jenkins, Yasini Carr, and Shiela M. Keaise—helps ensure young readers see a range of voices represented in the stories they encounter. They all come with activity prompts as well!
These books aren’t just for February. They’re stories that can be shared year-round, reminding us that inclusive storytelling belongs in every season.
Celebrate Black History Month with StoryWalk©
StoryWalk® brings stories into the open—and the stories we choose truly matter. This Black History Month, we’re proud to spotlight Nudgy Paws, MeeMaw and DC Go Biking Heaven’s Jewel and A Blessing for the World as thoughtful StoryWalk© book options for libraries, parks, and schools looking to celebrate Black voices through shared reading experiences.
You can explore these Ready to Use StoryWalk© Book sets and more in our StoryWalk© Book Shop!