At Barbershop Books, we know the impact a great story can have on a child’s life. That’s why we’re excited to share the next installment in our series, “10 Books That Inspire Black Boys to Read.” This monthly series highlights diverse, engaging stories that reflect the interests and experiences of Black boys, helping them see themselves as readers.
Reading isn’t just about improving literacy skills—it’s about sparking imagination, building confidence, and creating connections. Each book in this list has been carefully chosen based on direct input from boys about their reading interests, ensuring they inspire curiosity, joy, and a lifelong love of learning.

Ice Cream Face
Heidi Woodard Sheffield
Waiting for ice cream can be hard, but nothing beats the sweet moment when it’s finally your turn!
Ages: 4 – 8

Ty’s Travels: All Aboard
Kelly Starling Lyons
Meet Ty! When his family is too busy to play, Ty turns on his imagination and clickety-clacks away!
Ages 4 – 8

Dragons Love Tacos
Adam Rubin
If you want to make friends with dragons, feed them tacos, but NOT WITH SPICY SALSA!
Ages 4 – 8

Kicks
Van G. Garrett
Go grab your favorite kicks and read this story about sneakers and how they make us feel like we can fly!
Ages 4 – 8

The Bad Guys
Aaron Blabey
What happens when bad guys want to be good? Find out in this laugh-out-loud first book in a kid favorite series.
Ages 6 – 9

Maxwell Clay
Alex loves video games but when he and his mom get stuck inside of one, will he know how to play?
Ages 6 – 9

My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish
Mo O’Hara
Tom’s big brother turned Frankie the goldfish into a BIG FAT ZOMBIE, and now he’s out for revenge!
Ages 6 – 9

Leon the Extraordinary
Jamar Nicholas
Leon’s superpower is being a really good kid! Follow him on his extraordinary adventures in this graphic novel series.
Ages 8 – 12

Art Club
Rashad Doucet
Dale’s grandpa thinks drawing, gaming, and comics are a waste. But Dale has an idea to show him how art can save the day—and maybe change his mind.
Ages 8 – 12

The Crossover
Kwame Alexander
Josh and Jordan are kings on the court. See how they dominate the game in this relatable story about family and all things basketball!
Ages 8 – 12
* This book is available in the Barbershop Books E-Library.
Why This List Matters
These books celebrate diverse characters, relatable stories, and empowering themes that show Black boys they belong in the world of reading. From the imagination of Ty in Ty’s Travels: All Aboard to the bold adventures of Leon in Leon the Extraordinary, this list offers something for every young reader to enjoy and connect with. These titles are more than just stories—they’re tools for helping boys’ build reading confidence, agency, and a positive reading identity.
Stay Tuned for More
We’re just getting started! A new book list debuts every month, bringing more incredible stories to inspire young readers. Keep an eye out for our next list and join us in creating a future where every child proudly says, “I’m a reader.”