Author: Alvin Irby

Welcoming Michael A. Campbell, Ed.D. to the Barbershop Books Board

We are excited to welcome Michael A. Campbell, Ed.D. to the Barbershop Books Board of Directors.

10 Books That Inspire Black Boys to Read: A Year in Review

At Barbershop Books, we believe reading for fun is one of the most powerful ways children build confidence, curiosity, and a strong reading identity. That belief comes to life each month through our “10 Books That Inspire Black Boys to Read” list.

10 Books that Inspire Black Boys to Read: List 12

Our 12th book list is packed with inspiring, funny, and action-filled stories that will spark imagination and bring joy to young readers. From heartfelt promises to runaway mops, from alien adventures to epic battles, there’s something for every child to enjoy.

Black Philanthropy Month: Celebrating a Legacy of Generosity

August is Black Philanthropy Month, a time to uplift and celebrate the long-standing tradition of Black giving. Whether through church donations, community organizing, or supporting youth programs, Black communities have always invested deeply in building brighter futures — often giving more generously relative to income than other groups. The numbers tell a powerful story: This … Continued

10 Books that Inspire Black Boys to Read: List 11

Our 11th book list is here—packed with curious pandas, magical socks, kazoo emergencies, and so much more! These stories celebrate confidence, adventure, and the power of imagination to inspire kids to read for fun. From laugh-out-loud picture books to gripping graphic novels, these titles were made to help kids see themselves as readers.

10 Books that Inspire Black Boys to Read: List 10

Our 9th edition of 10 Books That Inspire Black Boys to Read is packed with stories that celebrate imagination, identity, and everyday bravery. From space adventures to playground joy, these books are designed to connect with young readers and show them that reading can be fun, meaningful, and all their own. Whether you're reading aloud or building a growing bookshelf, this list is one to save and share.

Little Learners, Big Lessons: The Week I Taught First Graders About the Civil War

A Controversial Choice for Storytime Would you read a picture book about the American Civil War to a six- or seven-year-old child? Anyone who knows even a little about the horrors of war can imagine numerous reasons why this topic is generally considered inappropriate for children. But what if a well-crafted story about war, as … Continued

Classroom with chalk board that says Civil War

10 Books that Inspire Black Boys to Read – List 9

Our 9th edition of 10 Books That Inspire Black Boys to Read is packed with stories that celebrate imagination, identity, and everyday bravery. From space adventures to playground joy, these books are designed to connect with young readers and show them that reading can be fun, meaningful, and all their own. Whether you're reading aloud or building a growing bookshelf, this list is one to save and share.

10 Books that Inspire Black Boys to Read – List 8

Reading can be an adventure, a giggle, a mystery, or even a superpower—and our 8th edition book list has it all! Whether your reader loves sports, superheroes, or silly hedgehogs in underwear, we’ve curated a fresh collection of stories that are fun, engaging, and perfect for helping kids fall in love with reading.

10 Books that Inspire Black Boys to Read – List 7

This month’s 10 Books That Inspire Black Boys to Read is packed with fun, adventure, and powerful stories that will keep young readers turning the pages!