Be part of Black History Month with writers, events, books and talks in person and online throughout October.
Books, writers and writing
- Prizewinning Baller Boys follows two friends’ footballing journey and feelings that surface when only one is selected for the team. Join author Venessa Taylor’s workshop for readings, interactive activities, Q&A and role play. Ages 7+. (Book early – limited spaces)
Author’s workshop
- In 1996, when Kemi Bamgbose was 11, her father let her take the day off school when Nelson Mandela visited Brixton. Now she retells her story for Ages 5+. (add link)
- CBeebies Jo Jo and Gran Gran author Laura Henry-Allain MBE reads from My Skin, Your Skin which explores race and anti-racism, with a Q&A session. (Book early – limited spaces).
- Celebrate natural hair with founder and publisher of the UK’s first Black children’s magazines Cocoa Girl and Cocoa Boy, Serlina Boyd, with her new book Cocoa Girl’s Awesome Hair (Book early – limited spaces).
- Interactive storytelling with Akitoye Sunday’s first picture book Tiana Eat Up. Explore food from around the world. Ages 5+. (Book early – limited spaces)
- Best books for kids and teens by Black writers and illustrators – live chat with librarians Zoey Dixon (Lambeth) and Liz Chapman (Sheffield).
- Culture and Myth in YA Fantasy – Join authors Yaba Badoe (Wolf Light, Lionheart Girl) and Reni K. Amayo (Daughters of Niri, Descendants of the First) to discuss cultural heritage’s inspiration on fantastic worlds and characters in young fantasy novels.
- Chatterbooks Online Book Club – For Black History Month, tell us about an inspirational Black person – historical figure, inventor, actor, scientist, author, or
book inspired by true stories of Windrush
someone you know personally. Ages 8+
Events
- Let’s talk about culture! with Explore Learning. Celebrate our differences, discover what culture means to us – and create posters to represent who we (and our cultures) are. Age 9+.
- Test your knowledge with Black History Month quizzes. Age 8+
- In Africa, drums matter in music and in healing ceremonies. Make your own traditional Spirit Drum with Lambeth Libraries.
Event for schools
Chatterbooks online book club
Dr Ayshah Johnston from Black Cultural Archives (BCA) retells moving experiences of sacrifice and bravery from The Place for Me – Stories About the Windrush Generation – a new book inspired by first-hand accounts. To book your Year 3, 4, 5 and 6 class for a Windrush history lesson followed by a Q&A session, email Sandra Davidson
Word from the Cabinet
Cllr Sonia Winifred, Cabinet Member for Equalities and Culture said: “Last year many of you told us how inspiring and uplifting you found Lambeth Libraries’ Black History Month celebrations. This year’s programme is equally exciting with brilliant writers and artists.
“We continue to remember and support the Windrush generation and acknowledge their struggle for a right to remain and for compensation. The month includes something for all ages and tastes. Please take this wonderful opportunity to learn about and celebrate African Caribbean Heritage and Culture, which influence and enrich all our lives. I hope you will join us.”
More information
Book inspired by true stories of Windrush
See full details and book live and online events
