Inspiring Books for Black History Month Reading Challenge

Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr. Announces February Books of the Month

Tallahassee, FL– Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. announced February’s chosen books for the Commissioner’s Book of the Month, a monthly reading challenge to promote literacy and reading engagement in preK-12 schools. Each month, Commissioner Diaz highlights five recommended books– one per selected grade range.

“Black History Month is a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of African American heroes who have played an important role in shaping our nation’s history,” said Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. “Let’s inspire the next generation by reading books that showcase the important stories of African American leaders, artists and innovators.”

The Commissioner’s recommendations for February 2024 are:

• PreK – I Am Me by Tristan Towns and Lacey Howard
• K-2 – An Apple for Harriet Tubman by Glennette Tilley Turner
• 3-5 – Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Shetterly
• 6-8 – Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela
• 9-12 – Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe

On the FDOE website, you can find the Commissioner’s Book of the Month selections. 

For more information about the Florida Department of Education, visit www.fldoe.org.