Author/Editor Azzam, Abd al-Rahman
In 1325 Ibn Battuta, a 21 year old scholar and religious judge, set off from his home in Tangier to perform the pilgrimage to Mecca. Over the next 30 years he travelled to more than 44 countries. This beautifully illustrated book relates his adventures.
KS2/3
Hood Hood Books, 1995, ISBN 1900251027

Author/Editor Pinkney, Andrea D.
Benjamin Banneker was an accomplished astronomer and mathematician who, unlike most Black American men of the time (Late 18th Century), was born free. He corresponded with Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson and told him what he thought about Jefferson owning slaves. This book details their correspondence.
KS2
Voyager Books, 1998, ISBN 0152018921

Author/Editor Wilkins, Verna
This book profiles the life of entrepreneur Jim Brathwaite. He grew up in Toxteth, Liverpool, loved sport, studied science at University, had a successful career in marketing and set up his own business which earned millions. Written for 9+ age group.
KS2
Tamarind Books, 2000, ISBN 1870516478

Author/Editor Ferris, Jeri
Banneker was a free black man who lived at a time when most African Americans were slaves. He was an accomplished farmer, mathematician, astronomer and surveyor., who made his mark on the newly independent USA.
KS2/3
Carolrhoda Books, 1990, ISBN 0876145217

Author/Editor Benjamin, Floella
Floella Benjamin describes her life in Trinidad and how she came to Britain as a child. She shows how she faced rejection and unhappiness, soon realising that the only way to survive was to be twice as good as anyone else.
KS2
Puffin Books, 1997, ISBN 0140380817

Author/Editor Wilkins, Verna
A biography of Malorie Blackman, the author of many popular children's books. Born in the UK, her parents were from Barbados. On becoming a writer she consciously set out to challenge the lack of Black characters in children's literature.
KS2
Tamarind Books, 2000, ISBN 1870516494

Author/Editor Bridges, Ruby
Ruby Bridges was one of the first black children to be moved to attend a previously white school in New Orleans in 1960. Her companions on her first day were four white federal marshals, who were charged with ensuring her safety in getting into the school. She was six years old. This is Ruby’s story, told as an autobiography.
KS2/3
Scholastic, 1999, 0590546309