PBS Books celebrates the diversity and the achievements of African Americans, including writers and poets, throughout the year! Every February, people across the US celebrate the tremendous accomplishments of African Americans. We’ve developed this list to encourage readers young and old to learn more about phenomenal individuals who’ve had a lasting impact on our nation in a variety of areas—arts, sports, military, civil rights, government, and more. Many of these authors have also written other important books about other African Americans who have made significant contributions, so if you’ve read our pick don’t forget to check out another.