I wasn’t going to do the obligatory Black History Month book post because, well, it feels obligatory and therefore kind of fake. I believe we should all be reading writers of all backgrounds throughout the year and learning about a variety of cultures year-round as well.

Except, I’m embarrassed to admit, when I really look at my reading list, I don’t. I tend to find writers and books and series I like and stick with them. And though I don’t seek out books by white dudes… way too many of my books are written by white dudes.

So. Partially because my February pick for Kidlit Adults Will Actually Like — Amari — inspired me, here’s a list of sci-fi and fantasy middle grade books by black authors and with black protagonists.

I haven’t read them, so I guess they aren’t recommendations exactly. But they are books that made me excited when I found them. Maybe some will end up as monthly pics in the future.

Either way, I hope you’ll give them a chance, too. If you do, tell me what you thought. (The descriptions are truncated versions ripped from the publishers.)

A backyard adventure-mystery perfect for fans of Clean Getaway, The Last Last Day of Summer, and Sideways School.

A hilarious new novel that asks what happens when five unsupervised kids face the apocalypse under outrageously silly circumstances?

An illustrated novel about a homemade robot who comes to life when aspiring scientist Maya needs a friend — and a science fair project.

This thrill-a-minute novel is the first in a time-travel adventure series. Perfect for fans of Amari and Tristan Strong.

Black Panther meets X-Men in this adventure about a British Nigerian girl who learns her hair has psychokinetic powers.

Have you read any of these? What are some of your middle grade SFF picks for Black History Month?