Every February in the United States and Canada, and every October in the United Kingdom, Black History Month invites readers to look again at history. Comic books are one of the best doors into that history, especially for young readers. Here are African heroes to read, rooted in real history and brought to life by the ISOLELE Universe in Kinshasa.
Where Black History Month comes from
In 1926, the historian Carter G. Woodson created Negro History Week in February, the month of the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln. Fifty years later, in 1976, it became Black History Month across the United States. Woodson believed that a people who do not know their history can be told any story about themselves. Comic books can help tell the true one.
Patrice Lumumba and Mwindo Lumumba
On June 30, 1960, the Congo became independent, and Patrice Lumumba became its first Prime Minister. His speech that day is still remembered across Africa. In the ISOLELE Universe, his legacy lives on in Mwindo Lumumba, the African Panther. Read how Patrice Lumumba became a comic book superhero.
The queens who faced empires
The Kandake of Kush faced Rome. Queen Nzinga defended Ndongo and Matamba. Kimpa Vita, the prophetess of Kongo, was burned in 1706 for her faith and her people. In the ISOLELE Universe, they inspire heroines such as Kimoya Kandake and Kimpa Vita. Read our guide to African queens in history.
Zaiire: The Prince of Kongo
The saga of an African prince, heir of the Kongo royal line, drawn by hand by Congolese artists. It is a story of courage, family and memory, written for young readers and adults alike. Discover Zaiire: The Prince of Kongo.
Shango and Zaiire: A Letter from a Father to His Son
Black History Month is also family history. In this book, a father who was never taught how to be one finally speaks to his son. A story for fathers, sons, and everyone still waiting for a word from the people they love. Read about Shango and Zaiire.
For teachers, libraries and families
ISOLELE heroes are made to open conversations: about the kingdoms of Africa, about independence, about the diaspora and about identity. Schools, libraries and reading clubs who want to plan a Black History Month activity with ISOLELE books can write to empire@isoleleuniverse.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are good comic books for Black History Month?
Comic books rooted in real African history, such as the ISOLELE Universe’s Zaiire: The Prince of Kongo, Shango and Zaiire, and the stories of Mwindo Lumumba and Kimoya Kandake.
When is Black History Month?
Black History Month is celebrated in February in the United States and Canada, and in October in the United Kingdom.
Who started Black History Month?
The historian Carter G. Woodson created Negro History Week in 1926. It became Black History Month in the United States in 1976.
Discover the books
