Black Gold

"Obuobi pens an origin story that’s at once earthly and impressively cosmic, an ethereal children’s debut that centers a Black child’s beginnings." —Publishers Weekly (starred review) 

"Lyrical, empowering, and inspiring. An affirmation of the miracle each individual is.” —Yamile Saied Méndez, author of Where Are You From? and What Will You Be?

This lyrical picture book is a joyous, poetic, celebration of Black children and a reminder of the Universe’s unconditional love in stunning verse and captivating collage. Perfect for fans of Sulwe!

When the Universe decides to create a child, she draws from the earth—rich, dark, and full of everything that gives life, including eyes like black star sapphires and full lips to speak the truth. With help from the Sun and the Moon, they create a child of the Universe: beautiful, powerful, and boundless with the brilliance of Black Gold. 

Laura Obuobi’s empowering, whimsical text and London Ladd’s lustrous, captivating illustrations will inspire children to love themselves exactly as they are.

A Bank Street College of Education’s Children’s Book Committee’s Best Children’s Books of the Year (2023)

A Bank Street Books Best Children's Book of the Year for ages 5-9 in Family/School/Community Fiction and noted for outstanding merit (2023)

What happens when the Universe makes a child from the richest parts of itself?

• Black Joy Book for Children: A joyful and affirming origin story that celebrates a Black child’s beginnings as a cosmic miracle, drawn from the rich, dark earth.
• Confidence Building for Kids: An empowering message for kids ages 4-8, reminding them they were created with eyes like star sapphires and lips to speak their truth.
• A Lyrical Bedtime Story: With stunning verse and gentle rhythm, this read-aloud is perfect for lulling a child to sleep feeling kissed by the Sun and cradled by the Moon.
• Celebrating Individuality: A beautiful reminder that every child is a unique and beloved child of the Universe, powerful and boundless.