Parents' Guide to The History of We

The History of We book cover: An elegant painted portrait of a young Black child surrounded by vibrant green foliage and a purple flower

Common Sense Media Review

Diondra Brown By Diondra Brown , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 4+

Beautiful exploration of humankind's original family tree.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 4+?

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Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

Through poetry and painted images, THE HISTORY OF WE shares the story of the earliest humans who originated in Africa. They depended on determination, curiosity, and intelligence to help them explore the world and expand their understanding. The narrative illustrates how everyone alive today share roots from the continent of Africa. The accomplishments of our common ancestors highlight the wonder and bravery that has always existed in humanity. Early innovations in music, art, and medicine laid the groundwork for this ancient human civilization. This book illustrates our human connectedness and the power in our unity.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

The dawn of human civilization is reimagined and brought to life in this moving story. The History of We correctly centers Black people as the foundation of our collective story as humans, a message more timely than ever. Nikkolas Smith created thoughtful poetry and emotional imagery as he shares the story of the origins of humanity and the making of our world. Readers will undoubtedly be left with curiosity about the past and hope for our shared future.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • In The History of We, a timeline shares that the history of modern humans dates back to 233,000 BCE. It's hard to imagine back that far in time! What are other important historical events you've learned about?

  • Early humans were very creative and curious about the world around them. Which invention did you find most interesting? Why?

  • The book is full of beautiful illustrations. Which one is your favorite? Why?

Book Details

  • Author : Nikkolas Smith
  • Illustrator : Nikkolas Smith
  • Genre : Picture Book
  • Topics : History
  • Character Strengths : Curiosity
  • Book type : Non-Fiction
  • Publisher : Kokila
  • Publication date : May 20, 2025
  • Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
  • Number of pages : 40
  • Available on : Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
  • Last updated : September 18, 2025

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The History of We book cover: An elegant painted portrait of a young Black child surrounded by vibrant green foliage and a purple flower

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