Books like Black Jack: The Ballad of Jack Johnson
Award winning
Bessie the Motorcycle Queen
Charles R. Smith Jr., 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and female empowerment through engaging storytelling.
Encourages exploration and adventure in relatable settings.
Enhances vocabulary and historical knowledge.
Inspires independence and self-confidence in young readers.

Bessie the Motorcycle Queen
Charles R. Smith Jr., 2022
Award winning
28 Days: Moments in Black History That Changed the World
Charles R. Smith Jr., 2015
56 pages
Why to read
Chronicles pivotal historical events in an engaging manner.
Encourages appreciation of diversity and cultural heritage.
Stimulates conversations about social justice and equality.
Supports history education in a child-friendly format.

28 Days: Moments in Black History That Changed the World
Charles R. Smith Jr., 2015
Award winning
My People
Charles R. Smith Jr., Langston Hughes, 2009
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and diversity.
Enhances vocabulary with poetic, simple language.
Inspires pride and self-identity in young readers.
Invites discussion about history and community.

My People
Charles R. Smith Jr., Langston Hughes, 2009
Award winning
Brick by Brick
Charles R. Smith Jr., 2012
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates creativity and teamwork in engaging rhyme format.
Introduces basic architecture and engineering concepts to young minds.
Inspires perseverance and cooperation through charming illustrations.
Ideal for interactive read-alouds in classrooms or homes.

Brick by Brick
Charles R. Smith Jr., 2012
Award winning
I Am Muhammad Ali: Ordinary People Change the World
Brad Meltzer, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires resilience and determination through Ali's life story.
Teaches importance of self-belief and perseverance to kids.
Highlights historical and cultural significance of Muhammad Ali.
Encourages children to stand up for their beliefs.

I Am Muhammad Ali: Ordinary People Change the World
Brad Meltzer, 2022
Award winning
The Wizard of Oz (100 Copy Collector's Edition)
L. Frank Baum, 2023
112 pages
Why to read
Classic tale sparks imagination and adventure.
Encourages bravery, friendship, and self-discovery.
Rich, vivid descriptions enhance visual thinking.
Ideal for family reading and discussion.

The Wizard of Oz (100 Copy Collector's Edition)
L. Frank Baum, 2023
Amelia Fang and the Half-Moon Holiday
Erson, Laura Ellen, Laura Ellen Anderson, 2019
240 pages
Why to read
Adventure-filled narrative stimulates imagination and creativity.
Relatable characters foster emotional and social development.
Encourages problem-solving skills through engaging plot twists.
Ideal for shared reading, enhancing parent-child bonding.

Amelia Fang and the Half-Moon Holiday
Erson, Laura Ellen, Laura Ellen Anderson, 2019
Award winning
Dragon Storm: Tomás and Ironskin
Alastair Chisholm, 2022
160 pages
Why to read
Thrilling fantasy adventure sparks imagination and curiosity.
Encourages resilience and bravery through Tomás's journey.
Enhances understanding of friendship and teamwork.
Supports development of empathy and moral reasoning.
