Books like Harlem's Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills
Award winning
Maya's Song
Renée Watson, Vicki B. Williamson, Bryan Collier, 2022
48 pages
Why to read
Explores themes of friendship, self-discovery, and resilience.
Enhances emotional intelligence and empathy in children.
Vibrant illustrations complement the engaging narrative.
Supports language development and vocabulary expansion.

Maya's Song
Renée Watson, Vicki B. Williamson, Bryan Collier, 2022
Award winning
Ways to Grow Love
Renée Watson, Niña Mata, 2021
192 pages
Why to read
Celebrates friendship, family, and self-discovery.
Encourages emotional growth and resilience in young readers.
Integrates everyday challenges with enriching life lessons.
Vibrant storytelling that captivates and educates.

Ways to Grow Love
Renée Watson, Niña Mata, 2021
Award winning
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, Listening Library, 2021
48 pages
Why to read
Enhances understanding of African American history.
Strengthens empathy through powerful storytelling.
Encourages critical thinking and discussion.
Beautiful, evocative illustrations complement the narrative.

The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, Listening Library, 2021
Award winning
Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and His Orchestra
Andrea Davis Pinkney, Brian Pinkney, 2007
32 pages
Why to read
Engages kids with vibrant historical and musical insights.
Introduces Duke Ellington's impactful contributions to jazz.
Inspires creativity through rich, narrative storytelling.
Stimulates interest in musical arts and history.

Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and His Orchestra
Andrea Davis Pinkney, Brian Pinkney, 2007
Award winning
Before John Was a Jazz Giant
Carole Boston Weatherford, Sean Qualls, 2022
32 pages
Why to read
Explores the early inspirations of jazz legend John Coltrane.
Illustrations and text evoke the soundscape of Coltrane's world.
Encourages musical exploration and appreciation in young readers.
Supports understanding of historical cultural influences in music.

Before John Was a Jazz Giant
Carole Boston Weatherford, Sean Qualls, 2022
Justin Bieber
Aaron Hartzler, Aaron Frisch, 2013
21 pages
Why to read
Explore Justin Bieber's inspiring journey to stardom.
Highlights perseverance, dedication, and self-belief.
Encourages musical exploration and pursuing dreams.
Ideal for fostering motivation and ambition in children.

Justin Bieber
Aaron Hartzler, Aaron Frisch, 2013
Award winning
The Coquíes Still Sing
Karina Nicole Gonzalez, Krystal Quiles, Laura Gómez, Macmillan Audio, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Captures the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico.
Highlights resilience through charming animal characters.
Encourages appreciation of nature and biodiversity.
Beautiful, engaging illustrations complement the narrative.

The Coquíes Still Sing
Karina Nicole Gonzalez, Krystal Quiles, Laura Gómez, Macmillan Audio, 2022
Award winning
Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotten
Laura Veirs, Tatyana Fazlalizadeh, 2018
48 pages
Why to read
Inspiring story of perseverance and musical passion.
Cultural enrichment through historical artistic perspective.
Encourages musical interest and artistic expression in children.
Captivating illustrations enhance storytelling and engagement.
