Books like Hearts and Hands: Chronicles of the Awakening Church (History Lives series)
Award winning
Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré
Anika Aldamuy Denise, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and storytelling.
Inspires with real-life librarian and storyteller Pura Belpré.
Encourages inclusion and diversity through narrative.
Supports language development and historical awareness.

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré
Anika Aldamuy Denise, 2019
Award winning
An American Story
Kwame Alexander, 2023
56 pages
Why to read
Captures essential American historical moments.
Fosters pride and understanding of national identity.
Encourages curiosity about historical events.
Stimulates discussions on cultural heritage.

An American Story
Kwame Alexander, 2023
Award winning
Counting the Stars: The Story of Katherine Johnson, NASA Mathematician
Lesa Cline-Ransome, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Inspiring story of overcoming barriers.
Enhances interest in math and science.
Promotes resilience and perseverance.
Ideal for shared reading family time.

Counting the Stars: The Story of Katherine Johnson, NASA Mathematician
Lesa Cline-Ransome, 2019
Award winning
Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Educates on historical events through narrative storytelling.
Addresses complex themes with age-appropriate language.
Encourages awareness and understanding of racial history.
Supports discussions on equality and human rights.

Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2021
Award winning
The People Remember
Ibi Zoboi, 2021
64 pages
Why to read
Explore African American history through engaging narratives.
Enhances historical knowledge and cultural awareness.
Encourages empathy and understanding of diverse experiences.
Supports dialogue on past and ongoing societal contributions.

The People Remember
Ibi Zoboi, 2021
Award winning
There Was a Party for Langston
Jason Reynolds, 2023
56 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and diversity.
Enhances vocabulary through dynamic, lyrical prose.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Inspires creativity and self-expression.

There Was a Party for Langston
Jason Reynolds, 2023
Award winning
Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice
Nikki Grimes, 2020
40 pages
Why to read
Inspiring tale of Kamala Harris’s journey and achievements.
Teaches children about perseverance and importance of education.
Empowers young readers to dream big and aim high.
Colorful illustrations captivate and engage children's imagination.

Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice
Nikki Grimes, 2020
Award winning
Justice Rising: 12 Amazing Black Women in the Civil Rights Movement
Katheryn Russell-Brown, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Highlights influential Black women in civil rights history.
Encourages empowerment, equality awareness in young readers.
Inspires with real stories of courage and leadership.
Supports discussions on justice and societal impact.
