Books like My People
Award winning
The Negro Speaks of Rivers
Langston Hughes, E.B. Lewis, 2009
32 pages
Why to read
Explores rich African-American historical and cultural heritage.
Encourages appreciation for poetry and lyrical storytelling.
Stimulates discussions on diversity and historical perspectives.
Beautiful, evocative illustrations complementing the poetic text.

The Negro Speaks of Rivers
Langston Hughes, E.B. Lewis, 2009
Award winning
Dance with Me
Charles R. Smith Jr., Noah Z. Jones, 2008
24 pages
Why to read
Vibrant, rhythmic storytelling enhances language development.
Encourages physical activity through dance movements.
Cultivates emotional expression and social skills.
Interactive and engaging for young readers.

Dance with Me
Charles R. Smith Jr., Noah Z. Jones, 2008
Award winning
Lullaby (for a Black Mother) Board Book
Langston Hughes, Sean Qualls, 2013
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates loving bond between mother and child.
Beautifully illustrated, evokes emotion and connection.
Language and rhythm that captivate young minds.
Culturally enriching, enhances diversity awareness.

Lullaby (for a Black Mother) Board Book
Langston Hughes, Sean Qualls, 2013
Award winning
28 Days: Moments in Black History That Changed the World
Charles R. Smith Jr., Shane W. Evans, Dion Graham, Carter Woodson Redwood, January Lavoy, Jonathan Earl Peck, 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., Shane W. Evans, Dion Graham, Carter Woodson Redwood, January Lavoy, Jonathan Earl Peck, 2015
Award winning
Brick by Brick
Charles R. Smith Jr., Floyd Cooper, 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., Floyd Cooper, 2012
Award winning
Black Misery (The ^AIona and Peter Opie Library of Children's Literature)
Langston Hughes, Robert G. O'Meally, Arouni, Jesse Jackson, 1969
72 pages
Why to read
Insightfully explores African-American childhood experiences.
Engaging illustrations complement Hughes' poignant text.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Supports discussions on diversity and resilience.

Black Misery (The ^AIona and Peter Opie Library of Children's Literature)
Langston Hughes, Robert G. O'Meally, Arouni, Jesse Jackson, 1969
Award winning
Bessie the Motorcycle Queen
Charles R. Smith Jr., Charlot Kristensen, 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., Charlot Kristensen, 2022
Award winning
Black Jack: The Ballad of Jack Johnson
Charles R. Smith Jr., Shane W. Evans, Dion Graham, 2010
40 pages
Why to read
Captivating tale of resilience and perseverance.
Inspires courage and self-confidence in young readers.
Vivid historical context enriches learning experience.
Promotes cultural awareness and racial understanding.
