Books like Unspeakable: The Tulsa Race Massacre
Award winning
Before John Was a Jazz Giant
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2008
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, 2008
Award winning
In Daddy's Arms I Am Tall: African Americans Celebrating Fathers
Folami Abiade, Carole Boston Weatherford, Dinah Johnson, Various Poets, 1997
32 pages
Why to read
Celebrates African American fathers through engaging poetry.
Enhances understanding of diverse familial experiences.
Strengthens father-child relationships with heartwarming stories.
Supports emotional and social development for children.

In Daddy's Arms I Am Tall: African Americans Celebrating Fathers
Folami Abiade, Carole Boston Weatherford, Dinah Johnson, Various Poets, 1997
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
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners
Joanna Ho, 2021
34 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural identity and self-acceptance.
Stunning illustrations enhance the storytelling.
Encourages appreciation of one's heritage.
Strengthens self-esteem in young readers.

Eyes That Kiss in the Corners
Joanna Ho, 2021
Award winning
The 1619 Project: Born on the Water
Renée Watson, Nikole Hannah-Jones, Nikkolas Smith, 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, 2021
Award winning
Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad
Ellen Levine, Kadir Nelson, 2007
40 pages
Why to read
Inspiring true story of courage and determination.
Teaches historical context of the Underground Railroad.
Encourages discussions on freedom and human rights.
Empowers children through resilience and hope.

Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad
Ellen Levine, Kadir Nelson, 2007
Award winning
The Camper and The Counselor
Jackie Oshry, 2023
32 pages
Why to read
Fosters independence through camping adventure themes.
Enhances empathy with diverse, engaging characters.
Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Ideal for interactive parent-child reading sessions.

The Camper and The Counselor
Jackie Oshry, 2023
Award winning
The Return of Zita the Spacegirl
Ben Hatke, 2014
240 pages
Why to read
Action-packed space adventure captivates young readers.
Empowering heroines inspire confidence and resilience.
Fosters creativity and curiosity about the universe.
Ideal for enhancing literacy and engagement.
