Who Is Beyoncé? (Who Was?)
Who was? Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
This engaging biography from the popular Who Was? series charts Beyoncé Knowles-Carter’s journey from a shy Houston girl with a powerhouse voice to a global music icon, businesswoman, and philanthropist. Written in clear, accessible prose, the book highlights the star’s early talent contests, Destiny’s Child breakthrough, solo superstardom, and commitment to family, creativity, and social justice. Young readers learn how perseverance, practice, and self-belief turned childhood dreams into record-breaking success while also discovering the cultural impact of hip-hop, R&B, and modern pop music.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
112 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter
Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter
Michelle Williams
Solange Piaget Knowles
Kelly Rowland
Celestine "Tina" Knowles-Lawson
Mathew Knowles
Discussion points
What qualities helped Beyoncé stay motivated after losing on Star Search?
How did her family influence her career decisions?
Why do you think Beyoncé uses her music to address social issues?
What does the book teach about balancing work and personal life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Share favorite songs and discuss their messages.
Create a ‘goal board’ like Beyoncé’s early dream notebook.
Compare Beyoncé’s perseverance to challenges your child faces at school.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance leads to success
Explanation: Beyoncé continues practicing after early losses and lineup changes.
Real-World Application: Children learn to keep trying after setbacks at school or sports.
Example Lesson: Family support is invaluable
Explanation: Her parents invest time and resources in her talent.
Real-World Application: Kids appreciate and seek help from trusted adults when pursuing goals.
Example Lesson: Use talent to uplift others
Explanation: Beyoncé’s philanthropy and activism accompany her music career.
Real-World Application: Readers consider ways to share their skills for community benefit.
Example Lesson: Stay true to your identity
Explanation: She infuses her heritage into performances and visuals.
Real-World Application: Children feel empowered to express their culture and personality.