Top-rated books by Mary Rand Hess
Solo
Age: 10-13
Books like Mary Rand Hess’s
John Lennon: Volume 52
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, 2020
Why to read
Learn about the incredible life of a music legend.
Gain insights into the importance of creativity and perseverance.
Explore the historical and musical context of the 20th century.
Be inspired by John Lennon’s message of peace and love.

John Lennon: Volume 52
Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, 2020
Award winning
The Beatles: A Little Golden Book Biography
Judy Katschke, 2023
24 pages
Why to read
Introduces The Beatles' history in a child-friendly format.
Inspires musical interest and historical curiosity in young readers.
Enhances vocabulary and understanding through engaging storytelling.
Colorful illustrations complement the captivating narrative.

The Beatles: A Little Golden Book Biography
Judy Katschke, 2023
Award winning
Change Sings: A Children's Anthem
Loren Long, Amanda Gorman, 2021
32 pages
Why to read
Empowers children through motivational and lyrical language.
Illustrations enhance engagement and understanding.
Encourages positivity and change-making in young minds.
Supports language development and artistic expression.

Change Sings: A Children's Anthem
Loren Long, Amanda Gorman, 2021
We are The Beatles (Ordinary People Change the World)
Brad Meltzer, 2025
40 pages
Why to read
True story told in fun comics.
Celebrates friendship and teamwork.
Teaches history through music.
Inspires creative confidence.

We are The Beatles (Ordinary People Change the World)
Brad Meltzer, 2025
Award winning
R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2020
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates Aretha Franklin's impactful life and career.
Inspires children with strong, influential female role model.
Encourages respect and determination through engaging storytelling.
Beautiful illustrations complement powerful narrative.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul
Carole Boston Weatherford, 2020
Award winning
Muddy: The Story of Blues Legend Muddy Waters
Michael James Mahin, 2017
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates musical legend Muddy Waters' life and achievements.
Inspires children through perseverance and passion themes.
Illustrations vividly depict the era of the blues.
Encourages musical exploration and historical appreciation.

Muddy: The Story of Blues Legend Muddy Waters
Michael James Mahin, 2017
Award winning
The Green Piano
Tonya Bolden, Roberta Flack, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Fosters creativity through musical and colorful storytelling.
Encourages emotional growth and self-expression in children.
Supports developmental milestones with engaging narratives.
Ideal for family bonding over shared reading times.

The Green Piano
Tonya Bolden, Roberta Flack, 2023
Unofficial Where's Taylor?: Find the World's Biggest Star in Fan-tastic Scenes!
Editors of Chartwell Books, 2025
32 pages
Why to read
Sharpens observation skills through fun puzzles.
Celebrates pop-music creativity and history.
Ideal for shared family reading fun.
Encourages perseverance and patient problem-solving.

