Art Encounters Series
Explore Art Encounters: Discover similar reads
Award winning
Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave
Laban Carrick Hill, 2010
40 pages
Why to read
Rich historical narrative enhances cultural knowledge.
Inspires creativity through pottery and poetry.
Addresses themes of resilience and freedom.
Engaging and emotionally powerful storytelling.

Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave
Laban Carrick Hill, 2010
Award winning
When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop
Laban Carrick Hill, 2013
32 pages
Why to read
Inspiring story about the origins of hip hop culture.
Introduces DJ Kool Herc, a pioneering music figure.
Encourages musical creativity and history appreciation.
Vibrant illustrations complement engaging narrative.

When the Beat Was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop
Laban Carrick Hill, 2013
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
Blue: A History of the Color as Deep as the Sea and as Wide as the Sky
Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Explores cultural significance of blue in a captivating way.
Engages children with vibrant illustrations and rich storytelling.
Encourages curiosity about history and color symbolism.
Supports understanding of diversity through color exploration.

Blue: A History of the Color as Deep as the Sea and as Wide as the Sky
Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond, 2022
Award winning
Shannon: Schoolmarm Mysteries: Girlhood Journeys Book3: The Schoolmarm Mysteries
Kathleen Kudlinski, Ellen Krieger, 1997
72 pages
Why to read
Engaging historical mystery tailored for young readers. - Develops critical thinking through problem-solving narratives. - Features strong, relatable female protagonist. - Encourages historical curiosity and learning.

Shannon: Schoolmarm Mysteries: Girlhood Journeys Book3: The Schoolmarm Mysteries
Kathleen Kudlinski, Ellen Krieger, 1997
Award winning
I Am Frida Kahlo: Ordinary People Change the World
Brad Meltzer, 2021
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires creativity through Frida Kahlo’s unique story.
Encourages self-expression and embracing individuality.
Highlights resilience overcoming personal and physical challenges.
Engages children with vibrant illustrations and narrative.

I Am Frida Kahlo: Ordinary People Change the World
Brad Meltzer, 2021
Award winning
The Artivist
Nikkolas Smith, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires creativity and activism through engaging storytelling.
Highlights the power of art in social change.
Encourages empathy and understanding in young readers.
Supports development of personal and social identity.

The Artivist
Nikkolas Smith, 2023
Award winning
Cat Kid Comic Club: Collaborations: A Graphic Novel (Cat Kid Comic Club #4)
Dav Pilkey, 2022
224 pages
Why to read
Encourages creativity through collaborative storytelling.
Enhances social skills and teamwork among young readers.
Vibrant illustrations captivate and engage children.
Supports emotional development with relatable scenarios.



