Books like Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and His Orchestra
Award winning
Because of You, John Lewis
Andrea Davis Pinkney, 2022
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires activism and leadership through John Lewis' life.
Educates on civil rights history in an accessible way.
Encourages empathy and understanding in young readers.
Vibrant illustrations complement the powerful narrative.

Because of You, John Lewis
Andrea Davis Pinkney, 2022
Award winning
She Persisted: Harriet Tubman
Andrea Davis Pinkney, Chelsea Clinton, 2021
80 pages
Why to read
Inspiring story of perseverance and bravery.
Introduces historical figures and important events.
Encourages discussions on justice and equality.
Empowering narrative boosts self-confidence in readers.

She Persisted: Harriet Tubman
Andrea Davis Pinkney, Chelsea Clinton, 2021
Award winning
Let It Shine : Stories of Black Women Freedom Fighters
Andrea Davis Pinkney, 2000
120 pages
Why to read
Celebrates achievements of Black women in history.
Inspires courage and perseverance in young readers.
Empowers children with real-life role models.
Engaging storytelling that enriches historical knowledge.

Let It Shine : Stories of Black Women Freedom Fighters
Andrea Davis Pinkney, 2000
Award winning
The Red Pencil
Andrea Davis Pinkney, 2014
336 pages
Why to read
Celebrates resilience through the protagonist's powerful journey.
Enhances emotional awareness and empathy in young readers.
Encourages artistic expression as a form of healing.
Supports literacy development with engaging narrative.

The Red Pencil
Andrea Davis Pinkney, 2014
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
Award winning
How Jelly Roll Morton Invented Jazz
Jonah Winter, 2015
32 pages
Why to read
Explores the origins of jazz through engaging storytelling.
Introduces historical figures in an accessible, relatable way.
Encourages appreciation for music and its cultural impact.
Stimulates interest in history and musical creativity.

How Jelly Roll Morton Invented Jazz
Jonah Winter, 2015
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
Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln
Margarita Engle, 2019
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires through historical figures and events.
Enhances understanding of perseverance and resilience.
Celebrates cultural diversity and musical creativity.
Encourages emotional expression through art.

