Books like The Negro Speaks of Rivers
Award winning
My People
Charles R. Smith Jr., Langston Hughes, 2009
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural heritage and diversity.
Enhances vocabulary with poetic, simple language.
Inspires pride and self-identity in young readers.
Invites discussion about history and community.

My People
Charles R. Smith Jr., Langston Hughes, 2009
Award winning
Black Misery (The ^AIona and Peter Opie Library of Children's Literature)
Langston Hughes, Robert G. O'Meally, 1969
72 pages
Why to read
Insightfully explores African-American childhood experiences.
Engaging illustrations complement Hughes' poignant text.
Encourages empathy and understanding among young readers.
Supports discussions on diversity and resilience.

Black Misery (The ^AIona and Peter Opie Library of Children's Literature)
Langston Hughes, Robert G. O'Meally, 1969
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
Something, Someday
Amanda Gorman, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires hope and big dreams among young readers.
Beautiful, poetic language enhances vocabulary.
Encourages resilience and persistence in facing challenges.
Ideal for family reading, sparking meaningful discussions.

Something, Someday
Amanda Gorman, 2023
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
My Powerful Hair
Carole Lindstrom, 2023
48 pages
Why to read
Celebrates diversity and self-expression through hair.
Encourages confidence and self-love in young readers.
Supports understanding and acceptance of individual differences.
Interactive, engaging narrative for shared reading moments.

My Powerful Hair
Carole Lindstrom, 2023
Award winning
Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
40 pages
Why to read
Celebrates cultural diversity and personal identity.
Encourages respect for oneself and others.
Strengthens family bonds through shared reading.
Inspires confidence and pride in heritage.

Say My Name
Joanna Ho, 2023
Award winning
Exquisite: The Poetry and Life of Gwendolyn Brooks
Suzanne Slade, Cozbi A. Cabrera, 2020
48 pages
Why to read
Inspires with Gwendolyn Brooks' remarkable poetic journey.
Enhances appreciation for poetry and literary expression.
Celebrates resilience and determination in creative pursuits.
Supports literacy and language development.

