Books For Kids: Juneteenth

Juneteenth All Different Now, the First Day of Freedom

By Angela Johnson, Illustrated by E.B. Lewis

Through the eyes of one little girl, All Different Now tells the story of the first Juneteenth, the day freedom finally came to the last of the slaves in the South. Since then, the observance of June 19 as African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond. This picture book includes notes from the author and illustrator, a timeline of important dates, and a glossary of relevant terms. All Different Now is a joyous portrait of the dawn breaking on the darkest time in our nation’s history. 5-9 years

Juneteenth A Children’s Story

By Opal Lee, Illustrated by Peter Viska

An engaging way to introduce the history of slavery and freedom to children in words they can understand. Ms. Opal highlights the celebration of Juneteenth and the importance of commemorating this milestone all across America. 5-11 years

Juneteenth

By Drew Nelson and Vaundra Micheaux Nelson, Illustrated by Mark Schroder

June 19,1865, began as another hot day in Texas. Enslaved African Americans worked in fields, in barns, and in the homes of the white people who owned them. Then a message arrived. Freedom! Slavery had ended! The Civil War had actually ended in April. It took two months for word to reach Texas. Still the joy of that amazing day has never been forgotten. Every year, people all over the United States come together on June 19th to celebrate the end of slavery. Join in the celebration of Juneteenth, a day to remember and honor freedom for all people. 7-10 years

Juneteenth for Mazie

By Floyd Cooper

Mazie is ready to celebrate liberty. She is ready to celebrate freedom. She is ready to celebrate a great day in American history. The day her ancestors were no longer slaves. Mazie remembers the struggles and the triumph, as she gets ready to celebrate Juneteenth. 6-9 years

Juneteenth Jamboree

By Carole Boston Weatherford, Illustrated by Yvonne Buchanan

Joining her parents in a community celebration of Juneteenth, Cassie learns about the day when slaves in Texas were freed some two years after the Emancipation Proclamation and wonders why the news took so long to reach them. 8-12 years

Opal Lee and What it Means to be Free:

The True Story of the Grandmother of Juneteenth

By Alice Faye Duncan, Illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo

(Forthcoming book January 2022)

The true story Opal Lee and her vision of Juneteenth as a holiday for everyone, celebrates Black joy and inspires children to see their dreams blossom. Growing up in Texas, Opal knew the history of Juneteenth, but she soon discovered that many Americans had never heard of the holiday that represents the nation’s creed of “freedom for all.”

Every year, Opal looked forward to the Juneteenth picnic–a drumming, dancing, delicious party. She knew from Granddaddy Zak’s stories that Juneteenth celebrated the day the freedom news of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation finally sailed into Texas in 1865–over two years after the president had declared it! But Opal didn’t always see freedom in her Texas town.

Then one Juneteenth day when Opal was twelve years old, an angry crowd burned down her brand-new home. This wasn’t freedom at all. She had to do something! Opal Lee spent the rest of her life speaking up for equality and unity. She became a teacher, a charity worker, and a community leader. At the age of 89, she walked from Fort Worth, Texas, to Washington, D.C., in an effort to gain national recognition for Juneteenth. 4-8 years

Juneteenth

By Anece Rochell, Illustrated by Audeva Joseph

Daylen is excited and ready to share everything he knows about Juneteenth. This is a picture book that explains the origin, customs, and importance of the Juneteenth Holiday, in a fun and interactive way.  Juneteenth ends with a words to know page, to help children build a stronger vocabulary. 4-10 years

The Story of Juneteenth: An Interactive History Adventure

By Steven Otfinoski

The Emancipation Proclamation and the Civil War had brought an official end to slavery, yet some Southern slave owners refused to comply. The road to freedom was still long and hard for many African Americans, but they didn’t give up. Will you: overcome obstacles as you make your way north from Texas, looking to begin a new life of freedom?  Will you: seek out your family, from whom you were separated as a child? Will you: fight back when you take work as an apprentice but find that you’re still treated as a slave? This book offers multiple perspectives on history and gives readers a front-row seat to the past. 8-11 years

Juneteenth: First Step Nonfiction, American Holidays

By Robin Nelson

This book is a  basic overview of Juneteenth for emergent readers. Color photographs reflect the short, easy-to-understand sentences that improve vocabulary and comprehension. 5-8 years

The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.

If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author

Holidays For Kids: Juneteenth https://www.ducksters.com/holidays/juneteenth.php

Kids Books: Underground Railroad https://barbaralowell.com/books-kids-underground-railroad/

Books For Kids: Ona Judge

Ona Judge Outwits the Washingtons: An Enslaved Woman Fights for Freedom

By Gwendolyn Hooks, Illustrated by Simone Agoussoye

Soon after American colonists had won independence from Great Britain, Ona Judge was fighting for her own freedom from one of America’s most famous founding fathers, George Washington.

George and Martha Washington valued Ona as one of their most skilled and trustworthy slaves, but she would risk everything to achieve complete freedom. Born into slavery at Mount Vernon, Ona seized the opportunity to escape when she was brought to live in the President’s Mansion in Philadelphia. Ona fled to New Hampshire and started a new life. But the Washingtons wouldn’t give up easily. After her escape, Ona became the focus of a years-long manhunt, led by America’s first president.

Gwendolyn Hooks’ vivid and detailed prose captures the danger, uncertainty, and persistence Ona Judge experienced during and after her heroic escape. 9-12 years

Never Caught, The Story of Ona Judge:

George and Martha Washington’s Courageous Slave Who Dared to Run Away

By Erika Armstrong Dunbar, Illustrated by Kathleen Van Cleve

Born into a life of slavery, Ona Judge eventually grew up to be George and Martha Washington’s “favored” dower slave. When she was told that she was going to be given as a wedding gift to Martha Washington’s granddaughter, Ona made the bold and brave decision to flee to the north, where she would be a fugitive.

From her childhood, to her time with the Washingtons living in the slave quarters, to her escape to New Hampshire, Erica Armstrong Dunbar, along with Kathleen Van Cleve, share an intimate glimpse into the life of a little-known, but powerful figure in history, and her brave journey as she fled the most powerful couple in the country. 9-13 years

Runaway: The Daring Escape of Ona Judge

By Ray Anthony Shepard, Illustrated by Keith Mallett

Ona Judge was enslaved by George and Martha Washington. She served as Martha’s maid. Ona was widely known for her excellent skills as a seamstress, and was raised alongside Washington’s grandchildren. She was frequently mistaken for George Washington’s granddaughter. This poetic biography follows her childhood and adolescence until she decides to run away. With extensive backmatter, this poem may serve as a new introduction to American slavery and Ona Judge’s legacy. 3-6 years

The Escape of Oney Judge: Martha Washington’s Slave Finds Freedom

By Emily Arnold McCully

When General George Washington is elected the first President of the United States, his wife chooses young Oney Judge, a house slave who works as a seamstress at Mount Vernon, to travel with her to the nation’s capital in New York City as her personal maid. When the capital is moved to Philadelphia, the Washingtons and Oney move, too, and there Oney meets free blacks for the first time.

At first, Oney can’t imagine being free – she depends on the Washingtons for food, warmth, and clothing. But then Mrs. Washington tells Oney that after her death she will be sent to live with Mrs. Washington’s granddaughter. Oney is horrified because she knows it is likely that she will then be sold to a stranger – the worst fate she can imagine. Oney realizes she must run. One day she sees an opportunity and takes it, ending up in New Hampshire, where she lives the rest of her life, poor but free. 6-9 years

Taking Liberty: The Story of Oney Judge, George Washington’s Runaway Slave

By Ann Rinaldi

Oney Judge is a slave. But on the plantation of Mount Vernon, the beautiful home of George and Martha Washington, she is not called a slave. She is referred to as a servant, and a house servant at that—a position of influence and respect. When she rises to the position of personal servant to Martha Washington, her status among the household staff—black or white—is second to none. She is Lady Washington’s closest confidante and for all intents and purposes, a member of the family…or so she thinks.

Slowly, Oney’s perception of her life with the Washingtons begins to crack as she realizes the truth: No matter what it’s called, it’s still slavery and she’s still enslaved.

Oney must make a choice. Does she stay where she is, comfortable, with this family that has loved her and nourished her and owned her since the day she was born? Or does she take her liberty—her life—into her own hands, and like her father, become one of the Gone? 12 years+

Oney Judge: Escape From Slavery and the President’s House

By Duchess Harris and Lindsay Wyskowski

President George Washington and his wife enslaved more than 150 people in the mid-1700s. In 1796, one of their slaves escaped. Her name was Oney “Ona” Judge. Oney Judge: This biography explores her story and her legacy. Aligned to Common Core Standards and correlated to state standards. Core Library is an imprint of Abdo Publishing, a division of ABDO. 8-11 years

Answering the Cry for Freedom:

Stories of African Americans and the American Revolution

By Gretchen Woelfle, Illustrated by R. Gregory Christie

Even as American Patriots fought for independence from British rule during the Revolutionary War, oppressive conditions remained in place for the thousands of enslaved and free African Americans living in this country. But African Americans took up their own fight for freedom by joining the British and American armies; preaching, speaking out, and writing about the evils of slavery; and establishing settlements in Nova Scotia and Africa.

The thirteen stories featured in this collection spotlight charismatic individuals who answered the cry for freedom, focusing on the choices they made and how they changed America both then and now. These individuals include: Boston King, Agrippa Hull, James Armistead Lafayette, Phillis Wheatley, Elizabeth “Mumbet” Freeman, Prince Hall, Mary Perth, Ona Judge, Sally Hemings, Paul Cuffe, John Kizell, Richard Allen, and Jarena Lee. Includes individual bibliographies and timelines, author note, and source notes. 9-12 years

The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.

If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author

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Books For Kids: The Moon

Moon: A Peek-Through Picture Book

By Britta Teckentrup

Over deserts and forests, Arctic tundra and tropical beaches, the moon shines down on creatures around the world. Children will discover how it changes from day to day as the lunar cycle is shown through peek-through holes, each revealing the moon in a different size and shape. 3-7 years

Moon! Earth’s Best Friend

By Stacy McAnulty, Illustrated by Stevie Lewis

Meet Moon! She’s more than just a rock―she’s Earth’s rock, her best friend she can always count on. She never turns her back on her friend (literally: she’s always facing Earth with the same side!) These two will stick together forever. With humor and charm, Stacy McAnulty channels the voice of Moon in this celestial “autobiography” in the Our Universe series. 4-8 years

The Moon Book

By Gail Gibbons

An up-to-date, clear and interesting introduction to our magnificent moon from the the award-winning author of science books for children. Shining light on all kinds of fascinating facts, this simple, introductory book includes information on how the moon affects the oceans’ tides, why the same side of the moon always faces earth, why we have eclipses, and more. 4-8 years

I Am the Moon

By Rebecca and James McDonald

Put on your spacesuit and helmet. Children ages will learn easy to follow facts through imaginative illustrations. 

The Moon is beautiful to look at in the night sky, and it also plays an important part in the cycle of life on Earth. And maybe someday it will be a place people call home. This book is a great starting point for teaching young children the basics. Colorful illustrations and facts explained in a fun and easy to follow way keep children’s attention. 3-5 years

How We Got to the Moon: The People, Technology, and Daring Feat of Science Behind Humanity’s Greatest Adventure

By John Rocco

Everyone knows of Neil Armstrong’s famous first steps on the moon. But what did it really take to get us there?

From the shocking launch of the Russian satellite Sputnik to the triumphant splashdown of Apollo 11, Caldecott Honor winner John Rocco answers every possible question about this world-altering mission. Each challenging step in the space race is revealed, examined, and displayed through diagrams, experiments, moments of crisis, and unforgettable human stories. Explorers of all ages will want to pour over every page in this book detailing the grandest human adventure of all time! 10 and up

Next Time You See the Moon

By Emily Morgan

Children will learn about many of the Moon’s mysteries: what makes it look like a silvery crescent one time and a chalk-white ball a few nights later, why it sometimes appears in the daytime, the science behind its shape, where it gets its light and how scientists can predict its shape on your birthday a thousand years from now. 5-10 years

Once in a Full Moon

By Carolinda Goodman, Illustrated by Mariia Luzina

Once a month a full moon rises in the night sky. But every time it does, this big gleaming circle has a different name! From January’s Wolf Moon to June’s Strawberry Moon to the Harvest Moon of September, in lively rhyme, this book tells the stories behind this monthly visitor, many of which come from Native American tradition. 3-7 years

If You Had Your Birthday Party on the Moon

By Joyce Lapin, Illustrated by Simona Ceccarelli

Have your birthday party on the moon and everyone will come! After all, who wouldn’t want to ride in a rocket and celebrate for a day that lasts as long as a month on Earth? Then, young partygoers could romp in a low-gravity playground; watch candles and balloons behave weirdly in the atmosphere; and see why the “moon angels” they make in the thick carpet of lunar dust will last for thousands of years. With each discovery, kids learn the science behind the surprise. Complete with sidebars and a glossary, this adventure is perfect for sharing at home and at school. 7 and up

50 Things to See on the Moon: A First-Time Stargazer’s Guide

By John A. Read

The moon is our nearest neighbor in space, it’s easy to find, it’s bright, and you don’t have to go anywhere special to view it. Astronomer John A. Read has selected fifty of the best things to see — organized by the phases of the Moon. As each day passes, an additional slice becomes visible. With each slice comes new craters, lunar seas, and jagged mountain ranges. This book is for a first-time stargazer who is curious about what is up there. 5-7 years

The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.

If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author

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Kids Books: Exploring Mars

Mars! Earthlings Welcome

By Stacy McAnulty, Illustrated by Stevie Lewis

Meet Mars! The red planet. Planet Marvelous. Favorite sibling of Earth (or so he claims). Sometimes they’re close (just 34.5 million miles apart). Sometimes they need space (250 million miles apart). Earth and Mars have a lot in common―clouds, mountains, polar icecaps. And while Earth has Earthlings, Mars makes a persuasive case for why people should make the journey to spend time with him. His day is 7 minutes longer. He is home to the largest volcano in the whole solar system. He’s, well, marvelous. 4-8 years

Mars First Friends

Mars First Friends: Come on Over Rovers!

By Susanna Leonard Hill, Illustrated by Elisa Paganelli

In a solar system full of planets, Mars feels all alone. All Mars wants is someone to play with, but all of the planets are just too busy. Mars can’t help but wonder…will he ever get a playmate? Until one day, Earth sends her little brother Mars his first friends: the rovers Spirit and Opportunity.

Learn about Mars’ rovers through this universal story about man’s―and Mars’―best friends―our beloved pets. This solar system book is the perfect book for little adventurers searching for more books on pets and space books for kids. 4-8 years

Curiosity: The Story of a Mars Rover

By Markus Motum

Maybe you remember when a little robotic spacecraft landed on a far-off planet. On August 6, 2012, the rover Curiosity touched down on the rocky surface of Mars — and now she’s ready to guide you through her journey firsthand. From idea to creation and beyond, this fact-filled book introduces readers to Curiosity and her mission: to discover more about the red planet and search for evidence of life.

How did Curiosity get her name? What tools does she use to carry out her tasks? In her own voice, the popular NASA rover tells how and why she traveled more than 350,000,000 miles to explore a planet no human has ever visited . . . and what she’s been doing there. 8-12 years

The Mighty Mars Rover: The Incredible Adventures of Spirt and Opportunity

By Elizabeth Rusch

On June 10, 2003, a little rover named Spirit blasted off on a rocket headed for Mars. On July 7, 2003, a twin rover named Opportunity soared through the solar system with the same mission: to find out if Mars ever had water that could have supported life. The Mighty Mars Rovers tells the story of the greatest space robot adventure of all time through the eyes—and heart—of Steven Squyres, professor of astronomy at Cornell University and lead scientist on the mission. This book captures the hair-raising human emotions felt during the adventures with two tough rovers. 10-12 years

National Geographic Reader: Mars

By Elizabeth Carney

Discover the fascinating world of Mars in this colorful book. In this format, kids will learn about the newest information on Mars, the Mars Rover, and our ongoing exploration of the Red Planet. This level 3 reader is written in an easy-to-grasp style to encourage the scientists and explorers of tomorrow! 6-9 years

Rover Throws a Party

Kristin L. Gray, Illustrated by Scott Magoon

It’s Rover’s anniversary on Mars! Time to celebrate by throwing the best party this planet has ever seen. Rover hands out invitations all over town, but it seems like he’s the only one around. Will anyone come to the party, or will Rover be all alone on his big day?

In 2013, NASA programmed their Curiosity rover to hum “Happy Birthday to You” in honor of its first year on Mars. Inspired by this anecdote, this is the tale of a lonely rover and his party, accompanied by fascinating Mars rover facts that help explain the real science behind the story. This fun birthday tale provides an accessible, kid-friendly look at one of NASA’s coolest programs. 3-7 years

Night Night, Curiosity

By Brianna Caplan, Illustrated by Ryan O’Rourke

In this rhyming bedtime book, a girl whose mother works at NASA imagines that she’s exploring Mars with the Curiosity rover as she gets ready for bed. She describes taking off, observing Mars, communicating with mission control, and operating the rover. Young space explorers everywhere will want to head for Mars, too. 3-7 years

Red Rover: Curiosity on Mars

By Richard Ho, Illustrated by Katherine Roy

Mars has a visitor. It likes to roam…observe…measure…and collect. It explores the red landscape―crossing plains, climbing hills, and tracing the bottoms of craters―in search of water and life. It is not the first to visit Mars. It will not be the last. But it might be…the most curious. Join Curiosity on its journey across the red planet in this nonfiction picture book by Richard Ho, illustrated by Sibert Honor winner Katherine Roy. 3-6 years

Spirit and Oppy

By Rachel Viniguerra, Illustrated by Samantha Gottwalt

Have you heard the story of the twin sisters who explored the surface of Mars? They were NASA’s twin rovers, Spirit and Opportunity (or Oppy for short). The two sisters traveled to Mars in 2003 and explored the vast planet. Although Oppy’s mission was only meant to last 90 days, she explored for 15 years overcoming obstacles with creative solutions. The sisters showed the world just how much two small rovers can do right up until the end of their missions. 5-9 years

Exploring Space: From Galileo to the Mars Rover and Beyond

By Martin Jenkins, Illustrated by Stephen Biesty

For centuries, humans have looked up at the night sky and wondered what it’s like deep in space, far from Earth — and now we’ve begun to find out. We’ve landed on the moon, put robots on Mars, and sent space probes billions of miles to explore the far reaches of our solar system.  Find out what life is like on the International Space Station, what the chances are that we will ever settle on Mars, where in the solar system we might find alien life, and why visiting other stars will almost certainly remain a dream. Budding astronomers, junior astronauts, and anyone who has ever gazed up at the stars will enjoy this glimpse of the infinite wonders of space. 8-12 years

Moving to Mars

By Stef Wade, Illustrated by Erin Taylor

Mars likes peace and quiet and is not happy when unexpected visitors start showing up. But when they leave, Mars realizes being alone isn’t all that great. Mars reaches out to his space friends for comfort and help. Maybe Mars is a people planet after all! Author Stef Wade (A Place for Pluto) interweaves friendship and humor throughout the space story and seamlessly connects nonfiction information to the narrative in the back matter. 5-7 years

The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.

If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author

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Kids Books: George Washington Carver

The Secret Garden of George Washington Carver

By Gene Barretta, Illustrated by Frank Morrison

When George Washington Carver was just a young child, he had a secret: a garden of his own.

Here, he rolled dirt between his fingers to check if plants needed more rain or sun. He protected roots through harsh winters, so plants could be reborn in the spring. He trimmed flowers, spread soil, studied life cycles. And it was in this very place that George’s love of nature sprouted into something so much more—his future.

A Weed is a Flower: The Life of George Washington Carver

By Aliki

Discover how George Washington Carver went from a slave to an innovator of agricultural science in this illustrated picture book. Born a slave, he went on to become the most prominent black scientist of the early twentieth century.

I Am George Washington Carver

By Brooke Vitale

With the help of inventor, painter, musician, and botanist George Washington Carver, Brad, Xavier, and Yadina come together to learn how to take care of the Earth.

Who Was George Washington Carver?

By Jim Gigliotti, Illustrated by Stephen Marchesi

Born in 1860s Missouri, nobody expected George Washington Carver to succeed. Slaves were not allowed to be educated. After the Civil War, Carver enrolled in classes and proved to be a star student. He became the first black student at Iowa State Agricultural College and later its first black professor. He went on to the Tuskegee Institute where he specialized in botany (the study of plants) and developed techniques to grow crops better. His work with vegetables, especially peanuts, made him famous and changed agriculture forever. He went on to develop nearly 100 household products and over 100 recipes using peanuts.

In the Garden with Dr. Carver

By Susan Grigsby, Illustrated by Nicole Tadgell

Sally is a young girl living in rural Alabama in the early 1900s, a time when people were struggling to grow food in soil that had been depleted by years of cotton production. One day, Dr. George Washington Carver shows up to help the grown-ups with their farms and the children with their school garden. He teaches them how to restore the soil and respect the balance of nature. He even prepares a delicious lunch made of plants, including “chicken” made from peanuts.  Sally never forgets the lessons this wise man leaves in her heart and mind. Susan Grigsby’s warm story shines new light on a Black scientist who was ahead of his time.

George Washington Carver: His Life and Discoveries with 21 Activities

By Peggy Thomas

George Washington Carver was a scientist, educator, artist, inventor, and humanitarian. Born into slavery during the Civil War, he later pursued an education and would become the first black graduate from Iowa Agricultural College. Carver then took a teaching position at the Tuskegee Institute, founded by Booker T. Washington. There, Carver taught poor Southern farmers how to nourish the soil, conserve resources, and feed their families. He also developed hundreds of new products from the sweet potato, peanut, and other crops, and his discoveries gained him a place in the national spotlight.

George Washington Carver National Geographic Reader

By Kitson Jazynka

Take a bite into the fascinating history of peanut butter and the man who invented it. Through leveled text and engaging photos, kids meet George Washington Carver and learn about his important work with peanuts and other plants. This level 1 reader is carefully leveled for an early independent reading or read aloud experience, perfect to encourage the scientists and explorers of tomorrow!

The Groundbreaking, Chance-Taking Life of George Washington Carver and Science and Invention

By Cheryl Harness

This is the inspiring story of a man who rose from slavery to worldwide fame as America’s Plant Doctor. Follow the action as Confederate raiders kidnap young Carver-along with his mother and siblings-and sell them to Arkansas slaveholders. Here, whooping cough threatens George’s life, yet the disease will be the key to his future. Unable to work in the fields, he spends his days studying plants. His desire for knowledge leads him to the rich farmlands of Iowa, where he becomes the first black student-and later the first black faculty member-at the state university.

Carver pioneers hundreds of new uses for plants and revolutionizes American agriculture by teaching farmers the value of rotating cotton with nitrogen-rich crops. Our hero dines at the White House, works with Henry Ford, and testifies to Congress. The book’s vivid illustrations are an invitation to step back in time and become an active participant in this compelling story. 

George Washington Carver: More Than “The Peanut Man”

By Janet Rodriquez, Illustrated by Subi Bosa

Born enslaved during the Civil War in Diamond, Missouri, George Washington Carver was an agricultural scientist and inventor. He promoted alternative crops to cotton and methods to prevent soil depletion. Among his many accomplishments, he developed more than 300 industrial and commercial products from peanuts. It is time to remember how George Washington Carver’s inventions and his contributions changed our society… and our world! 8-10 years

Masterminds: George Washington Carver

By Izzi Howell

George Washington Carver was born a slave, but became one of the most prominent scientists and inventors in U.S. history. As an agricultural scientist, Carver promoted the idea of growing peanuts and sweet potatoes to be used in over a hundred different ways. He also spent his time championing various efforts in agricultural education in the South. Masterminds readers how Carver, made massive contributions to his field and how his story and discoveries remain relevant today.

Fantastic Kids: George Washington Carver

By Michelle Jovin

George Washington Carver was born into slavery. No one thought much of him because he was sick and weak. He would spend his life proving them wrong. Learn more about the “Plant Doctor” turned “Peanut Man” and how he helped people across the United States. This biography includes a glossary and a table of contents to engage students in reading as they develop their comprehension and literacy skills. This book aligns with national and state standards and features TIME For Kids content to keep grade 2 students engaged in learning.

The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.

If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author

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Books For Kids: Maya Angelou

BOOKS FOR KIDS: MAYA ANGELOU

Rise! From Caged Bird to Poet of the People, Maya Angelou

By Bethany Hegedus, Illustrated by Tonya Engel

Writer, activist, trolley car conductor, dancer, mother, and humanitarian Maya Angelou’s life was marked by transformation and perseverance. In this picture-book biography geared towards older readers, Bethany Hegedus lyrically traces Maya’s life from her early days in Stamps, Arkansas, through her work as a freedom fighter to her triumphant rise as a poet of the people.

A foreword by Angelou’s grandson, Colin A. Johnson, describes how a love of literature and poetry helped young Maya overcome childhood trauma and turn adversity into triumph. Coupled with Tonya Engel’s metaphorical and emotive illustrations, this biography beautifully conveys the heartaches and successes of this truly phenomenal woman, and is a powerful tribute to the written word.

Who Was Maya Angelou?

By Ellen Labrecque, Illustrated by Dede Putra

Born in Missouri in 1928, Maya Angelou had a difficult childhood. Jim Crow laws segregated blacks and whites in the South. Her family life was unstable at times. But much like her poem, “Still I Rise,” Angelou was able to lift herself out of her situation and flourish. She moved to California and became the first black—and first female—streetcar operator before following her interest in dance. She became a professional performer in her twenties and toured the U.S. and Europe as an opera star and calypso dancer. But Angelou’s writing became her defining talent. Her poems and books, including I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, brought her international acclaim.

Maya Angelou, Little People Big Dreams

By Lisbeth Kaiser, Illustrated by Leire Salaberria

Maya Angelou spent much of her childhood in Stamps, Arkansas. After a traumatic event at age eight, she stopped speaking for five years. However, Maya rediscovered her voice through wonderful books, and went on to become one of the world’s most beloved writers and speakers. This book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of Maya Angelou’s life.

Maya Angelou, My Itty-Bitty Bio

By Emma E. Haldy, Illustrated by Jeff Bane

The My Itty-Bitty Bio series are biographies for the earliest readers. This book examines the life of Maya Angelou in a simple, age-appropriate way that will help children develop word recognition and reading skills. Includes a timeline and other informative backmatter.

Maya Angelou, Little Guides to Great Lives

By Danielle Jawando, Illustrated by Snir Noa

Maya Angelou was an African–American author, poet, playwright and civil rights activist. She wrote seven autobiographies, three books of essays, several books of poetry, and a long list of plays, films and television shows. Never taking “No” for an answer, Maya used her voice and her art to overcome prejudice and difficulty and to become an inspiration to those around her and to future generations.

Her story is a rich and remarkable one – a tale filled with strength, hardship and hope. Maya learned the importance of using her own voice to help others and change the world!

My Painted House, My Friendly Chicken, and Me

By Maya Angelou, Illustrated by Margaret Courtney-Clarke

Full color photographs. “Hello, Stranger-Friend” begins Maya Angelou’s story about Thandi, a South African Ndebele girl, her mischievous brother, her beloved chicken, and the astonishing mural art produced by the women of her tribe.  With never-before-seen photographs of the very private Ndebele women and their paintings, this unique book shows the passing of traditions from parent to child and introduces young readers to a new culture through a new friend.

Life Doesn’t Frighten Me

By Maya Angelou, Illustrated by Jean-Michel Basquiat

Shadows on the wall
Noises down the hall
Life doesn’t frighten me at all
 
Maya Angelou’s brave, defiant poem celebrates the courage within each of us, young and old. From the scary thought of panthers in the park to the unsettling scene of a new classroom, fearsome images are summoned and dispelled by the power of faith in ourselves.

The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.

If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author

You may like Books For Kids: Writers https://www.barbaralowell.com/books-for-kids-writers

Books for Kids: Black History https://www.barbaralowell.com/books-for-kids-black-history

 

Kids Books: Mary Anning’s Dinosaur

Dinosaur Lady: The Daring Discoveries of Mary Anning, The First Paleontologist

By Linda Skeers, Illustrated by Marta Alvarez Miguéns

Mary Anning loved scouring the beach near her home in England for shells and fossils. She fearlessly climbed over crumbling cliffs and rocky peaks, searching for new specimens. One day, something caught Mary’s eye.

Bones. Dinosaur Bones.

Mary’s discoveries rocked the world of science and helped create a brand-new field of study: paleontology. But many people believed women couldn’t be scientists, so Mary wasn’t given the credit she deserved. Nevertheless, Mary kept looking and learning more, making discoveries that reshaped scientific beliefs about the natural world. Grades 1-4

The Fossil Hunter: How Mary Anning Unearthed the Truth About Dinosaurs, by Kate Winter

Have you ever found something mysterious? Something you had no idea what it was but you had this feeling it was important, that it held a secret? Mary Anning was a fossil hunter, scouring the cliffs and seashores of Lyme Regis for strange rocks and shells. Monstrous marine reptiles and dinosaurs had once reigned the land and seas here millions of years ago, disappearing only to leave mysterious traces for humans to puzzle over.

Mary’s fossils paved the way for modern paleontology and helped to piece together a picture of how the dinosaurs lived and evolved. Little did she know that 200 years later we would still be talking about her amazing discoveries and how she influenced our understanding of the history of the earth. 7-11 years

Mary Anning’s Curiosity

By Monica Kulling, Illustrated by Melissa Castrillon

Mary Anning, considered the world’s greatest fossilist, discovered her first big find at the age of twelve. This novel is an imaginative recreation of her childhood in early nineteenth-century Lyme Regis. Grades 2-7

Fossil Hunter: How Mary Anning Changed the Science of Prehistoric Life

By Cheryl Blackford

Mary Anning grew up on the south coast of England in a region rich in fossils. As teenagers, she and her brother Joseph discovered England’s first complete ichthyosaur. Poor and uneducated, Anning would become one of the most celebrated paleontologists ever, though in her time she supported herself selling by fossils and received little formal recognition. Her findings helped shape scientific thinking about extinction and prehistoric life long before Darwin published his famous work on evolution.

With photographs, and paleoart, Fossil Hunter introduces this self-taught scientist, now recognized as one of the greatest fossilists the world has ever known. Grade 5+

The Fossil Girl

By Catherine Brighton

It’s 1811. Ten-year-old Mary Anning, her brother Joe, and their widowed mother are eking out a meager existence running a little fossil shop in the seaside town of Lyme Regis. After a storm wipes out most of the shop’s merchandise, Mary and Joe begin the slow work of restocking the shelves. They search high and low for fossils, and one day Mary spots a huge eye in a cliff face high above the town. She resolves to bring the creature down no matter the risk. The exciting discovery and recovery of the first complete fossil of an Ichthyosaurus is told in a graphic novel format, perfect for reluctant readers. Grades K-3

Rare Treasures: Mary Anning and Her Remarkable Discoveries

By Don Brown

Before the word “dinosaur” was even coined, a young girl discovered a remarkable skeleton on the rocky beach at Lyme Regis in England. Thus began a lifelong passion for an extraordinary woman who became one of the first commercial fossil collectors. Born in 1799, Mary Anning spent a lifetime teaching herself about fossils and combing the rugged ribbon of shore near her home. Her work yielded an astounding treasure trove: fossils of long-extinct creatures that thrilled customers in her shop and excited early paleontologists.

Blind to the dangers of fossil-hunting and to the limitations imposed on women of her era, Mary Anning was a singular scientist who used her sharp eyes and clear mind to compose a picture of ancient life from the bones she unearthed. With his trademark prose and lyrical watercolors, Don Brown distills the life story of this rare treasure of a scientist. Grades Preschool-3

Stone Girl Bone Girl

By Laurence Anhot, Illustrated by Shelia Moxley

Mary Anning, a young girl found a fossilized sea monster, the most important prehistoric discovery of its time. This spectacular tale of a little girl who dared to be different and who followed her dreams will inspire young children. Learn how Mary discovered new fossils – and how her observations rocked the natural history world. Be inspired by Mary’s work as a woman in the field of science – especially as her achievements weren’t recognized until after her death. Grades K-3

History VIPs: Mary Anning

By Kay Barnham

‘She sells sea shells on the sea shore’ – and she really did! This rhyme is thought to have been written about Mary Anning, an amazing fossilist and dinosaur expert, who was almost unknown at the time she lived. This biography explores the life of Mary Anning, from her first fossil finds at the age of ten to her sales of important discoveries to wealthy scientists. Mary’s fossil finds made a great contribution to what scientists understood about pre-historic life.

Through the story of Mary Anning, readers learn about life and society in Victorian Britain. We learn what it was like to be born into a poor family and about the roles of women in society and in the field of science. Grades 4-6

Mary Anning and the Sea Dragon

By Jeannine Atkins, Illustrated by Michael Dooling

Mary Anning loved to scour the shores of Lyme Regis, England, where she was born in 1799, for stone sea lilies and shells. Her father had taught her how to use the tools with which she dug into the sand and scraped at the stones that fell from the cliffs. And he taught her how to  look hard for “curiosities.” 

One day, when she was eleven, Mary Anning spotted some markings on a wide, flat stone. She chipped at it with her hammer and chisel until the lines of a tooth emerged–and then those of another tooth. Weeks of persistent effort yielded a face about four feet long. But what creature was this? Her brother called it a sea dragon.

Many months later, Mary Anning still had not unearthed what she only then learned was called a fossil. But she found out that her discovery was precious and that the painstaking effort to uncover traces of ancient life was profoundly important. Jeannine Atkins’s engaging portrait is illustrated by Michael Dooling, whose paintings capture young Mary Anning’s devotion to her work, and all the joy she found in it. Grades K-4

The Dog That Dug for Dinosaurs

By Shirley Raye Redmond, Illustrated by Simon Sullivan

There once was a little dog named Tray. He lived in England with his owner, Mary Ann Anning. Besides Mary Ann, Tray loved one other thing: He loved to dig for dinosaur bones. Together he and Mary Ann found small bones, big bones, and even entire skeletons! People came from all around the world to see the bones they found.
This is the true story of Tray, the dog that dug for dinosaurs. Grades 1-3

The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers. You will notice that there is a discrepancy in Mary’s age when she found the dinosaur. 

If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or commenting below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author

You may like: Books For Kids: Dinosaur Hunters https://barbaralowell.com/books-for-kids-dinosaur-hunters/

Mary Anning Facts, National Geographic Kids https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/history/general-history/mary-anning-facts/

Books For Kids: Stephen Hawking

Stephen Hawking

By Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

When Stephen Hawking was a little boy, he used to stare up at the stars and wonder about the universe. Although he was never top of the class, his curiosity took him to the best universities in England, Oxford and Cambridge. It also led him to make one of the biggest scientific discoveries of the 20th century, Hawking radiation. This book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the brilliant physicist’s life. 4-7 years

Stay Curious: A Brief History of Stephen Hawking

By Kathleen Krull, Illustrated by Paul Brewer

As a young boy, Stephen Hawking loved to read, stargaze, and figure out how things worked. He looked at the world and always asked, Why?

He never lost that curiosity, which led him to make groundbreaking discoveries about the universe as a young man. Even being diagnosed with ALS didn’t slow Stephen down. Those questions kept coming. As his body weakened, Stephen’s mind expanded allowing him to unlock secrets of the universe and become one of the most famous scientists of all time.

Stephen always approached life with courage, a sense of humor, and endless curiosity. His story will encourage readers to look at the world around them with new eyes. 4-8 years

Who Was Stephen Hawking?

By Jim Gigliotti, Illustrated by Gregory Copeland

Stephen Hawking was born exactly three hundred years after the death of the scientist Galileo, so maybe it was written in the stars that he would become a famous scientist in his own right. Although he was diagnosed with a neurological disease at age 21, Stephen did not let the illness define his life.

Known for his groundbreaking work in physics, and identified by his wheelchair and computerized voice system, Stephen continued his research until his death in 2018. He is best known for his black hole theories and his best-selling book A Brief History of Time. Stephen Hawking is an example of a person who had a great mind, but an even greater spirit. 8-12 years

Stephen Hawking: Cosmologist Who Gets a Big Bang Out of the Universe

By Mike Venezia

Meet renowned physicist Stephen Hawking. This book presents the life and work of the British physicist who overcame the challenges of ALS to become one of the foremost scientists of the twentieth century.

This book combines a mix of historical reproductions, photos, and cartoon-style illustrations that bring to life Stephen Hawking’s work and contributions. 6-10 years

All About Stephen Hawking

By Chris Edwards, Illustrated by Amber Calderon

As an Oxford student, Stephen Hawking never expected that people across the world would know his name, or that his hobby of stargazing would lead him to be one of the world’s greatest scientists. Stephen Hawking made cosmology, or the study of the universe, accessible to everyone. 

He was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at the age of twenty-one, but didn’t let that stop him from receiving a graduate degree from Cambridge and going on to be an expert in the scientific origin of the universe and black holes. Hawking is best known for writing A Brief History of Time, which explained cosmology in non-scientific terms so that non-scientists could understand it. 10-12 years

The Living Einstein: The Stephen Hawking Story

By Dissected Lives

Despite his debilitating illness, Stephen Hawking found ways to share his knowledge of the universe. He was a bright man who was always hungry for knowledge. He experimented, studied and explored anything and everything from the physical world to the cosmos. Be inspired by his story. Learn from his discoveries. 8-12 years

Stephen Hawking: A Life Beyond Limits

By Alex Woolf

In 1974, Stephen Hawking shook the world of physics. His theory on black holes went against everything the science community accepted as fact. How did he make such revolutionary discoveries? From a childhood spent building model airplanes to recognition as one of the greatest scientists of his time, Stephen’s genius and endless curiosity powered his work. Find out how this boy who loved science became one of history’s greatest trailblazers! 8-13 years

The Extraordinary Life of Stephen Hawking

By Kate Scott, Illustrating by Ester Mols

Stephen Hawking was: a physicist, a cosmologist, an author and one of the cleverest people who ever lived. While studying at Oxford University, Stephen Hawking was diagnosed with motor neurone disease, which meant that eventually he was completely paralyzed, and could only talk via a computer.

But that never held him back, and because of his work on time and space, he changed the way the world thinks about the universe.

Discover more about the life of a man who is known for his incredible contribution to science. 7-12 years

Little Guides to Great Lives: Stephen Hawkings

By Isabel Thomas, Illustrated by Marianna Madiz

Stephen Hawking was one of the world’s most renowned scientists and cosmologists. His ground–breaking research into black holes and the Big Bang has helped to explain the beginnings of our universe and his book A Brief History of Time has sold over 10 million copies. Diagnosed with a form of motor neuron disease when he was a young man, Stephen was inspired to achieve his goals as fast as possible. Through incredible determination and skill, he became a legendary scientist, a best–selling author, and the man that changed the way we think about the universe.

The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.

If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author

You may like: Carl Sagan, The Boy Who Reached For the Stars https://barbaralowell.com/carl-sagan/

Books For Kids: Scientists https://barbaralowell.com/books-for-kids-scientists

Behind the Bookcase: Young Miep Gies

BEHIND THE BOOKCASE: MIEP GIES, ANNE FRANK AND THE HIDING PLACE

By Barbara Lowell, Illustrated by Valentina Toro

Miep Gies risked her life to keep a secret. Behind the bookcase in her office, stairs led to a hiding place where Anne Frank and her family hid from the Nazis. Once a refugee herself, Miep knew the power of kindness. Her selflessness, humanity, and bravery sheltered Anne for a time. Because of Miep, Anne Frank’s story lives on. –Behind the Bookcase Jacket

 YOUNG MIEP GIES

Miep Gies was born in Vienna, Austria, in 1909. Her name was Hermine Santrouschitz. After Austria’s loss in World War I, food was scarce and Miep became malnourished as many of Austria’s children did. Her parents were concerned that their eleven-year-old daughter might die.

Along with other families in the Netherlands, the Nieuwenhuises offered to take care of an Austrian child. Miep’s parents sent her to Leiden to live with the Dutch family. They called her Hermine at first, but then gave her the “affectionate Dutch nickname” Miep. Soon, Mr. and Mrs. Neiuwenhuise began to think of Miep as their adoptive child and the four boys in the family referred to her as one of their two sisters.

Through their kindness and lots of Dutch bread, butter, milk, cheese and chocolate, Miep grew healthy. Her foster father took her to school where the children grabbed her hands, sat her down, and taught her to speak Dutch. Soon, Miep was the top student in her class.

Miep embraced the Dutch life. She rode a bicycle for the first time, learned to make butter sandwiches, talked about what she read in the newspaper and learned to love classical music. But ice skating on a frozen canal was something she tried once but would never try again.

When she was thirteen, Miep and her new family moved to Amsterdam. She loved its movie theaters, electric streetcars, the canals winding through the city, the beautiful flower stalls, and all the bicycles racing along the city’s bike paths.

When she was sixteen, she visited her Austrian family. Miep told them that she had grown to love living in Amsterdam and wanted to stay there. She considered herself to be Dutch now. Her parents gave their permission and Miep returned to Amsterdam and her life with the Nieuwenhuise family. In 1941, she married Jan Gies. From the time she was eleven until her death in 2010, at age 100, Miep Gies lived a proud Dutch life.

To learn more about Behind the Bookcase visit https://barbaralowell.com/books-2/behind-the-bookcase/

To learn more about Miep Gies, visit http://www.miepgies.nl/en/

 

 

Books For Kids: September 11

America is Under Attack: September 11, 2001 the Day the Towers Fell

By Don Brown

The events of September 11, 2001, changed the world forever. Don Brown narrates the events of the day in a way that is both accessible and understandable for young readers. Straightforward and honest, this account moves chronologically through the morning, from the terrorist plane hijackings to the crashes at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Pennsylvania; from the rescue operations at the WTC site in New York City to the collapse of the buildings. Watercolor illustrations capture the emotion and pathos of the tragedy making this an important book about an unforgettable day in American history. Grades 1-4

Survivor Tree

By Marcie Colleen, Illustrated by Aaron Becker

This hopeful story of a resilient tree that grew (and still grows) at the base of the twin towers is a simple introduction for young readers to gain an understanding of September 11th and the impact it had on America.

One September day, the perfect blue sky exploded. Dust billowed. Buildings crumbled. And underneath it all, a tree sprouted green leaves in its distress. Pulled from the wreckage, the tree saw many seasons pass as it slowly recovered far away from home. Until one day, forever scarred and forever stronger, it was replanted at the 9/11 Memorial.

This story of the real Survivor Tree uses nature’s cycle of colors to reflect on the hope and healing that come after a tragedy—and assures readers of their own remarkable resilience. 4-8 years

Towers Falling

By Jewell Parker Rhodes

When her fifth-grade teacher hints that a series of lessons about home and community will culminate with one big answer about two tall towers once visible outside their classroom window, Dèja can’t help but feel confused. She sets off on a journey of discovery, with new friends Ben and Sabeen by her side. But just as she gets closer to answering big questions about who she is, what America means, and how communities can grow and heal, she uncovers new questions. Like, why does Pop get so angry when she brings up anything about the towers?

Jewell Parker Rhodes tells a story about young people who weren’t alive to witness this defining moment in history, but begin to realize how much it colors their every day. Grades 3-7

What Were the Twin Towers

By Jim O’Connor, Illustrated by Ted Hammond

Discover the true story of the Twin Towers—how they came to be the tallest buildings in the world and why they were destroyed.

When the Twin Towers were built in 1973, they were billed as an architectural wonder. At 1,368 feet, they clocked in as the tallest buildings in the world and changed the New York City skyline dramatically. Offices and corporations moved into the towers—also known as the World Trade Center—and the buildings were seen as the economic hub of the world. But on September 11, 2001, a terrorist attack toppled the towers and changed our nation forever. Discover the whole story of the Twin Towers—from their ambitious construction to their tragic end. Grades 3-7

National Geographic Readers: September 11

By Libby Romero

The events of September 11, 2001, changed the world forever. With photographs and sensitive, age-appropriate text, this Level 3 reader recounts the shocking attacks at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Pennsylvania. This book explains who was behind the attacks, and celebrates the spirit of hope that emerged through the inspiring story of rescue and recovery and the heroes who raced to save lives. 5-8 years

Fireboat: The Heroic Adventures of the John J. Harvey

By Maira Kalman

The John J. Harvey fireboat was the largest, fastest, shiniest fireboat of its time, but by 1995, the city didn’t need old fireboats anymore. So the Harvey retired, until a group of friends decided to save it from the scrap heap. Then, one sunny September day in 2001, something so horrible happened that the whole world shook. A call came from the fire department, asking if the Harvey could battle the roaring flames. In this true story, Maira Kalman brings a New York City icon to life and proves that old heroes never die. Preschool – 3rd Grade

The Survivor Tree: Inspired by a True Story

By Cheryl Somers Aubin, Illustrated by Shelia Harrington

The Survivor Tree: Inspired by a True Story takes the reader on a journey of hope and healing that parallels our nation’s own journey following the events of September 11, 2001.

A month after the collapse of the Twin Towers, workers on the site discovered a few green leaves showing through the gray concrete and ash. Clearing the debris, they found a badly injured Callery Pear Tree. She was rescued, taken to a nursery outside the city, and put in the care of Richie, a City Parks Worker. No one was sure if she would live. But the following spring, a dove built a nest in her branches and new green buds appeared.

Over the years, the tree, although still bearing scars, grew tall and strong. She is planted in a place of honor on the 9/11 Memorial Plaza and now known as “The 9/11 Survivor Tree.” This story describes the experience, memories, and feelings of the tree throughout her healing and her eventual return home. All profits from the sale of this book go to charity. 8-12 years

September 11 Then and Now

By Peter Benoit

Discover the events of September 11th, 2001, in one of the A True Book: Natural Disasters series. This book investigates the events leading up to the disaster, explores it causes, and ponders how the events changed, or could have altered history. 8-11years

Saved by the Boats: The Heroic Sea Evacuation of September 11

By Julie Gassman, Illustrated by Steve Moors

September 11, 2001, was a dark day in U.S. history. Amid the chaos, sea captains and crews raced by boat to the tragic Manhattan scene. Nearly 500,000 people on Manhattan Island were rescued that day in what would later be called the largest sea evacuation in history. In this story of heroism, we come to understand that in our darkest hours, people shine brightly as a beacon of hope. Grades 3-6

10 True Tales: Heroes of 9/11

By Allan Zallo

When Captain Jay Jonas of the Fire Department of New York hears an emergency radio message about the World Trade Center, he has no idea of the terrible conditions he and his team will face. Arriving at the burning building, the firefighters must summon all their courage. On the same morning, just outside Washington, D.C., a jetliner piloted by terrorists slams into the Pentagon. Can Colonel Philip McNair save lives inside the flaming building?

From the World Trade Center and the Pentagon to a hijacked plane above Pennsylvania, these ten stories of true American heroes on the day that changed America — September 11, 2001. Grades 3-7

Nine, Ten: A September 11 Story

By Nora Raleigh Baskin

Ask anyone: September 11, 2001, was serene and lovely, a perfect day—until a plane struck the World Trade Center.

But right now it is a few days earlier, and four kids in different parts of the country are going about their lives. Sergio, who lives in Brooklyn, is struggling to come to terms with the absentee father he hates and the grandmother he loves. Will’s father is gone, too, killed in a car accident that has left the family reeling. Naheed has never before felt uncomfortable about being Muslim, but at her new school she’s getting funny looks because of the head scarf she wears. Aimee is starting a new school in a new city and missing her mom, who has to fly to New York on business.

These four don’t know one another, but their lives are about to intersect in ways they never could have imagined. Nora Raleigh Baskin weaves together their stories into a novel about that seemingly perfect September day—the day our world changed forever. Grades 3-7

The books descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.

If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author

To Learn More Visit the National September 11 Memorial and Museum https://www.911memorial.org/

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