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The Pura Belpré Award for Illustration “is presented annually to the Latino/Latina writer and illustrator whose work best portrays, affirms, and celebrates the Latino cultural experiences in an outstanding work of literature” by the American Library Association. These are the 2012-2022 winners:
Pura Belpré Award for Illustration
2022
Vamos! Let’s Cross the Bridge
By Raul the III
People are always crossing the bridge for work, to visit family, or for play. Some going this way; others going that way. Back and forth they go. With friends on foot and in bicycles, in cars and trucks, the bridge is an incredibly busy place with many different types of vehicles.
Little Lobo and his dog Bernabé have a new truck and they are using it to carry party supplies over the bridge with their pals El Toro and La Oink Oink. The line is long and everyone on the bridge is stuck. How will they pass the time? Eventually everyone comes together for an epic party on the bridge between two different countries. Richard Scarry’s Cars and Trucks and Things That Go gets Mexican American makeover in this joyful story about coming together.
2021
Vamos! Let’s Go Eat
By Raul the Third
Little Lobo returns to share his love of food and wrestling in this delicious follow-up to Vamos! Let’sGo to the Market from Pura Belpré Medal-winning illustrator Raúl the Third.
In this new Vamos! title, Let’s Go Eat, Little Lobo is excited to take in a show with wrestling star El Toro in his bustling border town. After getting lunch orders from The Bull and his friends to help prepare for the event, Little Lobo takes readers on a tour of food trucks that sell his favorite foods, like quesadillas with red peppers and Mexican-Korean tacos. Peppered with easy-to-remember Latin-American Spanish vocabulary, this glorious celebration of food is sure to leave every reader hungry for lunch!
2020
Dancing Hands:
How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for Abraham Lincoln
By Margarita Engle, Illustrated by Rafael Lopez
As a little girl, Teresa Carreño loved to let her hands dance across the beautiful keys of the piano. If she felt sad, music cheered her up, and when she was happy, the piano helped her share that joy. Soon she was writing her own songs and performing in grand cathedrals. Then a revolution in Venezuela forced her family to flee to the United States. Teresa felt lonely in this unfamiliar place, where few of the people she met spoke Spanish. Worst of all, there was fighting in her new home, too—the Civil War.
Still, Teresa kept playing, and soon she grew famous as the talented Piano Girl who could play anything from a folk song to a sonata. So famous, in fact, that President Abraham Lincoln wanted her to play at the White House! Yet with the country torn apart by war, could Teresa’s music bring comfort to those who needed it most?
2019
Dreamers
Written and illustrated by Yuyi Morales
In 1994, Yuyi Morales left her home in Xalapa, Mexico and came to the U.S. with her infant son. She left behind nearly everything she owned, but she didn’t come empty-handed. Yuyi brought her strength, her work, her passion, her hopes and dreams and her stories. Dreamers is about making a home in a new place. Yuyi and her son Kelly’s passage was not easy, and Yuyi spoke no English at the time. But together, they found an unexpected, unbelievable place: the public library. There, book by book, they untangled the language of this new land and learned to make it their home. 4-8 years
2018
La Princesa and the Pea
Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
Written by Susan Middleton Elya
El principe knows this girl is the one for him, but as usual, his mother doesn’t agree. The queen has a secret test in mind to see if this girl is really a princess, but the prince might just have a sneaky plan, too… 4-8 years
2017
Lowriders to the Center of the Earth
Illustrated by Raul Gonzalez
Written by Cathy Camper
Elirio Malaria and El Chavo Octopus are living their dream at last. They’re the proud owners of their very own garage. But when their beloved cat Genie goes missing, they need to do everything they can to find him. Little do they know the trail will lead them to the realm of Mictlantecuhtli, the Aztec god of the Underworld, who is keeping Genie prisoner. 3-7 years
2016
Drum Dream Girl
Illustrated by Rafael Lopez
Written by Margarita Engle
Girls cannot be drummers. Long ago on an island filled with music, no one questioned that rule — until the drum dream girl did. In her city of drumbeats, she dreamed of pounding tall congas and tapping small bongos. She had to keep quiet. She had to practice in secret. But when at last her dream-bright music was heard, everyone sang and danced and decided that both girls and boys should be free to drum and dream. 4-7 years
2015
Viva Frida
Written and illustrated by Yuyi Morales
Frida Kahlo, one of the world’s most famous and unusual artists revered around the world. Her life was filled with laughter, love, and tragedy, all of which influenced what she painted on her canvases. 4-8 years
2014
Niño Wrestles the World
Written and illustrated by Yuyi Morales
Fwap! Slish! Bloop! Krunch! He takes down his competition in a single move! No opponent is too big a challenge for the cunning skills of Niño — popsicle eater, toy lover, somersault expert, and world champion lucha libre competitor! Niño Wrestles the World is in English with Spanish vocabulary and is the colorful story about a boy wrestling with imaginary monsters and adversaries like his younger sisters. 4-8 years
2013
Martin de Porres: The Rose in the Desert
Illustrated by David Diaz
Written by Gary D. Schmidt
As the illegitimate son of a Spanish nobleman and a former slave, Martin de Porres was born into extreme poverty. Even so, his mother begged the church fathers to allow him into the priesthood. Instead, Martin was accepted as a servant boy. But soon, the young man was performing miracles. Rumors began to fly around the city of a strange mulatto boy with healing hands, who gave first to the people of the barrios. Martin continued to serve the church, until he was finally received by the Dominican Order, no longer called the worthless son of a slave, but rather a saint and the rose in the desert. 6-9 years
2012
Diego Rivera: His World and Ours
Written and illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh
This book introduces one of the most popular artists of the twentieth century, Diego Rivera, to young readers. It tells the story of Diego as a young, mischievous boy who demonstrated a clear passion for art and then went on to become one of the most famous painters in the world. 6-9 years
If you like this post, please consider sharing it and/or leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Satchmo’s Blues
By Alan Schroeder, Illustrated by Floyd Cooper
On hot summer nights in New Orleans, a boy named Louis Armstrong would peek under the big swinging doors of Economy Hall and listen to the jazz band. The best night was Friday, when Bunk Johnson would blow his cornet till the roof trembled. At moments like those, Louis could feel his toes tingle. He wanted to be like Bunk Johnson; aim his horn straight up at the night sky and set the stars spinning.
One day Louis saw a horn in a pawnshop window — a real brass cornet. The cardboard sign said $5.00. How could he ever come up with that much money? Every day Louis did what he could to earn that five dollars, and every day he practiced blowing his imaginary horn. It was a dream he would never give up. Louis Armstrong’s dynamic personality and amazing trumpet playing would cast a spell on millions of people around the world, to whom he will always be the one and only Satchmo, the Ambassador of Jazz. 3-7 years
Just a Lucky So and So
By Lesa Cline-Ransome, Illustrated by James E. Ransome
Louis Armstrong has been called the most important improviser in the history of jazz. Although his New Orleans neighborhood was poor in nearly everything, it was rich in superb music. Young Louis took it all in, especially the cornet blowing of Joe “King” Oliver. But after a run-in with the police, eleven-year-old Louis was sent away to the Colored Waif’s Home for Boys where he became a disciplined musician in the school’s revered marching band. Ultimately, he was to travel the world and transform jazz through his improvised singing (scatting) and masterful trumpet playing. 6-9 years
Who Was Louis Armstrong?
By Yona Zeldis McDonough, Illustrated by John O’Brien
If not for a stint in reform school, young Louis Armstrong might never have become a musician. It was a teacher at the Colored Waifs Home for Boys who gave him a cornet and saw talent in the kid from the tough New Orleans neighborhood called Storyville. But it was Louis’s own passion and genius that pushed jazz into a new and exciting direction with his amazing, improvisational trumpet playing. 8-12 years
A Horn for Louis: Louis Armstrong as a Kid
By Eric A. Kimmel, Illustrated by James Bernardin
How did famous New Orleans jazz trumpet player Louis Armstrong get his first horn? Seven-year-old Louis was too poor to buy a real instrument. He didn’t even go to school. To help his mother pay the rent, every day he rode a junk wagon through the streets of New Orleans, playing a tin horn and collecting stuff people didn’t want. One day, he passed a pawn shop with a gleaming brass trumpet in the window… 7-10 years
Play, Louis, Play! The Story of a Boy and His Horn
By Muriel Harris Weinstein, Illustrated by Frank Morrision
The childhood of Louis Armstrong was as fascinating as the great musician himself. This chapter book biography is written from the point of view of Louis’s closest companion throughout his youth: his horn! In an exuberant voice, this unusual narrator tells Louis’s story beginning with the small New Orleans hock shop where he bought his first trumpet for five hard-earned dollars. He goes from a street quartet to the marching band of the Colored Waif’s Home to the big sounds of New Orleans. 7-10 years
Louis Armstrong Jazz Legend
By Terry Collins, Illustrated by Richie Pope
Louis Armstrong, also known as Satchmo and Pops, became an American jazz legend in the 1920s. His voice and skill with instruments helped him become a popular musician in the racially divided country. Watch as this skilled musician learns to play, buys his first instrument, and becomes one of the best music makers ever. 8-14 years
If I Only Had a Horn: Young Louis Armstrong
By Roxanne Orgill, Illustrated by Leonard Jenkins
This book tells the story of Louis Armstrong who grew up to be a giant of jazz. As a poor boy in New Orleans, where music was everywhere, he longed to play a horn. 9-12 years
Louis Armstrong: King of Jazz
By Patricia and Frederick McKissack
“Music has been in my blood from the day I was born,” Louis Armstrong said. He rose from a troubled childhood and a life of poverty to set the music world on fire. Armstrong’s lively trumpet playing, trademark “scat” singing, and natural talent for showmanship dazzled audiences for more than fifty years. 6-9 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Brown Girl Dreaming
By Jacqueline Woodson
Raised in South Carolina and New York, Jacqueline Woodson always felt halfway home in each place. In vivid poems, she shares what it was like to grow up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s, living with the remnants of Jim Crow and her growing awareness of the Civil Rights movement. 10 and up
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History
By Vashti Harrison
Meet 40 trailblazing women who broke barriers of race and gender to pave the way for future generations. This book brings to life both iconic and lesser-known female figures of black history including: abolitionist Sojourner Truth, pilot Bessie Coleman, chemist Alice Ball, and poet Maya Angelou. 8-11 years
Thurgood
By Jonah Winter, Illustrated by Bryan Collier
Thurgood Marshall was a born lawyer–the loudest talker, funniest joke teller, and best arguer from the time he was a kid growing up in Baltimore in the early 1900s. He would go on to become the star of his high school and college debate teams, a stellar law student at Howard University, and, as a lawyer, a one-man weapon against the discriminatory laws against black Americans. After only two years at the NAACP, he was their top lawyer and had earned himself the nickname Mr. Civil Rights. He argued–and won–cases before the Supreme Court, including one of the most important cases in American history: Brown v Board of Education. And he became the first black U.S. Supreme Court Justice in history. 5-9 years
Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library
By Carole Boston Weatherford, Illustrated by Eric Velasquez
Amid the scholars, poets, authors, and artists of the Harlem Renaissance stood an Afro-Puerto Rican named Arturo Schomburg. This law clerk’s life’s passion was to collect books, letters, music and art from Africa and the African diaspora. He wanted to bring to light the achievements of people of African descent through the ages. When Schomburg’s collection became so big it began to overflow his house, he turned to the New York Public Library. He created and curated a collection that was the cornerstone of the new Negro Division. A century later, his groundbreaking collection, known as the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, has become a beacon to scholars all over the world. 9-12 years
Young, Gifted and Black:
Meet 52 Heroes from the Past and Present
By Jamie Wilson, Illustrated by Andrea Pippins
Young, Gifted and Black introduces historic and present-day icons and heroes. Meet figureheads, leaders and pioneers like Martin Luther King, Jr., Nelson Mandela and Rosa Parks as well as cultural trailblazers and athletes like Stevie Wonder, Oprah Winfrey and Serena Williams. Strong, courageous, talented and diverse, these extraordinary men and women’s achievements will inspire a new generation to chase their dreams. 9-12 years
28 Days: Black History That Changed the World
By Charles R. Smith, Illustrated by Shane W. Evans
Each day features a different influential figure in African-American history. Young readers will learn about Crispus Attucks, the first man shot at the Boston Massacre, Madame C.J. Walker, who after years of adversity became the wealthiest black woman in the country, Barack Obama, the America’s first African-American president and many more important men and women. 6-10 years
Heroes of Black History: Biographies of Four Great Americans
By The Editors of Time for Kids
This book presents the stories of four great American heroes every child should know. In one volume children will learn about Harriet Tubman, Jackie Robinson, Rosa Parks, and Barack Obama. Heroes of Black History shines a light on the long fight for social justice in the United States as it highlights the accomplishments and personal histories of these four pivotal Americans. 8 and up
Let the Children March
By Monica Clark-Robinson, Illustrated by Frank Morrison
I couldn’t play on the same playground as the white kids.
I couldn’t go to their schools.
I couldn’t drink from their water fountains.
There were so many things I couldn’t do.
In 1963 Birmingham, Alabama, thousands of African American children volunteered to march for their civil rights after hearing Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. speak. They protested the laws that kept black people separate from white people. Facing fear, hatred, and danger, these children used their voices to change the world. 6-9 years
Hidden Figures:
The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race
By Margot Lee Shetterly, Illustrated by Laura Freeman
Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden were good at math…really good. They participated in some of NASA’s greatest successes. They provided the calculations for America’s first journeys into space. They did this at a time when being black and a woman limited their options. But they worked hard. They persisted. And they used their genius to change the world. 4-8 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
To Dare Mighty Things: The Life of Theodore Roosevelt
By Doreen Rappaport, Illustrated by C.F. Payne
President Theodore Roosevelt is known as “the man with a plan,” and the “rough rider.” His figure stands tall in American history. And his legacy stretches him to larger-than-life proportions. But before his rise to fame, he was just “Teedie,” a boy with ambitious dreams to change the world, and the conviction to see his stupendous imaginings brought to fruition.
As an American president, he left an impressive mark upon his country. He promised a “square deal” to all citizens, he tamed big businesses, and protected the nation’s wildlife and natural beauty. His fearless leadership assured that he would always be remembered, and his robust spirit now dares others to do mighty things. 6 and up
A Fine Little Bad Boy: Quentin Roosevelt in the White House
By Barbara Lowell, Illustrated by Antonio Marinoni
Based on the true escapades of Quentin Roosevelt, this bighearted picture book is about a boy full of mischief who craves his famous father’s attention.
Quentin may be the “littlest Roosevelt,” but he soon rivals his father, the famous Teddy, as the biggest personality in the White House of the early 1900’s. From roller skating in the halls to shooting spitballs at Andrew Jackson’s portrait. From swimming in the fountains to taking a pony for an elevator ride. This “fine little bad boy” takes full advantage of his father’s long tenure as president, believing the good times will never end. 4-8 years
You’re on Your Way, Teddy Roosevelt
By Judith St. George, Illustrated by Matt Faulkner
Before Teddy Roosevelt became famous as a statesman, naturalist, colonel in the Spanish-American War, and twenty-sixth president of the United States, he was a young boy called “Teedie” who struggled with terrible asthma. Overcoming his illness was a major battle in his young life. With determination to make himself strong and healthy, he set the course for his amazing accomplishments to come. 5-9 years
Teedie: The Story of Young Teddy Roosevelt
By Don Brown
Teedie was not exactly the stuff of greatness: he was small for his size. Delicate. Timid. Nervous. By the time he was ten years old he had a frail body and weak eyes. He was deviled by asthma, tormented by bullies. His favorite place to be was at home. Some may think that because of these things, Teedie was destined for a ho-hum life. But they would be wrong. For Teedie had a strong mind, as well as endless curiosity and determination. Is that all? No. Teedie had ideas of his own — lots of them. It wasn’t long before the world knew him as Theodore Roosevelt, the youngest president of the United States. 4-7 years
Teddy Roosevelt Was a Moose?
By Dan Gutman, Illustrated by Allison Steinfeld
Did you know that Theodore Roosevelt was shot before a rally, and went on to give his speech with the bullet in his chest? Or that he skinny-dipped in the Potomac River? Bet you didn’t know that he had a zebra, a lion, and a one-legged rooster at the White House! Siblings Paige and Turner have collected some of the most unusual and surprising facts about the larger-than-life president, from his childhood and his Rough Rider days to his rise to politics and his complicated presidential legacy. 6-8 years
Who Was Teddy Roosevelt?
By Michael Burgan, Illustrated by Jerry Hoare
He was only 42 years old when he was sworn in as president of the United States in 1901 — making him the youngest president ever. He was also the first sitting president to win the Nobel Peace Prize, to ride in a car, and to fly in an airplane. Theodore Roosevelt’s achievements as a naturalist, explorer, author, and soldier are as much a part of his fame as any office he held as a politician. 8-12 years
I Am Theodore Roosevelt
By Brooke Vitale
Based on the children’s book series Ordinary People Change the World by New York Times bestselling author Brad Meltzer and illustrator Christopher Eliopoulos, the series will introduce kids to inspiring historical figures and the character virtues that helped them succeed.
Brad does not like creepy crawly things and has marked the entire playground as a No-Go Zone! The Secret Museum sends him, Xavier, and Yadina to meet Theodore Roosevelt who helps them learn that creepy crawly things need space to live, too. 3-5 years
Teddy! The Remarkable Tale of a President, a Cartoonist, a Toymaker, and a Bear
By James Sage, Illustrated by Lisk Feng
James Sage uses a playful blend of fact and fiction to tell this entertaining tale. The story goes that on a hunting trip in 1902, President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt refused to shoot a bear. “Me? Shoot that little fellow?” he said. “Why, if I so much as ruffled his fur, I’d never be able to look my children in the eyes again!” When a political cartoonist shared the story in the newspaper, New York shopkeepers Rosie and Morris Michtom were impressed by the president’s big, warm heart. So, they decided to create a Teddy bear in his honor to sell in their store. The bear was so popular, they made another one. And another. Before they knew it, they had to build a factory to accommodate the demand. It seemed every child wanted a teddy bear of their own! 4-8 years
Bully For You Teddy Roosevelt
By Jean Fritz, Illustrated by Mike Wimmer
Newbery Honor-winning author and preeminent biographer for young people, Jean Fritz, brings to life our colorful 26th president. Conservationist, hunter, family man, and politician, Teddy Roosevelt commanded the respect and admiration of many who marveled at his energy, drive and achievements. 8-12 years
Take a Hike, Teddy Roosevelt
By Frank Murphy, Illustrated by Richard Walz
A Step 3 Step into Reading Biography Reader about Theodore Roosevelt, America’s 26th president — and his efforts to protect our environment and establish national parks. Roosevelt battled asthma all his life, and the list of things he shouldn’t do was long. But when people told him “you can’t” he set about proving them wrong. This book focuses on his inexhaustible enthusiasm and his commitment to preserving America’s natural resources. 5-8 years
The Camping Trip That Changed America
By Barb Rosenstock, Illustrated by Mordicai Gerstein
Caldecott medalist Mordicai Gerstein captures the majestic redwoods of Yosemite in this little-known but important story from our nation’s history. In 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt joined naturalist John Muir on a trip to Yosemite. Camping by themselves in the uncharted woods, the two men saw sights and and held discussions that would ultimately lead to the establishment of our national parks. 6-9 years
What to do About Alice?
By Barbara Kerley, Illustrated by Edwin Fotheringham
Theodore Roosevelt had a small problem. Her name was Alice. Alice Lee Roosevelt was hungry to go places, meet people, do things. Father called it running riot. Alice called it eating up the world. Whether she was entertaining important White House visitors with her pet snake or traveling the globe, Alice bucked convention and turned every new experience into an adventure! Brimming with affection and wit, this spirited biography gives readers a peek at family life inside the White House. 7-10 years
The Remarkable Rough-Riding Life of Theodore Roosevelt
and the Rise of Empire America
By Cheryl Harness
How did a sickly boy transform himself into one of the country’s boldest leaders? Through the lively narrative and engaging artwork, readers will see Teddy riding the range in South Dakota, charging up San Juan Hill in the Spanish-America War, and climbing the political ladder all the way to the White House. 8-12 years
Being Teddy Roosevelt, a Boy, A President, and a Plan
By Claudia Mills, Illustrated by R.W. Alley
Riley O’Rourke is writing his report on President Teddy Roosevelt in preparation for the fourth grade biography tea. But he has a far more important goal: to get a saxophone so he can take instrumental music. His mother can’t afford to rent a sax. He’s sure he’ll never save up enough money to buy one. But as Riley learns more about Roosevelt’s “bully” spirit, he realizes that there just might be a way to solve his problem after all. 7-10 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Walt’s Imagination: The Life of Walt Disney
By Doreen Rappaport, Illustrated by John Pomeroy
From his childhood in rural Missouri to his legendary stature as a film and television icon, Walt Disney governed his life with imagination, ingenuity, and scrupulous attention to detail. Charting Walt’s progression from farm boy to actor, to artist, animator, director, and entertainment celebrity, his own words are presented within the author’s compelling prose. 6-9 years
Who Was Walt Disney?
By Whitney Stewart, Illustrated by Nancy Harrison
Walt Disney always loved to entertain people. This biography for kids 8-12 reveals the man behind the magic we all love.
When Walt Disney Rode a Pig
By Mark Andrew Weakland, Illustrated by Pablo Pino
Walt Disney forever changed the world when he made his animation and entertainment dreams come true. For millions of people, “Disney” and “magic” are inextricably connected. But what was Walt like as a child? He fed his imagination by going to parades and plays, riding pigs around the farmyard, painting and drawing … but he also worked hard to help support his parents and siblings. Filled with creative energy, this story will inspire readers to pursue their dreams with vigor. 6-8 years
Mary Blair’s Unique Flair
By Amy Novesky, Illustrated by Brittney Lee
Even as a child, Mary Blair loved color, and all she wanted to do was to make art. But becoming an artist wasn’t easy. Her parents worked hard to provide her paper and paints, and Mary worked hard to enter contests and earn a spot at a school for the arts. She even had to work hard to find her place at the Walt Disney Studios. But Walt was easily impressed by Mary. When she joined his trip to South America, Mary had never seen such color. She collected that color and used it in her concept art for Cinderella, Alice in Wonderland, and Peter Pan, and even the It’s a Small World attraction at Disneyland. This beautifully illustrated picture book shares Mary’s story, in all its inspiring flair. 7-10 years
It’s A Small World
By Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman
Illustrated by Joey Chou
This picture book features the lyrics from “It’s a Small World.” Artist Joey Chou’s colorful illustrations were inspired by Mary Blair’s concept art for the popular Disney theme park attraction. Ages 3 and up
Walt Disney
By Joanne Mattern
This fact-filled biography introduces the youngest readers to Walt Disney the visionary artist who is loved the world over. With colorful photos and simple text, children will get to know the creator of Mickey Mouse and many more of his beloved characters. 4-7 years
Pocket Full of Colors: The Magical World of Mary Blair,
Disney Artist
By Amy Guglielmo and Jacqueline Tourville
Illustrated by Brigette Barrager
Mary Blair lived her life in color: vivid, wild color. From her imaginative childhood to her career as an illustrator, designer, and animator for Walt Disney Studios, Mary wouldn’t play by the rules. At a time when studios wanted to hire men and think in black and white, Mary painted twinkling emerald skies, peach giraffes with tangerine spots and magenta horses that could fly. She painted her world. 4-8 years
The Magic is in You
By Colin Hosten and Brooke Vitalie, Illustrated by Grace Lee
A beautiful inspirational book for young children! 4-8 years
Where Is Walt Disney World?
By Joan Holub, Illustrated by Gregory Copeland
In covering the history of the “Most Magical Place on Earth,” Joan Holub takes readers both behind the scenes and underneath the park where secret employee-only tunnels form one big circle under the Magic Kingdom. Lots of fun facts! 8-12 years
A Kiss Goodnight
By Richard M. Sherman and Brittany Rubiano
Illustrated by Floyd Norman
A Kiss Goodnight is a valentine to Walt Disney from the legendary songwriter Richard M. Sherman. Opening with a touching story about what inspired Richard to write the song, this book tells the story of how a young Walt Disney was enchanted by fireworks and how he kept his promise to send all his guests home with a special kiss goodnight. 5-9 years
The book descriptions are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
The Crossing:
Lewis & Clark’s Historic Journey Seen Through a Brand-New Pair of Eyes
By Donna Jo Napoli, Illustrated by Jim Madsen
This young, lyrical picture book reveals the adventure and natural wonders that Lewis and Clark encountered on their Western expedition in the early 1800s. Told from the point of view of Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, the baby on Sacagawea’s back, this story offers a fresh perspective of a young country and gives voice to a character that readers may be familiar with. Jean is on the Sacagawea dollar. 4-8 years
Sacagawea: Courageous Trailblazer
By James Buckley, Jr., Illustrated by Cassie Anderson
What did 33 men in the 1800s need to find their way through the wilderness on a trip across America? They needed a woman—and they found one in Sacagawea, the Native American teenage mother who helped the Lewis and Clark expedition survive. She and her baby braved floods, hunger, storms, and snakes to help the expedition that opened the West. This is the life story of an amazing pioneer who endured hardship in her youth but nevertheless became a fearless leader and a role model for generations to come. 8-12 years
How We Crossed the West
By Rosalyn Schanzer
Appealing art and descriptive text bring Lewis and Clark alive for young adventurers. Carefully chosen text from Lewis and Clark’s actual journals opens a fascinating window into this country’s exciting history. 8-12 years
Sacagawea National Geographic Kids
By Kitson Jazynka
Explore one of the most recognized figures in American history with this biography of Sacagawea. Kids will learn about her crucial role in the Lewis and Clark expedition and her influential legacy. The level 3 text provides accessible, yet wide-ranging, information for independent readers. 6-9 years
What Was the Lewis and Clark Expedition
By Judith St. George, Illustrated by Tim Foley
When Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, and the “Corps of Discovery” left St. Louis, Missouri, on May 21, 1804, their mission was to explore the vast, unknown territory acquired a year earlier in the Louisiana Purchase. The travelers hoped to find a waterway that crossed the western half of the United States. They didn’t. However, young readers will love this true-life adventure tale of the two-year journey that finally brought the explorers to the Pacific Ocean. 8-12 years
Who Was Sacagawea?
By Judith Bloom Fradin and Dennis Brindell Fradin,
Illustrated by Val Paul Taylor
Sacagawea was only sixteen when she made one of the most remarkable journeys in American history. She traveled 4,500 miles by foot, canoe, and horse, all the while carrying a baby on her back. Without her, the Lewis and Clark expedition might have failed. Through this book, kids will learn the reasons that today she is still remembered and immortalized on a golden dollar coin. 8-12 years
You Wouldn’t Want to Explore With Lewis and Clark
By Jacqueline Morley, Illustrated by Mark Bergin
It’s 1803 and two adventurous young army officers are about to lead an expedition right across the North American continent through the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. They will explore the lands that few Europeans have ever seen and will make many scientific discoveries. Do you have what it takes to go with them? 8-12 years
Sacagawea
By Lise Erdrich, Illustrated by Julie Buffalohead
This is a biography of the Shoshone girl, Sacagawea, from age eleven when she was kidnapped by the Hitdatsa to the end of her journey with Lewis and Clark, plus speculation about her later life. 8-12 years
Lewis and Clark: A Prairie Dog for the President
By Shirley Raye Redmond, Illustrated by John Manders
In 1803, President Thomas Jefferson sends Lewis and Clark out west to explore. He tells them to make maps. He tells them to draw pictures and collect plants. Most importantly, he tells them to send presents! What kind of present is good enough for a president? Beginning readers will enjoy reading about the fun and little-known slice of American history. 5-8 years
The Lewis and Clark Expedition
By John Perritano
This book takes readers on an amazing journey to a fascinating time in U.S. history. The country was experiencing dynamic change and westward expansion. Here are the important people, places and events that helped shape the western United States. 4-8 years
I Am Sacagawea
By Brad Meltzer, Illustrated by Christopher Elipoulos
Sacagawea was the only woman, and the only Native American, to join Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery. They explored the United States from the Mississippi River all the way to the Pacific Ocean in the early 1800s. As a translator, she helped the team communicate with members of the Shoshone tribe. Traveling across the continent, she carried her child on her back. By the time the expedition arrived at the west coast, she proved that she truly was a trailblazer. 5-8 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
The Story of the Civil Rights March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in Photographs
By David Aretha
On August 28, 1963, more than 250,000 people descended on Washington, D.C. They came by bus, car, and bicycle. Some even walked hundreds of miles to be there. On that day, the massive crowd gathered to march, protest, sing, and support the Civil Rights Movement and to demonstrate that the time had come to end segregation in the South. To a captivated audience, Martin Luther King, Jr., spoke of his “dream” when African Americans would have equal rights. Through primary source photographs, author David Aretha explores the “greatest demonstration for freedom” in American history. 10-13 years
A Place to Land: Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Speech that Inspired a Nation
By Barry Wittenstein, Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Much has been written about Martin Luther King, Jr. and the 1963 March on Washington. But there’s little on his legendary speech and how he came to write it.
Martin Luther King, Jr. was once asked if the hardest part of preaching was knowing where to begin. No, he said. The hardest part is knowing where to end. “It’s terrible to be circling up there without a place to land.”
Finding this place to land was what Martin Luther King, Jr. struggled with, alongside advisors and fellow speech writers, in the Willard Hotel the night before the March on Washington, where he gave his historic “I Have a Dream” speech. But those famous words were never intended to be heard on that day, not even written down for that day, not even once. 7-10 years
We March
By Shane W. Evans
On August 28, 1963, a remarkable event took place. More than 250,000 people gathered in our nation’s capitol to participate in the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The march began at the Washington Monument and ended with a rally at the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his historic “I Have a Dream” speech advocating racial harmony. Many words have been written about that day, but few so delicate and powerful as those presented here by author-illustrator Shane W. Evans. 4-8 years
What Was the March on Washington?
By Kathleen Krull, Illustrated by Tim Tomkinson
On August 28, 1963, more than 200,000 people gathered in Washington, D.C. to demand equal rights for all races. It was there that Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech and it was this peaceful protest that spurred the momentous civil rights laws of the mid-1960s. With black and white artwork throughout and sixteen pages of photographs, the March is brought to life. 8-12 years
Voices From the March on Washington
By J. Patrick Lewis and George Ella Lyon
The powerful poems in this collection weave together multiple voices to tell the story of the March on Washington in 1963. From the woman singing through a terrifying bus ride to D.C., to the teenager who came partly because his father told him, “Don’t you dare go to that march,” to the young child riding above the crowd on her father’s shoulders, each voice brings a unique perspective to this tale. As the characters tell their personal stories of this historic day, their chorus plunges readers into the experience of being at the march, walking shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers hearing Martin Luther King, Jr.’s famous speech, and heading home inspired. 10-14 years
Dream March: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the March on Washington
By Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, Illustrated by Sally Wern Comport
Young readers can learn about one of the greatest civil rights leaders of all time. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in this Level 3 reader. Set against Dr. King’s historic March on Washington in the summer of 1963, a moving story and powerful illustrations combine to illuminate not only one of America’s most celebrated leaders, but also one of America’s most celebrated moments. 5-8 years
The March on Washington
By Bonnie Bader, Illustrated by Kelley McMorris
In 1963, people from all over the country came together to fight for equal rights for African Americans. The March on Washington was a peaceful protest and the setting for Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech. But what did it take to get there? Learn about the inspiring people and incredible acts of courage that led to this historic march. Plus, American Girl Melody shares her own experiences growing up during the civil rights movement and dealing with discrimination. 7-10 years
March On! The Day My Brother Martin Changed the World
By Christine King Farris, Illustrated London Ladd
From Dr. Martin Luther King’s sister, Christine, March On! is the definitive tribute to the man, the march, and the speech that changed a nation. 8-12 years
Martin Luther King, Jr. and the March on Washington
By Frances E. Ruffin, Illustrated by Stephen Marchesi
On August 28, 1963, more than 250,000 people came to the nation’s capitol. They came by plane, by bus, by car — even on roller skates — to speak out against segregation and to demand equal rights for everyone. They also came to hear the words of a very special leader, Martin Luther King, Jr. This book captures the spirit of this landmark day in American history and brings Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech to vivid life for young children. 6-8 years
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s I Have a Dream Speech in Translation
By Leslie J. Holland
This book presents Dr. King’s speech and explains its meaning using everyday language. It describes the events that led to the speech and its significance through history. 8-10 years
The March on Washington:
A Primary Source Exploration of the Pivotal Protest
By Heather E. Schwartz
The March on Washington brought 200,000 people together. They spoke of equality for people of all races. They spoke of a dream for a better future. In this book, explore the points of views of the people who led the March on Washington and the people who opposed them through powerful primary sources and historical photos. 8-10 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
If You Were a Kid During the American Revolution
By Wil Mara, Illustrated by Kelly Kennedy
When British soldiers accuse Samuel Richardson’s father and uncle of being rebellious Patriots, Samuel must work together with his cousin Molly to help the family make an escape. Follow along on their adventure as they witness the early days of the American Revolution and come up with a daring plan to save their fathers. 6-9 years
Independent Dames: What You Never Knew About the Women and Girls of the American Revolution
By Laurie Halse Anderson, Illustrated by Matt Faulkner
Listen up! You’ve all heard about the great men who led and fought during the American Revolution. But did you know that the guys only made up part of the story? What about the women? The girls? The dames? Didn’t they play a part? Of course they did! 6-10 years
King George What Was His Problem?
By Steve Sheinkin, Illustrated by Tim Robinson
Entire books have been written about the causes of the American Revolution. This isn’t one of them. It’s the story of the birth of our nation, complete with soldiers, spies, salmon sandwiches, and real facts you can’t help but want to tell everybody you know.
Answering the Cry of 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.
You Wouldn’t Want to Be at the Boston Tea Party!
By Peter Cook, Illustrated David Antram
This lively book will interest young and reluctant readers by making them part of the story and inviting them to become the main character. Grades 2-3
Ben’s Revolution: Benjamin Russell and the Battle of Bunker Hill
By Nathaniel Philbrick, Illustrated by Wendell Minor
Benjamin Russell is in school on the morning of April 19, 1775. His teacher announces, The war’s begun, and you may run!” Ben knew this day was coming. After all, tensions had been mounting between the colonists and the British troops ever since the Boston Tea Party. And now they have finally reached the breaking point. Much to Ben’s surprise, Boston is sealed off later that day, leaving him stuck outside the city, in the middle of a war, with no way to reach his family. But Ben isn’t worried, he’s eager to help the Patriots! 7-9 years
Guts and Glory: The American Revolution
By Ben Thompson
From George Washington crossing the icy Delaware River, to Molly Pitcher fearlessly firing her cannon, the people of the American Revolution were some of the bravest and most inspiring of all time. Jump into a riot in the streets of Boston, join the Culper Spy Ring as they steal secrets in the dead of night, and watch the signing of the Declaration of Independence in this book about the birth of the United States. 10-13 years
George vs. George
The American Revolution as Seen from Both Sides
By Rosalyn Schanzer
This story introduces anew the two enemies, both named George. George Washington is the man who freed the American colonies from the British. And George III, is the British king who lost them. Two leaders on different sides of the Atlantic, yet with more in common than we sometimes acknowledge. Was King George a “Royal Brute” as American patriots claimed? Or was he, as others believed, “the father of the people?” Was George Washington a scurrilous traitor, as the king’s supporters claimed? Of should we remember and celebrate him as “the father of our country?” History teaches us that there are two sides to every story. 9-12 years
And Then What Happened Paul Revere?
By Jean Fritz, Illustrated by Margot Tomes
Everyone knows about Paul Revere’s midnight ride. But not everyone knows the harrowing details and narrow escapes that occurred along the way. This timeless and funny book highlights little-known facts about patriot Paul Revere. 7-9 years
What Is The Declaration of Independence?
By Michael C. Harris, Illustrated by Jerry Hoare
On a hot summer day near Philadelphia in 1776, Thomas Jefferson sat at his desk and wrote furiously until early the next morning. He was drafting the Declaration of Independence, a document that would sever America’s ties with Britain and announce a new nation — the United States of America. Colonists were willing to risk their lives for freedom. The Declaration of Independence made it official. Discover the true story of one of the most radical and uplifting documents in history and follow the action that fueled the Revolutionary War. 8-12 years
American Revolution: DK Eyewitness Books
By Stuart Murray
Be an eyewitness to the American struggle for independence. Discover how a few brave patriots battled a great empire. See the muskets and cannons of the armies. Learn how soldiers were drilled and find out why Yorktown was not the end of the Revolutionary War. 8-12 years
The book description used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Alexander Hamilton was born on Nevis, an island in the West Indies in 1755*. He lived with his father James, his mother Rachel, and his older brother James, Jr. The family’s home faced the waterfront in Charlestown, the capitol. Alexander was born a subject of the British King George II. He would later join the American revolution against the King’s son George III.
Young Alexander Hamilton
Nevis was part of the slave, sugar, and molasses trade. Eight thousand slaves lived there with a population of only one thousand whites. Alexander witnessed the cruel treatment of both female and male slaves. It is not surprising that he later became one of the founding members of the first anti-slavery organization in North America.
Nevis
In 1765, James Hamilton moved his family to Christiansted, St. Croix. Not long after, he left the island. Alexander wrote to his father, but he never saw him again. Rachel and her sons moved into a two-story house. They lived upstairs, while she and Alexander ran a store downstairs.
Rachel had a library of thirty-four books. Alexander loved to read them. He read Shakespeare, Alexander Pope, and Plutarch’s Lives about Greek and Roman heroes. Alexander helped to educate himself by reading.
St. Croix
In 1768, both Rachel and Alexander became very ill. Alexander survived, but Rachel did not. All her possessions were auctioned. Fortunately, an uncle knew how important Rachel’s books were to Alexander. He bought them for him. A cousin of the boys became their guardian but died soon after. Alexander and James were on their own. James became a carpenter’s apprentice. While Alexander worked as a clerk for a trading company.
In October 1771, Alexander’s boss sailed to New York for health reasons. Recognizing Alexander’s intelligence, his boss put him in charge. Alexander shined. He took control, ran the business like a pro, and even confronted a ship captain he accused of cheating him. Alexander was only sixteen. Five months later his boss sailed home and Alexander was a clerk again.
It was likely that Alexander would have been a clerk for his entire life. But in 1770, a newspaper began publication on the island. Alexander wrote poetry and the Gazette published his poems. Alexander thought that writing could be a way to advance himself.
Then, something happened that would change Alexander’s life. A major hurricane swept through St. Croix in August 1772. The Gazette called it the “most dreadful hurricane.” Alexander wrote about it in a letter to his father. He said in part: The roaring of the sea and wind…the crash of falling houses, and the ear-piercing shrieks of the distressed were sufficient to strike astonishment into angels.”
The Gazette printed his letter. The islanders noticed. Businessmen raised money to send Alexander to an American college to receive the education he deserved.
George Washington and Alexander Hamilton
Alexander sailed to America his new home. One day, he would be a captain in the Continental Army; an aide to General George Washington; the hero of the Battle of Yorktown; and the first United States Secretary of the Treasury. Alexander Hamilton became one of America’s greatest founding fathers.
Statue of Alexander Hamilton, U.S. Capitol
Images are courtesy of Wiki Commons
*Many recent historians accept 1755 as Hamilton’s birth year based on reliable evidence instead of 1757, the year Hamilton used.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author
Mae Among the Stars
By Roda Ahmed, Illustrated by Stasia Burrington
When Little Mae was a child, she dreamed of dancing in space. She imagined herself surrounded by billions of stars, floating, gliding, and discovering. She wanted to be an astronaut. Her mom told her, “If you believe it, and work hard for it, anything is possible.”
Matched with her mother’s encouraging words, Mae’s curiosity, intelligence, and determination paved the way for her incredible success at NASA. Mae Jemison was the first African American woman to travel in space. 4-8 years
Mousetronaut
by Mark Kelly, Illustrated by C.F. Payne
Astronaut Mark Kelly flew with “mice-tronauts” on his first spaceflight aboard space shuttle Endeavour in 2001. Mousetronaut tells the story of a small mouse who wants nothing more than to travel to outer space. He works as hard as the bigger mice to show his readiness for the mission and he is chosen for the flight. While in space, the astronauts are busy with their mission when disaster strikes. Only the smallest member of the crew can save the day. 4-8 years
Good Night Astronauts
By Adam Gamble, Illustrated by Mark Jasper
Good Night Astronauts features space camp, spacesuits, an international space station, rocket ships, space food, gravity, the solar system, stars, the atmosphere, walking on the moon, sleeping in space, science, and more. Put your spacesuit on and prepare to blast off! This board book takes little astronauts on a journey through an unforgettable galactic adventure. Little space cadets will learn about life as an astronaut in outer space while being lulled to a dreamy, star-filled sleep. Look out for aliens! Baby-3 years
Astronaut Handbook
By Meghan McCarthy
Do you have what it takes to be an astronaut? Blast off in this nonfiction picture book that transports aspiring space travelers to astronaut school. Take a ride on the “Vomit Comet” and learn how it feels to be weightless. Try a bit of astronaut food like freeze-dried ice cream. Have your measurements taken for your very own space suit. Get ready for liftoff! 3-7 years
The Usborne Official Astronaut’s Handbook
By Louie Stowell, Illustrated by Roger Simo and more
This is a how-to-guide for budding astronauts. It provides a crash course on what it takes to travel into space. This book answers all the big questions, from: “How do rockets work?” and “What do astronauts do all day?” to “How do you use the toilet on a spaceship?” This book explores the technology that astronauts use, from space suits to Soyuz spacecraft, and the scientific experiments performed on the International Space Station. 9 years and up
Look to the Stars
By Buzz Aldrin, Illustrated by Wendell Minor
Buzz Aldrin is one of only a handful of astronauts to have walked on the moon. He has a unique perspective about space. This book is an introduction to everything space related. It includes the development of the first rockets, America’s space race with the Soviet Union, details of all the Apollo missions, and learning about the International Space Station. 6-8 years
Astronauts
By Sophie Dussausois, Illustrated by Marc-Etienne Peintre
Blast off with this interactive book: Pull a tab to launch a rocket, lift the flaps to see inside a space suit, or turn the page to land the capsule safely on the ground. Chock-full of age appropriate information, this book is an out-of-this world look at astronauts and what they do. 5-8 years
My Journey to the Stars
By Scott Kelly, Illustrated by Andre Ceolin
Astronaut Scott Kelly wasn’t sure what he wanted to be when he grew up. He struggled in school and often got into trouble with his twin brother, Mark. Then one day, Scott discovered a book about test pilots and astronauts. That book set him on a new path. He first became a pilot and then an astronaut along with his brother. They were the first twin astronauts in history. His greatest accomplishment was commanding the International Space Station and spending almost a year in space. This is the story of an ordinary boy who grew up to do extraordinary things. 5-8 years
Astronauts
By Christine Engel
Blast off on an adventure to the International Space Station! Join the astronauts on their long journey. Learn how they work, eat, and sleep in this zero-gravity atmosphere. With its interactive features, kids can make a rocket take off, go on a space walk, and watch the sun rise and set 16 times a day. Board book for 1-4 years
Astronaut: Living in Space
by Kate Hayden
This Level 2 reader explores the fascinating world of an astronaut and tells what it’s like to live in space. Young readers learn what it’s like to hold down a job in zero gravity. 6-9 years
The book descriptions used are primarily from the publishers.
If you like this post, then please consider sharing it and leaving a comment below. Thank you! Barbara Lowell, Children’s Author