Biographies

Step Right Up ~ Donna Janell Bowman

Dr. William Key (Doc) was a former slave and self-trained veterinarian who taught his horse, Jim, to read, write, count, and much more!

Kamala Harris: Rooted in Justice ~ Nikki Grimes

Documenting the life of Vice President Kamala Harris, this book shares how her desire for justice, peace, and freedom was rooted in her at a young age.

Art From Her Heart ~ Kathy Whitehead

Self-taught artist, Clementine Hunter, found inspiration all around her. She didn't want for the perfect time to paint. Nor did she wait for the perfect set of paints and canvas.

A Computer Called Katherine ~ Suzanne Slade

As a math aficionado, I was completely enamored with the true story of Katherine Johnson, made famous by the film Hidden Figures.

Black Jack ~ Charles R. Smith Jr.

This rhyming story is about the life of Arthur John Johnson, the world's first black heavyweight champion.

Rap a Tap Tap ~ Diane Dillon

This rhythmic story is about how Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, the great tap dancer of his time, talked with his feet.

Emmanuel’s Dream ~ Laurie Ann Thompson

Based on the true story of Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah, this book reminds us that "being disabled does not mean being unable."

So Tall Within ~ Gary D. Schmidt

This book tells the story of a woman named Isabella (Sojourner Truth) who persevered through the heartbreaking wretchedness of slavery and went on to be one of the most significant figures in American history.

Game Changers ~ Lesa Cline-Ransome

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It was so very insightful into the lives of two of the greatest tennis players ever, Venus and Serena Williams.

Ron’s Big Mission ~ Rose Blue and Corinne Naden

A fictionalized account of a real incident one summer day in 1959, this story recounts the day that Ron McNair, a nine year old boy, stood up for what he thought was right.

Before John Was a Jazz Giant ~ Carole Boston Weatherford

This book is about the many sounds that legendary jazz saxophonist John Coltrane heard in his everyday life growing up that contributed to his success.

American Slave, American Hero ~ Laurence Pringle

I was so intrigued with this book! It reveals the life and remarkable commitment of York and his involvement in the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

I, Matthew Henson ~ Carole Boston Weatherford

This is a picture biography of North Pole explorer, Matthew Henson. The book tells the story of Henson, from working as an orphaned cabin boy to planting the American flag at the North Pole along side four Eskimos and Admiral Robert Peary.