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MORE: Big List of Picture Book Biographies of Women Who Changed History: scientists, performers, writers and more! Read these books during Women's History Month, and all year long.

Picture Books about Women's Suffrage

Learn about the women who fought for the right to vote.

Miss Paul and the President: The Creative Campaign for Women's Right to Vote by Dean Robbins, illustrated by Nancy Zhang. Alice Paul, a suffragette and activist organized a protest outside the White House during Wilson's administration. She led parades, went to jail and even met with the president himself. Her creative tactics helped pave the way for the 19th amendment.

I Could Do That!: Esther Morris Gets Women the Vote by Linda Arms White, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter. Introduce your daughters and sons to the spunky Esther Morris, who from her childhood never forgot that "she could do that, too." Not a lot is known about the personal life of Morris, who was an important figure in Wyoming suffrage politics and eventually became a judge, but this picture book gives an entertaining take on what it might be like to be an outspoken female in the 19th century.

Around America to Win the Vote: Two Suffragists, a Kitten, and 10,000 Miles by Mara Rockliff, illustrated by Hadley Hooper. A fun picture book about two women, Nell Richardson and Alice Burke, who travelled across the country with a kitten, and a typewriter to spread the message that women should have the right to vote.

Elizabeth Started All the Trouble by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Matt Faulkner. The book starts with a sort of prologue starring Abigail Adams who issues a warning to her husband that if women were not included in the new laws for the United States they would start their own revolution. The story then skips ahead to 1840 when Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott start that very revolution.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Women Performers

Picture Books about Women Activists

These tireless women could not tolerate sitting idly by in the face of injustice. They are roll models any child can look up to.

Yours for Justice, Ida B. Wells: The Daring Life of a Crusading Journalist by Philip Dray, illustrated Stephen Alcorn. In post-Civil War America, anti-lynching activist Wells was one of the first successful Black Americans to win a legal battle in court. She wrote tirelessly against Jim Crow laws and refused to back down, even in the face of threats to her life.

The Mother of a Movement by Rob Sanders, illustrated by Sam Kalda. Jeanne Manford was a true mama bear! In 1972, after her son was beaten by police for handing out leaflets calling for gay rights, Manford wrote a letter to the New York Times professing unconditional support for her child. She organized a march and founded PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays) to help motivate others to support the LGBTQ community.

MORE: Picture Books about LGBTQ History

Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer: The Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Ekua Holmes. Poems tell the story of Fannie Lou Hamer's life, from her childhood as a sharecropper to her life as an activist. The text is emotional and doesn't gloss over Fannie's hardships; the collage illustrations are stunning.

Malala Yousafzai: Warrior With Words by Karen Leggett Abouraya, illustrated by L. C. Wheatley is a biography of the young Nobel Peace Prize recipient. Malala has become an inspiring voice for peace and education and even though her story is frightening at times, this is a good, age appropriate picture book.

Malala is one of the fearless women on our printable women card coloring pages. Check out all 8 of our featured women cards!

Brave Girl: Clara and the Shirtwaist Makers' Strike of 1909 by Michelle Markel, illustrated by Melissa Sweet. Clara comes to NYC dirt poor but full of grit. She works a miserable, backbreaking job at a garment factory. An extraordinary individual, she taught herself to read and led the largest walkout of women workers in U.S. History, despite being beaten and jailed for participating in labor strikes. Markel tells a valuable story of the history of women workers and the importance of fair labor practices, a story which still resonates today.

MORE: Picture Books about Protest and Civil Disobedience

Coretta Scott by Ntozake Shange, illustrated by Kadir Nelson. Here is a wonderful, lyrical recounting of the civil rights leader and wife of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Shange's words remind the reader of Scott's individuality, and the addition of Kadir Nelson's illustrations bring the story to life. An important addition to any classroom study of King.

MORE: Books about the Civil Rights Movement

Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers by Sarah Warren, illustrated by Robert Casilla. Warren portrays Huerta in her many roles as teacher, parent, protester and more. Her strength and determination to help the farmworkers led her to help organize a strike so they could achieve better working conditions and fair treatment under the law. The book includes great supplemental information in the afterward.

MORE: Books about the History of Labor

Stand as Tall as the Trees, Patricia Gualinga and Laura Resau, illustrated by Vanessa Jaramillo. As a child, co-author Patricia Gualinga lived in Sarayaku, inside the Ecuadorian rainforest. Her mother taught her that humans are connected to nature and to the forest. She describes how, as an adult, she and members of the Indigenous Kichwa went to the Court of Human Rights as part of their campaign to stop oil companies from taking over parts of the rainforest. Spoiler alert: they win. This is a gorgeous, well-written book about a crucial and timely issue.

MORE: Picture Books about the Environment

Write On, Mercy!: The Secret Life of Mercy Otis Warren by Gretchen Woelfle, illustrated by Alexandra Wallner. I love the story of Mercy because not only did she become an accomplished writer and political thinker before, during and after the American Revolution, she was surrounded by men who encouraged and valued her contributions, despite the prevalent belief that woman's role was to cook and sew.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Women Writers

Harlem's Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills by Renée Watson, illustrated by Christian Robinson is the story of singer Florence Mills, who used her fame to fight for civil rights in the 1920s. She was well-known for her compassion for the less fortunate and for helping to advance the careers other African-American performers who faced profound racism.

Red Bird Sings: The Story of Zitkala-Sa, Native American Author, Musician, and Activist by Q. L. Pearce, illustrated by Gina Capaldi. Zitkala-Sa, left her home on the Yankton Sioux reservation in South Dakota to go to school in Indiana where she found solace in music. This picture book biography tells her story from her struggles due to being separated from her traditional culture, discovering her love of music as a child, to her activism on behalf of Native Americans.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Women Musicians

Jovita Wore Pants: The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter by Aida Salazar, illustrated Molly Mendoza. Growing up in rural Mexico in the 1910s, Jovita hated being forced to wear big skirts. So she fashioned her skirts into a pair of pants and went exploring with her brothers. When her father and brothers joined the Cristeros as part of the Mexican revolution, Jovita longed to join them. She eventually becomes involved, but the revolution brings tragedy to Jovita's family. Jovita does not back down, dressing "as Juan" and leading an army of peasants against the government. Back matter includes a lengthy and informative author's note.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Hispanic and Latino Luminaries

Aani and the Tree Huggers by Jeannine Atkins, illustrated by Venantius J Pinto. Atkins was inspired to write this book by events that took place in 1970, in India. Villagers protested the cutting down of their venerated trees by holding on to them. In this story, Aani, a young girl, leads the fight to protect the trees from tree-cutters who have official orders to cut them down. The trees are a source of food, shelter and comfort for the villagers. This is an interesting book to talk to kids about the many forms of protest. It's not always a march or a strike. It could be—literally—tree-hugging.

Picture Books about First Ladies

First ladies of the United States did not sit idly by while their husbands conducted business. Whether their contributions were political, social or cultural, many first ladies expressed a fierce devotion to making their country better for everyone.

Kids' Guide to America's First Ladies by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Anna DiVito. This is not a picture book, but I found it an excellent resource and goes beyond the dry facts of each women's life as first lady. Each woman's section can be read with your child as a discreet unit if you prefer. Includes first ladies through 2017.

Amelia and Eleanor Go for a Ride by Pam Muñoz Ryan, illustrated by Brian Selznick. I love this book which captures Eleanor Roosevelt's adventurous, convention-defying spirit. In 1933, two risk-loving women sneak away from a stuffy dinner party and go for the ride in the sky! Brian Selznick's black and white pencil illustrations capture the era perfectly.

Dolley Madison Saves George Washington  by Don Brown. Dolley was a popular first lady, whom many underestimated and lazily wrote off as a "socialite." It was Dolley, however, who stepped up to the plate as the soldiers fled the White House during the War of 1812 and rescued valuable state papers from the mansion, as well as the now-famous portrait of the first Commander-in-Chief. This book is great fun but also a serious look at the importance of courage.

Miss Lady Bird's Wildflowers: How a First Lady Changed America by Kathi Appelt, illustrated by Joy Fisher Hein. A picture book biography of Lady Bird Johnson's life and dedication to bringing the beauty of nature to America, including her role in the Highway Beautification Act.

When Jackie Saved Grand Central: The True Story of Jacqueline Kennedy's Fight for an American Icon by Natasha Wing, illustrated by Alexandra Boiger. Jackie Kennedy may have been a style icon, but she had grit and determination to make the world beautiful. This biography focuses onJackie Kennedy Onassis' role in the campaign to keep Grand Central from going the way of Penn Station.

Picture Books about Women Candidates and Legislators

Women run for office, serve the public as representatives and senators. This sampling of biographies tell the stories of these trailblazing politicians.

She Was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm by Katheryn Russell-Brown, illustrated by Eric Velasquez. Russell-Brown's engaging biography of Chisholm narrates her journey from a young child with a talent for leadership to her life in politics. Readers will learn about how her experiences growing up in Barbados and New York influenced her desire to make change and fight on behalf of others. With the growing diversity in high political offices, this is an important read for children to learn about the long trajectory of the fight for representation and justice.

Hillary Rodham Clinton: Some Girls are Born to Lead by Michelle Markel, illustrated by LeUyen Pham. There are several picture book biographies about Hillary Clinton, I like this one as it offers an inspiring and positive message in the way it focuses on Hillary's journey in leadership, service and activism as a girl, young adult and grown woman in education, the law and politics. I also love Pham's appealing illustrations, especially the final pages which show Hillary in a group of her fellow inspiring female leaders.

Ballots for Belva: The True Story of a Woman's Race for the Presidency by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen, illustrated by Courtney Martin. A fun biography of a woman who ran for president in 1884. Belva Lockwood was a determined woman. When her law degree was denied she appealed directly to President Grant and won. She argued a case before the Supreme Court, and she had the audacity to run for the highest office at a time when women couldn't even vote.

Sharice's Big Voice: A Native Kid Becomes a Congresswoman by Sharice Davids & Nancy K. Mays, illustrated by Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley. Sharice Davids, a member of the Ho-Chunk nation, became one of the first female Native American representatives in the U.S. Congress. In this memoir picture book, Davids describes her path growing up as a person who always looked for ways to serve others. After a time where she studied martial arts, worked in customer service and gave back to her community, she went to law school, eventually deciding to run for congress in the state of Kansas.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Native Americans

Phemonenal AOC: The Roots and Rise of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez by Anika Aldamuy Denise, illustrated by Loris Lora. While she may be a lighting rod for political arguments with your neighbor, this thoughtful and inspiring biography of Ocasio-Cortez, or "AOC" brings her humanity to the foreground. Growing up in suburban New York, AOC quickly noticed how few people in the community looked like her family, and that there were strong disparities of resources between neighborhoods, depending on the wealth of their inhabitants. She worked hard to succeed in school, got involved in activism and politics, and eventually became the youngest elected member of the House of Representatives.

Madam President: Five Women Who Paved the Way by Nichola D. Gutgold, and Abigail S. Kennedy, illustrated by Jane Ramsey. The book includes the stories of Margaret Chase Smith, Shirley Chisholm, Patricia Schroeder, Elizabeth Dole, and Hillary Clinton.

Picture Books about Women Lawyers and Judges

I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark by Debbie Levy, illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley. I love this charming book about how Ginsburg never stopped disagreeing with ideas that put women and other underprivileged persons at a disadvantage.

Sonia Sotomayor: A Judge Grows in the Bronx / La juez que crecio en el Bronx by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Edel Rodriguez. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor's story will inspire everyone. The book follows Sonia as she grows up in poverty in the Bronx and gets an education. The book has a great, positive message and emphasizes how important it is to be surrounded by supportive friends and family.

When Esther Morris Headed West, Women, Wyoming and the Right to Vote by Connie Nordhielm Woldridge, illustrated by Jacqueline Rogers. If you made it to the end of this list congratulations, you probably noticed this is the second book about Ester Morris. I didn't know if I should include her under suffragettes or judges (women never stay in pat little boxes, do they?) so I thought what the heck, I'll just do both. This book focuses more on Morris in Wyoming rather than her childhood, but both books are worth reading.

The post Children's Books about Women in Politics and Women Activists appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

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MORE: Big List of Picture Book Biographies for Women's History Month - includes biographies of women in the arts, social sciences and more!

Natural Scientists and Biologists

Read and learn about women trailblazers who worked as doctors, naturalists, oceanographers, environmentalists and biologists.

The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath by Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated y Daniel Rieley. This is a wonderful biography Dr. Bath, who made significant contributions to medicine, including a treatment for blindness. Written in rhyme, the narrative flows well and the illustrations are engaging. End material, including a letter from Dr. Bath, photographs, a timeline and further details about Dr. Bath's life and work make this biography extra special.

Who Says Women Can't Be Doctors?: The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell by Tanya Lee Stone, illustrated by Marjorie Priceman. This fun picture biography brings to life a woman who persistently followed her goals and broke 19th century barriers to be allowed into medical school, faced the rejection of her fellow students and then her colleagues, all the while proving she was smarter than they were. I love the vibrant, energetic illustrations.

Just Wild Enough: Mireya Mayor, Primatologist by Marta Magellan, illustrated by Clémentine Rocheron. Cuban-American Mireya Mayor grew up in Miami with a passion for animals and dance. Eventually becoming a primatologist, she struggled to be taken seriously when others judged her based on her appearance. She became the first woman wildlife TV reporter for National Geographic and discovered a new species of lemur in Madagascar. I particularly loved how this biography emphasized that scientists can have lots of different interests.

MORE: Biographies of Latinx and Hispanic Luminaries

Life in the Ocean: The Story of Oceanographer Sylvia Earle by Claire A. Nivola. This book starts out with the quiet "investigations" of a girl watching a pond. When her family moves to Florida, Slyvia Earle starts her investigations of the Gulf of Mexico. Earle's love for the ocean and its life drift off the page, and this is a surprisingly moving book with lovely detailed illustrations that invite explore. It's a wonderful book to start a conversation with your kids, not only about the importance of ocean life to the planet, but how one's own interest can lead to a greater purpose.

MORE: Nonfiction Books about the Ocean and Marine Life

The Watcher: Jane Goodall's Life with the Chimps by Jeanette Winter. Winter's picture book biographies, with her spare but deliberate illustrative style, are very readable. Winter describes the out-of-the-box research and life of Jane Goodall and kids will come away with a richer understanding of what being a primatologist (and "a watcher") really is. For another Goodall biography, read Me . . . Jane by Patrick McDonnell.

The Tree Lady: The True Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever by H. Joseph Hopkins, illustrated by Jill McElmurry. In 1881, Katherine Olivia Sessions was the first woman to graduate from the University of California with a degree in natural science. After moving to a nearly tree-less city in San Diego, she advocated and spearheaded a campaign that transformed the area to a lush green land. I hope Sessions's story inspires other kids to make a difference in their community.

MORE: Books about Women in Politics and Women Activists

Summer Birds: The Butterflies of Maria Merian by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Julie Paschkis. One of the first known female naturalists, 13-year-old Maria has to catch and study insects in secret otherwise her 17th Century neighbors will accuse her of witchcraft. The metamorphosis of butterflies and moths, or “summer birds,” was not well-understood at the time and such creatures were considered “beasts of the devil.”

Rachel Carson and Her Book That Changed the World by Laurie Lawlor, illustrated by Laura Beingessner. Rachel Carson's groundbreaking book, Silent Spring, was a wake up call about the impact our use of chemicals has on the environment. Lawlor's biography looks at Carson's life from the beginning through the publication of her iconic work.

MORE: Books to Inspire Care for the Environment

Mama Miti: Wangari Maathai and the Trees of Kenya by Donna Jo Napoli, illustrated by Kadir Nelson. In 2004, Wangari Maathai was the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition for her work restoring trees to Kenya. Maathai’s story emphasizes the importance and cooperation of an extended community of women, and will make kids aware of the power of individuals to bring positive, long-lasting global change. As always, Kadir Nelson’s illustrations are stunning.

Wangari is one of the fearless women on our women cards coloring page! Click here to print the women cards coloring page for free!

The Elephant Scientist by Caitlin O'Connell and Donna M. Jackson, photography by Caitlin O'Connell and Timothy Rodwell. This book is a text-heavy book suitable for kids 8 and up, or for younger kids who may have an intense interest in elephants. Scientist Caitlin O'Connell studied elephants in Africa and made important discoveries about their behavior and how they communicate with each other. This is actually a really fascinating book, full of information not just about O'Connell, but about elephants and their habitat.  Adults will enjoy reading it just as much as the kids.

MORE: Middle Grade Books for Women's History Month

Women Inventors and Engineers

In addition to the selected books below, view our full list of biographies of women inventors, and inspire your kids with these fiction picture books about little inventors.

Classified: The Secret Career of Mary Golda Ross, Cherokee Aerospace Engineer by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Natasha Donovan. Guided by her Cherokee heritage and principles, Mary Golda Ross spent her life striving to excel. In school, she was the only female in her math class, which simply spurred her on even more. During WWII she worked on aircraft design and afterwards she was instrumental in developing secret projects at Lockheed. I hope this children's biography of Mary Golda Ross becomes part of every classroom's STEM curriculum!

The World is Not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid by Jeanette Winter. Born in Iraq, and educated in London, Hadid designed intriguing buildings around the world. As a Muslim woman, the road was not easy and she had to overcome the hurdle of prejudice. This biography is written simply, making it a great choice for the early elementary set. Make sure to look at photographs of Hadid's beautiful buildings, too.

Maya Lin: Artist-Architect of Light and Lines by Jeanne Walker Harvey, illustrator Dow Phumiruk. This beautifully illustrated picture book tells the story of Chinese-American Maya Lin, the architect and artist who created the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. It traces her journey from a girl who was fascinated by nature, building and learning about the art of structures to the college student who enters a contest to design the Memorial. An author's note gives further information.

Marvelous Mattie: How Margaret E. Knight Became an Inventor by Emily Arnold McCully. Mattie started inventing things when she was just a girl. She figured out how to make faster sleds, better kites and when she was twelve, she invented a device to protect loom workers. She also invented a machine to manufacture paper bags. The illustrations in this book are wonderful, flowing watercolors are accompanied by blueprint like drawings of Mattie's inventions.

Girls Think of Everything: Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women by Catherine Thimmesh, illustrated by Melissa Sweet is actually not a 32 page picture book biography but I am sneaking it onto the list anyway. This book is a collection of stories about fascinating women and their inventions. Ages 8 and up.

Women Mathematicians, Physicists and Chemists

Nothing Stopped Sophie: The Story of Unshakable Mathematician Sophie Germain by Cheryl Bardoe, illustrated by Barbara McClintock. Despite the efforts of others, Sophie Germain was determined to pursue her interest in mathematics. Nothing, not even the French Revolution, could stop her. Her resilience and perseverance paid off and her work led to predicting vibration patterns, used later in architectural design.

Listening to the Stars: Jocelyn Bell Burnell Discovers Pulsars by Jodie Parachini, illustrated by Alexandra Badiu. This lyrical biography of Irish astrophysicist tells the story of how Burnell fought back against educators who insisted women couldn't study physics and went on to a successful career, leading to her discovery of how pulsing sound wave comes from a neutron star.

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly, illustrated by Laura Freeman. This is the story of four amazing mathematicians, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden, who contributed to NASA's success by providing important calculations. But it wasn't easy and they had to overcome strong racial and gender barriers to succeed.

How to Hear the Universe by Patricia Valdez, illustrated by Sara Palacios. This is a fun biography about Gabby González that also introduces young kids to Albert Einstein’s theory about ripples in space-time (bet you didn't see that coming)! Decades after Einstein, González immigrated to the U.S. from Argentina, became fascinated by Einstein's theory, and set out to prove it.

Look Up!: Henrietta Leavitt, Pioneering Woman Astronomer by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Raúl Colón. This book focuses on the intellectual life of woman who is now considered one of the most important astronomers. After she graduated, she got a job at Harvard Observatory, where–with other women–she counted stars for the male astronomers. However, Leavitt made discoveries about star brightness and distance calculations that made the other astronomers realize her value. Colon's illustrations are top notch, as usual.

Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine by Laurie Wallmark, illustrated by April Chu. I love this illustrated biography of a woman who has recently been "discovered" as the first computer programmer. The daughter of the notorious poet, Lord Byron, Ada's math-loving mother raised her away from her. Ada has an inquisitive, curious mind and when she meets Charles Babbage (who invented the first mechanical computer), it is Ada who figures out how to program it. A fascinating and gorgeous book with fun details that will fascinate children.

Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code by Laurie Wallmark, illustrated by Katy Wu. From and early age, Hopper loved to figure out how things worked. Encouraged by her parents to study math and science, despite the domination of the field by men, Hopper's curious mind helped her persevere and her strength of mind led her to enlist in WAVES, the women’s division of the Naval Reserve, during WWII. Hopper remained in the Navy until she was 80 (!) solving incredibly complex computer programming problems.

Margaret and the Moon: How Margaret Hamilton Saved the First Lunar Landing by Dean Robbins, illustrated by Lucy Knisley. Margaret Hamilton grew up from being a curious girl who loved to solve problems to an MIT graduate who worked for NASA. She wrote a computer code that could solve any problem a spacecraft would encounter (which sounds like an impossible feat to me!)

MORE: Books about the Moon Landing

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed, illustrated by Stasia Burrington. Not as text heavy as many picture book biographies, this is a wonderful book about the first African-American in space, Mae Jemison. The narrative focuses on the young Mae and her dreams to see the earth from space. When she learns she needs to be an astronaut to go into space, she learns as much as she can about the stars and what it takes to be an astronaut. Her parents encourage her to dream big, even in the face of others' skepticism.

MORE: Nonfiction Books about Space

Of Numbers and Stars: The Story of Hypatia by D. Anne Love, illustrated by Pam Paparone. In the 4th century Egypt, Hypatia, the daughter of a mathematician, received the kind of education most women were denied. The story follows Hypatia from childhood as her father dedicates himself to teaching her everything he knows, from activities like fishing, to the importance of grammar. When she grew up, men and women alike sought her advice on many topics. Fortunately, Hypatia's death at the hands of a mob is relegated to the author's note so that kids can focus on her learning and accomplishments.

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We March by Shane W. Evans

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We March is one of my favorite book on this list. The spare text and brilliant illustrations make this a wonderful book for children as young as 3 years old. The light, first person narrative tells the story of a family getting ready to march in the historic event. Illustrations depict crowds of people from all walks of life and celebrate the excitement the event generated and the power of peaceful protest.

A Sweet Smell of Roses by Angela Johnson, illustrated by Eric Velazquez

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A young girl, with her red-ribboned teddy bear, describes her experience as she and her sister slip out of their house to join a freedom march. The focus is very much on the sensory experience. They stand, "waist high" in the "bright light", "clapping in time with [their] feet." There's no mention about which march it is, but we know it takes place under Dr. King's leadership. This is another lovely book that emphases how children were an integral part in the fight for freedom and readers can pick out the plucky protagonist in the illustrations by her bear's ribbon, which matches the stripes in the flag.

MORE: Picture books by Black authors

Elementary School (and up)

Share these fantastically illustrated books about Martin Luther King, Jr with children ages 5 to 105.

I Have a Dream, speech by Martin Luther King, Jr, illustrated by Kadir Nelson

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Kadir Nelson's gorgeous illustrations accompany an excerpt from Dr. King's most famous speech. The paintings cover a broad range of images–from close ups of clasped hands, to views of the national landscape, to the crowd at the Washington Monument. The hardcover book includes a CD of the official recording and the entire speech is included at the end of the book. I find it impossible to listen to the speech without weeping; it's an essential experience for everyone.

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Bryan Collier

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This is an excellent beginner's guide to MLK. It's informative, but not overly long as some picture book biographies can be. It gives a solid introduction to King's life and work, and is beautifully illustrated. This is a great choice for a kindergarten or first grade classroom.

Coretta Scott by Ntozake Shange, illustrated by Kadir Nelson

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Here is a wonderful, lyrical recounting of the civil rights leader and wife of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Although Shange's words remind the reader of Scott's individuality, the addition of Kadir Nelson's illustrations bring the story to life. An important addition to any classroom study of King.

A Place to Land: Martin Luther King Jr. and the Speech That Inspired a Nation by Barry Wittenstein, illustrated by Jerry Pinkney

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Written in free verse, Wittenstein and Pinkney's gorgeous book tells the backstory of Martin Luther King, Jr.'s famous speech. It's a fascinating look at the behind the scenes story and helps kids understand the work that goes into creating historical moments.

As Good as Anybody: Martin Luther King, Jr., and Abraham Joshua Heschel's Amazing March toward Freedom by Richard Michelson, illustrated by Raul Colón

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King experienced racism in the American South; Heschel endured antisemitism in Poland and Germany. Heschel was able to escape the tragic fate of family by immigrating to American. Witnessing racism in America reminded Heschel of antisemitism, spurred him to join the fight for equal rights, and he and King walked alongside one another. This is an excellent addition to your reading, and teaches kids about some of the allies that Black Americans had during the civil rights movement.

MORE: Picture books about Peace and Peacemakers

Middle School (and up)

The following titles are a selection of picture books, a graphic novel and biographies. With guidance, they can also be used for upper elementary students.

Martin Rising: Requiem for a King by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney

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This is a moving portrait of King told in a series of poems. Pinkney focuses on the last few months of King's life and readers will get a sense of the civil rights leader as a complex individual. I highly recommend reading the verse out loud. Includes extensive notes, timelines and sources at the end of the book.

Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop: The Sanitation Strike of 1968 by Alice Faye Duncan, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie

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In early 1968, two black sanitation workers were killed as a result of faulty machinery, leading to labor strikes. Several months later, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. came on to the scene to help, and on April 3 delivered his last notable speech, "I've Been to the Mountaintop." Duncan narrates the story through the voice of a 9-year-old girl, with the text alternating between verse and prose. Historical details and sources are included.

March On! the Day My Brother Martin Changed the World by Christine King Farris, illustrated by London Ladd

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Christine King Farris recounts her memories surrounding the March on Washington and listening to her brother's "I Have a Dream" speech. Reading Farris' narrative gives children an intimate and emotional look at the writing and delivering of King's speech. Ladd's bold illustrations reflect both the seriousness and the excitement of the time.

Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'round: My Story of the Making of Martin Luther King Day by Kathlyn J. Kirkwood,illustrated by Steffi Walthall

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I've always loved verse memoirs! Kirkwood describes her journey as an activist to her push to secure Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday as a recognized, national holiday. Her story will inspire kids to pursue their own passions and fight for what is right.

March (trilogy) by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and Nate Powell

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John Lewis, the congressman from Georgia is one of our greatest civil rights heroes. This graphic novel trilogy is Lewis' first hand account of his experiences during the civil rights movement and the "good trouble" he got up to. Lewis provides many personal details and focuses on the non-violent philosophy of the movement. Readers will be inspired to, in the words of Lewis, "When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have to speak up. You have to say something; you have to do something."

Martin and Bobby: A Journey Toward Justice by Claire Rudolf Murphy

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Murphy's fascinating double biography is told in two parts. Part one looks at the events of April 1968 and part two looks at the years 1925-1967, focusing on the events that led the two men to shape their philosophies, and their growth as leaders. Readers will come away with a richer understanding, not just of the two men, but as to how their lives were deeply interwoven with each other and 20th century events.

MORE: President Books for Middle School

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We love these books for classroom use because each of them uses a unique approach to teaching kids about the presidents. Some of them take a wide-angle approach to the leader, but some zoom in on a particular aspect with illuminates the kind of person they were.

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For older children: Presidential biographies for middle school that teach critical thinking

George Washington

Action Presidents: George Washington by Fred Van Lente, illustrated by Ryan Dunlavey. For kids who love to get their facts and stories in a comic book format, the Action Presidents series is a good place to start. Lente and Dunlavely fit a surprising amount of information and juicy tidbits in an amusing and entertaining package. (So far there are also Action President books about Abe Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, and JFK)

Dear Mr. Washington by Lynn Cullen, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter. This is a funny picture book about the children of George Stuart, George Washington's portraitist. The story contains fun details about the life in the 18th century as described in the epistolary narrative by Charlotte Stuart.

John, Paul, George & Ben by Lane Smith. Yes, I do realize that John and Paul were never president. This book is best appreciated by kids who already know their history, and also by adults. I always appreciate a children's book with jokes adults will find humorous. The book takes well-known characteristics about the men (Hancock's signature, Washington and the cherry tree, etc.) and turns them into a witty joke. Notes at the end of the book separate fact from fiction.

Thomas Jefferson

Thomas Jefferson: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Everything by Maira Kaiman. I like Kaiman's balanced look at Jefferson. She discusses his intellectual life, friendships with the other "Founding Fathers," as well as contradictions such as the disconnect between his views on slavery and his actual practices. Kaiman's whimsical, colorful illustrations take readers on a journey through Jefferson's life that, unlike many picture book presidential biographies is not overwritten.

Thomas Jefferson Builds a Library by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by John O'Brien. This presidential biography celebrates Jefferson's intense love of books. It traces his life as it relates to books and his love of reading, from his origins and a book-loving kids to a father who insisted his kids read, to the writing of the Declaration of Independence, his Presidency and the founding of the Library of Congress. This is a lively discussion and portrait and includes an author's note with more detailed information.

MORE: Civics and government books for middle schoolers

John Quincy Adams

Dangerous Crossing: The Revolutionary Voyage of John Quincy Adams by Stephen Krensky, illustrated by Greg Harlin. Here's a presidential adventure tale! This book tells the story of how, in 1778, John Adams took his son on a secret mission to France. I found this to be a fascinating and engaging tale about an event I knew nothing about. Vivid and detailed text describes the hardships as well as excitement of the voyage and the atmospheric illustrations add to the experience.

James Madison

Dolley Madison Saves George Washington is a nice change from the usual presidential biography. Life in politics is not all about making laws and fighting with Congress. Dolley was a popular first lady, whom many underestimated and wrote off as a "socialite." It was Dolley, however, who stepped up to the plate as the soldiers fled the White House during the War of 1812 and rescued valuable state papers from the mansion, as well as the now-famous portrait of the first Commander-in-Chief. Great fun but also a serious look at the importance of courage.

Abraham Lincoln

Lincoln Tells a Joke: How Laughter Saved the President (and the Country) by Kathleen Krull and Paul Brewer, illustrated by Stacy Innerst. Not only is this a clever and quirky approach to a biography of the 19th century's greatest president, but it suggests that we all might approach life with a little humor.

Abe Lincoln's Dream. I'm a big fan of Lane Smith's illustrations, although I sometimes think as an author he doesn't quite hit the mark. However, I really enjoyed his unique take on Lincoln's story. A young African-American girl meets Lincoln's ghost on a White House tour. The two of them go flying across the country and share their dreams, both large and small, while also telling jokes. Quincy (the girl) fills Abe in on some of the progress the country has made, while also suggesting more progress is necessary.

MORE: Big list of books about African-American history

The Roosevelts

Teedie: The Story of Young Teddy Roosevelt by Don Brown tells the story of Teddy as frail but intelligent boy who relied on his strong mind to overcome the shortcomings of his health. (He was asthmatic and didn't even know how nearsighted he was until the age of 13!) The focus is on Teddy's youth, but the book covers his rise as a child of one of New York's wealthiest families (I dislike when books gloss over the privileged background of many of the country's leaders; thankfully this book did not do that.) all the way through to his becoming a leading political figure and eventually the president.

The Camping Trip that Changed America by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by Mordecai Gerstein. After reading a book by naturalist John Muir, Theodore Roosevelt sought out the man to show him the wilderness. The two men went on a solo camping trip in Yosemite Valley (a gorgeous place I highly recommend visiting) and Muir regaled Roosevelt with stories of his experience as well as discussing the importance of protecting the land from development. The result of the trip was that Roosevelt went back to Washington and started a campaign to preserve the wilderness.  Gerstein's illustrations are full of movement that mirrors the exuberant, boyish fun the two men have on their adventure.

Amelia And Eleanor Go For A Ride. by Pam Muñoz Ryan, illustrated by Brian Selznick. You would be hard pressed to discuss the years of FDR without mentioning his formidable wife. I love this book which captures Eleanor Roosevelt's adventurous, convention-defying spirit. In 1933, two convention-defying, risk-loving women sneak away from a stuffy dinner party and go for the ride in the sky! Brian Selznick's black and white pencil illustrations capture the era perfectly.

MORE: Picture book biographies of women in politics

John F. Kennedy

Kennedy Through the Lens: How Photography and Television Revealed and Shaped an Extraordinary Leader by Martin W. Sandler. This is a text heavy book that is geared for middle school kids and up but I found it fascinating and my kids enjoyed looking at the photos and we used them to discuss Kennedy's legacy as a President and the big role the visual media plays in current presidential life. My astute 10 year old drew parallels between JFK's children and the Obama girls. It's also a gorgeous book.

MORE: Books about the Civil Rights Movement

Barack Obama

Barack Obama: Son of Promise, Child of Hope by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by Bryan Collier. Acclaimed poet Nikki Grimes penned this biography within the framework of a mother and son watching Obama on the television, and the mother then telling the story of Obama's youth. The story focuses on Obama's childhood experiences in Hawaii, Indonesia, his relationship with his father and his search for a way to try and bring people together. A great talking point with your kids after reading this book would be how they view their own community, and what kind of leadership role they can take in it.

Books about All the Presidents

Yo Millard Fillmore!: (And all those other Presidents you don't know) by Will Cleveland and Mark Alvarez, illustrated by Tate Nation. This is not actually a picture book, yet my older son did enjoy looking through it even though he describes himself as "not that into history." Lots of random facts about each man and a clever way for remembering everyone's names keeps kids interested.

Rutherford B., Who Was He?: Poems About Our Presidents by Marilyn Singer, illustrated by John Hendrix. This look at the presidents through poetry is a fun addition to your President's Day reading. I don't really recommend reading them all at once; it can be a bit overwhelming, but use the book as a supplement or read a few poems each day. Since we incorporate poetry in our daily life, this was a fun book for us. An author's note includes a very brief biography of each man.

MORE: Books about elections and voting

The post Presidents Books for Kids: Picture Book Biographies appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

Most of the books on this list are picture book biographies, focused on a single individual, but a few are middle grade chapter books or collections. The biographies and autobiographies describe the inspiring lives of people across a wide spectrum of experiences, from artists to athletes, from scientists to politicians!

A quick note on identity as it pertains to this book list. Latino and Hispanic designations encompass a wide range of identities and experiences. A few books focus on members of Indigenous communities who may not consider themselves "Latino." Terminology in this list may vary, because for individual reviews I use terms that appear in that specific book.

Note: this list contains Amazon and Bookshop affiliate links. Purchases made through these links may earn a commission for this blog. Bookshop also supports independent bookstores.

The Flying Girl: How Aída de Acosta Learned to Soar by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Sara Palacios

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In June 1903, before the Wright brothers, Hispanic-American Aída de Acosta became the first woman to fly a motorized aircraft. While visiting Paris as a teenager, she meets the Brazilian inventor, Alberto Santos-Dumont, and convinces him to let her pilot his airship. The rhyming text is fun to read aloud, and a great way to introduce very young children to a pioneering woman. Ages 4 and up. Also available in Spanish.

The Astronaut with a Song for the Stars by Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated by Daniel Rieley

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Author-Illustrator team Mosca and Rieley have several great books about women in STEM fields. This one introduces readers to Dr. Ellen Ochoa, a Cuban-American scientist who became a NASA astronaut and the first Latina in space. Written in rhyme, it makes a delightful read aloud, with plenty of informative back matter. Ages 5 and up.

Mario and the Hole in the Sky: How a Chemist Saved Our Planet by Elizabeth Rusch, illustrated by Teresa Martinez

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Rusch's picture book biography of Mexican-born chemist Dr. Mario Molina begins with a childhood spent inspecting everything under a microscope. His mother encouraged his scientific curiosity, removing the toilet from the bathroom so he could use it for a laboratory. It's a good thing she did because her son would go on to help solve the problem of the rapidly depleting ozone layer in the atmosphere. Ages 6 and up. Also available in Spanish.

Just Wild Enough: Mireya Mayor, Primatologist (She Made History series) by Marta Magellan, illustrated by Clémentine Rocheron

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Cuban-American Mireya Mayor grew up in Miami with a passion for animals and dance. Eventually becoming a primatologist, she struggled to be taken seriously when others judged her based on her appearance. She became the first woman wildlife TV reporter for National Geographic and discovered a new species of lemur in Madagascar. I particularly loved how this biography emphasized that scientists can have lots of different interests. She also has six children! Kids wanting to learn more about Mayor can visit her website. Ages 6 and up.

How to Hear the Universe by Patricia Valdez, illustrated by Sara Palacios

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This is a fun biography about Gabby González that also introduces young kids to Albert Einstein’s theory about ripples in space-time (bet you didn't see that coming)! Decades after Einstein, González immigrated to the U.S. from Argentina, became fascinated by Einstein's theory, and set out to prove it. Ages 4 and up.

Sharuko: El Arqueólogo Peruano Julio C. Tello / Peruvian Archaeologist Julio C. Tello by Monica Brown, illustrated by Elisa Chavarri

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Tello was a part of a Quechua-speaking Indigenous people community in Peru and the first first Indigenous archaeologist in the Americas. He started off in medical school and developed an intense curiosity of skulls. Using his skills to improve the lives of Peru's Indigenous people, he was tireless in working to preserve Indigenous history and culture. Note: Publisher Lee and Low has a teacher's guide here. Ages 6 and up.

Path to the Stars: My Journey from Girl Scout to Rocket Scientist by Sylvia Acevedo

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In her autobiography for young readers, Acevedo describes growing up in a Mexican-American community in the 1960s. She felt out of place, as her interest in science diverged from most of her friends. She didn't want to follow the prescribed path set out for her on account of her gender. Joining the Girl Scouts presented new and exciting experiences that satisfied her need for adventure and set her on a path to becoming a scientist. Ages 8 and up (middle grade). Also available in Spanish.

MORE: Books about Cubans and Cuban-Americans

Danza!: Amalia Hernández and Mexico's Folkloric Ballet by Duncan Tonatiuh

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Amalia Hernández always knew she would be a dancer and she studied a variety of dance forms. She traveled all over Mexico, learning traditional dances of each region. She then formed El Ballet Folklórico de México, which combined ballet with these folk dances. Tonatiuh's illustrative style, which evokes Mixtec artwork, is great fun. If you are lucky, you might catch some the company's next performance! Ages 6 and up.

Sing with Me: The Story of Selena Quintanilla by Diana López, illustrated by Teresa Martinez

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Selena grew up in Texas as part of a large, musical family. This vibrant biography focuses on Selena's youth and her determination to work hard. Selena learned Spanish so she could sing the Tejano music her audience wanted, sewed her own costumes and spent time on the road taking her music to different locations in Texas. The text does not mention the cause of her death, but an afterward gives more information. Ages 5 and up.

When Angels Sing: The Story of Rock Legend Carlos Santana by Michael Mahin, illustrated by Jose Ramirez

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As I write this I can hear Santana's version of "Oye Como Va" playing in my head. (Incidentally, the song was originally composed by Tito Puente, whose biography is also on this list!) The colorful illustrations, reminiscent of Huichol yarn art, are the perfect backdrop for an introduction to Santana's early life, his discovery of the guitar and the music he made with The Santana Blues Band. Ages 6 and up.

My Name is Celia/Me llamo Celia: The Life of Celia Cruz/la vida de Celia Cruz by Monica Brown, illustrated by Rafael López

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This lively bilingual biography tells the story of Cuban-born Celia Cruz, an important salsa singer and performer. The narrative traces Celia's journey, starting with her love of music and through her experience as a refugee escaping the communist regime in Cuba. She brought her musical art to Miami and New York, fighting racial stereotypes and never giving up. The text evokes the rhythm of salsa music and makes a good read aloud. Ages 5 and up.

Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Rafael López

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Engle's poetic text and López's marvelous illustrations shine in this picture book biography of a little-known musician. Carreño and her family came to the United States when revolution broke out in her home country of Venezuela. But in the U.S., Civil War was disturbing the peace. Nevertheless, Carreño continued to practice the piano, learning different musical styles and then, at the age of 10, Lincoln invited her to play at the White House. Ages 4 and up. Also available in Spanish.

Frida Kahlo and Her Animalitos by Monica Brown, illustrated by John Parra

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You can find many biographies of Kahlo on the library shelves and I like this one because it focuses on the animals that inspired many of Kahlo's paintings. Kahlo had a number of pets including monkeys, birds, turkeys, even a fawn. The text draws comparisons between the artists love of her animalitos, Azetc culture and her Mexican heritage, commenting on their influence in her art. Major life events are briefly mentioned, but they are not the focus of the biography. Ages 4 and up. Also available in Spanish.

Drum Dream Girl: How One Girl's Courage Changed Music by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Rafael López

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This wonderful picture book is inspired by the life of Millo Castro Zaldarriaga, a Chinese-African-Cuban girl. Millo bucked Cuba's taboo against female drummers and became a famous musician, even playing the bongos at a birthday celebration for FDR. The book is written as a poem, following a girl's longing to beat on all sorts of drums: congas, bongos, and timbales. She practices secretly until finally she is allowed to share her gift with the world. Rafael López's illustrations are absolutely stunning. Ages 4 and up.

Tito Puente, Mambo King/Tito Puente, Rey del Mambo, by Monica Brown, illustrated by Rafael Lopez

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The swinging, jazzy text tells the story of Puente's life from the time when he was a small child banging out catchy rhythms on pots and pans through his time in the Navy, at Julliard, all the way to the end of his career when he was recognized with 5 Grammys. Swirling illustrations take the reader on a colorful journey. There is a biographical note at the end.  Here's is Puente's original "Oye Como Va." (See Carlos Santana book, above) A Pura Belpré Honor Award Book. Ages 5 and up.

A Girl Named Rosita: The Story of Rita Moreno: Actor, Singer, Dancer, Trailblazer! by Anika Aldamuy Denise, illustrated by Leo Espinosa

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This biography of Rita Moreno begins with her family's immigration from Puerto Rico to New York City, where she feels like a fish out of water. She begins dancing lessons and discovers a love for the stage. She struggles with being typecast because of her ethnicity but eventually becomes the first Latino to win an Academy Award. An author's note provides information on Moreno's work and activism in the years after West Side Story. Ages 4 and up.

Esquivel! Space-Age Sound Artist by Susan Wood, illustrations by Duncan Tonatiuh

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You may not know the name, "Juan García Esquivel," but you've certainly heard his lounge music! Although it's fun to read about Esquivel's experimentations with musical instruments and his popularity in Mexico and the U.S., my favorite part of the book is Tonatiuh's illustrations! Listen to some of Esquivel's groovy music here! Ages 6 and up.

Nacho's Nachos: The Story Behind the World's Favorite Snack by Sandra Nickel, illustrated by Oliver Dominguez

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In our home, we love nachos. Nachos for lunch, nachos for snacks, nachos for dinner. The only nachos we don't like are those gross ones you get at ball parts with the plastic, shiny cheese on top. Here's the fascinating story of how nachos were invented in the mid 20th century in a restaurant just over the border by a gentleman named–yes–Nacho. Ages 6 and up.

Roberto Clemente: Pride of the Pittsburgh Pirates by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Raúl Colón

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Clemente made his first baseball bat from the wood of a guava tree in Puerto Rico and when he didn't have a ball, used an empty soup can. His talent eventually led him to play professional baseball in Puerto Rico and later in the major leagues for the Pittsburgh Pirates. His amazing success as a ball player didn't prevent racism from rearing it's ugly head but he continued to play. Winter's straightforward approach to Clemente's tragic death emphasizes the generous nature of Clemente's talent and spirit. Ages 6 and up.

Selena Gomez (Hispanic Star series) by Claudia Romo Edelman and Sara E. Echenique, illustrated by Manuel Gutierrez

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Your young readers will be inspired by reading this chapter book biography of a performer they know and love. Born in Texas, Gomez got her start as a child television performer and went on to become one of Time magazine’s most influential people. The Hispanic Star series also includes books about Roberto Clemente, Sylvia Rivera, Ellen Ochoa, among others. Ages 8 and up (chapter book). Also available in Spanish.

Pelé King of Soccer by Eddy Simon, illustrated by Vincent Brascaglia

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This graphic novel biography of Brazilian fútbol star, Pelé is fantastic. You know a book is good when it's about sports and I can't put it down. Author/Illustrator team Simon and Brascaglia convey the storied life of the greatest soccer player, from his youth, when his father taught him to love the game, to his amazing career and work as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. Translated from French. Ages 8 and up. Also check out our list of sports-themed graphic novels.

Child of the Flower-Song People: Luz Jiménez, Daughter of the Nahua by Gloria Amescua, illustrated by Duncan Tonatiuh

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The story begins with Luz Jiménez, a member of the Nahua community, who are descendants of the Aztecs, learning how to farm, and listening to folk stories. Luz wanted to learn how to read and the government offered free schooling. However, the Mexican government was attempting to persuade the Indigenous population to conform to European colonial standards of language, dress and culture. Later, when anthropologists are seeking to record the "lost" culture of Indigenous communities, Luz assists them. Back matter offers further, detailed information. Ages 6 and up.

Separate Is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family's Fight for Desegregation by Duncan Tonatiuh

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This book tells the story of school desegregation 10 years before Brown v. the Board of Education. In 1944, Sylvia's family moved to a new community. When she tried to attend school, she was told that she would have to go to "the Mexican school". Sylvia and her family fought back and eventually won a very important court battle, setting the stage for future desegregation cases. This is a great book to teach kids that segregation extended beyond the Jim Crow laws of the South. Ages 6 and up.

Building an Orchestra of Hope by Carmen Oliver, illustrated by Luisa Uribe

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Favio Chávez, an Argentinian who loves music, heads to Paraguay. Cateura is a small village built on a landfill, where the population spends their days searching through the refuse for items they can sell. Favio wants to teach the children music but he doesn't have enough instruments and comes up with a solution to build the instruments from trash. An inspiring story. Ages 5 and up.

Harvesting Hope: The Story of César Chávez by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morales

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I'm quite a fan of illustrator Yuyi Morales, which is why I chose this particular picture book about civil rights leader Chávez. The biography begins with Chávez as a young boy, who was "not a fighter," and follows him as his family leaves Mexico during a drought. When they arrive in California, the family experiences the hardship, racism and the brutal treatment rained down on migrant workers. Chávez was roused to take action and organized a 340 mile peaceful protest march on behalf of farmworkers. Ages 7 and up. Also check out our list of children's books about the history of labor.

Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers by Sarah Warren, illustrated by Robert Casilla

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Dolores Huerta is another leading civil rights activist your kids should know. Author Sarah Warren describes Huerta in her many roles from a teacher to parent to protester and more. Her strength and determination to help the farmworkers led her to help organize a strike so they could achieve better working conditions and fair treatment under the law. The book includes terrific supplemental information in the afterward. Ages 6 and up.

Soldier for Equality: José de la Luz Sáenz and the Great War by Duncan Tonatiuh

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José de la Luz Sáenz left his teaching job in Texas in hopes that enlisting in the United States Army would convince white Texans to treat Tejanos fairly and equally. In 1918 he served in France in the intelligence office, but was not treated equally with his fellow soldiers. Upon returning to Texas after the war, Luz saw that his service made no difference as to how he was treated and so he organized and worked as an activist with other Tejanos. Tonatiuh tells the story of a fascinating individual and introduces children to a lesser know story in the fight for civil rights. The book includes historical notes and a timeline. Also available in Spanish. Ages 6 and up.

Stand as Tall as the Trees, Patricia Gualinga and Laura Resau, illustrated by Vanessa Jaramillo

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As a child, co-author Patricia Gualinga lived in Sarayaku, inside the Ecuadorian rainforest. Her mother taught her that humans are connected to nature and to the forest. She describes how, as an adult, she and members of the Indigenous Kichwa went to the Court of Human Rights as part of their campaign to stop oil companies from taking over parts of the rainforest. Spoiler alert: they win. This is a gorgeous, well-written book about a crucial and timely issue. Ages 7 and up.

Marti's Song for Freedom / Martí y sus versos por la libertad by Emma Otheguy, illustrated by Beatriz Vidal

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Inspired by the natural world around him, José Martí started writing poetry. He then used his writing gift to speak out against the Spanish colonizers of his beloved home in Cuba. The government declared him an enemy of Spain and forced him to leave Cuba. Living in exile, he continued to compose poetry inspired by nature. RIF has supplemental activities for educators, based on this book. Ages 8 and up.

Jovita Wore Pants: The Story of a Mexican Freedom Fighter by Aida Salazar, illustrated Molly Mendoza

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Growing up in rural Mexico in the 1910s, Jovita hated being forced to wear big skirts. So she fashioned her skirts into a pair of pants and went exploring with her brothers. When her father and brothers joined the Cristeros as part of the Mexican revolution, Jovita longed to join them. She eventually becomes involved, but the revolution brings tragedy to Jovita's family. Jovita does not back down, dressing "as Juan" and leading an army of peasants against the government. Includes a lengthy and informative author's note. Ages 7 and up.

Small Room, Big Dreams by Monica Brown, illustrated by Mirelle Ortega

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Inspired by the activism and perseverance of their mother and grandmother, Mexican-American twins, Julián and Joaquin Castro started careers in politics. Brown's narration starts with their childhood in which they shared a room with their abuela and competed against each other in sports and school. She emphasizes the family's values around education and community and includes context about different Spanish-speaking populations and migration. A worthy biography of two contemporary change-makers. Ages 4 and up. Also available in Spanish.

Phemonenal AOC: The Roots and Rise of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez by Anika Aldamuy Denise, illustrated by Loris Lora

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While she may be a lighting rod for political arguments with your neighbor on the opposite side of the political spectrum from you, this thoughtful and inspiring biography of Ocasio-Cortez, or "AOC" brings her humanity to the foreground. Growing up in suburban New York, AOC quickly noticed how few people in the community looked like her family, and that there were strong disparities of resources between neighborhoods, depending on the wealth of their inhabitants. She worked hard to succeed in school, becoming involved in activism and politics, and eventually became the youngest elected member of the House of Representatives. Ages 5 and up.

The Beloved World of Sonia Sotomayor (Young Readers edition) by Sonia Sotomayor

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First of all, let's discuss how adorable that cover photo of Sotomayor as a girl is! This is Sotomayor's adaptation of her memoir, My Beloved World, for young readers. Sotomayor tells her story of growing in the Bronx and following her dreams with the support of her family and community. She presents a nuanced picture of the challenges and achievements which put her on the path to becoming the Supreme Court's first Latina justice. Ages 10 and up. For her autobiographical picture book, read Sotomayor's Turning Pages.

Planting Stories: The Life of Librarian and Storyteller Pura Belpré by Anika Aldamuy Denise, illustrated by Paola Escobar

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Pura Belpré immigrated from Puerto Rico in 1921. She was New York City's first Puerto Rican librarian. She was also a storyteller and puppeteer who championed bilingual literature. This is an absolutely gorgeous book and a useful author's note give further background on this important trailblazer. Ages 4 and up.

Digging for Words: José Alberto Gutiérrez and the Library He Built by Angela Burke Kunkel, illustrated by Paola Escobar

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José Alberto Gutiérrez works as a garbage collector in Bogotá, Colombia. On his rounds he keeps a lookout for books. Recognizing the transformative power of reading, he uses those books to start a library. Author, Angela Burke Kunkel, creates a parallel, fictional story of another José in Bogotá. This José is a young boy who looks forward to visiting the library every Saturday. I particularly loved the illustrations by Colombian illustrator, Paola Escobar, which depict scenes from books mentioned in the text. Ages 4 and up.

Pablo Neruda: Poet of the People/Poeta del Pueblo by Monica Brown, illustrated by Julie Paschkis

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This picture book biography of Chile's famous poet, focuses first on Neruda's childhood, when he spent time observing nature, reading books and fostering a love for words and language. As he grew up, his love for the people of Chile, and desire to help the poor, motivated him to become an activist. Ages 4 and up.

Imagine by Juan Felipe Herrera, illustrated by Lauren Castillo

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Herrera, a the first Chicano Poet Laureate, penned this lovely autobiographical picture book that encourages young readers to use their imagination. Using free verse, Herrera describes the change in landscape as he moves from rural California to the city and how he discovered a love for words which set him on the path to write poetry. Absolutely beautiful! This makes a lovely bedtime book, too. Ages 4 and up.

Tomás and the Library Lady by Pat Mora, illustrated by Raul Colón

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Tomás Rivera went on to become the first minority chancellor at the University of California. As the son of migrant workers, Tomás listened every night to stories told by his grandmother. Then one day, a librarian opened up a whole new world for him. It's an inspiring story about of the power of education and reading which will ring true for all children, no matter what their backgrounds. Ages 6 and up. Also available in Spanish.

My Name Is Gabriela/Me llamo Gabriela by Monica Brown, illustrated by John Parra

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Gabriela Mistral was the first Latina to win the Nobel Prize. Brown's bilingual biography tells the story of how Mistral's imaginative spirit and love for words and sounds inspired her to become a poet. When she was fifteen she became a school teacher, sharing her passion for reading, writing and education with the children of her home country of Chile. Ages 5 and up. For more biographers of authors, take a look at our book list of women writers and poets.

Areli is a Dreamer by Areli Morales, illustrated by Luisa Uribe

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DACA recipient, Morales, begins her story describing life in Mexico, living with her abuela and waiting for phone calls from Mamá and Papá in America. Later, she travels to New York to reunite with her parents and brother. She poignantly describes life as an undocumented resident, both her complicated emotions over being considered "illegal," as well as the excitement of going new places. Ages 4 and up. Also available in Spanish.

My Shoes and I: Crossing Three Borders/ Mis zapatos y yo: Cruzando tres fronteras by René Colato Laínez, illustrated by Fabricio Vanden Broeck

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In this autobiographical, bilingual picture book the author begins with a gift of new shoes that his mother, who is in the U.S., has sent him. Wearing the shoes brings him joy and he revels in running and jumping. Then, he and his father set out on to make the difficult journey from El Salvador to United States, which transforms the shoes. Ages 6 and up. More: Picture books about refugees.

Once I Was You: Finding My Voice and Passing the Mic (Young Readers edition) by Maria Hinojosa

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When Hinojosa's father takes a professorship in Chicago, she and her family leave Mexico City. Award winning journalist, Maria Hinojosa describes her experience as a Latina immigrant living the United States, where she encounters opportunity, but also prejudice. Weaving in the stories of migrants with her own, Hinojosa guides readers to consider questions of identity, imposter syndrome, class and gender. Ages 10 and up (middle grade).

Latinitas: Celebrating 40 Big Dreamers by Juliet Menéndez

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Menéndez is able to convey a surprising amount of information with one page biographies of forty different Latina women. She looks at the lives of women from the 17th century to the present, featuring a wide array of individuals from writers to athletes and scientists to activists. Collage-style watercolor illustrations round out the collection. Ages 7 and up.

Bravo! Poems About Amazing Hispanics by Margarita Engle, illustrated by Rafael López

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One of the reason I love children's books is that I am always learning something new! Most of the figures in this poetry collection were new to me. End matter includes extra biographical information about each individual. Older children will also enjoy Yes! We Are Latinos: Poems and Prose About the Latino Experience by Alma Flor Ada and F. Isabel Campoy. Ages 8 and up.

Portraits of Hispanic American Heroes by Juan Felipe Herrera, illustrated by Raúl Colón

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Herrera's collection features twenty Hispanic and Latinx American figures from all walks of life and professions, including both well-known individuals and less-known luminaries. Ages 8 and up. A Pura Belpré Author Honor Book.

Hear My Voice/Escucha Mi Voz: The Testimonies of Children Detained at the Southern Border of the United States, compiled by Warren Binford, various illustrators

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This collection of interviews from 61 migrant children, ages 5-17, makes it impossible to argue that non-citizens shouldn't have the same human rights as citizens. The first person narratives are written in the original Spanish and translated into English. Although this book is appropriate for a middle school audience, I recommend reading it along with your students and children. Seventeen Latino illustrators bring the children's words to life in imaginative and thought-provoking ways. The forward and end notes add context and history to the children's experiences. Ages 8 and up.

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From practical women who wanted a better way to do housework to women who faced barriers in scientific fields to women whose were driven to express themselves through art, these books demonstrate the power of women to change our everyday lives.

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Picture Book Biographies of Female Inventors

The Brilliant Calculator by Jan Lower, illustrated by Susan Reagan

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Born in the late 19th century, Edith Clarke discovered a passion for mathematics and astronomy at school, went on to graduate from Vassar and MIT, and became the first American electrical engineer. After graduating, she was shut out of engineering jobs because of her gender, but she wouldn't let that stop her. Instead, she invented the Clarke Calculator, which quickly solved the calculations needed to prevent electrical power wires from overloading. That calculator finally got her a job as the first female electrical engineer in America.

MORE: Biographies of Women in STEM

Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code by Laurie Wallmark, illustrated by Katy Wu

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From an early age, Hopper loved to figure out how things worked. Encouraged by her parents to study math and science, despite the domination of the field by men, Hopper's curious mind helped her persevere and she during WWII, she enlisted in WAVES, the women’s division of the Naval Reserve. Hopper remained in the Navy until she was 80 (!) solving incredibly complex computer programming problems. An utterly fascinating story.

Hedy Lamarr's Double Life: Hollywood Legend and Brilliant Inventor by Laurie Wallmark, illustrated by Katy Wu

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Hedy Lamarr, known to the public as a beautiful 1930's movie star, was also a brilliant scientific thinker and inventor. With composer George Antheil, she designed and patented a ‘frequency hopping’ device that would be able to help the US Navy redirect enemy torpedoes. The Navy classified the invention as "Secret" and Lamarr's work as an inventor went unrecognized for decades. But now, your kids can learn all about this amazing female inventor!

MORE: Biographies of Women Performers

The House That Cleaned Itself: The True Story of Frances Gabe's (Mostly) Marvelous Invention by Laura Dershewitz and Susan Romberg, illustrated by Meghann Rader

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The number one reason to read this book to your kids is that no doubt they will want to try out Frances Gabe's ideas for themselves. Although, beware when your child starts hooking up a soap-spraying sprinkler in the ceiling. The number two reason is because this biography is a wonderfully joyful and humorous look at one woman's boundless imagination and her quest to invent tools to make life easier. Don't miss this one.

Railroad Engineer Olive Dennis by Kaye Baillie, illustrated by Tanja Stephani

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You'll notice a consistent theme in many picture book biographies of women trailblazers. The woman in question excels at school, often out-performing her colleagues, in male-dominated fields like engineering or science. Then, when she goes out to get a job, her gender is seen as disqualifying. Such is the story of Olive Dennis. She was eventually hired as the first female engineer at B&O Railroad. At first, she worked on strengthening bridges, but to her initial disappointment, she was sent out to ride the trains to suggest improvements. Eventually, she invented a multitude of items that made riding the rails much more pleasant!

MORE: Big list of books for women's history month

Marvelous Mattie by Emily Arnold McCully

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Mattie, the first U.S. woman to obtain a patent, started inventing things when she was just a girl. She figured out how to make faster sleds, better kites and when she was twelve, she invented a device to protect loom workers. She also invented a machine to manufacture paper bags. The illustrations in this book are wonderful. Flowing watercolors are accompanied by blueprint-like drawings of Mattie's inventions.

Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine by Laurie Wallmark, illustrated by April Chu

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I love this illustrated biography of a woman who has recently been "discovered" as the first computer programmer. The daughter of the notorious poet, Lord Byron, Ada's math-loving mother raised her away from him. Ada had an inquisitive, curious mind and when she met Charles Babbage (who invented the first mechanical computer), it was Ada who figures out how to program it. A gorgeous book with fun details that will fascinate children.

MORE: Poems for Women's History Month

The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath by Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated by Daniel Rieley

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This is a wonderful biography of a woman you have probably never heard of, but who has made significant contributions to medicine, including inventing a treatment for blindness. Written in rhyme, the narrative flows well and the illustrations are engaging. End material, including a letter from Dr. Bath, photographs, a time line and further details about Dr. Bath's life and work make this biography extra special.

Wood, Wire, Wings: Emma Lilian Todd Invents an Airplane by Kirsten W. Larson, illustrated by Tracy Subisak

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Larson and Subisak's biography of Emma Todd introduces kids to a woman driven by her curiosity and passion for innovation. Inspired by her inventor-grandfather, Todd grew up tinkering and exploring. She eventually worked at the US Patent Office where her interest in flight had her dreaming of all kinds of inventions, including designing a prototype for a working airplane.

MORE: Biographies of Women Politicians

Josephine and Her Dishwashing Machine by Kate Hannigan , illustrated by Sarah Green

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Thank goodness for inventors like Josephine Garis Cochrane! Josephine could think of all sorts of things she rather do than wash a sink full of dirty dishes, so she set about inventing a machine that washed dishes. Whenever Josephine hit an obstacle, she repeats the mantra, "There must be a better way!" This attitude led her, not just to invent and improve a dishwashing machine, but to become an entrepreneur who never stopped searching for a better way to do things.

Sweet Dreams, Sarah by Vivian Kirkfield, illustrated by Chris Ewald

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Born enslaved, Sarah Goode learned the art of woodcraft from her free father. Post-Civil War, she moved to Chicago, married a fellow-carpenter, opened a furniture store and set her mind to creating innovative pieces of furniture that would work in small spaces. In 1885 she became the first African-American woman to secure a patent. Her invention? A cabinet that transformed to a bed!

MORE: Biographies of Women Artists

Cut! How Lotte Reiniger and a Pair of Scissors Revolutionized Animation by C. E. Winters, illustrated by Matt Schu

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Blow your children's minds by telling them that Walt Disney didn't invent animation. In fairness, neither did the German animator Lotte Reiniger, but long before Disney, she used scherenschnitte-style paper puppets to create and stop motion films. She went on to invent a multiplane camera to give her animated films depth of field. I love the way the illustrations draw upon the same paper cutting techniques that Reiniger used.

Rock, Rosetta Rock! Roll, Rosetta, Roll! by Tonya Bolden, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie

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I thought it would be fun to round out this list of women inventors with a reminder than inventions are not always things you can patent. Considered the godmother of rock and roll, Bolden and Christie bring to life the story of Sister Rosetta Tharpe through lively free verse and vibrant illustrations. Although this may be your child's introduction to Tharpe as the (or one of the) inventor of rock and roll, they will recognize (or at least you will!) other faces like Chuck Berry and Elvis Presley as later musicians who were influenced by her music.

MORE: Picture Books about Amazing African-American Women

The post Curious & Determined: Biographies of Women Inventors appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

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MORE: Native American Picture Books by Native Authors

THE WATER WALKER by Joanne Robertson

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Native American communities were the first to recognize what humans were doing to the planet and have always played a crucial role in raising awareness about the environment. Every morning an Ojibwe grandmother greets nibi (water) with gratitude. Knowing that unpolluted water will soon be a scarcity, she and a group of women start to walk around the Great Lakes in order to draw attention to the importance of clean water. It takes them seven years to walk around the lakes, but they do not give up. Both the text and the illustrations add sweet humor to this important story. Ages 3 and up.

CLASSIFIED: THE SECRET CAREER OF MARY GOLDA ROSS, CHEROKEE AEROSPACE ENGINEER by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Natasha Donovan

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Guided by her Cherokee heritage and principles, Mary Golda Ross spent her life striving to excel. In school, she was the only female in her math class, which simply spurred her on even more. During WWII she worked on aircraft design and afterwards she was instrumental in developing secret projects at Lockeed. I hope this children's biography of Mary Golda Ross becomes part of every classroom's STEM curriculum! Ages 6 and up.

MORE: Historical and Contemporary Middle Grade Books by Native American Authors

SHARUKO: EL ARQUEÓLOGO PERUANO JULIO C. TELLO/PERUVIAN ARCHAEOLOGIST JULIO C. TELLO by Monica Brown, illustrated by Elisa Chavarri

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Tello was a part of a Quechua-speaking Indigenous people community in Peru and the first first Indigenous archaeologist in the Americas. He started off in medical school and developed an intense curiosity of skulls. Using his skills to improve the lives of Peru's Indigenous people, he was tireless in working to preserve Indigenous history and culture. Ages 6 and up. Note: Publisher Lee and Low has a teacher's guide here.

MORE: Latin American Folktales for Kids

FINDING MY DANCE by Ria Thundercloud, illustrated by Kalila J. Fuller

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Ria Thundercloud (Ho-Chunk Nation and Sandia Pueblo) narrates her autobiographical journey though the world of dance. As a young girl she enthusiastically joined in the jingle dance in the special dress her mother made. Thundercloud recalls the loneliness she felt as the only Indigenous girl in her class at school, as well as how others always mispronounced her name, Wakąja haja pįįwįga. Thundercloud goes on to learn multiple styles of dance, indigenous and western, forging a career path that also lifts up her culture. Vibrant illustrations make this a great Native American biography to read aloud. Ages 5 and up.

TALLCHIEF: AMERICAN'S PRIMA BALLERINA by Maria Tallchief and Rosemary Wells, illustrated by Gary Kelley

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Maria Tallchief narrates her own story. She begins by describing her childhood on the Osage reservation. With the encouragement of her mother, Maria grew up with a fierce love of music and dance and the family moved to Los Angeles so she could continue her training. This biography focuses on Maria's formative years and the book ends when she joins the Ballets Russes de Monte Carlo at the age of 17. Ages 6 and up.

MORE: Native (North) American Folktales for Kids

WILMA'S WAY HOME: THE LIFE OF WILMA MANKILLER by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Linda Kukuk

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Wilma Mankiller, the first female chief of the Cherokee Nation grew up in rural Oklahoma, where her Cherokee heritage instilled in her the importance of helping one another and supporting Native communities. A misguided government policy relocates Mankiller's family to San Francisco. In California she fostered a connection with her Cherokee roots at the local Indian Center, eventually returning to Oklahoma. Ages 6 and up.

ROCK & ROLL HIGHWAY: THE ROBBIE ROBERTSON STORY by Sebastian Robertson, illustrated by Adam Gustavson

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Robertson's son penned this upbeat picture book biography of his father, the son of a Mohawk mother and Jewish father. Robbie Robertson was a Canadian songwriter and guitarist in the musical group, the Band. The book traces Robertson's childhood and rise as a musician, as well as mentioning his work with other musical artists. Ages 6 and up.

RED BIRD SINGS: THE STORY OF ZITKALA-SA, NATIVE AMERICAN AUTHOR, MUSICIAN, AND ACTIVIST by Gina Capaldi and Q. L. Pearce, illustrated by Gina Capaldi. Zitkala-Sa

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Zitkala-Sa left her home on the Yankton Sioux reservation in South Dakota to go to school in Indiana where she found solace in music. This biography tells her story from her struggles due to being separated from her traditional culture and discovering her love of music as a child, to her activism on behalf of Native Americans, as an adult. Ages 7 and up.

MORE: Picture Book Biographies of Women Musicians

MISSION TO SPACE by John Harrington

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Astronaut John Harrington, a member of the Chickasaw Nation, narrates a journey to space. He introduces us to the basics of NASA astronaut training, what astronauts get up to in space and takes readers on a spacewalk. This is an exceptionally fun read aloud and includes some wonderful photographs of Harrington's experience. Ages 3 and up.

SHAPED BY HER HANDS: POTTER MARIA MARTINEZ by Anna Harber Freeman and Barbara Gonzales, illustrated by Aphelandra

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Luminous illustrations bring to life the work of Tewa potter, Maria Martinez. Born Maria Povika, she grew up in San Ildefonso Pueblo, New Mexico, learning pottery as a child from her aunt. She became well-known for a particular firing technique that turned pots a shiny black, as well as her focus on drawing upon her cultural heritage to make her amazing pottery. Ages 4 and up.

JIM THORPE'S BRIGHT PATH by Joseph Bruchac, illustrated by S.D. Nelson

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Thorpe had a difficult childhood. His parents and brother died and he was sent to an Indian boarding school. These boarding schools were meant to strip Native Americans of their cultural identity and the students were expected to enter society as servants and manual laborers. Thorpe avoided this bleak prospect to become one of the greatest athletes of all time. Publisher Lee and Low has an excellent teacher's guide to go along with the book. Ages 7 and up.

CHESTER NEZ AND THE UNBREAKABLE CODE by Joseph Bruchac, illustrated by Liz Amini-Holmes

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Chester Nez was a Navajo Code Talker during WWII, helping the US government defeat the Japanese by using the Navajo language to evade the enemy. As a child, Nez was taken from his family and placed in a missionary boarding school, where authorities aimed at assimilating children into the colonizing culture and separating them from their indigenous heritage and language. After the war, Nez's life wasn't rosy either, and Bruchac allows us to see Nez in all his humanity. Ages 6 and up. Note: Find a teacher's guide here.

LOUIS SOCKALEXIS: NATIVE AMERICAN BASEBALL PIONEER by Bill Wise, illustrated by Bill Farnsworth

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Sockalexis, a member of the Penobscot tribe, experienced discrimination in the late 19th century as he struggled to be accepted as a professional baseball player. This biography follows his childhood and his career. Get the teacher's guide for the book here. Ages 7 and up.

MORE: Baseball Picture Books

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The men and women featured in these children's biography books fought for justice, created art, completed daring feats and even made streets safer. Your lives will be richer knowing about them.

Picture Book Biographies of Black Heroes

Carter Reads the Newspaper by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Don Tate

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I begin this list with a picture book biography of Carter G. Woodson because Woodson is widely seen as the father of Black History Month. Woodson grew up reading the newspaper to his father because, although his father couldn't read, he believed that he should be informed. When Woodson moved away and went to work in the coal mines, his life took a turn when he began reading to the other miners, taking the time to find materials that would interest them. Woodson went on to earn a PhD from Harvard and a professor challenged him to prove that Black people had a history worth learning about. He does that, and more. Ages 6 and up.

Stitch by Stitch by Connie Schofield-Morrison, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon

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I found the life of Elizabeth Hobbs Keckley so compelling, I made my husband read this children's book! Keckley was born enslaved and treated by her white owners with unconscionable cruelty. When sold, her new owner required her to learn how to sew, and Keckley developed an incredible talent for it. White women, including Robert E. Lee's wife, sought her handiwork. She was eventually able to purchase her freedom and went into business for herself, becoming the official dresser for first lady Mary Todd Lincoln. Don't miss this one. Ages 7 and up.

MORE: Picture book biographies of African-American Women

Saving the Day by Karyn Parsons, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie

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As a boy growing up in a farming family, Garret Morgan was eager to help, but he wasn't always adept at farm work. However, he loved to dream. His parents encouraged him to move to the city to study, where he nurtured his interest in tinkering and fixing things. After witnessing a collision between an auto and a horse and wagon, he came up with the idea for a traffic signal. Bright and bold illustrations accompany a rhyming text, making this a great read aloud for Black History Month. Ages 4 and up.

Nina: A Story of Nina Simone by Traci N. Todd, illustrated by Christian Robinson

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Todd's picture book biography of African-American musician, Nina Simone, begins with Nina's childhood. Her mama was a pastor and a housemaid, and young Eunice (as she was then known) started piano lessons arranged by her mama's employer. Eunice continued playing her music in the segregated South but was denied entrance to the Curtis Institute of Music on account of her race. But Eunice couldn't stop the music within her and she began playing in bars and clubs, bringing music to the civil rights movement. Ages 6 and up.

MORE: Picture books about amazing African-American women

Saving American Beach by Heidi Tyline King, illustrated by Ekua Holmes

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MaVynee Betsch grew up in Jim Crow Florida where the ocean had a literal rope line separating where whites and blacks could swim. Her grandfather purchased a stretch of beach where African-Americans could come to enjoy the seaside. MaVynee grew up to be an opera singer but when she returned home, she found the beach full of litter and on the verge of being taken over by developments. She spent the rest of her days trying to save "American Beach." Ages 6 and up.

Runaway: The Daring Escape of Ona Judge by Ray Anthony Shepard, illustrated by Keith Mallett

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Ona Judge grew up enslaved by George Washington's family. When Martha Washington gave Ona to her granddaughter, Ona ran away. The text is written as if the narrator is speaking to Ona, asking her questions about her choices and describing her surroundings. This narrative conceit facilitates thoughtful questions about Ona's experience. I think Ona's story is particularly important as a counterpoint to all the George Washington-as-hero picture books. Not to diminish Washington, but to give children a clearer and more nuanced understanding of life at the time. Ages 6 and up.

Dark Was the Night by Gary Golio, illustrated by E. B. Lewis

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This lyrical biography reads like a love letter to "Blind Willie" Johnson. In 1977, NASA sent a collection of recordings into space. The selections were chosen because they represented Earth and humanity. One of Johnson's wordless songs was among them. Golio begins Johnson's story in childhood. His mother died early and young Willie went blind around age seven. Johnson brought light into the world with his singing and innovative music style which, "conveyed the sense of loneliness that all people feel." Lovely illustrations mirror the soothing rhythm of the text. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Civil Rights picture books for kids

Let 'er Buck by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by Gordon C. James

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When George Fletcher's family moved to Oregon, he grew up playing with children from the Umatilla Indian Reservation, learning their language and the art of horsemanship. In his teen years, he started competing in rodeos. In the 1911 Pendleton Round-Up, Fletcher competed against a white rancher and a Nez Perce cowboy. Even though Fletcher out-performed the other men, the prize went to the white man. However, the local sheriff wouldn't let the injustice stand and led a campaign to have Fletcher honored as "The People's Champion." The author includes excellent endnotes. Ages 6 and up.

Between the Lines by Sandra Neil Wallace, illustrated by Bryan Collier

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Ernie was a quiet child who loved to draw. His hands were drawing hands, but that didn't stop the high school football coach from recruiting him to play football. Ernie studied art at college while on a football scholarship. Even as he continued to play ball, he still pursued art. He never stopped seeing beauty in the world around him. Ages 6 and up.

Lizzie Demands a Seat by Beth Anderson, illustrated by E. B. Lewis

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This is a wonderful book to start a conversation with children about how the absence of slavery did not mean the presence of equality. Elizabeth Jennings was a free Black woman living in 19th century New York, which was then a "free" state. When a white conductor tells Lizzie she must wait to ride the streetcar for "colored" persons, she becomes upset and files a lawsuit. Excellent end notes give further information and context. Ages 6 and up.

Fearless Mary by Tami Charles, illustrated by Claire Almon

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In 1895, the city of Cascade, Montana needs a stagecoach driver. This particular route is dangerous and requires the driver defend the stagecoach against outlaws, wild animals and potentially hazardous conditions. Former slave, Mary Fields, wants the position. Not surprisingly, few believe a Black woman is suited for the job. But Mary is determined. A fun, fast-paced story that is a great read aloud. Ages 5 and up.

MORE: Big list of children's books for Black History Month

The post Picture Book Biographies of Lesser Known Black Heroes appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

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Age recommendations are a guide only, not hard and fast rules.

Novels

There are loads of wonderful historical fiction books for kids that focus on the experiences of women and girls. For this list, particularly I have chosen a few that are based on real life stories from important moments in history. Find more of our historical fiction with strong female protagonists recommendations here.

Letters from Cuba by Ruth Behar

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I could not stop turning the pages of this excellent epistolary novel. In 1938, Esther leaves her mother and brother in Poland and joins her father in Cuba. Esther tells her story in a series of letters to her sister. Making the journey by herself, as a Jewish refugee, Esther looks forward to her new home. Once in Cuba, she falls in love with the island and her neighbors. Her father has been working as a peddler, but Esther is a talented seamstress and finds success selling sought after dresses so that she and her father are finally able to send for the rest of the family. Behar based the book on the story of her grandmother. Ages 9 and up.

Betty Before X by Ilyasah Shabazz, with Renée Watson

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This is an engaging, fictionalized account of 11-year-old Betty, who would grow up to be civil rights leader, Dr. Betty Shabazz. Betty learned about the power of activism through life at church, listening to powerful speakers, including Thurgood Marshall, and forming friendships with likeminded individuals. Betty's journey is personal and political, and this book is hard to put down. Ages 9 and up.

Finding Wonders: Three Girls Who Changed Science by Jeannine Atkins

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In this three part verse novel-biography, Atkins tells the stories of three girls and how their curiosity and willingness to buck the constraints of their gender changed the world. Maria Merian was a naturalist born in the 17th century. In the 19th century Mary Anning searched for fossils on the cliffs off England's coast, and Maria Mitchell explored the night sky from the shores of Nantucket. Ages 8 and up.

Ahimsa by Supriya Kelkar

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In 1942, Anjali's mother joins Gandhi's resistance movement in India. This means some big changes for 10-year-old Anjali and her family's way of life, and Anjali must work to overcome her prejudices against some of India's lower classes, like the "untouchables." Despite her dedication to nonviolence, Anjali's mother goes to jail and Anjali must decide if she is going to take up her work. This is a moving story of a girl's journey towards learning about inequality and the importance of social justice. (Also, look how pretty the cover is!) Ages 8 and up.

Memoirs and Autobiographies

This selection of books includes women making history today as well as women who made contributions over the past century. You may also enjoy the following list: Middle grade verse biographies and memoirs

The Beloved World of Sonia Sotomayor by Sonia Sotomayor

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First of all, let's discuss how adorable Sotomayor was as a girl! This is Sotomayor's adaptation of her memoir, My Beloved World, for young readers. Sotomayor tells her story of growing in the Bronx and following her dreams with the support of her family and community. She presents a nuanced picture of the challenges and achievements which put her on the path to becoming the Supreme Court's first Latina justice. Inspiring. Ages 10 and up.

Proud: Living My American Dream (Young Readers Edition) by Ibtihaj Muhammad

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In her autobiography, Muhammad narrates her journey from childhood to the 2016 Olympics, where she became the first woman to compete in fencing wearing the hijab, as well as the first female American Muslim to earn an Olympic medal. Muhammad's story of perseverance will inspire your middle grade and teen readers. Ages 10 and up.

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

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Woodson describes her memories of growing up in South Carolina, and later in Brooklyn, against the backdrop of the civil rights movement. Verse novels are wonderful to read aloud as the cadence and rhythm adds an extra layer to the listening experience. The narrative is funny and poignant as Woodson figures out what makes her special and discovers her love words. Ages 8 and up.

I Am Malala (Young Readers Edition) by Malala Yousafzai

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I Am Malala has become required reading in many middle schools and high schools, I'm happy to say! Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Malala Yousafzai, was shot in the head by the Taliban at the age of 15. After her miraculous recovery, she became–and still is–a strong voice and advocate for girls and education all over the world. Ages 10 and up.

Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the Selma Voting Rights March by Lynda Blackmon Lowery, illustrated by PJ Loughran

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This is an appealing conversation-style, first person narrative by Lynda Blackmon Lowery, the youngest person to march all the way from Selma to Montgomery. Lowery describes her experience being jailed nine times (all before the age of 15) and beaten on Bloody Sunday in Selma, Alabama. It’s an amazing and eye-opening story. Lowery speaks directly to children and tells them they have a voice and can be history makers. A final reference to the 2013 Supreme Court decision and assertion that discrimination no longer exists challenges the reader, “Who has the right to vote is still being decided today.” A superb, must-read book. Ages 10 and up.

Reaching for the Moon by Katherine Johnson

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Johnson writes a very readable autobiography beginning with her precocious childhood (she graduated high school at age 14) through her education at college where the teachers had to come up with new classes to keep up with her mathematical talent. She went on to become one of the first Black women to work at NASA and helped get the first men onto the moon. Throughout her autobiography, Johnson describes the roadblocks she faced due to racism and sexism. Ages 9 and up.

This Promise of Change: One Girl’s Story in the Fight for School Equality by Jo Ann Allen Boyce and Debbie Levy

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In 1956, Jo Ann Allen was one of 12 African-American students integrated Clinton High School in Tennessee. Boyce tells her story in this very readable verse memoir. Poems address both her feelings about the fight for civil rights and her own experience with typical teen feelings. A page-turner for sure! Ages 9 and up.

The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

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You do not need me to introduce this life-changing book. Anne Frank's first hand account of her life in hiding during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands is essential reading for every person. It will change your life. Ages 11 and up.

Biographies

The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science by Joyce Sidman

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Way back in the 17th century, Maria Merian (also in Finding Wonders, see above) was the first person to document the metamorphosis of the butterfly. She was a self-taught artist who was dedicated to illustrating the natural world, and she especially loved insects. Sidman uses photographs and illustrations to detail Marian's fascinating life and art, describing how she struggled against the confines of her gender so that she could travel and pursue her interests in a male-dominated world. Includes loads of helpful endnotes, like timelines, glossaries, etc. Ages 8 and up.

The Story of Movie Star Anna May Wong by Paula Yoo

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Lee and Low's "The Story of..." series of biographies is a treasure trove of information about diverse historical figure. The biographies skew towards a younger audience than most of the books on this list. However, they are excellent quick reads for older kids, too, and I found all of them fascinating, including this biography of an Asian-American film actress who championed non-stereotyped roles for Asian actors. For kids who want to learn more, the book includes resources for further reading. Ages 7 and up.

MORE: Paula Yoo has a fantastic picture book about Wong, Shining Star: The Anna May Wong Story. And no doubt your readers will enjoy learning more about performers from the books on our list of biographies of women performers.

Fighter in Velvet Gloves by Annie Boochever & Roy Peratrovich Jr.

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This is a short book (under 100 pages) about Elizabeth Peratrovich, a member of the Tlingit nation who fought for the civil rights of Native Alaskans in the mid 20th century, and helped to get Alaska's Anti-Discrimination Act passed in 1945. After that she continued to work on behalf of Native Alaskans in all areas of their lives. Fun Fact: Peratrovich is on a 2020 $1 commemorative coin. Ages 10 and up.

The Radium Girls (Young Readers Edition) by Kate Moore

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The subtitle of The Radium Girls is "the scary but true story of the poison that made people glow in the dark." And, yes, as the readers learns about the history of young women clock painters who were slowly poisoned with radium in the early 20th century, they will be quite scared indeed. (Just not in a screaming-hiding-under-the-bed sort of way.) Take note: there are graphic descriptions of what that radium did to their bodies. This is a well-written book and will start conversations about all sorts of topics from chemistry to workers rights to sexism. Ages 11 and up.

Never Caught, the Story of Ona Judge (Young Readers Edition) by Erica Armstrong Dunbar and Kathleen Van Cleve

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Dunbar and Van Cleve have written an extremely readable biography detailing what Ona Judge’s life would have been like, how the Washingtons viewed slavery, how they treated their slaves, and crucially, how they pursued Judge after she escaped. This book is an eye-opener for children whose views of Washington were formed around the cherry tree myth. Did you know Washington attempted to break his own fugitive law in order to capture Judge? That said, even though the author’s sympathies clearly lie with Judge, the book does not demonize the president. Ages 9 and up.

Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart by Candace Fleming

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Award-winning author, Fleming, has written an eclectic assortment of books, but the titles I like most are her middle grade nonfiction. Fleming's extraordinarily well researched biography alternates chapters between Earhart's growing up years, and the last days before her famous disappearance. Readers come away with a nuanced view of Earhart both as a woman who was interested in curating her public persona and as an intensely curious aviatrix. Ages 9 and up.

Hillary Rodham Clinton: Do All the Good You Can by Cynthia Levinson

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Read a book about the first woman candidate for president of a major party that goes beyond the sensationalist headlines. Levinson chronicles Clinton's life from her girlhood to the present, focusing on Clinton's mantra of "Do all the good you can," a quote from the Methodist, John Wesley. Levinson respectfully describes Clinton's personal life, relationships with friends, family and colleagues and emphasizes her work as an activist. Kids will appreciate learning that a person who as been both demonized and lionized is actually just a complex individual, like anyone else. Ages 8 and up.

MORE: Picture book biographies of women politicians and women activists.

Astronauts: Women on the Final Frontier by Jim Ottaviani, illustrated by Maris Wicks

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In this thrilling graphic novel, the author and illustrator team up to tell the story of Mary Cleave and Valentina Tereshkova, the first women in space. The narrative centers on the women's journey through the training at NASA and their experience in a white male-dominated world. Ottaviani and Wicks have written a marvelous tale with a heavy dose of humor; I found myself laughing much more than I expected to at a book about astronauts! Ages 9 and up.

MORE: learn about other women who have flown under the radar in the science fields: Books about Women pioneers in STEM subjects.

Hidden Figures (Young Readers Edition) by Margot Lee Shetterly

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I recommended watching the Hidden Figures film with your children in my list of movies to watch with your tweens, but to get the more nuanced story, please read the book with them as well. Shetterly's young readers edition of her book tells the story of four amazing Black women mathematicians, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, (see Johnson's autobiography, above) and Christine Darden. The women contributed to NASA's successful missions but went largely unrecognized until recently. Kids will also be fascinated to learn how the women completed all their complex calculations with the help of modern computers! Ages 9 and up.

The post Middle Grade Books for Women's History Month appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.

The books include biographies of inventors, artists, sports heroes, activists and scientists, as well as stories of courage and determination. Read these books to enhance learning during Black History Month, and all year long.

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African-American History and Culture Books

Books are listed in rough historical order, divided into picture books for a wide age range, and books for upper elementary and middle school.

MORE: Civil Rights Picture Books

Picture Books

Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans by Kadir Nelson. A 100 year old woman narrates this epic tale African-American history as though she is remembering the tales her ancestors told her. It's nice to have a beautiful book that covers a wide range of historical topics and is entirely appropriate for elementary school children. It is an overview of history and you will do well to supplement its reading with more specific books. Nelson's paintings are stunning, as usual.

Like a Bird: The Art of the American Slave Song by Cynthia Grady, illustrated by Michele Wood. This gorgeous book contains the words and musical score of 13 slave spirituals. Each song is accompanied by a historical explanation of its meaning, and the Biblical references. Wood's illustrations are utterly gorgeous.

Brick by Brick by Charles R. Smith, Jr., illustrated by Floyd Cooper is a picture book that will get your kids thinking about the White House in an entirely new light. This is a fascinating book for adults, too and we will all do well to remember that enslaved individuals were a large part of the work force that hauled the bricks and erected one of our nation's most famous symbols of freedom.

Freedom in Congo Square by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. In 19th C. Louisiana, enslaved people were allowed to congregate in Congo Square on Sundays, a tradition which allowed the slaves to preserve some of their cultural heritage. The narrative follows the week of a slave up until Sunday. It is a powerful book, both in relating a little-known historical event but also in dubious meaning of the word, "freedom." A conversation-starter, for sure.

Steamboat School by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Ron Husband. An 1847 law made it illegal for blacks, free or enslaved, to go to school. But Reverend John Meachum got around the law by holding school on a steamboat in the Mississippi River, which was federal, not state land.

Wind Flyers by Angela Johnson, illustrated by Loren Long. A young boy in Alabama with dreams of flying ends up as one of the famed Tuskegee Airmen. The story is told through the eyes of a 5 year old boy, who narrates the tale of his great-uncle.

We March by Shane W. Evans. The spare text and brilliant illustrations make this a wonderful book for children as young as 3 years old. The light, first person narrative tells the story of a family getting ready to march in the historic event.

A Sweet Smell of Roses by Angela Johnson, illustrated by Eric Velazquez. A young girl, with her red-ribboned teddy bear describes her experience as she and her sister slip out of their house to join a freedom march. The focus is on the sensory experience. This is another lovely book that emphases how children were an integral part in the fight for freedom.

Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney. This is the story of the 1960 Greensboro lunch counter sit in.  I quite enjoyed the food metaphors. “At first they were treated like the hole in the doughnut—invisible.” “The kids had a recipe, too. A new brew called integration.”

Boycott Blues: How Rosa Parks Inspired a Nation by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney. This book tells the story of how the African-American community walked for 382 days rather than ride the segregated busses in Montgomery, Alabama. The rhythmic text and vibrant illustrations, which themselves appear to move beautifully capture the spirit of the amazing individuals who brought change to their community and the nation.

Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey and Gwen Strauss, illustrated by Floyd Cooper From 1936-1964, “The Green Book” was a travel guide for African-Americans that included a listing of service stations that would serve them.  Ruth and her family are en route from Chicago to Alabama to visit grandma. Ruth learns about Jim Crow laws for the first time and makes it her job to help navigate with the help of The Green Book.

Lillian’s Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Shane W. Evans. The elderly Lillian climbs a hill to vote for the first time. As she climbs she recalls the history of her family and African-Americans in her country and all it took to get to this point.

The Teachers March!: How Selma's Teachers Changed History by Sandra Neil Wallace and Rich Wallace, illustrated by Charly Palmer. This is a fascinating look at a little known event during the Civil Rights movement. Using extensive research, the authors tell the story of Reverend F.D. Reese, who organized his fellow educators to march for voting rights in 1965.

The Case for Loving: The Fight for Interracial Marriage by Selina Alko, illustrated by Selina Alko and Sean Qualls. This book tells the real life story of how one couple fought for and won their right to be legally married in the state of Virginia.

Let's Clap, Jump, Sing & Shout; Dance, Spin & Turn It Out!: Games, Songs, and Stories from an African American Childhood by Patricia C. McKissack, illustrated by Brian Pinkney. This is a fun collection of childhood songs, rhymes and games, folk stories and spirituals.

Upper Grades

Find more Black History books that includes novels based on historic events on the following list:

• Chapter Books for Black History Month
• Historical Fiction Novels for kids

Never Caught, the Story of Ona Judge: George and Martha Washington’s Courageous Slave Who Dared to Run Away (Young Readers Edition) by Erica Armstrong Dunbar and Kathleen Van Cleve. Dunbar and Van Cleve have written an extremely readable biography detailing what Ona Judge’s life would have been like, how the Washingtons viewed slavery, how they treated their slaves, and crucially, how they pursued Judge after she escaped. This book is an eye-opener for children whose views of Washington were formed around the cherry tree myth. Did you know Washington attempted to break his own fugitive law in order to capture Judge? Not exactly the picture of a fair and just leader. That said, even though the author’s sympathies clearly lie with Judge, the book does not demonize the president. There is also an excellent picture book about Ona Judge, Runaway by Ray Anthony Shepard, illustrated by Keith Mallett.

Answering the Cry for Freedom: Stories of African Americans and the American Revolution by Gretchen Woelfle, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. Woelfle profiles thirteen African-Americans who lived during the American Revolution. Most of the names will be unfamiliar at first, but readers are destined never to forget their stories. I think this collection might serve the intended audience better as a read aloud rather than for independent reading. Parents and teachers can extend the conversation, and share one story at a time.

Freedom Over Me: Eleven Slaves, Their Lives and Dreams Brought to Life by Ashley Bryan. Bryan takes a historical estate document that details its slaves and their prices and turns it into a powerful book about the dreams of real people. She gives each unnamed slave a name, an age and vivid hopes and dreams. This is an extraordinarily powerful collection of poems and illustrations.

The Port Chicago 50: Disaster, Mutiny, and the Fight for Civil Rights by Steve Sheinkin is about a little known event in 1944 in which war and civil rights collided. 244 African-American soldiers refused to follow a command which they felt would have put them at unnecessary risk. For their stand, they were charged with mutiny. Sheinkin's book looks at the event, what led up to the mutiny and how differently the armed services treated its white and black soldiers. Fascinating.

You Can Fly: The Tuskegee Airmen by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Jeffery Boston Weatherford. A powerful historical verse novel about the Tuskegee Airman who became some of the most successful WWII pilots, despite the rampant racism they faced.

We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball by Kadir Nelson. This book is a fascinating narration of the history of the Negro League, its talented players, the struggle of the teams' owners and the important role the League played in the history of the sport in America. Kadir's text is engaging, and as always, his illustrations will amaze you and draw you into the emotional life of this historical period.

Brown v. Board of Education: A Fight for Simple Justice by Susan Goldman Rubin. A well-researched and compellingly written narrative about the people involved in bringing Brown v. Board of Education to trial. It helps to personalize the stories for today's children, as well as facilitating the translation of legal mumbo-jumble into easily understood text.

Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer: The Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Ekua Holmes. Poems tell the story of Fannie Lou Hamer's life, from her childhood as a sharecropper to her life as an activist. The text is emotional and doesn't gloss over Fannie's hardships, and the collage illustrations are stunning.

March by John Lewis and Andrew Ayden, illustrated by Nate Powell. A graphic novel trilogy by a civil rights activist about his experience during that tumultuous time.

Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the Selma Voting Rights March by Lynda Blackmon Lowery, as told to Elspeth Leacock and Susan Buckley, illustrated by PJ Loughran. This book is an appealing conversation-style first person narrative by the youngest person to march all the way from Selma to Montgomery. Lowery describes her experience being jailed nine times (all before the age of 15) and beaten on Bloody Sunday in Selma, Alabama in a way that speaks directly to children and tells them they have a voice and can be history makers, too.

28 Days: Moments in Black History that Changed the World by Charles R. Smith, Jr., illustrated by Shane W. Evans. For each day in February, the book introduces readers to a different African-American who made an impact. 3 Supreme Court decisions and a constitutional amendment are also included. Although the format of the book does not support in-depth biographies, the book is chock full of interesting and important information.

Becoming Mohammad Ali by Kwame Alexander  and James Patterson, illustrated by
Dawud Anyabwile. This biography of Ali is written in verse, making it extremely accessible to all readers, even reluctant ones. I didn't actually know much about Ali's life and found this novelized biography fascinating. Alexander's verse captures Ali's dynamic personality and perseverance. It's an inspiration story for all of us.

African-American History Books: Biographies

I have been encouraged at the increasing library of picture book biographies of Black Americans. If you are ever concerned about the age range of any of these African-American history books, I recommend you preview the book. Please also see the following list:

• Picture Book Biographies of Amazing African-American Women
• Picture Book Biographies of Lesser-Known Black Heroes

William Still and His Freedom Stories: the Father of the Underground Railroad by Don Tate. When you think of the Underground Railroad, William Still is probably not the first name to come to mind. This is the fascinating biography of a man who played a key role in preserving the stories of Black Americans who escaped to freedom in the 19th century. Tate begins his book with the life and escape from slavery of Still's parents and I appreciated his truth-telling about the actual conditions of the enslaved, instead of glossing over it. I read this out loud to my 12 year old and we both learned a lot.

Pathfinders: The Journeys of 16 Extraordinary Black Souls by Tonya Bolden. A collection of fascinating mini-biographies of men and women you never learned about in history class.

Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave by Laban Carrick Hill, illustrated by Bryan Collier. This Caldecott Honor book is one of my favorites on this list. Few slaves were allowed to learn a skilled trade, but Dave's story has reached us through his splendid pottery and the poetic words he inscribed on it. History knows Dave only by his first name, a few scattered mentions in historical papers and by the pottery he created. Yet, his story speaks volumes about the history of African-Americans and slavery in this country.

Etched in Clay: The Life of Dave, Enslaved Potter and Poet by Andrea Cheng. After reading the above picture book biography of Dave the Potter, turn to this biography in verse for middle school and high school students. Lee and Low has a fantastic teacher's guide for the book, to help kids dig deeper into Dave's live and the historical period.

Poet: The Remarkable Story of George Moses Horton by Don Tate is indeed a remarkable and fascination historical biography of America's first working African-American poet. Horton was a slave in North Carolina who taught himself how to read, which was against the law. He sold produce at the market in order to make some money and when he started reciting his poetry, university students began to pay him to compose love poems so they could woo their sweethearts.

Sojourner Truth's Step-Stomp Stride by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney. A lively book about a woman who did not back down from what she believed in. Sojourner traveled around the countryside spreading her anti-slavery message, determined to make her voice heard.

Fifty Cents and a Dream: Young Booker T. Washington by Jabari Asim, illustrated by Bryan Collier. Asim tells Washington's story in beautiful free verse. Born a slave, Washington was determined to get an education and after emancipation walked 500 miles with a dream of earning a college degree.

Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Kadir Nelson. This biography emphasizes Tubman’s spiritual journey as she determines that God has called her to help slaves escape to freedom. Weatherford’s lyrical text and Kadir’s expressive paintings bring this inspiring woman to life.

Two Friends: Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass by Dean Robbins, illustrated by Sean Qualls and Selina Alko. Frederick Douglass was not just an abolitionist, he also worked with the women's rights movement. This picture books explores his friendship with Susan B. Anthony.

Yours for Justice, Ida B. Wells: The Daring Life of a Crusading Journalist by Philip Dray, illustrated Stephen Alcorn. In Post-Civil War America, Wells was an anti-lynching activist and one of the few successful Black Americans to win a legal battle in court. She wrote tirelessly against Jim Crow and refused to back down, even in the face of threats to her life.

Step Right Up: How Doc and Jim Key Taught the World about Kindness by Donna Janell Bowman, illustrated by Daniel Minter.  In the 19th century, William "Doc" Key, a man who was born a slave, became a successful businessman after the Civil War. Using kindness, Doc taught one of his horses to read, write and perform sums. Doc and Jim toured the country, showing off Jim's skills. Along the way Doc stood up to racism and the skepticism of others, teaching that it was kindness that inspired Jim to learn.

Bad News for Outlaws: The Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U. S. Marshal by Vaunda Micheaux Nelson, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. Do your kids like the Wild, Wild West? Teach them about Bass Reeves, who was born a slave but escaped his master and ran away into Indian Territory. After the Civil War, Bass became a legendary deputy US Marshall, despite white folks' skepticism and racism. Ages 8 and up.

It Jes' Happened: When Bill Traylor Started to Draw by Don Tate, illustrated by R. Gregory Christie. Teach your children about this little known, but important artist. A self-taught artist, Traylor was born a slave. After the Civil War he lived and worked as a sharecropper. When he was 81 he moved off the land to Montgomery, Alabama where he started to draw.

A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin by Jen Bryant, illustrated by Melissa Sweet. Horace Pippin, who I'd never heard of before reading this picture book, was a self-taught painter. He was shot in the arm during WWI, but he worked steadily to learn how to use his arm again to create art.

The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath by Julia Finley Mosca. This is a wonderful biography of a woman you have probably never heard of, but who has made significant contributions to medicine, including a treatment for blindness. Written in rhyme, the narrative flows well and the illustrations are engaging. End material, including a letter from Dr. Bath, photographs, a time line and further details about Dr. Bath's life and work make this biography extra special.

Hidden Figures: The True Story of Four Black Women and the Space Race by Margot Lee Shetterly, illustrated by Laura Freeman. A film by the same name brought these little known women into the light and we are all better for it! This is the story of four amazing mathematicians, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, and Christine Darden, who contributed to NASA's success by providing important calculations. But it wasn't easy and they had to overcome strong racial and gender barriers to succeed.

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed, illustrated by Stasia Burrington . Not as text heavy as many picture book biographies, this is a wonderful book about the first African-American in space, Mae Jemison, and it will inspire younger children. The narrative focuses on the young Mae and her dreams to see the earth from space. When she learns she needs to be an astronaut to go into space, she learns as much as she can about the stars and what it takes to be an astronaut. Her parents encourage her to dream big, even in the face of others' skepticism.

Little Melba and Her Big Trombone by Katheryn Russell-Brown, illustrated by Frank Morrison. A charming story about little known musician Melba Doretta Liston who taught herself to play the trombone when she was only 7! This is an extremely well-written jazz picture book about a musician you will wish you had known about much, much earlier.

The Little Piano Girl: The Story of Mary Lou Williams, Jazz Legend  by Ann Ingalls and Maryann Macdonald, illustrated by Giselle Potter focuses on the childhood of amazing pianist Mary Lou Williams and her impoverished background in Pittsburg where she charmed the neighbors with her magical playing.

Tiny Stitches: The Life of Medical Pioneer Vivien Thomas by Gwendolyn Hooks, illustrated by Colin Bootman. Vivien Thomas, unable to attend medical school for financial reasons, became a research assistant to a surgeon at the all-white Vanderbilt University. Thomas developed a surgical technique that Dr. Blalock used on the first open heart pediatric surgery. Rampant institutionalized racism meant Thomas had an uphill battle to earn the respect and credit he deserved but his legacy in the medical field is lasting.

Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Bryan Collier.  This is a good beginner's guide to MLK. It's informative but not overly long as some picture book biographies can be. It gives a solid introduction to MLK's life and work and is beautifully illustrated.

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, a Young Civil Rights Activist by Cynthia Levinson, illustrated by Vanessa Brantley Newton. A story about the youngest known child to be arrested for standing up for civl rights. Audrey was nine when she was arrested in Birmingham, Alabama, 1963 during the civil rights march.

The Story Of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles, illustrated by George Ford. This book celebrates six year old Ruby, who in 1960, faced angry crowds and empty classrooms as she became the first child to attend an all-white school after a court-ordered desegregation in New Orleans. Author Coles does a great job of making an historical event personal and showing how a child can overcome a difficult situation.

The Legendary Miss Lena Horne by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon. This picture book biography tells the story of a woman who refused to play the stereotype rolls that Hollywood offered: nannies and maids. The narrative traces the highs and lows of her career and family life and kids will enjoy the little nod to her appearance on Sesame Street!

When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson by Pam Muñoz Ryan, illustrated by Brian Selznick.  Like her jazz counterpart, Josephine Baker, contralto Marian Anderson found true acceptance first in Europe because Americans were unwilling to accept a black woman on the stage. When the DAR refused to allow her to perform at Constitution Hall, Eleanor Roosevelt arranged for her to sing at the Lincoln Memorial in 1939.

She Was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm by Katheryn Russell-Brown, illustrated by Eric Velasquez. Russell-Brown's engaging biography of Chisholm narrates her journey from a young child with a talent for leadership to her life in politics. Readers will learn about how her experiences growing up in Barbados and New York influenced her desire to make change and fight on behalf of others. With the growing diversity in high political offices, this is an important read for children to learn about the long trajectory of the fight for representation and justice.

Gordon Parks: How the Photographer Captured Black and White America by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Jamey Christoph. Gordon Parks refused to accept his grade school teacher's assertion that Black Americans could only work service jobs. Instead he picked up a camera and became a self-taught photographer, working first in fashion and then as a government photographer.

Whoosh!: Lonnie Johnson's Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions by Chris Barton, illustrated by Don Tate. Kids will love to learn how their favorite Super-Soaker toy was invented! The may also be surprised it was invented by a man who had a career at NASA.

Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, by Javaka Steptoe. An extraordinarily gorgeous book about a Brooklyn-born artist whose collage style brought him to the attention of the world in the late 20th Century.

The post Big List of African-American History Books for Children appeared first on What Do We Do All Day.