sweethoneychildbookclub

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Lillian’s Right to Vote: A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965

Author: Jonah Winter

Illustrator: Shane W. Evans Shane W. Evans’s Website

Age Range: 6-9 years

Category: Black Heritage & History

Theme: Voting Rights, History, Civil Rights

This book tells the story of a 100-year-old African American woman named Lillian as she walks uphill to vote, reflecting on her family’s history and the fight for voting rights.

Description/Introduction:

“Lillian’s Right to Vote” is a poignant and powerful story that captures the struggles and triumphs of a century-old African American woman named Lillian. As she makes her way to the polling station, Lillian reflects on the generations of her family who fought tirelessly for the right to vote. Through her journey, readers learn about the significant milestones and sacrifices that paved the way for voting rights in America.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A powerful homage to the sacrifices made for the right to vote.” -Publishers Weekly

“Beautifully illustrates the importance of voting rights.” -Kirkus Reviews

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Papa’s Mark

Author: Gwendolyn Battle-Lavert

Illustrator: Colin Bootman

Age Range: 6-9 years

Theme: Voting Rights, History, Family

This touching picture book tells the story of a young boy who helps his father, a former slave, learn to write his name so he can vote for the first time. It highlights the significance of voting and the determination of those who fought for this right.

Description/Introduction:

“Papa’s Mark” is a heartfelt narrative that captures a pivotal moment in history through the eyes of a young boy. As he teaches his father, a former slave, to write his name, the story unfolds the deep significance of literacy and the right to vote. This touching tale emphasizes the importance of family, education, and the relentless pursuit of equality.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A heartfelt narrative about the importance of literacy and voting.” -Publisher’s Weekly

“Beautifully illustrates the struggle and triumph of voting rights.” -Booklist

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Freedom on the Menu: The Greensboro Sit-Ins

Author: Carole Boston Weatherford Carole Boston Weatherford’s Website

Illustrator: Jerome Lagarrigue Jerome Lagarrigue’s Website

Age Range: 7-10 years

Theme: Civil Rights, Activism, History

“Freedom on the Menu: The Greensboro Sit-Ins” recounts the Greensboro sit-ins from the perspective of a young girl. It provides a child’s-eye view of the civil rights movement, emphasizing the importance of standing up for what is right.

Description/Introduction:

This book offers a poignant retelling of the historic Greensboro sit-ins, seen through the eyes of a young African American girl. Through evocative illustrations and heartfelt narrative, readers are introduced to the bravery and resolve of those who fought for civil rights, highlighting the significance of this pivotal moment in history.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A powerful story of courage and conviction.” -Kirkus Reviews

“A valuable introduction to a pivotal moment in civil rights history.” -School Library Journal

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Granddaddy’s Turn

Author: Michael S. Bandy and Eric Stein

Illustrator: James E. Ransome James E. Ransome’s Website

Age Range: 5-9 years

Theme: Black Heritage & History

This moving story is about a young boy’s experience with his granddaddy during the civil rights movement and the importance of voting. This poignant picture book is based on the true story of Michael S. Bandy’s grandfather and his struggle to vote for the first time in the South during the civil rights movement. It highlights the importance of voting and the sacrifices made for this fundamental right.

Description/Introduction:

“Granddaddy’s Turn” offers a heartfelt portrayal of a significant historical moment through the eyes of a young boy. As he witnesses his grandfather’s determination and courage to exercise his right to vote, readers gain an understanding of the struggles faced during the civil rights era and the critical importance of voting.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A moving tribute to the struggle for voting rights.” -School Library Journal

“Emotionally resonant and beautifully illustrated.” -Booklist

Awards:

Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2016

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Vanguard: How Black Women Broke Barriers, Won the Vote, and Insisted on Equality for All

Author: Martha S. Jones Martha S. Jones’s Website

Age Range: 12-18 years (Young Adult)

Theme: Voting Rights, History, Women’s Rights, Activism

Category: Real-Life Heroes, Black Heritage & History

“Vanguard” chronicles the history of Black women and their fight for the right to vote. It highlights the crucial role Black women played in the suffrage and civil rights movements, insisting on equality for all.

Description/Introduction:

“Vanguard” is a powerful exploration of the pivotal role Black women have played in the struggle for voting rights and equality in America. Martha S. Jones brings to light the stories of unsung heroines who fought tirelessly for suffrage and civil rights, showcasing their unwavering determination and the impact of their activism. This book not only educates but also inspires young readers to understand the importance of perseverance and the ongoing fight for justice.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A vital contribution to our understanding of the suffrage movement.” -School Library Journal

“Comprehensive and enlightening.” -Booklist

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

The Youngest Marcher: The Story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, A Young Civil Rights Activist

Author & Illustrator: Cynthia Levinson & Vanessa Brantley-Newton

Age Range: 5-10

Theme: Empowerment, History, Civil Rights

This picture book brings to life the courageous story of Audrey Faye Hendricks, the youngest known child to be arrested for a civil rights protest in Birmingham, 1963. Through her eyes, young readers learn the power of standing up for what’s right, no matter your age.

Description/Introduction:

Audrey Faye Hendricks’ voice and actions at such a young age demonstrate the profound impact one person can have on the fight for justice and equality. Her participation in the Birmingham campaign serves as a beacon of bravery, teaching children the importance of activism and the strength of conviction in the face of injustice.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A powerful reminder that you’re never too little to make a difference.” - Publishers Weekly

Audrey’s story inspires children to recognize their voice and power in societal change, emphasizing the importance of participating in democracy and fighting for justice.

Content Value

Audrey’s story inspires children to recognize their voice and power in societal change, emphasizing the importance of participating in democracy and fighting for justice.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

She Was the First!

Author & Illustrator: Katheryn Russell-Brown & Eric Velasquez

Age Range: 6-11

Theme: Empowerment, Political Leadership, Breaking Barriers

This inspiring biography highlights Shirley Chisholm’s groundbreaking journey as the first African American woman in Congress and her presidential run, encouraging young girls to dream big and break barriers.

Description/Introduction:

Explore the remarkable life of Shirley Chisholm, a trailblazer who not only made history as the first African American woman elected to the United States Congress but also as a candidate for the presidency. Her story is one of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of equality, serving as an inspiration to all who seek to make a difference in the world.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A testament to the indomitable spirit of Shirley Chisholm, encouraging young readers to pursue leadership and make a difference.” - NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Literary Work

Shirley Chisholm’s life story serves as a powerful example of resilience and determination, inspiring children to aspire to leadership roles and advocate for change. Her legacy reminds us that with passion and perseverance, barriers can be broken and new paths forged for future generations.

Content Value

Shirley Chisholm’s life story serves as a powerful example of resilience and determination, inspiring children to aspire to leadership roles and advocate for change.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Fearless Mary: Mary Fields, American Stagecoach Driver

Author & Illustrator: Tami Charles & Claire Almon

Age Range: 4-8

Theme: Adventure, Breaking Stereotypes, Resilience

Discover the true story of Mary Fields, also known as “Stagecoach Mary,” a trailblazing African American woman who navigated the dangers of the Wild West as a stagecoach driver.

Description/Introduction:

Embark on the extraordinary journey of Mary Fields, known for her fearless nature and indomitable spirit. As the first African American woman stagecoach driver, Mary broke barriers and defied the stereotypes of her time, delivering mail across the treacherous terrains of the Wild West. Her story is one of adventure, resilience, and the courage to pursue one’s path despite the odds.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A riveting tale of courage and determination, Fearless Mary showcases the adventurous spirit of a woman who defied societal expectations.” - School Library Connection

Mary Fields’ story teaches children the value of courage, resilience, and the determination to challenge stereotypes. Her life serves as an inspiring example of how one can achieve greatness by embracing their unique strengths and forging their own path.

Content Value

Mary Fields’ adventurous life encourages kids to be fearless, resilient, and to challenge stereotypes, highlighting the importance of independence and courage in overcoming obstacles.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Sweet Dreams, Sarah

Author & Illustrator: Vivian Kirkfield & Chris Ewald

Age Range: 7-14

Theme: Innovation, Persistence, African-American Inventors

Celebrate the achievements of Sarah E. Goode, one of the first African-American women to receive a US patent, with this inspiring story of creativity, persistence, and breaking through racial and gender barriers.

Description/Introduction:

This engaging narrative brings to life the story of Sarah E. Goode, a trailblazer who not only became one of the first African-American women to receive a US patent but also a symbol of innovation and resilience. Her invention of a fold-away bed provided practical solutions to the challenges of small-space living while breaking through the barriers of her time.

Quotes/Reviews:

“An inspiring story of ingenuity and persistence, Sweet Dreams, Sarah highlights an important figure in American innovation.” - Kirkus Reviews

Through Sarah Goode’s story, readers are inspired to see how perseverance, creativity, and a refusal to accept limitations can lead to groundbreaking achievements. Her legacy is a testament to the significant contributions of African-American inventors to our society and technology.

Content Value

Sarah Goode’s journey to becoming an inventor teaches children the value of persistence, creativity, and the significance of African-American contributions to technology and design.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Sewing Stories: Harriet Powers’ Journey from Slave to Artist

Author & Illustrator: Barbara Herkert & Vanessa Brantley-Newton

Age Range: 5-8

Theme: Art, History, Resilience

Explore the life of Harriet Powers, who used her quilting skills to tell stories, preserving African American folklore and Bible tales through her art, becoming a celebrated artist.

Description/Introduction:

Harriet Powers, born into slavery, became a renowned quilter who expressed her artistic genius through the vivid storytelling of her quilts. This book delves into Powers’ life, showcasing how she overcame obstacles to preserve her heritage and stories through the unique medium of textile art, making a significant impact on American art and history.

Quotes/Reviews:

“An inspiring tale of creativity and resilience, Sewing Stories brings Harriet Powers’ extraordinary quilts and her legacy to life.” - Library Journal

Harriet Powers’ quilts are more than just art; they are narratives woven from fabric, offering insights into the life and times of a woman who faced adversity with creativity and strength. Her legacy encourages young readers to find their voice and medium for storytelling.

Content Value

Harriet Powers’ story exemplifies how art can be a powerful medium for storytelling and preserving culture, inspiring children to explore their creative expression.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Stitchin’ and Pullin’: A Gee’s Bend Quilt

Author & Illustrator: Patricia McKissack & Cozbi A. Cabrera

Age Range: 5-9

Theme: Community, Art, Heritage

This book captures the rich tradition of quilting in Gee’s Bend, Alabama, and the strong sense of community and history that inspires the women to create beautiful quilts, told through the eyes of a young girl learning from her elders.

Description/Introduction:

Experience the warmth and beauty of Gee’s Bend quilting through the story of a young girl absorbing the art and stories of her ancestors. This tale not only celebrates the vibrant patterns and colors of Gee’s Bend quilts but also honors the deep-rooted community ties and the transmission of knowledge and tradition from one generation to the next.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A beautifully illustrated celebration of tradition, art, and the bond between generations.” - School Library Journal

By delving into the story of Gee’s Bend and its quilts, readers are encouraged to appreciate the significance of cultural heritage and the collective joy of creating something meaningful together.

Content Value

Encourages appreciation for cultural heritage and the beauty of creating something meaningful together as a community.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Queen of the Track: Alice Coachman, Olympic High-Jump Champion

Author & Illustrator: Heather Lang & Floyd Cooper

Age Range: 5 and up

Theme: Sports, Perseverance, Breaking Barriers

The inspiring story of Alice Coachman, who overcame poverty and racial discrimination to become the first African-American woman to win an Olympic gold medal, setting a new high jump record in 1948.

Description/Introduction:

This remarkable book brings to life the story of Alice Coachman, a trailblazer who not only broke records but also shattered racial barriers, becoming an iconic figure in the world of sports. Her journey from the dusty tracks of her youth to the podium of the 1948 Olympic Games is a compelling testament to her courage, resilience, and unmatched talent.

Quotes/Reviews:

“An evocative portrayal of a woman who achieved her dreams against all odds, becoming a true Olympic hero.” - Kirkus Reviews

Alice Coachman’s legacy goes beyond her Olympic triumph; her story encourages children everywhere to dream big, work hard, and never let obstacles stand in the way of achieving their goals.

Content Value

Alice Coachman’s story is a testament to the power of determination and hard work, inspiring children to pursue their passions and achieve greatness.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

The Girl with a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague

Author & Illustrator: Julia Finley Mosca & Daniel Rieley

Age Range: 5-9

Theme: STEM, Innovation, Perseverance

This book celebrates the life of Raye Montague, an incredible engineer who faced sexism and racial barriers to revolutionize naval ship design with her groundbreaking work.

Description/Introduction:

Discover the remarkable story of Raye Montague, a trailblazing engineer whose innovations transformed the way naval ships are designed and built. Despite facing significant challenges due to her gender and race, Montague’s brilliant mind and steadfast perseverance led to her achieving unprecedented success in a male-dominated field.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A captivating and inspiring story of a woman whose intelligence and perseverance changed the way ships are built.” - Booklist

Raye Montague’s story is a powerful testament to the importance of determination, hard work, and belief in oneself. Her achievements not only advanced naval engineering but also paved the way for future generations of women and girls in STEM.

Content Value

Raye Montague’s achievements illuminate the importance of persistence and believing in oneself, encouraging children, especially girls, to explore STEM fields.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

When Wilma Rudolph Played Basketball

Author & Illustrator: Mark Weakland & Daniel Duncan

Age Range: 4-8

Theme: Sports, Overcoming Illness, Determination

This engaging story highlights the childhood of Wilma Rudolph, who overcame polio and went on to become an Olympic champion.

Description/Introduction:

Highlighting the early years of Wilma Rudolph, this story showcases her love for basketball and her incredible journey overcoming polio to triumph on the Olympic track.

Quotes/Reviews:

“An inspirational tale of a sports legend who overcame adversity with grace and strength.” - Publishers Weekly

Wilma Rudolph’s story is a powerful example of overcoming physical challenges through resilience and determination, inspiring children to pursue their dreams regardless of obstacles.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Nothing But Trouble: The Story of Althea Gibson

Author: Sue Stauffacher

Illustrator: Greg Couch

Age Range: 5-8 years

Themes: Sports, Breaking Racial Barriers, Tenacity

Step into the pages of “Nothing But Trouble: The Story of Althea Gibson” and discover the life of Althea Gibson, the first African-American woman to win the Wimbledon Cup, and her journey from a rebellious youth to a tennis legend.

Short Description:

Prepare to be dazzled by the stories of Althea Gibson’s tenacity and her pioneering success in tennis, serving as a beacon for aspiring athletes and highlighting the importance of perseverance and courage in achieving one’s goals.

Quotes/Reviews:

“A vivid and inspiring account of Althea Gibson’s rise to the top, breaking racial barriers along the way.” - School Library Journal

Althea Gibson’s pioneering success in tennis serves as a beacon for aspiring athletes, highlighting the importance of perseverance and courage in achieving one’s goals.

Content Value:

Althea Gibson’s pioneering success in tennis serves as a beacon for aspiring athletes, highlighting the importance of perseverance and courage in achieving one’s goals.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History

Author & Illustrator: Vashti Harrison

Age Range: 8-12 years

Theme: Empowerment, History, Inspiration

Step into the pages of “Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History” and meet the trailblazers who have shaped our world!

Description/Introduction:

Prepare to be dazzled by the stories of 40 phenomenal Black women who have carved their names into the annals of history. Vashti Harrison crafts a mesmerizing mosaic of biographies that showcase the indomitable spirit of these heroines. From the courage of aviators who soared past the clouds to the perseverance of activists who stood tall against the winds of opposition, these narratives are an arsenal for ambition.

With every stroke of her pen, Vashti Harrison not only sketches portraits but also paints dreams, making the past a vivid canvas for the future. As these women step out of history and into the hearts of young readers, they whisper a timeless message: “Believe in yourself, and you will be unstoppable.”

Quotes/Reviews:

“An essential book for inspiring self-confidence.” - Booklist

“Vashti Harrison tells the stories of both iconic and lesser-known female figures of Black history with extraordinary care.” - Time Magazine

Each biography is a steppingstone to greatness, encouraging our young readers to climb with confidence and leap with faith. The charming illustrations are windows into souls that danced to the rhythm of change, eyes that gazed beyond barriers, and hearts that beat to the drum of defiance.

Join the Journey!

Grab your copy and embark on a journey through time with “Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History.” Let your little ones meet the women who have walked the path of challenge with grace, turning every stone of adversity into a milestone of progress.

Share your thoughts, reflections, or even your own illustrations inspired by these incredible stories with us. Let’s keep the legacy of these leaders alive— one page, one day, one dream at a time.

[sweethoneychildbookclub]

Hip Hop Speaks to Children: A Celebration of Poetry with a Beat

Edited by Nikki Giovanni www.nikki-giovanni.com/

Ages: Grades 3-5 and Up

Theme: Black Music Month

“In this slamming cousin to Poetry Speaks to Children (2005), editor Giovanni states, ‘Poetry with a beat. That’s hip hop in a flash,’ and she goes on to link hip-hop to grand opera and present a capsule history of African American vernacular music . . . With appeal for preliterate children, their great-grandparents, and every generation between, this will be fun for families to share as they get their groove on.” - Booklist, starred review

"Hip Hop Speaks to Children: A Celebration of Poetry with a Beat" is a dynamic anthology that showcases the rhythmic, lyrical, and cultural power of hip hop. Edited by renowned poet Nikki Giovanni, this collection bridges generations and honors hip hop's roots in African American vernacular music, blending the past with the present to create a vibrant celebration of creativity.

Content Value:

This collection not only entertains but educates, providing readers with a deeper understanding of hip hop as an artistic expression and its significant role in expressing social and political issues. It's a must-read for anyone looking to explore the depths of hip hop culture and its impact on society.