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Book Recommendations

Books to Encourage a Positive School Culture
- Book Recommendations, School Culture
A school’s culture can make or break a school. If you’re looking for books to help you change the culture of your campus or if you’re looking for books to keep the positive momentum going, I have some great recommendations for you!
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission.
The Energy Bus: 10 Rules to Fuel Your Life, Work, and Team with Positive Energy By Jon Gordon
I bought this book as a gift for someone who was a leader. After they told me how good it was, I read it myself, and I loved it! The Energy Bus is a great starting point if you’re looking to make an overhaul of the culture in your school.
Move Your Bus: An Extraordinary New Approach to Accelerating Success in Work and Life By Ron Clark
You know the importance of having a positive culture on your campus, but what do you do when everyone isn’t on board? This book labels different members of your team (and they’re pretty accurate) and how to help get them on your bus. Clark also gives excellent tips on how to reward those who are already keeping your bus moving. And yes, the author is The Ron Clark of Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta
Move Your Bus was our campus’s book study book for the 2018-2019 school year.
Time for Change: 4 Essential Skills for Transformational School and District Leaders By Anthony Muhammad & Luis F. Cruz
Are you a leader on your campus? The answer is yes! Anyone has the power to be a leader. You don’t need an official title to lead.
Time for Change shows you how to make changes on your campus and gives specific tips on how to make sure everyone is implementing those changes.
If you’re looking to start something new at your campus and you know there will be naysayers, you need this book to help move your school forward.
The Power of a Positive Team By Jon Gordon
This book is all about how a positive team is necessary for a great team. A positive team addresses issues and works together to solve problems.
Each chapter explains how a team can commit to working together to achieve a common goal. The Power of a Positive Team can be applied to groups outside of education, so it’s an excellent book for any leader.
The Power of a Positive Team was our campus’s book study book for the 2019-2020 school year.
Overcoming the Achievement Gap Trap: Liberating Mindset to Effect Change by Anthony Muhammad
I know you’re wondering, how did a book about students make this list? Overcoming the Achievement Gap Trap is about how schools can change their culture so that all students can achieve.
Some districts, schools, principals, and teachers have gotten used to the achievement gap. Educators who accept students’ lack of growth as normal create environments where the expectations and the quality of teaching are low.
Overcoming the Achievement Gap shows educators how they can change their mindset so they can change the culture of their school so that all students learn.
These books are game-changers if you’re looking for ways to implement change or a way to encourage a positive school culture on your campus. Have you read any of these books? Are there any you recommend?
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Picture Books About Food From Around the World
- Book Recommendations
This is one of my favorite book lists so far! I love trying new foods from around the world, especially when I travel!
These books take us to Syria, Mexico, Haiti, China, and more!
These picture books are a great way to learn about the traditions of different countries.
I will update this list as I find more books! Follow me on Instagram to get updates and ideas for other picture books! If there’s a book you think I should add, comment below!
If you’re looking for more diverse picture books, check out this list! There are over 250 amazing books to add to your classroom or home library! The Ultimate List of Diverse Picture Books is the perfect list for you!
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission.

Octopus Stew By Eric Velasquez
Who wants Octopus Stew?⁣
⁣Ramsey finds out his grandma is making octopus stew, pulpo guisado for dinner!⁣
⁣After buying the best octopus from the market they can find, they learn that it is NOT your ordinary octopus. ⁣
⁣Grandma and Ramsey begin hearing strange noises from the kitchen and that’s when things get real crazy. ⁣
⁣I couldn’t keep my students quiet while I was reading, which means they loved it!
Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao by Kat Zhang
Everyone in Amy’s family can make the perfect bao. Everyone except Amy.
Amy is determined to perfect her skills and of course, she finds a way!
Salma the Syrian Chef by Danny Ramadan
I love this book! Salma and her mother have recently moved to Canada after living at a refugee camp in Syria.
Salma’s mother is especially sad that her father isn’t with them just yet. Salma hates seeing her mother so sad and wants to do something to make her happy again.
So, Salma decides to cook the Syrian dish that will remind them of home.
Magic Ramen by Andrea Wang
In Magic Ramen, we find out how Momofuku Ando invented instant ramen noodles!⁣ ⁣⁣
⁣After World War II, you could find people waiting in long lines for overpriced ramen. People who didn’t have money for ramen ate bark and grass. The scarcity of food in Japan did not sit well with Momofuku. ⁣ ⁣⁣
He refused to rest until he came up with a solution.⁣ ⁣
⁣⁣It took Momofuku a year to come up with the perfect recipe that would be ready in minutes!⁣ ⁣⁣
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Freedom Soup by Tami Charles
It is a Haitian tradition to eat Freedom Soup for New Year’s to celebrate Haiti’s independence from France.⁣
⁣This New Year, Ti Gran teaches Belle how to make Freedom Soup.⁣While cooking together, Ti Gran explains the history behind the soup.⁣
⁣It’s a great story embedded with facts.⁣
⁣There’s also a recipe for Freedom Soup in the back of the book!⁣
The Runaway Wok by Ying Chang Compestine
The Zhang family finds themselves in possession of a rusty old wok that turns out to be magical! They went from not having much to having so much they want to share everything with their community.
The traditional cast iron wok was invented during the Han Dynasty. The wok symbolizes sharing since it can cook food for multiple families. Today, it is still the most used cooking utensil in China.
Hot, Hot Roti for Dada-ji by F. Zia
Aneel learns that when his grandfather was a child in India, he had the strength of a tiger. Aneel wants to see if his grandfather, Dada-ji still has the power.
The only way to find out is to whip up some roti. Since everyone in Aneel’s house is too busy to cook roti for him, Aneel decides to do it himself.
Bee-bim Bop! By Linda Sue Park
Have you ever had Bee-bim bop? It is a popular dish from Korea!
In this book, Bee-bim Bop, a little girl is excited to help her family make dinner!
This book starts at the grocery store and ends with the family enjoying their meal.
Like many other books on this list, there’s a recipe in the back of the book!
Holy Mole: A Folktale From Mexico by Caroline McAlister
⁣This folktale explains how the traditional Mexican sauce molé was created!⁣
⁣The Viceroy of Spain is coming to the colony to send back a report to the king of Spain. ⁣
⁣While visiting, he stops at the monastery for a meal and unexpectedly eats the most delicious meal.
Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Noble Maillard
Fry bread is a bread made by many Native Americans. It is not a traditional dish, but you can find that many Native Americans make it frequently.
Fry Bread is a cute story about a Native American family, but I think the best parts of the book is in the Author’s Note.
The Story of Chopsticks by Ying Chang Compestine
The Story of Chopsticks is a Chinese Folktale about the creation of chopsticks of course!⁣
The Story of Noodles by Ying Chang Compestine
I am a fan of the Yang Brothers. In this book, we learn how the boys created noodles!
This is a living list! Please save this post, share it, and come back for updates!

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Picture Books About Creative Women
- Book Recommendations
This book list contains some amazing creative women. Listed below are picture books about women who are inventors, artists, movie stars, and writers. Check out this inspiring list of women!
I will update this list as I find more books! Follow me on Instagram to get updates and ideas for other picture books! If there’s a book you think I should add, comment below!
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission.
Just Like Beverly: The Biography of Beverly Clearly By Vicki Conrad
Did you know that Beverly Cleary (1916-) became an author because she wanted to write books she wished were available when she was a kid? ⁣
⁣The Mouse and the Motorcycle was my ish! ⁣
⁣This is an excellent biography that takes the reader through this legendary author’s life.⁣
⁣I loved how the author mentioned that Beverly struggled in school. She didn’t read as well as the other kids. It wasn’t until a teacher spent one on one time with her did she learn how to read. ⁣
⁣This book is a great reminder to teachers that time with your small groups can literally change your students’ lives. ⁣
⁣It’s also a great book to show your struggling learners that they won’t always struggle! ⁣

Frida by Jonah Winter
Frida Kahlo and her Animalitos by Monica Brown

Little Frida: A Story of Frida Kahlo by Anthony Browne
Frida Kahlo (1907-1954) was a Mexican artist known for her indigenous style. Frida painted with bright colors and created tons of self-portraits since she was often confined to her bed because of her health issues. Each book tells a portion of her gigantic life and I recommend reading them all. Fun fact, she was married to artist Diego Rivera!

Pocket Full of Colors: The Magical World of Mary Blair, Disney Artist Extraordinaire By Amy Guglielmo & Jacqueline Tourville
Did you know that Mary Blair (1911-1978) was the lead designer for Disney World’s It’s a Small World boat ride?⁣
⁣She also did some design work for Disney movies, Cinderella and Peter Pan. ⁣
⁣Do you remember Little Golden Books? Well, she illustrated some of those as well!⁣
In this book, we learn the obstacles that Mary overcame to share her creativity with the world.
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The Power of Her Pen: The Story of the Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne by Lesa-Cline Ransome
Ethel L. Payne (1911-1991) was a journalist from the South Side of Chicago and would become the “First Lady of the Black Press.”⁣⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣She found her joy in writing as a child. Ethel was encouraged by her parents and teacher to practice her writing.⁣⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣⁣In 1945, she would travel to Japan as a reporter for a newspaper, where she would document her observations. Her writings about the African American soldiers’ experiences in World War II would put her name in households all over the United States. ⁣⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣When she returned to the United States, she eventually made her way to Washington D.C. as a White House Correspondent. She was known for asking tough questions and being a voice for the black community. ⁣⁣⁣
THE WORLD IS NOT A RECTANGLE: A PORTRAIT OF ARCHITECT ZAHA HADID BY JEANETTE WINTER
Zaha Hadid (1950-2016) was an architect who was known for her uncommon designs. She was born in Baghdad, where she first started getting inspiration for future structures.⁣
⁣This book does a great job of connecting her unique designs to everyday objects around us.⁣
In Her Hands: The Story of Sculptor Augusta Savage By Alan Schroeder
Although Augusta Savage (1892-1962) is unknown to many of us, she was well known during the Harlem Renaissance.⁣⁣
⁣⁣Augusta Savage was a sculptor from Florida who moved to New York City to attend art school.⁣⁣
Augusta made busts of W.E.B. Du Bois and Marcus Garvey! Her most famous art piece was Gamin, a bust of an African American boy. ⁣⁣
Hedy Lamarr’s Double Life: Hollywood Legend and Brilliant Inventor by Laurie Wallmark
Hedy Lamarr (1914-2000) was a Hollywood star and secret inventor.
Only her closest friends and family knew that Hedy loved being out of the spotlight where she could tinker with technology.
During World War II Hedy invented a frequency hopper that prevented secret messages from being detected.
We still use a form of her invention in our technology today. We can thank her for making our computers and phones more private.

Shining Star: The Anna May Wong Story By Paula Yoo
Anna May Wong (1905-1961) is the first Chinese-American movie star. She fought for roles that would display her talent in a time when Hollywood wanted to only show Chinese stereotypes on the big screen.
Anna May Wong paved the way for future Chinese-American actors who would follow in her footsteps.
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Picture Books About Space
- Book Recommendations
If you’re looking for more books about the solar system, this is the list for you! This list contains books about stars, planets, and people who study them!
I will update this list as I find more books! Follow me on Instagram to get updates and ideas for other picture books! If there’s a book you think I should add, comment below!
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission.
STARSTRUCK: THE COSMIC JOURNEY OF NEIL DEGRASSE TYSON BY KATHLEEN KRULL AND PAUL BREWER
Neil deGrasse Tyson (1958-) is an astrophysicist, an author, and director of a planetarium in New York City. Starstruck takes you back to his childhood to show where his love for astronomy began.
Pluto Gets the Call By Adam Rex
Pluto is hanging out in the Kuiper Belt when he gets a phone call that he’s no longer a planet. Pluto is not pleased and he travels through the solar system telling all the planets the news. While traveling he gives us tons of facts about the solar system.
This is a great book to pair with any solar system unit!
A PLACE FOR PLUTO BY STEF WADE
Pluto finds out he is no longer a planet, and the eight other planets no longer want him hanging around.⁣⁣
⁣⁣So, Pluto goes out to search the solar system to find others like him!⁣⁣ If your kids or students love space, this is the book they need. Although the story is fiction, they give tons of facts about the planets, space, and what makes Pluto a dwarf planet
RON’S BIG MISSION BY ROSE BLUE & CORINNE J. NADEN
Before Ron McNair (1950-1986) became a physicist and astronaut, he was just a kid who loved to read. This story is about when Ron had enough of the discriminatory laws and did what he had to do.
Margaret And The Moon: How Margaret Hamilton Saved the First Lunar Landing by Dean Robbins
Before Margaret saved the first lunar landing she programmed computers to track airplanes and to predict the weather. She also would become the director of software programming for the Apollo.
In 2016 she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama.
Moon: Earth’s Best Friend By Stacy McAnulty
Moon describes how he and Earth met and became best friends. You’ll also learn about the phases of the moon and other facts that make the moon unique.
Moon also debunks the myth that a cow jumped over him! More importantly, he’s waiting on his first female astronaut.
Earth: My First 4.54 Billion Years By Stacy McAnulty
In Earth: My First 4.54 Billion Years, Earth gives us all the details of her life. We learn her nicknames, she introduces to her siblings, and we meet her friends. We also get a sneak peek of her baby photo album!
This book is full of details about Earth that would go with any unit about the solar system.
Sun: One in a Billion By Stacy McAnulty
Sun is the star of our solar system and boy does he know it! Sun: One in a Billion, gives you tons of facts about the sun as told by the sun.
Older elementary students could easily use this book as a source for their research and it would make a great book for the lower elementary crowd.
HIDDEN FIGURES: THE TRUE STORY OF FOUR BLACK WOMEN AND THE SPACE RIDE BY MARGOT LEE SHETTERLY
Unless you’ve been under a rock the past several years, you’ve heard of these women. I mean, they made a movie about them! In this book, we learn a little about Dorothy Vaughan (1910-2008), Mary Jackson (1921-2005), Katherine Johnson(1918-), and Christine Darden(1942-). These are the human computers that helped NASA launch men to space.
MAE AMONG THE STARS BY RODA AHMED
Mae Jemison (1956-) is an engineer, a physicist, and is the first African-American woman to travel to space. This book tells a story about how her dream of becoming an astronaut began as a little girl.
Although her parents are supportive, her teacher and classmates are not. She sure did prove them wrong!
A COMPUTER CALLED KATHERINE: HOW KATHERINE JOHNSON HELPED PUT AMERICA ON THE MOON BY SUZANNE SLADE
COUNTING ON KATHERINE: HOW KATHERINE JOHNSON SAVED APOLLO 13 BY HELAINE BECKER
These books are about Katherine Johnson’s journey to become the mathematician that helped the United States win the space race and saved Apollo 13. You can’t go wrong with either book, they both present very similar information.
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Picture Books With Strong Girls
- Book Recommendations
If you’re looking for a group of girls who can do anything, check out these books! These girls are some of the strongest book characters you’ll ever find!
I will update this list as I find more books! Follow me on Instagram to get updates and ideas for other picture books! If there’s a book you think I should add, comment below!
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission.
Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio
Grace learns that there has never been a female teacher, and she is shocked! She immediately sets off to run for the president! She thinks it will be a breeze until another candidate enters the race!
Grace learns that becoming president will be much harder than it seems.
This is also a great book to teach students about presidential elections and the electoral college.
Grace Goes to Washington by Kelly DiPucchio
My fav, Grace, and her classmates are heading to Washington D.C. for a field trip! But, before they leave, there is a dispute on how to spend the school’s fundraiser money.
Grace and her friends find out that they’ll have to give up some of their wants to help others.
I love how Kelly DiPucchio infuses social studies in these books! If you’re looking for a fun way to teach the three branches of government, you need this book!
The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibithaj Muhammed
It is the first day of school for sisters, Asiya and Faizah. What makes this day even more special is that it is Asiya’s first day wearing her hijab. ⁣
Faizah is more excited than Asiya about her big day. Unfortunately, other students at their school don’t see the beauty in Asiya’s hijab. Faizah learns a valuable lesson about other people’s opinions.
Greta and the Giants By Zoe Tucker
Greta hears from a wolf that the Giants are destroying the forest, and the animals need Greta’s help. Greta doesn’t know what to do at first but comes up with an idea. At first, no one listens. After more people join her fight, the Giants finally stop to listen.
Greta proves that you don’t have to be big to have a voice.
Lucia the Luchadora by Cynthia Leonor Garza
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Lucia loves running around the playground in her cape. In her mind, she’s definitely a superhero. While whizzing through the playground, some boys tell her that girls can’t be superheroes. Lucia doesn’t believe it at all and proves that girls are not just made of sugar and spice.⁣⁣⁣
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This book is full of figurative language and gives plenty of opportunities to teach context clues. ⁣⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣Sofia Valdez Future Prez by Andrea Beaty
After Sofia’s Abuelo hurts himself, Sofia stops at nothing to get the neighborhood landfill cleaned up. She has an idea to make her neighborhood a better place, but she isn’t sure she can do it alone.
Sofia builds up the courage and finds a way to get her community involved to remove Mount Trashmore!
The Water Princess by Susan Verde
Princess GieGie has to walk miles every day to get water for her family. She doesn’t understand why the water is so far away. After a long day of walking, Princess GieGie asks her mother why they have to walk miles for water.
Her mother doesn’t give her an answer but tells her that maybe she will solve their country’s problem one day.⁣⁣
Fiona’s Luck by Teresa Bateman
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In this Irish folktale, Fiona finds her luck when all the luck is gone in Ireland. ⁣⁣
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The Leprechaun King finds out that Fiona has some luck, and he wants it ALL! So, he challenges her so that he can keep all the luck in Ireland to himself. ⁣⁣
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Fiona figures out a way to not only keep her luck but also to return all the luck to Ireland!⁣⁣
Rainbow Weaver by Linda Elovitz Marshall
In Guatemala, weaving on backstrap looms is a tradition that Mayan women have done for thousands of years.
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Ixchel wants to follow in her family’s footsteps, but they think she’s too young.⁣
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Ixchel finds a way to weave while helping herself and her community!
Ada Twist, Scientist By Andrea Beaty
Ada shows traits of a budding scientist who wants to know the answers to everything! ⁣⁣Why is constantly heard in her house. Searching for answers is what Ada loves to do. Her parents quickly learn that her curiosity is something that will never change.

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Picture Books About Women in Politics
- Book Recommendations
This is an excellent booklist about women who stood up for what is right! These women took risks that many others were afraid to do and made the world a better place for us all.
I will update this list as I find more books! Follow me on Instagram to get updates and ideas for other picture books! If there’s a book you think I should add, comment below!
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission.

When Hillary Rodham Clinton Played Ice Hockey by Rachel Ruiz
Hillary Rodham Clinton (1947-) is a former Secretary of State and U.S. Senator.
What Do you do with a Voice Like That?: The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan by Chris Barton
Barbara Jordan (1936-1996) was a congresswoman who gave the opening speech for Richard Nixon’s impeachment investigation.
Dolores Huerta: A Hero to Migrant Workers by Sarah Warren
Dolores Huerta (1930-) is a civil rights activist, known for improving work conditions for migrant workers.
Sonia Sotomayor: A Judge Grows in the Bronx by Jonah Winter
Sonia Sotomayor (1954-) is the first Latina Supreme Court Justice.

Making Their Voices Heard: The Inspiring Friendship of Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe by Vivian Kirkfield
Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996) was a phenomenal jazz singer and a civil rights activist. Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962) was a singer, actress, and to many, an unknown civil rights activist.
Fannie Lou Hamer: Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement by Carole Boston Weatherford
Fannie Lou Hamer (1917-1977) was a civil and voting rights activist.
For the Right to Learn Malala Yousafzai’s Story by Rebecca Langston-George
Malala Yousafzai (1997-) is an education activist for women.
I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark by Debbie Levy
Ruth Bader Ginsburg (1933-) is a Supreme Court Justice.
The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne By Lesa Cline-Ransome
Ethel L. Payne (1911-1991) was a journalist and a White House press correspondent.
The Only Woman in the Photo: Frances Perkins & Her New Deal for America by Kathleen Krull
Frances Perkins (1880-1965) was the U.S. Secretary of Labor from 1933 to 1945.

Lizzie Demands a Seat!: Elizabeth Jennings Fights for Streetcar Rights By Beth Anderson
Elizabeth “Lizzie” Jennings (1827-1901) was a teacher and civil rights activist.

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Picture Books About Women in Science
- Book Recommendations
This book list contains some amazing women in science. Listed below are picture books about women who are inventors, paleontologists, architects, physicists and more. Check out this inspiring list of women!
I will update this list as I find more books! Follow me on Instagram to get updates and ideas for other picture books! If there’s a book you think I should add, comment below!
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission.

Queen of Physics: How Wu Chien Shiung Helped Unlock the Secrets of the Atom By Teresa Robeson
Wu Chien Shiung (1912-1997) was a physicist born in China. ⁣
Chien Shiung helped many scientists with their research that earned them Nobel Prizes. She never got credit for her work. ⁣
⁣Although Chien Shiung never got the appropriate recognition, she definitely was a trailblazer.⁣
⁣She is the first female instructor at Princeton University.⁣
She is the first female president of The American Physical Society.⁣
She is the first person to receive the Wolf Prize in Physics. ⁣
⁣Maya Lin: Artist-Architect of Light and Lines: The Designer of the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial by Jeanne Walker Harvey
⁣Maya Lin (1959-) is the artist who designed the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., after winning a contest. ⁣
Although she won the contest, when others found out who created the design, they were not happy that she won. They didn’t believe that a woman had won. They said they didn’t understand her design.
Maya proved her unique design had meaning and was a perfect way to honor Vietnam Veterans.
I loved that there are tons of figurative language in this book; it gave us plenty of opportunities to practice!
Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist by Jess Keating
Eugenie Clark’s (1922-2015)⁣ research has given us tons of information about sharks! She also is responsible for identifying species of sharks that were previously unidentified.
Her love of sharks started as a little girl and continued well into her later years! Eugenie wanted the world to know that sharks weren’t mindless killers and are animals that we should respect and protect.The
The World is not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid By Jeanette Winter
Zaha Hadid (1950-2016) was an architect who was known for her uncommon designs. She was born in Baghdad, where she first started getting inspiration for future structures.⁣
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This book does a great job of connecting her unique designs to every day objects around us.⁣
The Bug Girl: Maria Merian’s Scientific Vision by Sarah Glenn Marsh
Maria Merian (1647-1717) learned early that she loved bugs. Maria was a scientific illustrator who was fascinated with insects. She would have to sneak around and study bugs because, at that time, people thought that bugs were evil. If she got caught studying bugs, she could’ve been considered a witch!
Because of her research, research about insects and the environment flourished during this time.
When Sue Found Sue: Sue Hendrickson Discovers Her T. Rex by Toni Buzzeo
Sue Hendrickson (1949-) has tons of titles, but she is mostly known as the paleontologist that found the Fossil of Sue the Tyrannosaurus Rex, which currently resides at the Field Museum in Chicago, Illinois. Sue’s curiosity began as a young girl, so it was only natural that she would find this hidden treasure!
Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed
Mae Jemison (1956-) is an engineer, a physicist, and is the first African-American woman to travel to space. This book tells a story about how her dream of becoming an astronaut began as a little girl. Although her parents are supportive, her teacher and classmates are not. She sure did prove them wrong!
When Amelia Earhart Built a Rollercoaster By Mark Weakland
Amelia Earhart (1897-1937)was the first female aviator to fly across the Atlantic Ocean alone. ⁣
Amelia was not your average little girl! She loved to play football, go sledding, and do all the things girls weren’t supposed to do at that time. ⁣
What I loved is that Amelia’s parents didn’t want her to stick to traditional gender roles. They encouraged her to explore her interests no matter if it wasn’t something girls typically enjoyed!⁣
THE DOCTOR WITH AN EYE FOR EYES: THE STORY OF DR. PATRICIA BATH BY JULIA FINLEY MOSCA
Dr. Patricia Bath (1942-2019) loved science as a girl and turned her passion into a career. After attending medical school at Howard University, she intervened at Harlem Hospital Center, where she found that African-Americans were two times more likely to be blind than whites. She performed eye surgeries for free to members of this community to help them regain their sight.
Dr. Bath studied overseas, where she learned more about laser cataract surgery and eventually invented the laser phaco probe.
Later in her career, she became the first woman ophthalmologist at UCLA and became the chief of their residency program.
THE GIRL WITH A MIND FOR MATH: THE STORY OF RAYE MONTAGUE BY JULIA FINLEY MOSCA
I love the Amazing Scientists Series because they feature some amazing women that are unknown to most of us. This book is all about the engineer, Raye Montague (1935-2018). After seeing her first boat, Raye knew she wanted to become an engineer. Of course, at that time, African-Americans becoming engineers was unheard of and almost impossible.
She would eventually go on to work for the Navy and become a naval ship designer.
THE GIRL WHO THOUGHT IN PICTURES: THE STORY OF DR. TEMPLE GRANDIN⁣ BY JULIA FINELY MOSCA
Diagnosed with autism as a young girl, Temple Grandin (1947-) wasn’t expected to talk, and the doctors told her mother to send Temple away to get specialized help. ⁣
⁣Her mother refused, but after Temple got into some trouble at school, Temple’s mother sends her to live with her aunt on a ranch in Arizona.⁣⁣
This is when Temple’s life changes. Temple realizes she has a gift, and she learns how to use it to change the livestock industry.
Dr. Grandin is currently a professor and speaks around the world to bring awareness to autism.
Who Says Women Can’t Be Doctors? The Story of Elizabeth Blackwell by Tanya Lee Stone
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Elizabeth Blackwell (1821-1910) was the first woman doctor in America. In 1857 she opened the first hospital for women in New York, and she would later open a medical school just for women in 1868. She also helped start the National Health Society in 1871.
VISION OF BEAUTY: THE STORY OF SARAH BREEDLOVE WALKER BY KATHRYN LASKY
Sarah Breedlove (1867-1919), more commonly known as Madam C.J. Walker, invented hair care products for African Americans. She was also an advocate for African American’s rights. During this time, Madam C.J. Walker was the wealthiest African American woman.
The Watcher: Jane Goodall’s Life with the Chimps by Jeanette Winter
In this biography, we learn how and why Jane Goodall began her work with chimpanzees.⁣⁣ She was patient and respected them, which allowed her to obtain information not known to other scientists. ⁣⁣
We know a lot of our knowledge about chimpanzees because of Jane Goodall.⁣⁣

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Picture Books About African Americans that You Should Know But Probably Don’t
- Book Recommendations
This book list contains African Americans who aren’t well known to many people. Thankfully, there are picture books that can help us all be more informed about these influential and inspiring people!
I will update this list as I find more books! Follow me on Instagram to get updates and ideas for other picture books! If there’s a book you think I should add, comment below!
If you’re looking for diverse picture books to add to your classroom library, check out The Ultimate List of Diverse Picture Books.
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission. The price of the books does not change for you. ❤️
Mamie on the Mound: A Woman in Baseball’s Negro Leagues: By Leah Henderson
Mamie “Peanut” Johnson (1935-2017) loved baseball wanted to play professionally. She could not play for the white All-American Girls Professional Baseball Leagues, so she joined the men in the Negro Leagues. Mamie is known as the first female pitcher in the league.
The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read
Mary Walker (1848-1969) learned how to read at 116 YEARS OLD!⁣
⁣
She lived through 26 presidents. 😲⁣ In The Oldest Student, we find out why she didn’t learn how to read and write until later in her life.⁣
⁣
No Small Potatoes: Junius G. Groves and His Kingdom in Kansas by Tonya Bolden
Junius G. Groves (1859-1925) was what we would consider an agricultural scientist who, in one year, grew around twelve million potatoes. His success in farming would make him one of the wealthiest African Americans in the 19th century.
IN HER HANDS: THE STORY OF SCULPTOR AUGUSTA SAVAGE BY ALAN SCHROEDER
Augusta Savage (1892-1962) loved sculpting as a young girl, and her principal was so impressed with her talent, he paid her to teach the other students. Eventually, Augusta leaves home and moves to New York and becomes a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance.
A Splash of Red: The Life and Art of Horace Pippin By Jen Bryant
Horace Pippin (1888-1946) loved to paint when he was a child, but he put his passion to the side and went to fight in World War I. After the war, a life-changing injury, Horace finds a way to paint again.
POET: THE REMARKABLE STORY OF GEORGE MOSES HORTON BY DON TATE
George Moses Horton (1798-1884) was a poet and was the first southern African American man to published.
Little Melba and Her Big Trombone by Katheryn Russell-Brown
Melba Liston (1926-1999) was a self-taught trombone player from Kansas City, Missouri. In Little Melba and Her Big Trombone, we follow Melba’s journey to becoming a renowned jazz musician.
Voice of Freedom Fannie Lou Hamer: Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement by Carole Boston Weatherford
Fannie Lou Hamer (1917-1977) was a civil rights leader who was determined to make a change. Her story is heartbreaking, but it was why she refused to let the brutality of racism continue.
This is an excellent book that I highly recommend for parents and teachers to read. This book contains content and language that is more appropriate for older elementary/middle school students. You should use your best judgment if you’re reading this to your students.
CARTER READS THE NEWSPAPER BY DEBORAH HOPKINSON
Dr. Carter Godwin Woodson (1875-1950) was a historian that dug for the facts. He collected information so that he could share African and African-American history with the world. Dr. Woodson eventually created Negro History Week, which would ultimately become Black History Month. This book gives us a glimpse of his life and work. The illustrations are done by my favorite illustrator, Don Tate.
The Book Itch: Freedom, Truth is & Harlem’s Greatest Book Store By Vaunda Micheaux Nelson
Lewis H. Michaux (1895-1976) was a civil rights activist and owned the National Memorial African Bookstore in Harlem. The bookstore not only sold books but was a meeting place for some of the most notable African Americans at this time. You could frequently see Malcolm X give speeches here. Muhammed Ali, W.E.B. Dubois, Langston Hughes, Earth Kitt, and others were visitors of The National Memorial African Bookstore. Lewis Michaux’s bookstore would become the most prominent place to find books by and about African Americans.
TINY STITCHES: THE LIFE OF MEDICAL PIONEER VIVIEN THOMAS BY GWENDOLYN HOOKS
Vivien Thomas (1910-1985) was a medical researcher during the Great Depression that had dreams of going to medical school. He worked hard to save money to go to school but lost all his savings during the Great Depression. This book takes us through his journey of becoming a medical pioneer. With his research and inventions, 1944 he assisted in the first open-heart surgery of a child. Babies today still benefit from Vivien Thomas’ medical efforts. If you’ve never seen the movie about him, it’s called Something the Lord Made, check it out!
It Jes Happened: When Bill Traylor Started to Draw By Don Tate
At the age of 85, Bill Traylor(1853-1949) would become an artist in Montgomery, Alabama. His story proves it is never too late to start over.
THE DOCTOR WITH AN EYE FOR EYES: THE STORY OF DR. PATRICIA BATH BY JULIA FINLEY MOSCA
Dr. Patricia Bath (1942-2019) loved science as a girl and turned her passion into a career. After attending medical school at Howard University, she intervened at Harlem Hospital Center, where she found that African-Americans were two times more likely to be blind than whites. She performed eye surgeries for free to members of this community to help them regain their sight. Dr. Bath studied overseas, where she learned more about laser cataract surgery and eventually invented the laserphaco probe. Later in her career, she became the first woman ophthalmologist at UCLA and became the chief of their residency program.
THE GIRL WITH A MIND FOR MATH: THE STORY OF RAYE MONTAGUE BY JULIA FINLEY MOSCA
I love the Amazing Scientists Series because they feature some amazing women that are unknown to most of us. This book is all about the engineer, Raye Montague (1935-2018). After seeing her first boat, Raye knew she wanted to become an engineer. Of course, at that time, African Americans becoming engineers was almost impossible. But, she would become an engineer and get a job working for the Navy, where she would design ships.
GORDON PARKS: HOW THE PHOTOGRAPHER CAPTURED BLACK AND WHITE AMERICA BY CAROLE BOSTON WEATHERFORD
Gordon Parks (1912-2006) was the first African American to write and direct a major film and the first African American photographer at Vogue and Life magazines.

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Picture Books About African American Musicians
- Book Recommendations
One thing I love about music is it is reflective of whatever is going on in the world. Some of these musicians used their art as a way to express their feelings about their environment. Some made music to escape their reality. Others on this list made music from pure love. As a former musician (elementary school counts, right? lol), I can appreciate all their contributions to their passion for music.
I will update this list as I find more books! Follow me on Instagram to get updates and ideas for other picture books! If there’s a book you think I should add, comment below!
If you’re looking for diverse picture books to add to your classroom or home library, check out The Ultimate List of Diverse Picture Books.
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission. The price of the books does not change for you. ❤️
A Voice Named Aretha by Katheryn Russell-Brown
This is an amazing book about the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin (1942-2018). You’ll learn all about her childhood and how it influenced to become a superstar!

How Jelly Roll Morton Invented Jazz by Jonah Winter
Jelly Roll Morton (1890-1941) was an early jazz musician who is known by some as the creator of jazz. This book introduces you to Jelly Roll Morton’s recipe for jazz.

Birth of the Cool: How the Great Miles Davis Found His Sound by Kathleen Cornell Berman
Miles Davis (1926-1991) was a jazz musician who played the trumpet and was a composer. In Birth of Cool, we learn how Miles turns his love of music into a successful career.
When the Beat was Born: DJ Kool Herc and the Creation of Hip Hop By Laban Carrick Hill
Clive “DJ Kool Herc” Campbell (1955-) was born in Jamaica but moved to New York City when he was 13. He brought to the United States his passion for music and his longing to become a DJ. Playing around at home, he creates something that will change the sound of music forever.
Since DJ Kool Herc was born in Jamaica, he is technically not African American, but I thought it was essential to include him on this list.
Little Melba and Her Big Trombone by Katheryn Russell-Brown
Melba Liston (1926-1999) was a self-taught trombone player from Kansas City, Missouri. In Little Melba and Her Big Trombone, we follow Melba’s journey to becoming a renowned jazz musician.
Jimi: Sounds Like a Rainbow: a Story of the Young Jimi Hendrix By Gary Golio
Before the guitarist James Marshall “Jimi” Hendrix (1942-1970) became a superstar he was just a kid that loved music. In this book, we learn how he was determined to become a star.
Bessie Smith and the Night Riders By Sue Stauffacher
This book is based on a real event that happened to the musician Bessie Smith (1894-1937) . One night while performing, Bessie gets some unexpected and unwanted visitors. After this night, her fans learn that Bessie’s voice isn’t the only thing powerful about her.
Trombone Shorty by Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews
Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews (1986-) is a New Orleans musician, known for playing the trombone and trumpet. As a child, he wanted to be in a band so bad he started one with his neighborhood friends. In this book, we learn how he got his big break!
Harlem’s Little Blackbird:Florence Mills By Renee Watson
Florence Mills (1896-1927), the Queen of Happiness was a singer, dancer, and actor. She was given her first Broadway part at the age of four. This is a great book about the international star, the illustrations make me love this book even more.

The Roots of Rap: 16 Bars on the 4 Pillars of Hip-Hop by Carole Boston Weatherford
The Roots of Rap is not about one musician; it is about all of the artists that built the foundation of the genre. In this book, you will find credits to poets like Langston Hughes and Paul Laurence Dunbar to musicians like James Brown. Of course, the original O.G.’s like DJ Kool Herc, The Sugarhill, Gang, and Kurtis Blow get their recognition too.
Skit-Scat Raggedy Cat: Ella Fitzgerald By Roxane Orgill
Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996) did not have any easy childhood, but she didn’t let it stop her. Find out how she finally got a chance to make it big.
Strange Fruit: Billie Holiday and the Power of a Protest Song By Gary Golio
Billie Holiday (1915-1959) knew she wanted to be somebody at a young age. At 15 years old she began performing in Harlem. Eventually Billie got tired of the discrimination she and others faced and agreed to sing a song that would express the pain of racism.
Dizzy By Jonah Winter
When Dizzy Gillespie (1917-1993) was a kid he got in trouble for breaking all the rules. As he got older, he learned how breaking music rules could help him become known around the world.
Spirit Seeker: John Coltrane’s Musical Journey by Gary Golio
John Coltrane (1926-1967) learned to play the saxophone in the basement of a church. Spirit Seeker takes us through the ups and downs of this talented musician’s career.
Although it is tastefully done, this book does mention his drug and alcohol abuse.
When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson By Pam Munoz Ryan
When Marian (1897-1993) Sang gives you a glimpse into the life of Marian Anderson. Since I didn’t know much about her before reading the book, I like that the book started with her life as a child and ended when she became a professional singer.
Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and His Orchestra By Andrea Davis Pinkney
Edward Kennedy “Duke” Ellington’s (1899-1974) parents made the decision to enroll him in piano lessons. At the time, Duke was not pleased, he wanted to play baseball. Eventually Duke learned to love the piano and would go on to become a critically acclaimed jazz composer.
Satchmo’s Blues By Alan Schroeder
Do you know who Satchmo is? It’s Louis Armstrong (1901-1971)! In Satchmo’s Blues, we learn how he gets his first trumpet and we can infer on how it would change his life forever.
If you liked this list, check out the Ultimate Diverse Picture Book List! The books on this list are perfect for school or home!

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Picture Books of African American Firsts
- Book Recommendations
This list of books contains people who fought for the right to follow their dreams. Every individual on this list faced many obstacles that would have stopped some, but it didn’t stop them. Their perseverance is what makes these individuals unique and the first!
Follow me on Instagram to get updates and ideas for other picture books! If there’s a book you think I should add, comment below!
If you’re looking for diverse picture books to add to your classroom or home library, check out The Ultimate List of Diverse Picture Books. The books on this list are amazing!
Just a friendly reminder, I am an Amazon Affiliate, so if you decided to use the links below to purchase the books, I do get a commission. The price of the books does not change for you. ❤️
Charlie Takes His Shot: How Charlie Sifford Broke the Color Barrier in Golf by Nancy Churnin
Charles “Charlie” Luther Sifford (1922-2015) was the first African-American to play on the PGA Tour.
What Do You Do With a Voice Like That? The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan By Chris Barton
Barbara Jordan (1936-1996) was the first African-American congresswoman to come from the south.⁣
She is known for her powerful voice; her most well-known speech was her opening speech for Richard Nixon’s impeachment investigation.⁣
Trailblazer: The Story of Ballerina Raven Wilkinson by Leda Schubert
Raven Wilkinson (1935-2018) was the first African American ballerina to join a major classical ballet troupe.
A VOICE NAMED ARETHA BY KATHERYN RUSSELL-BROWN
This is an amazing book about the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin (1942-2018). Aretha Franklin was the first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath by Julia Finley Mosca
Dr. Patricia Bath (1942-2019) was the African-American to woman complete their residency as an ophthalmologist and the first African-American woman to receive a medical patent.
Althea Gibson: The Story of Tennis’ Fleet-of-Foot Girl
Playing to Win: The Story of Althea Gibson by Karen Deans
Nothing but Trouble: The Story of Althea Gibson by Sue Stauffacher
Althea Gibson (1927-2003) was the first African American to compete and win at Wimbledon.
Gordon Parks: How the Photographer Captured Black and White America by Carole Boston Weatherford
Gordon Parks (1912-2006) was the first African American to write and direct a major film and the first African American photographer at Vogue and Life magazines.
Mamie on the Mound: A Woman in Baseball’s Negro Leagues by Leah Henderson
Mamie “Peanut” Johnson (1935-2017) was the first female pitcher to play in the Negro Leagues.

Thurgood by Jonah Winter
Thurgood Marshall (1908-1993) was the first African American Supreme Court Justice.
Poet: The Remarkable Story of George Moses Horton By Don Tate
George Moses Horton (1798-1884) was a poet and was the first southern African American man to published.
Jesse Owens Fastest Man Alive by Carole Boston Weatherford
Jesse Owens (1913-1980) was the first American to win four track and field gold medals at a single Olympics.
Bad News for Outlaws: The Remarkable Life of Bass Reeves, Deputy U.S. Marshal By Vaunda Micheaux Nelson
Bass Reeves (1838-1910) was the first African American to become a U.S. Marshal in the West.

Game Set Match: Champion Arthur Ashe by Crystal Hubbard
Arthur Ashe (1943-1993) is the only African American man to win the singles title at Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open.

Brave Ballerina: The Story of Janet Collins by Michelle Meadows
Using rhyme, the author briefly tells Janet Collins’s (1917-2003) story of how she became the first African American prima ballerina in 1951.
A FREE RESOURCE YOU WOULD LIKE
The Free Interactive Read Aloud Guide

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