Best Selling Books by Carole Boston Weatherford

Four dolls. Two psychologists. One landmark court case. During the first half of the twentieth century, schoolchildren in many parts of the United States were segregated—Black children and white children could not legally attend the same schools. In their so-called doll test, pioneering Black psychologists Kenneth and Mamie Clark investigated the effects of segregation by presenting children with two Black and two white baby dolls. “Show me the doll that you like best,” they said. “Show me the doll that looks like you.” Their research showed that segregation harmed Black children. When the Brown v. Board of Education case came along to challenge school segregation, Kenneth Clark testified about the doll test. His testimony was compelling, and in 1954, the US Supreme court ultimately declared school segregation illegal. Narrated by dolls, this book-length poem by acclaimed author Carole Boston Weatherford introduces Kenneth and Mamie Clark and their powerful research to young readers.

Featuring lively verse, fascinating facts, and archival photographs, here is a celebration of the Negro Leagues and the great players who went unrecognized in their time written by Children''s Literature Legacy Award winner Carole Boston Weatherford. Imagine that you are an outstanding baseball player but banned from the major leagues. Imagine that you are breaking records but the world ignores your achievements. Imagine having a dream but no chance to make that dream come true. This is what life was like for African American baseball players before Jackie Robinson broke Major League Baseball''s color barrier. Meet Josh Gibson, called "the black Babe Ruth," who hit seventy-five home runs in 1931; James "Cool Papa" Bell, the fastest man in baseball; legendary Satchel Paige, who once struck out twenty-four batters in a single game; and, of course, Jackie Robinson, the first black player in Major League Baseball, and one of the greatest players of all time. Written by acclaimed author Carole Boston Weatherford with a foreword by Buck O''Neil, a Negro leagues legend whose baseball contributions spanned eight decades, this book is a home run for baseball and history lovers, and makes a great gift for both boys and girls.

Legendary singer and Civil Rights activist Mavis Staples has teamed with an award-winning children’s poet to share her rousing life story in this spectacular picture book. At 85, Mavis Staples is still singing in front of large audiences and sharing her message of love, faith, and justice. She’s been performing since age eight as part of her family’s gospel group The Staple Singers, and has become one of America’s most admired musicians, with multiple Grammys, a Kennedy Center Honor, and a place in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. But Mavis has been more than a thrilling singer; she has also stood alongside Martin Luther King, Jr., at numerous Civil Rights protests where her voice was a rallying cry to the country. Now she and acclaimed author Carole Boston Weatherford bring her story and her inspiring message to young people in this poetic, illuminating book, beautifully illustrated by Steffi Walthall.

Chosen as a New York Times Best Illustrated Book of 2016, this poetic, nonfiction story about a little-known piece of African American history captures a human''s capacity to find hope and joy in difficult circumstances and demonstrates how New Orleans'' Congo Square was truly freedom''s heart. Mondays, there were hogs to slop, mules to train, and logs to chop. Slavery was no ways fair. Six more days to Congo Square. As slaves relentlessly toiled in an unjust system in 19th century Louisiana, they all counted down the days until Sunday, when at least for half a day they were briefly able to congregate in Congo Square in New Orleans. Here they were free to set up an open market, sing, dance, and play music. They were free to forget their cares, their struggles, and their oppression. This story chronicles slaves'' duties each day, from chopping logs on Mondays to baking bread on Wednesdays to plucking hens on Saturday, and builds to the freedom of Sundays and the special experience of an afternoon spent in Congo Square. This book will have a forward from Freddi Williams Evans (freddievans.com), a historian and Congo Square expert, as well as a glossary of terms with pronunciations and definitions. AWARDS: A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of 2016 A School Library Journal Best Book of 2016: Nonfiction Starred reviews from School Library Journal, Booklist, Kirkus Reviews, and The Horn Book Magazine

These stories of Black trailblazers, communities, and experiences will inspire kids of all backgrounds. This uplifting collection of eight stories introduces readers to barrier-breaking artists and athletes, as well as Black culture and traditions. This collection includes e-book editions of Fearless Mary, Gordon Parks, Ice Breaker, More than Just a Game, Song in a Rainstorm, Sugar Hill, Tiara''s Hat Parade, and Touch the Sky.

CORETTA SCOTT KING ILLUSTRATOR AWARD WINNER! A stunning and deeply moving picture book based on the popular spiritual from an award-winning author and critically acclaimed illustrator. The classic lyrics have been reworked to chronicle the milestones, struggles, tragedies, and triumphs of African American history. A perfect gift or timeless keepsake! ★ "Gorgeous and enlightening."—Kirkus Reviews, starred review This inspirational book encapsulates African American history and invites conversations at all levels. Stretching more than four hundred years, this book features pivotal moments in history, such as the arrival of enslaved people in Jamestown, Virginia, in 1619; Nat Turner''s rebellion; the integration of the US military; the Selma to Montgomery marches; and peaceful present-day protests. It also celebrates the feats of African American musicians and athletes, such as Duke Ellington and Florence Griffith Joyner. Visually stunning and incredibly timely, this book reckons with a painful history while serving as a testament to the human spirit''s ability to persevere in even the most hopeless of circumstances. Its universal message of faith, strength, and resilience will resonate with readers of all ages. Carole Boston Weatherford’s riveting text and Frank Morrison’s evocative and detailed paintings are informative reminders of yesterday, hopeful images for today, and aspirational dreams of tomorrow. * The end of the book includes descriptions of the people, places, and events featured, along with a note from the author.

★ "Fashion king Talley is brought to tender, glorious life by the award-winning team of Weatherford and Sanders"—Booklist, starred review ★"...sure to inspire young fashion-lovers—especially any who feel like outsiders."—BCCB, starred review This captivating biography chronicles the remarkable journey of fashion legend André Leon Talley–from humble beginnings in rural North Carolina to the pinnacle of the international world of fashion. Growing up in the Jim Crow South wasn''t easy for young André. He escaped into the glimmering worlds he discovered inside magazines like Ebony and Vogue. He fell in love with all things French, and honed his taste for elegance and style in spite of those who judged and bullied him. Standing tall against all odds, André spun his hardships into a fashion fairytale of his own making. With exuberant prose and luminous illustrations, this picture book biography shares the inspiring story of majestic icon André Leon Talley and his enduring legacy.

Throughout their father''s twenty-two month campaign for president, Malia and Sasha Obama begged their parents for a dog. Finally, when their father became the 44th president of the United States, he rewarded their patience and good behavior in his victory speech: "Malia and Sasha will get their new puppy." Would the girls choose a Foxhound like President George Washington''s? Or a chocolate Labrador Retriever like the Clintons''? Maybe a shelter dog? Finally, on February 25, 2009, they decided to look for a Portuguese Water Dog to move into the White House. Art rendered in watercolor, gouache, and pencil.

The inspirational life of Kamala Harris for kids! From the newly-announced Young People''s Poet Laureate comes a powerful and inspiring picture book that shares how each milestone and moment in Kamala Harris''s life represents something that lies within young readers'' reach, too—building community, asking for answers, learning from elders, standing up for what''s right, pride, friendship, strength, and most of all—knowing that nothing is out of the reach of their future!

Presents the life and accomplishments of the African American explorer who together with Robert Peary completed the first successful expedition to the North Pole in 1909.

A 2021 Newbery Honor Book In a moving, lyrical tale about the cost and fragility of freedom, a New York Times best-selling author and an acclaimed artist follow the life of a man who courageously shipped himself out of slavery. What have I to fear? My master broke every promise to me. I lost my beloved wife and our dear children. All, sold South. Neither my time nor my body is mine. The breath of life is all I have to lose. And bondage is suffocating me. Henry Brown wrote that long before he came to be known as Box, he “entered the world a slave.” He was put to work as a child and passed down from one generation to the next — as property. When he was an adult, his wife and children were sold away from him out of spite. Henry Brown watched as his family left bound in chains, headed to the deeper South. What more could be taken from him? But then hope — and help — came in the form of the Underground Railroad. Escape! In stanzas of six lines each, each line representing one side of a box, celebrated poet Carole Boston Weatherford powerfully narrates Henry Brown’s story of how he came to send himself in a box from slavery to freedom. Strikingly illustrated in rich hues and patterns by artist Michele Wood, Box is augmented with historical records and an introductory excerpt from Henry’s own writing as well as a time line, notes from the author and illustrator, and a bibliography.

A stunning picture-book biography of iconic African American opera star Leontyne Price. Born in a small town in Mississippi in 1927, the daughter of a midwife and a sawmill worker, Leontyne Price might have grown up singing the blues. But Leontyne had big dreams—and plenty to be thankful for—as she surrounded herself with church hymns and hallelujahs, soaked up opera arias on the radio, and watched the great Marian Anderson grace the stage. While racism made it unlikely that a poor black girl from the South would pursue an opera career, Leontyne’s wondrous voice and unconquerable spirit prevailed. Bursting through the door Marian had cracked open, Leontyne was soon recognized and celebrated for her leading roles at the Metropolitan Opera and around the world—most notably as the majestic Ethiopian princess in Aida, the part she felt she was born to sing. From award-winners Carole Boston Weatherford and Raul Colón comes the story of a little girl from Mississippi who became a beloved star—one whose song soared on the breath of her ancestors and paved the way for those who followed.

From Colin Kaepernick to Martin Luther King, Jr. to Benjamin Crump, Hair Like Obama''s, Hands Like Lebron''s is a picture book celebration of Black history and excellence from New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated bySavanna Durr. I have hair like Obama’s and hands like LeBron’s. My mind is more magical than “Ice” McDonald’s wands. My legs, like Michael Jordan’s, shatter records with a leap. My soul is kissed by Africa—the future’s mine to keep. Inspired by the famous White House photograph of five-year-old Jacob Philadelphia touching then-president Barack Obama’s hair, Weatherford’s powerful text—illuminated by Savanna Durr’s warm, jewel-toned art—is an ode to all the things that make Black and brown kids beautiful. Young readers will learn about many inspiring figures in Black history up to the present day, gaining confidence in their abilities and their cultural legacy as they learn. The back matter includes an author’s note and biographies of each of the featured figures: Guion Bluford, Usain “Lightning” Bolt, “Bootsy” Collins, John Coltrane, Benjamin Crump, LeBron James, Lonnie Johnson, Michael Jordan, Colin Kaepernick, Martin Luther King Jr., Thurgood Marshall, Elijah McCoy, Kenrick “Ice” McDonald, Barack Obama, Colin Powell, and Tommie Smith.

Simple, engaging rhymes will inspire little ones to jump, run, and explore the limitless possibilities of their imagination in this energizing ode to movement by award-winning author Carole Boston Weatherford. When I Move is an energetic celebration of joy and exploration; perfect for little ones learning to navigate new experiences and friendships as they find their way in the world.

A multi-generational family history told in the voices of the author''s ancestors, spanning enslavement alongside Frederick Douglass at Maryland''s Wye House plantation, service in the U.S. Colored Troops, and the founding of all-Black Reconstruction-era communities.

Aspiring young rappers will delight in this infectious, read-aloud introduction to the poetry and craft of rap. From scribbling words on the page to spitting rhymes on the mic, a joyful narrator guides readers through the emotions, literary techniques, structures and motifs that help make rap so amazing. With vibrant illustrations that leap off the page, this book urges readers to believe in themselves and the power of their creativity. Celebratory and informative, Rap it Up! invites us to see where our imaginations may lead. Get ready to drop some beats, express yourself, and let the world hear what you''ve got to say!

"The text is accessible and clever. . . . It''s possible that even children of Republicans will be inspired by the ending." -Kirkus Reviews "This book will inspire young readers through its positive portrayal of American politics and of Pelosi as a strong woman leader." -Booklist "An engaging introduction to the most powerful woman in current American politics." -School Library Journal This empowering picture book tells the story of Nancy Pelosi, the first female Speaker of the House and one of the most powerful women in US politics! Nancy Pelosi is a beacon of patriotism and integrity, demonstrating strength and leadership in her over 30 years in public office. A politician, mother of five, and tireless advocate for the underprivileged, she has dedicated her life to correcting injustice and inequality, and she serves her country with confidence and compassion. Rising from the California Democratic Party Chair to House Minority Leader to become the first woman Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi is a gifted leader and an inspiration to young women everywhere. This picture book chronicles the life of one of the United States''s most influential women, telling a story that is equal parts moving and empowering.

This poetic book is a resounding tribute to Tubman''s strength, humility, and devotion. With proper reverence, Weatherford and Nelson do justice to the woman who, long ago, earned over and over the name Moses.

Before John Was a Jazz Giant is a 2009 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book.

From Misty Copeland to Rosa Parks to Nina Simone, this picture book companion to Hair Like Obama’s, Hands Like Lebron’s is a celebration of Black history and excellence from powerhouse author Carole Boston Weatherford With a voice as bold as Beyoncé’s, my vocals strike a chord. With vision as clear as Oprah’s, success is my reward. With arms as open as Michelle’s, I’m bringing others along. With the breath of my ancestors, I’m singing a new song. Inspired by photographs of Michelle Obama’s famously warm hugs, this is a delightful companion book to Hair Like Obama’s, Hands Like LeBron’s. Carole Boston Weatherford’s powerful text—illuminated by Savanna Durr’s accessible, jewel-toned art—is an ode to the beauty, strength, resilience, and power that all children have within them. Young readers will learn about 17 inspiring female figures, gaining confidence in their own abilities and cultural legacy as they see themselves in each one. From ballerina Misty Copeland to NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson to Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, this is a celebration of Black history and excellence. Young readers will learn about the inspiring, strong female figures in Black history up to the present day, gaining confidence in their abilities and their cultural legacy as they learn. The back matter includes an author’s note and biographies of each of the featured figures: Simone Biles, Misty Copeland, Angela Davis, Kamala Harris, Iman, Ketanji Brown Jackson, Katherine Johnson, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, Edna Lewis, Michelle Obama, Rosa Parks, Faith Ringgold, Nina Simone, Dawn Staley, Harriet Tubman, Kerry Washington, and Oprah Winfrey.