Dyamonde embraces the idea that inner qualities matter most, navigating her world with confidence and self-awareness. As she interacts with friends and faces challenges, she learns valuable lessons about friendship, kindness, and self-acceptance. Through her experiences, the story highlights the importance of character over appearances, making it a heartfelt exploration of personal growth and the true essence of beauty.
A grieving son embarks on a journey to uncover a treasure map left by his late father, leading him through the familiar woods of their shared past. This quest not only seeks material wealth but also serves as a means to reconnect with memories and emotions tied to their relationship, exploring themes of loss, nostalgia, and the bond between father and son.
Michael L. Printz Honor Book Robert F. Sibert Informational Honor Book Boston Globe/Horn Book Nonfiction Honor Book Arnold Adoff Poetry Award for Teens Six Starred Reviews—★Booklist ★BCCB ★The Horn Book ★Publishers Weekly ★School Library Connection ★Shelf Awareness A Booklist Best Book for Youth * A BCCB Blue Ribbon * A Horn Book Fanfare Book * A Shelf Awareness Best Children's Book * Recommended on NPR's "Morning Edition" by Kwame Alexander In her own voice, acclaimed author and poet Nikki Grimes explores the truth of a harrowing childhood in a compelling and moving memoir in verse. Growing up with a mother suffering from paranoid schizophrenia and a mostly absent father, Nikki Grimes found herself terrorized by babysitters, shunted from foster family to foster family, and preyed upon by those she trusted. At the age of six, she poured her pain onto a piece of paper late one night - and discovered the magic and impact of writing. For many years, Nikki's notebooks were her most enduing companions. In this accessible and inspiring memoir that will resonate with young readers and adults alike, Nikki shows how the power of those words helped her conquer the hazards - ordinary and extraordinary - of her life.
The second installment of the Dyamonde Daniels series features engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations that enhance the reading experience. Aimed at young readers, it captures the adventures of Dyamonde, appealing to fans of similar series like Keena Ford and Judy Moody. The collaboration with Coretta Scott King honor winner R. Gregory Christie adds a unique visual element, making it a delightful choice for children looking for relatable characters and fun narratives.
This emotionally resonant novel in verse by award-winning author Nikki Grimes celebrates choosing to be true to yourself. Garvey's father has always wanted Garvey to be athletic, but Garvey is interested in astronomy, science fiction, reading—anything but sports. Feeling like a failure, he comforts himself with food. Garvey is kind, funny, smart, a loyal friend, and he is also overweight, teased by bullies, and lonely. When his only friend encourages him to join the school chorus, Garvey's life changes. The chorus finds a new soloist in Garvey, and through chorus, Garvey finds a way to accept himself, and a way to finally reach his distant father—by speaking the language of music instead of the language of sports.
Discover the story of a young daughter of immigrants who would grow up to be the first woman, first Black person, and first South Asian American ever elected Vice President of the United States in this picture book biography of Kamala Harris. When Kamala Harris was young, she often accompanied her parents to civil rights marches—so many, in fact, that when her mother asked a frustrated Kamala what she wanted, the young girl responded with: "Freedom!" As Kamala grew from a small girl in Oakland to a senator running for president, it was this long-fostered belief in freedom and justice for all people that shaped her into the inspiring figure she is today. From fighting for the use of a soccer field in middle school to fighting for the people of her home state in Congress, Senator Harris used her voice to speak up for what she believed in and for those who were otherwise unheard. And now this dedication has led her all the way to being elected Vice President of the United States.
The collection features Danitra Brown, a vibrant girl, and her best friend, Zuri Jackson, capturing their adventures and emotions. With poignant text and beautiful illustrations, the poems explore themes of friendship and childhood experiences, resonating with universal appeal. This collaboration offers young readers a heartfelt glimpse into the joys and challenges of growing up.
The narrative explores the emotional turmoil and isolation experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on Garvey's journey as he navigates his father's illness and the challenges of lockdown. Through the lens of poetry, Garvey discovers his musical talents, which he uses to foster hope and connection for both himself and his father amidst the crisis.
In this third installment of the Dyamonde Daniels series, readers will enjoy an engaging narrative that resonates with fans of other popular children's series. The story features vibrant illustrations by R. Gregory Christie, a Coretta Scott King honor winner, enhancing the reading experience. With relatable characters and themes, this book continues to capture the essence of childhood adventures and friendships, making it a delightful addition to any young reader's collection.
The story explores the contrasting approaches of best friends Zuri Jackson and Danitra Brown as they navigate the challenges of a new school year. Zuri is preoccupied with her new teacher, academic pressures, and her mother's health, while Danitra focuses on being authentic, enjoying life, and providing unwavering support to Zuri. Their friendship highlights the importance of balancing personal struggles with the value of companionship.