High in the sky, Bessie Coleman could soar like a bird. She was free--at least until she landed. As a black woman in the 1920s, she wasn't allowed to learn how to fly. Forced to travel to France to learn, she became the first African American woman to earn her pilot's license. Whether she was wing-walking, giving a speech, parachuting, or flying, Coleman inspired people with her bravery and resolv ...

Another stunning picture book biography of a prominent twentieth-century African-American in the arts, from the creative team behind Alvin Ailey.

Spare, evocative language and exquisite illustrations by Ral Col, n depict the life of Roberto Clemente, a great athlete and an even greater man, who became one of the most respected baseball players of all time.

From the time he was a small boy, Wilson Bentley saw snowflakes as small miracles. And he determined that one day his camera would capture for others the wonder of the tiny crystal. Bentley's patience and determination revealed two important truths: no two snowflakes are alike; and each one is startlingly beautiful. Full color.

Text and illustration connect present day to Franklin's times and inventions. A novel and engaging look at a truly remarkable "founding father."

From a Maryland cabin to the top of the world, Matthew Henson knew how to take advantage of opportunities, prove himself, and become a partner in exploration and accomplishment. An unforgettable look at an adventurer who deserves to be known by readers, young and old.

Between 1854 and 1930, more than 200,000 orphaned or abandoned children were sent west on orphan trains. Warren alternates chapters about the history of the orphan trains with the story of Lee Nailling, who in 1926 rode an orphan train to Texas. Photos.

Golenbock describes the racial prejudice experienced by Jackie Robinson when he joined the Brooklyn Dodgers and became the first black player in Major League baseball and depicts the acceptance and support he received from his white teammate Pee Wee Reese.

While on a hiking trip, Donn became separated from his family and guide because of impatience. When dense fog shrouded Mount Katahdin, Maine's highest peak, Donn's problems were compounded. What follows is a true story of how a young boy survived on his own for nearly two weeks. Through the ordeal, he never gave up hope, believing Someone was watching over him. A truly inspiring story of faith, ho ...

Benjamin Banneker was born free when most blacks were still enslaved. A self-taught mathematician and astronomer, he was the author of the first published almanac written by a black man. Throughout his life Bannecker was troubled that all blacks were not free. So, in 1791, he sent a letter to Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson. Here is the extraordinary correspondence between the two men. Full-co ...

Lester tells her personal story, sharing her struggles as a child and later as a successful author. Using her unique ability to laugh at her mistakes, Lester creates a guide for young writers and an amusing personal story of the disappointments and triumphs of a writer's life. Full color.

This Texas Bluebonnet Award winner tells the story of legendary baseball player Shoeless Joe Jackson, who along with his good friend Charlie Ferguson creates Black Betsy--the finest baseball bat in the land. Full color.

This definitive picture book biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is an unforgettable portrait of a man whose dream changed America--and the world--forever.

More than 50 years after her refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama, bus, Mrs. Rosa Parks is the subject of this picture-book tribute to her courageous action and the events that followed.

Jacques Costeau was a man who dreamed big, and this book invites readers to use his story to inspire their own. Full of details about the choices he made and how he persevered, he is a brilliant example of the effects of hard work, creativity, and determination. By the end of the story readers will be anxious to find their passion and make a difference.

Under arrest! The words came as a shock to young Esther Rudomin, Polish citizen. Because of their Jewish heritage and Father's business success, Esther's family faced certain deportment to Siberia. This sobering tale of a family torn from their homeland, from close relatives, and eventually from one another, paints a vivid picture of grim determination to survive against overwhelming odds. The Sib ...

Presents a sparse, poetic, and beautiful retelling of an influential life, paired with luminous illustrations.

Large watercolor illustrations warmly portray Helen Keller—overcomer, speaker, and briefly, actress. This reading experience highlights Annie Sullivan's belief in Helen's potential, and Helen's increasing connections that strengthened her mind and ambition. Readers sense the importance of pushing beyond difficult limits. Large-print quotes give voice to Helen's dogged determination that hig ...