Coretta Scott King Award · 2003

The 2003 Coretta Scott King Award

Talkin' About Bessie and Bronx Masquerade won the 2003 Coretta Scott King Award. Browse them alongside all 3 honor books, with ages and reading levels for each.

2003 Coretta Scott King Award Winner · Author and Illustrator
Talkin' About Bessie
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1998

Talkin' About Bessie

By Nikki Grimes, E.B. Lewis (Illustrator) · Coretta Scott King Author Honor Books series

Defy the odds and soar to new heights with a pioneering pilot.

Coretta Scott King Award (2003)
48 pages· 5,020 words· Est. 39 min read-aloud
4.2/5 Goodreads · 707 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: In a world bound by Jim Crow laws, Bessie Coleman dreams of flying. Despite poverty, racism, and gender barriers, she is determined to become the first African-American female pilot. Her journey, told through powerful monologues, reveals a story of unwavering faith and resilience. Will Bessie achieve her dream and inspire generations to come?
2003 Coretta Scott King Award Winner · Author
Chapter Book · Ages 12–15 · 2001

Bronx Masquerade

Teens reveal hidden fears through poetry, uncovering truths and connections.

176 pages· 24,229 words· Est. 2.5 hour read
4.0/5 Goodreads · 8,076 ratings
$6.99Save 4%
Mass Market Paperback
Summary: In a Bronx high school, students dive into the Harlem Renaissance, sharing personal poems that expose their deepest fears and dreams. As they speak, barriers break and connections form, challenging their perceptions and uniting them in unexpected ways. What secrets will their words unveil, and how will they change the lives of these diverse teens forever?
2003 Honor Books
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2002

Visiting Langston

By Willie Perdomo, Bryan Collier (Illustrator)

A young poet visits Langston Hughes' home, discovering inspiration and legacy.

32 pages· 169 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
3.7/5 Goodreads · 138 ratings
$11.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: A young girl, aspiring poet, visits Langston Hughes' home with her father. As she explores the legendary poet's world, she uncovers inspiration and a connection to the Harlem Renaissance. What will she discover about her own poetic journey?
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2002

Rap A Tap Tap

By Leo Dillon (Author/Illustrator), Diane Dillon (Author/Illustrator)

Discover the rhythm of a legendary dancer who spoke with his feet.

32 pages· 205 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
4.0/5 Goodreads · 805 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Step into the vibrant world of Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, a trailblazing tap dancer who brought joy to the streets of 1920s New York. Through rhythmic rhymes and vivid illustrations, follow his journey as he captivates audiences with his unique art. What magic lies in his dance that speaks louder than words? Rap a tap tap—think of that!
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2002

The Red Rose Box

A surprise gift leads Leah to California, but can newfound freedom replace home?

136 pages· 31,558 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
4.0/5 Goodreads · 309 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Leah's tenth birthday brings an unexpected gift from Aunt Olivia—a red rose box with tickets to California. Leaving 1958 Louisiana's constraints, Leah and her sister Ruth find Hollywood's allure. But when tragedy strikes back home, they're forced to stay. Can Leah find a sense of belonging in this new world, or will the pull of home prove too strong? Discover the journey of two sisters navigating freedom and identity in a land of dreams.
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