Carole Boston Weatherford

Frank Morrison

From a New York Times bestselling author and an acclaimed illustrator comes this vibrant portrait of Aretha Franklin that pays her the R-E-S-P-E-C-T this Queen of Soul deserves. Aretha Franklin was born to sing. The daughter of a pastor and a gospel singer, her musical talent was clear from her earliest days in her father’s Detroit church where her soaring voice spanned more than three octaves. Her string of hit songs earned her the title “the Queen of Soul,” multiple Grammy Awards, and a place in the Rock &amp;amp;amp; Roll Hall of Fame. But Aretha didn’t just raise her voice in song, she also spoke out against injustice and fought for civil rights. This authoritative, rhythmic picture book biography will captivate young readers with Aretha’s inspiring story.

Respect: Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul

Isabel Sanchez Vegara

Bàrbara Alca

Meet Ella Fitzgerald, one of the most influential jazz singers of all time! New in the Little People, Big Dreams series, this inspiring and informative little biography follows the inspirational life of the First Lady of Song, from her early singing days on the streets of Harlem, to her success as a jazz legend, with the message: ‘It’s not where you come from, but where you’re going that counts.’ With stylish and quirky illustrations and a facts and photo section at the back, this empowering series celebrates the important life stories of wonderful women of the world. From designers and artists to scientists, all of them went on to achieve incredible things, yet all of them began life as a little child with a dream. These books make the lives of these role models accessible for children, providing a powerful message to inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world!

Ella Fitzgerald

This lyrical, loving picture book from popular singer-songwriter Laura Veirs and debut illustrator Tatyana Fazlalizadeh tells the story of the determined, gifted, daring Elizabeth Cotten–one of the most celebrated American folk musicians of all time. Elizabeth Cotten was only a little girl when she picked up a guitar for the first time. It wasn’t hers (it was her big brother’s), and it wasn’t strung right for her (she was left-handed). But she flipped that guitar upside down and backwards and taught herself how to play it anyway. By age eleven, she’d written “Freight Train,” one of the most famous folk songs of the twentieth century. And by the end of her life, people everywhere–from the sunny beaches of California to the rolling hills of England–knew her music. A Junior Library Guild selection ★ “The message of never giving up on a dream, no matter the circumstances, will resonate deeply with readers–purchase for all picture book biography collections.” –School Library Journal, starred review ★ “An inspiring tale of an artist.” –Kirkus Reviews, starred review ★ “Elegant and moving.”–Publishers Weekly, starred review

Libba: The Magnificent Musical Life of Elizabeth Cotten

Elizabeth Zunon

Celebrate the life of Lena Horne, the pioneering African American actress and civil rights activist, with this inspiring and powerful picture book from award-winning author Carole Boston Weatherford.

You have to be taught to be second class; you’re not born that way. 

Lena Horne was born into the freedom struggle, to a family of teachers and activists. Her mother dreamed of being an actress, so Lena followed in her footsteps as she chased small parts in vaudeville, living out of a suitcase until MGM offered Lena something more—the first ever studio contract for a black actress.

But the roles she was considered for were maids and mammies, stereotypes that Lena refused to play. Still, she never gave up. “Stormy Weather” became her theme song, and when she sang “This Little Light of Mine” at a civil rights rally, she found not only her voice, but her calling.

The Legendary Miss Lena Horne

Chris Van Dusen

A little girl and her colossal friend teach a monster-size lesson about prejudging others in a charming offering from Chris Van Dusen.

Hattie McFadden is a born explorer. Every morning she grabs her life jacket and paddles out in her canoe to discover something new on the lake, singing a little song on her way. When her singing draws up from the depths a huge mysterious beast, everyone in town is terrified — except Hattie, who looks into the creature’s friendly, curious eyes and knows that this is no monster. So Hattie sneaks out at night to see the giant — whom she names Hudson — and the two become friends. But how can she make the frightened, hostile townspeople see that Hudson isn’t scary or dangerous at all? Chris Van Dusen brings his colorful, perspective-bending artwork to this satisfying new story about acceptance, friendship, and sticking up for those who are different.

Hattie and Hudson

Denene Millner

Vanessa Brantley-Newton

In this heartwarming story of love and family, a community comes together to help a young girl find the courage to lift her mighty voice.

Sundays are June’s favorite days because she gets to spend it with Mommy, Daddy, and her brother, Troy. Next Sunday is more special than most, because she will be leading the youth choir in front of her entire church.

June loves to sing. She sings loud, silly songs with Daddy, she sings to herself in front of the bedroom mirror, but performing in front of the entire congregation is another thing altogether. As her special moment approaches, June leans on the support of her whole community to conquer her fear of singing in front of the congregation.

Early Sunday Morning

Michael Bond

R.W. Alley

Celebrate the 60th anniversary of Paddington Bear with this final classic picture book adventure from beloved author Michael Bond. Paddington Bear’s adventures never go quite as planned. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t filled with fun and laughter! When Mr. Gruber takes Paddington on a special outing to St. Paul’s Cathedral, there is one surprise after another. And the biggest surprise of all comes when Paddington is mistaken for a choir bear and suddenly finds himself taking part in a most unusual rehearsal. For six decades, stories of Paddington have charmed readers all over the world. Now another generation of fans can join the beloved bear in this brand-new adventure written by Michael Bond and illustrated by artist R. W. Alley.

Paddington at St. Paul's

Patty Rodriguez

Ariana Stein

A Lil’ Libros Bilingual Biography Selena’s career started at a young age when she became lead singer in her family’s band, Selena Y Los Dinos. She went on to become an award-winning artist with albums like Amor Prohibido and Selena Live, and earned the title “Queen of Tejano Music.” Your little one will learn that Selena’s favorite food was pizza and that the most important people in the world to her were her familiaand fans.

The Life of/ La Vida De Selena

Selina Alko

“Colors burst across each page, with layers of collage-work emphasizing the richness of Mitchell’s influences and imagination. Will speak to readers just starting their own exploration of artistic expression.” —Booklist (starred review)

Celebrate the captivating life of Joni Mitchell, the world-famous songbird who used her music to ignite and inspire an entire generation, in this stunning picture book biography from award-winning author and illustrator Selina Alko.

Joni Mitchell painted with words.

Sitting at her piano or strumming the guitar, she turned the words into songs.

The songs were like brushstrokes on a canvas, saying things that were not only happy or sad but true.

But before composing more than two hundred songs, Joni was a young girl from a town on the Canadian prairie, where she learned to love dancing, painting, birdsong, and piano. As she grew up into an artist, Joni took her strong feelings—feelings of love and frustration, and the turbulence that came with being a young woman—and wrote them into vivid songs.

Brought to life by Selina Alko’s rainbow collages and lyrical language, this heartfelt portrait of a feminist and folk icon is perfect for parents, children, and music lovers everywhere.

Back matter includes a letter from the author and Joni’s full discography.

“An inspired and creative ode to the inimitable Joni Mitchell.” —Kirkus

“Layered mixed-media collages featuring cut paper, found images, and colorful smears of paint effectively evoke the richly rendered emotional landscapes of Mitchell’s songwriting.” —Publishers Weekly

Joni: The Lyrical Life of Joni Mitchell

Hasbro

An exciting original middle grade series featuring My Little Pony, and continuing the story from the upcoming feature film! In an exciting expansion to the My Little Pony world, the characters you know and love are off on brand new adventures! ©2018 Hasbro. All Rights Reserved.

Pinkie Pie Steps Up

Kimberly Brubaker Bradley 

spies

singing

the Holocaust

From the Newbery Honor and Schneider Award-winning author of The War that Saved My Life comes For Freedom, the thrilling true story of one of France’s youngest spies during World War II and perfect for fans of Code Name Verity and The Diary of Anne Frank.  Suzanne David’s everyday life is suddenly shattered in 1940 when a bomb drops on the main square of her hometown, the city of Cherbourg, France, killing a pregnant neighbor right in front of her. Until then the war had seemed far away, not something that would touch her or her teenage friends. Now Suzanne’s family is kicked out onto the street as German soldiers take over their house as a barracks. Suzanne clings to the one thing she really loves–singing. Her voice is so amazing that she is training to become an opera singer. As Suzanne travels around for rehearsals, cosume fittings, or lessons, she learns more about what the Nazis are doing and about the people who are disappearing. Her travels are noticed by someone else, an organizer of the French Resistance. Soon Suzanne is a secret courier, a spy fighting for France and risking her own life for freedom. [STAR] This taut, engrossing World War II novel instantly immerses readers, …[but] the real focus, however, is the skin-crawling suspense story about one of France’s youngest spies. Each chapter brings new intrigue and often shocking revelations…resonat[ing] with authenticity, excitement, and heart.-Booklist, Starred[STAR] This suspenseful novel, …based on a true story, moves swiftly into action…Filled, but not laden, with the events of the war, and peppered with French language and the culture of music, this novel will appeal to readers who enjoy history and espionage.-SLJ, Starred [STAR] Based on Bradley’s interviews with the real Suzanne, this is an exciting account of a girl’s coming of age in a scary time. The historical context is neatly woven into the story.-Kirkus Reviews, Starred The action will have readers on the edge through the tense conclusion, and the epilogue is not to be missed.-The Bulletin A highly compelling look at the covert battle for freedom.-Publishers Weekly An IRA Teachers’ ChoiceAn ALA Amelia Bloomer SelectionA VOYA Top Shelf Fiction SelectionA New York Public Library Book PickA Bank Street College Best Book of the Year

For Freedom: The Story of a French Spy

Rob Scotton

stage fright

facing fears

Splat’s class is preparing to sing on Parents’ Night, but Splat has stage fright! What will it take for him to overcome his fear?

Splat the Cat Sings Flat

Floyd Cooper

jazz

poetry

singers

The stunning voice and hard life of legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday is revealed through evocative, accessible poetry. In 1915, Sadie Fagan gave birth to a daughter she named Eleanora. The world, however, would know her as Billie Holiday, possibly the greatest jazz singer of all time. Eleanora’s journey to become a legend took her through pain, poverty, and run-ins with the law. By the time she was fifteen, she knew she possessed something that could possibly change her life–a voice. Eleanora could sing. Her remarkable voice led her to a place in the spotlight with some of the era’s hottest big bands. Through a sequence of raw and poignant poems, New York Times best-selling and award-winning poet Carole Boston Weatherford chronicles the singer’s young life, her fight for survival, and the dream she pursued with passion.

Becoming Billie Holiday

Iza Trapani

Troll has appropriated rights to the bridge and charges the forest creatures a toll to cross it. Clever Vole has no money, but he does have a silver tongue. Praising Troll’s singing and teaching him new songs affords Vole the opportunity to sneak across the bridge several times. But Troll catches on eventually. Does Vole end up as a tasty casserole in Troll’s bowl?

Familiar songs and movements—from spiders crawling up waterspouts to nodding our head when we’re grumpy and we know it—along with Iza’s hilariously detailed illustrations and a diabolical plotline, create a harmony of storytelling that will elicit giggles and uproarious laughter.

Vole and Troll

Citlali Reyes

Born May 13, 1941, Ritchie Valens was a Mexican-American singer, songwriter, and guitarist. His musical journey at age 5 when his father encouraged him to take up guitar. In high school, he made his performing debut with the band The Silhouettes. At 17, Ritchie recorded his final record, which included classics like “Donna” and “La Bamba”. That record went on to sell over one million copies. To this day, Ritchie  Valens’ music lives on in the hearts of many!

The Life of - La Vida De Ritchie

Katheryn Russell-Brown

A beautiful picture book biography about the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, and how she fought for equal rights throughout her life.

Aretha Louise Franklin grew up in a house of music. The shy daughter of a famous Detroit preacher and civil rights activist, Aretha’s big voice surprised those around her, and everyone agreed: her powerful singing would someday make her a star.

After relocating to New York City and signing a record deal, Aretha relentlessly pursued her dream of stardom. But it took many years of tireless touring and recording until her hit record “Respect” finally brought her the acclaim she deserved. Along the way, Aretha used her talents to fight for respect and equal rights along the way by refusing to perform for “whites only” audiences. With six decades of hits, countless memorable performances, and millions of lives touched, Aretha’s legacy of resilience and respect will inspire for generations to come.

A Voice Named Aretha

Jane Cabrera

Sing, stomp, and clap along - if you’re happy, let it show! Get the youngest listeners moving, clapping, and flapping in this brightly colored board book, perfect for small hands, full of joyful jungle animals. Nod along with groovy giraffe, flap with baby bird, and ROAR out loud with lion. Jane Cabrera’s fresh spin on the familiar song is a family favorite for baby dance parties since 2003. An Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award Winner. Jane Cabrera’s Story Time celebrates children’s best-loved read along nursery rhymes and songs. These interactive favorites are given a new twist by award-winning artist Jane Cabrera and feature her bold, bright, kid-friendly illustrations. Other titles in the series include Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush, One Two Buckle My Shoe, and Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.

If You're Happy and You Know It

This board book version of Ella Fitzgerald—an international bestseller in the beloved Little People, BIG DREAMS series—introduces the youngest dreamers to the First Lady of Song, from her early singing days on the streets of Harlem to her success as a jazz legend.

Ella Fitzgerald grew up near Harlem, in New York, where she was surrounded by music and dance. After winning first prize in a talent competition at the Apollo Theater, she went on to tour the world with her pioneering voice. Babies and toddlers will love to snuggle as you read to them the engaging story of this fascinating icon, and will also enjoy exploring the stylish and quirky illustrations of this sturdy board book on their own.

Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.

This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games, and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children.

Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!

Ella Fitzgerald: My First Ella Fitzgerald

David Barclay Moore

Kathryn Erskine

Charly Palmer

Miriam Makeba, a Grammy Award–winning South African singer, rose to fame in the hearts of her people at the pinnacle of apartheid―a brutal system of segregation similar to American Jim Crow laws. Mama Africa, as they called her, raised her voice to help combat these injustices at jazz clubs in Johannesburg; in exile, at a rally beside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; and before the United Nations. Set defiantly in the present tense, this biography offers readers an intimate view of Makeba’s fight for equality. Kathryn Erskine’s call-and-response style text and Charly Palmer’s bold illustrations come together in a raw, riveting duet of protest song and praise poem. A testament to how a single voice helped to shake up the world―and can continue to do so.

Mama Africa!: How Miriam Makeba Spread Hope with Her Song

Vivian Kirkfield

Alleanna Harris

Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe. On the outside, you couldn’t find two girls who looked more different. But on the inside, they were alike–full of hopes and dreams and plans of what might be.

Ella Fitzgerald’s velvety tones and shube-doobie-doos captivated audiences. Jazz greats like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington couldn’t wait to share the stage with her, but still, Ella could not book a performance at one of the biggest clubs in town–one she knew would give her career its biggest break yet.

Marilyn Monroe dazzled on the silver screen with her baby blue eyes and breathy boo-boo-be-doos. But when she asked for better scripts, a choice in who she worked with, and a higher salary, studio bosses refused.

Two women whose voices weren’t being heard. Two women chasing after their dreams and each helping the other to achieve them. This is the inspiring, true story of two incredibly talented women who came together to help each other shine like the stars that they are.

Making Their Voices Heard: The Inspiring Friendship of Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe

James Dean

Eric Litwin

An award-winning and bestselling Pete the Cat hardcover picture book!

Count down with Pete in this rocking story that makes counting fun! Pete the Cat is wearing his favorite shirt—the one with the four totally groovy buttons.

But when one falls off, does Pete cry? Goodness, no! He just keeps on singing his song—after all, what could be groovier than three groovy buttons? The winner of the Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor Award.

The fun never stops—download the free groovin’ song!

Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons

David Walliams

Tony Ross

Sing your heart out with a whole choir of characters, in the showstopping new picture book from number one bestselling author David Walliams, illustrated by the artistic genius, Tony Ross!

There’s more than one star of the show… In fact, there’s a whole choir of them!

Warble the walrus LOVES to sing.

Unfortunately, she is not very good at it! And when her atrocious warbling causes an avalanche, the other walruses leave her all alone.

But when you SING like no-one is listening, SOMETIMES, they start to hear you…

The perfect story for anyone who loves to laugh or sing, this brand-new story from David Walliams is a delightfully wonderful warble about doing what makes you HAPPY, and being LOUD about it!

The Creature Choir

Gabby Dawnay

Alex Barrow

An imaginative story about a bear trying to learn to sing, complete with engaging illustrations and an empowering message.

From the duo behind If I Had a Dinosaur and A House for Mouse, Gabby Dawnay and Alex Barrow’s A Song for Bear is a story about recognizing and celebrating what makes us unique.

Bear wakes every morning to beautiful birdsong and longs to join in. He stretches his legs, puts on his cap and suspenders, and tries to sing with the beautiful birds crooning all around him in the forest. Unfortunately, he discovers his song is more of a holler, a howl, and rumbling growl. His wise friend, Owl, tries to encourage him by pointing out that Bear is not a bird, but Bear learns the wrong lesson and attempts to fly, thinking that being more birdlike might make him a better singer. In the end, Bear concentrates on what he does best, discovering in the process that his unique “bear song” is in fact a rap. All of the forest animals gather to watch him perform his new song, and cheer in amazement at his newfound talent. Satisfied with finding what makes him unique, Bear smiles to himself and promptly falls back to sleep.

A Song for Bear

Jeanne Birdsall

With over one million copies sold, this series of modern classics about the charming Penderwick family, from National Book Award winner and New York Times bestseller Jeanne Birdsall, is perfect for fans of Noel Streatfeild and Edward Eager.

Springtime is finally arriving on Gardam Street, and there are surprises in store for each member of the family.

Some surprises are just wonderful, like neighbor Nick Geiger coming home from war. And some are ridiculous, like Batty’s new dog-walking business. Batty is saving up her dog-walking money for an extra-special surprise for her family, which she plans to present on her upcoming birthday. But when some unwelcome surprises make themselves known, the best-laid plans fall apart.

Filled with all the heart, hilarity, and charm that has come to define this beloved clan, The Penderwicks in Spring is about fun and family and friends (and dogs), and what happens when you bring what’s hidden into the bright light of the spring sun.

The Penderwicks in Spring

Kate O'Shaughnessy

single-parent families

anxiety

courage

This sparkling middle-grade debut is a classic-in-the-making!  Maybelle Lane is looking for her father, but on the road to Nashville she finds so much more: courage, brains, heart–and true friends.  Eleven-year-old Maybelle Lane collects sounds. She records the Louisiana crickets chirping, Momma strumming her guitar, their broken trailer door squeaking. But the crown jewel of her collection is a sound she didn’t collect herself: an old recording of her daddy’s warm-sunshine laugh, saved on an old phone’s voicemail. It’s the only thing she has of his, and the only thing she knows about him. Until the day she hears that laugh–his laugh–pouring out of the car radio. Going against Momma’s wishes, Maybelle starts listening to her radio DJ daddy’s new show, drinking in every word like a plant leaning toward the sun. When he announces he’ll be the judge of a singing contest in Nashville, she signs up. What better way to meet than to stand before him and sing with all her heart? But the road to Nashville is bumpy. Her starch-stiff neighbor Mrs. Boggs offers to drive her in her RV. And a bully of a boy from the trailer park hitches a ride, too. These are not the people May would have chosen to help her, but it turns out they’re searching for things as well. And the journey will mold them into the best kind of family–the kind you choose for yourself.

The Lonely Heart of Maybelle Lane

From the author of the acclaimed Roll with It comes a moving novel about a girl with a sensory processing disorder who has to find her own voice after her whole world turns upside down. Lou Montgomery has the voice of an angel, or so her mother tells her and anyone else who will listen. But Lou can only hear the fear in her own voice. She’s never liked crowds or loud noises or even high fives; in fact, she’s terrified of them, which makes her pretty sure there’s something wrong with her. When Lou crashes their pickup on a dark and snowy road, child services separate the mother-daughter duo. Now she has to start all over again at a fancy private school far away from anything she’s ever known. With help from an outgoing new friend, her aunt and uncle, and the school counselor, she begins to see things differently. A sensory processing disorder isn’t something to be ashamed of, and music might just be the thing that saves Lou–and maybe her mom, too.

Tune It Out

Kate DiCamillo

Jaime Kim

Conceived by Kate DiCamillo and featuring enchanting illustrations by Jaime Kim, this nearly wordless graphic story follows a little girl in search of a friend. “La la la . . . la.” A little girl stands alone and sings, but hears no response. Gathering her courage and her curiosity, she skips farther out into the world, singing away to the trees and the pond and the reeds – but no song comes back to her. Day passes into night, and the girl dares to venture into the darkness toward the light of the moon, becoming more insistent in her singing, climbing as high as she can, but still there is silence in return. Dejected, she falls asleep on the ground, only to be awakened by an amazing sound. . . . She has been heard. At last. With the simplest of narratives and the near absence of words, Kate DiCamillo conveys a lonely child’s yearning for someone who understands. With a subtle palette and captivating expressiveness, Jaime Kim brings to life an endearing character and a transcendent landscape that invite readers along on an emotionally satisfying journey.

La La La

Robert Munsch

Michael Martchenko

Mortimer will not be quiet and go to sleep. Not for his mother, or his father, or his seventeen sisters and brothers, not even for the police. A newly designed Classic Munsch picture book introduces this unforgettable noise-maker to a new generation of young readers.

Mortimer

Tracey West

Pick a book. Grow a Reader! This series is part of Scholastic’s early chapter book line Branches, aimed at newly independent readers. With easy-to-read text, high-interest content, fast-paced plots, and illustrations on every page, these books will boost reading confidence and stamina. Branches books help readers grow! In book #5, the Dragon Masters are excited to meet the newest Dragon Master, Petra. But when she arrives at the castle, she doesn’t fit in right away. She’s a know-it-all, and she doesn’t even try to connect with her four-headed dragon! Could the Dragon Stone have chosen her by mistake? Then something terrible happens to the king. Petra will have to work with the other Dragon Masters to save him before it’s too late!

Song of the Poison Dragon

A story of family, faith, and following your heart  For ten-year-old Cadence Jolly, birthdays are a constant reminder of all that has changed since her mother skipped town with dreams of becoming a singing star. Cadence inherited that musical soul, she can’t deny it, but otherwise she couldn’t be more different - she’s as shy as can be.  She did make a promise last year that she would try to break out of her shell, just a little. And she prayed that she’d get the courage to do it. As her eleventh birthday draws near, she realizes time is running out. And when a secret recording of her singing leaks and catches the attention of her whole church, she needs to decide what’s better: deceiving everyone by pretending it belongs to someone else, or finally stepping into the spotlight.  In a story filled with whimsy and hope, Sherri Winston inspires readers to embrace the voice within.

Sweetest Sound

Kimberly Dean

Time to head back to school with this bestselling groovy Pete the Cat book!Pete the Cat is rocking in his school shoes. Pete discovers the library, the lunch room, the playground, and lots of other cool places at school.And no matter where he goes, Pete never stops moving and grooving and singing his song…because it’s all good.The fun never stops–download the free groovin’ song.Don’t miss Pete’s other adventures, including Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes, Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons, Pete the Cat Saves Christmas, Pete the Cat and His Magic Sunglasses, Pete the Cat and the Bedtime Blues, Pete the Cat and the New Guy, Pete the Cat and the Cool Cat Boogie, Pete the Cat and the Missing Cupcakes, Pete the Cat and the Perfect Pizza Party, and Pete the Cat: Crayons Rock!

Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes

Janet Gurtler

Katie Wood

Since her dad died, Shyanna has not been able to sing. But in one bold move, all of that is going to change thanks to the mermaid Melody Pageant. Shyanna must conquer her stage fright and other obstacles to bring song back into her (and her mom’s) life.

Shyanna's Song

Pam Muñoz Ryan

Brian Selznick

Marian Anderson is best known for her historic concert at the Lincoln Memorial in 1939, which drew an integrated crowd of 75,000 people in pre-Civil Rights America. While this momentous event showcased the uniqueness of her voice, the strength of her character, and the struggles of the times in which she lived, it is only part of her story. Like the operatic arias Marian would come to sing, Ryan’s text is as moving as a libretto, and Selznick’s pictures as exquisitely detailed and elaborately designed as a stage set. What emerges most profoundly from their shared vision is a role model of courage.

When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson

Designed to be read with a buddy, this dialogue between an aardvark and a mouse contains only kindergarten or first-grade words, making it a unique first reading book. Sentences are short, with lots of repetition for reinforcement and to build reading confidence. Early childhood specialist and former Romper Room teacher “Miss Karen” believes that reading should be easy and fun, and that reading with a buddy brings pleasure to young children. Recalling the classic children’s book The Little Engine that Could, this story encourages beginning readers to believe in themselves. They will want to read it over and over again, and will be proud to say “I can read!”

I Think I Can

Kwame Alexander

Tim Bowers

On the eve of singing at a community festival, a bout of stage fright threatens a little girl’s confidence. As Indigo Blume drifts off to sleep, she isn’t sure she’s brave enough to take the stage. But once she falls asleep, Indigo finds herself in a dream world with the characters of her favorite book, Acoustic Rooster and his Barnyard Band. The band’s members, including Miss Dairy Parton and Chickee Minaj, are rehearsing, and they invite Indigo to join the group. But when a storm destroys their barn, the animals are left with almost nothing. Can Indigo rally the band to work together and save their home? And will she find her voice in time for the festival?

Acoustic Rooster's Barnyard Boogie Starring Indigo Blume

If You're Happy and You Know It (Jungle Edition)

Scott Magoon

“This gentle, simply told story addresses the importance and enjoyment of friendship and collaboration. –Kirkus Reviews A chipmunk searches for someone to sing along with her in this sweet and funny celebration of true friendship, featuring art by New York Times bestselling illustrator Scott Magoon. Chipmunk spends her days sitting on her rock and chirping her song–sometimes it’s happy, sometimes it’s bittersweet, and sometimes it’s very sad indeed. When Chipmunk goes off to find a companion that will sing along with her, she encounters some bumps (and pine cones) along the way, and finds friends (and harmonies) in unexpected places.

Chirp!: Chipmunk Sings for a Friend

Tenney faces friendship troubles as her music career takes off in this second book in her series.Tenney Grant is a star on the rise. She knows that building a music career takes time and dedication. So does being a good friend. In this second story about the aspiring singer-songwriter, Tenney and her best friend, Jaya, learn that a storm has ravaged the Bengali town where Jaya’s cousin lives, and they spring into action to raise money to rebuild her school. Meanwhile, Tenney begins rehearsing with a talented-and stubborn–young drummer named Logan. When their manager books the duo to play at Nashville’s City Music Festival, it’s a dream come true for Tenney–until she finds out that the performance is on the same day as Jaya’s fund-raiser. It feels as if music is tearing these two friends apart. Unless, Tenney realizes, there’s a way music can bring them back together . . .

Tenney in the Key of Friendship

Callie Barkley

It’s Valentine’s Day, and The Critter Club is singing telegrams for charity–but will Ellie receive some of the love she is giving? Valentine’s Day is coming up, and to raise money for a charity called Puppy Love, Ellie suggests that she and The Critter Club girls sell singing telegrams. The girls have a lot of fun writing and performing the songs, but all the holiday spirit makes Ellie wish someone would send her a singing telegram! Will Ellie get her wish? With easy-to-read language and illustrations on almost every page, The Critter Club chapter books are perfect for beginning readers.

Ellie's Lovely Idea

Christian Robinson

This illuminating and defining picture book biography illustrated by Caldecott Honoree Christian Robinson, tells the story of little Eunice who grew up to become the acclaimed singer Nina Simone and her bold, defiant, and exultant legacy. Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in small town North Carolina, Nina Simone was a musical child. She sang before she talked and learned to play piano at a very young age. With the support of her family and community, she received music lessons that introduced her to classical composers like Bach who remained with her and influenced her music throughout her life. She loved the way his music began softly and then tumbled to thunder, like her mother’s preaching, and in much the same way as her career. During her first performances under the name of Nina Simone her voice was rich and sweet but as the Civil Rights Movement gained steam, Nina’s voice soon became a thunderous roar as she raised her voice in powerful protest in the fight against racial inequality and discrimination.

Nina: A Story of Nina Simone

Robert Quackenbush

World-famous duck-tective Miss Mallard’s trip to Paris gets complicated in this engaging Aladdin QUIX mystery. Miss Mallard is in Paris to visit an old friend and becomes involved in one of the most terrifying cases of her career: the disappearance of a star performer and the long-ago theft of a fabulous jewel!

Stage Door to Terror

Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen

The adorable mermaid-kittens in this chapter book series are ready to sing on stage–fans of the Magic Kitten and the Fairy Animals series will be paw-sitively hooked from page one! It’s a special day in Kittentail Cove! Purrmaids have a chance to sing in front of the whole town. Shelly can’t wait to try out. Especially once she hears this year’s surprise guest. The winning purrmaids get to sing with famous pop star Kelpy Sharkson! There’s just one problem. Shelly thinks practice makes purr-fect, but her friends get tired of singing all day. Can the purrmaids find a way to work hard and have fun?

A Star Purr-Formance

Gene Zion

Margaret Bloy Graham

In 1957, Harper published its first I Can Read title, Little Bear, written by Else Holmelund Minarik and illustrated by Maurice Sendak. Large type, simple vocabulary, chapter-like divisions, and decorative pictures made Little Bear perfect for emerging readers

Harry and the Lady Next Door

Carolyn Keene

NANCY’S LOOKING FOR THE TRICKSTER WHO’S SPOILING ALL THE FUN!Nancy, Bess, and George are having a blast at the River Heights Carnival, sampling yummy snacks and trying to win prizes. Most of all, the girls can’t wait for their favorite local singing star, Isabelle Santoro, to perform. But Isabelle may cancel if she finds out that someone’s ruining all the fun with really annoying pranks.Snooty Brenda Carlton, annoying Orson Wong, and Chloe “Cruncher” Mondesky, the pie-contest queen, all make good suspects. Nancy’s clue book is filling up, and she’s got to solve this puzzle fast – so the fun, and the show, can go on!

The Crazy Carnival Case

Anna Walker

Ollie loves to sing. He loves to sing in his bed or in the park. He loves to sing with his dog, Fred. In this sweet, engaging picture book, Ollie celebrates singing, friendship and fun.

I Love to Sing

Chloe Ryder

Enter a land of magical ponies in this chapter book series that features illustrations throughout and comes with a collectible charm! On an enchanted island far, far away, princess ponies can talk and play. Eight golden horseshoes give the ponies their magic–thanks to Pippa and Princess Stardust’s efforts to find them all. Her task complete, Pippa has returned to the human world . . . but her friends in Chevalia are never far away. Pippa is happy she’s been given a part in the school play, but she’s having trouble with her lines. She seeks inspiration in Chevalia from superstar songstress Diva-but someone has stolen Diva’s voice! Can Pippa and Stardust help Diva realize that she’s more than just her talent before the upcoming Royal Pony Gala? Brought to life with illustrations, this story also comes with a collectible charm! Don’t miss all of the books in the Princess Ponies series: A Magical FriendA Dream Come TrueThe Special SecretA Unicorn Adventure!An Amazing RescueBest Friends Forever!A Special SurpriseA Singing Star

A Singing Star

In the second book in the popular Nut Family series, boogie down with singer-songwriter Eric Litwin – author of the first three mega-bestselling Pete the Cat books – as he invites readers to chime in and join the nutty, pun-filled fun, with a downloadable song available! Hazel Nut wants her family to sing and dance along with her, but they are just too busy! Who can she call? Why… her super-hip, disco-dancing Grandma Nut! In the second book of the Nuts series, Eric Litwin’s playful call-and-response rhymes and Scott Magoon’s hilarious illustrations invite readers young and old to join in on the fun. Readers can listen to and/or download Litwin’s disco-inspired performance of the book and additional songs at www.TheNutFamily.com. Don’t miss the other hilarious read-along, sing-along books about the Nut Family! Bedtime at the Nut House The Nuts Keep Rolling!

Sing and Dance in Your Polka-Dot Pants

Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

In this book from the multimillion-copy best-selling Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the life of John Lennon, the boy from Liverpool who dreamed of peace.  When John Lennon formed a band while still in school, he couldn’t have known they were about to change music forever. With their exciting new sounds, rebel attitudes and gift for songwriting, everyone went crazy for The Beatles. Today, John is remembered not just as a musical icon, but as a champion of world peace. This inspiring book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the legendary Beatle’s life.  ​Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream.  This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games, and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children. Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!

John Lennon

Gail Carson Levine

Once upon a time, there was a girl who wanted to be pretty . . .Aza’s singing is the fairest in all the land, and the most unusual. She can throw her voice so it seems to come from anywhere. But singing is only one of the two qualities prized in the Kingdom of Ayortha. Aza doesn’t possess the other: beauty. Not even close. She’s hidden in the shadows in her parents’ inn, but when she becomes lady-in-waiting to the new queen, she has to step into the light–especially when the queen demands a dangerous favor. A magic mirror, a charming prince, a jealous queen, palace intrigue, and an injured king twine into a maze that Aza must penetrate to save herself and her beloved kingdom.

Fairest

Marianne Levy

Everybody’s watching Katie Cox…

Katie Cox is used to going unnoticed, by her mom, her dad, even her best friend. But when a video of her singing in her bedroom goes viral, she becomes a superstar overnight. As the views skyrocket and a recording contract beckons, the real world starts to feel very far away.

It isn’t long before Katie starts riding high on her newfound fame. But the higher she goes, the further there is to fall…

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