African American Leaders of Courage

Sojourner Truth was born into slavery, but she found solace in her community, her family, and her faith, as well as in herself. After escaping to freedom, she became an impassioned speaker in support of both abolition and women's rights. She was guided by her faith to help those who most needed it. Today, she's recognized as an inspiring orator, activist, and suffragist. This biography explores Truth's life and legacy, presenting details in a way young readers can understand, appreciate, and remember.

Kamala Harris is one of today's most prominent political figures. During her time in Congress, she has been an inspiration to many, advocating for equal rights, immigration and criminal justice reform, and a more united country. In the run-up to the 2020 presidential election, she's a contender to become the first female U.S. president. However, her story is about more than its most recent developments. In this easy-to-read biography, young readers will learn about Harris' life from her childhood to present day, her accomplishments as an attorney, and her challenges in politics.

After enduring years as a slave, Frederick Douglass escaped to freedom as a young man and made it his mission to work toward emancipation for all. He became a renowned orator, an inspiring writer, and above all, a champion for equal rights. This biography presents his life story, full of challenges and successes, and the legacy that has lived on long after he died. Using simple language young readers can understand, this biography showcases the story of this important, influential figure in American history.

Rosa Parks is best known as the woman who helped start the Montgomery bus boycott of 1955 to 1956. However, her life story extends far beyond her defiance on that Alabama bus in 1955. Parks was an activist for change and a supporter of equal rights. This book tells her story, both before and after her actions on the bus, and stresses her importance in American history to this day. Using manageable language and vivid photographs, this beginner biography introduces young readers to a notable and important human being.

Harriet Tubman's story is one of bravery and resilience. Tubman, who was born a slave, suffered both physically and emotionally, but she didn't let that affect her dreams of a better future. Tubman escaped to the North, but she didn't stay there long. Instead, she returned to the South many times, becoming a key figure on the Underground Railroad. This is the story of her life, from her childhood to her time as a nurse and leader of a spy ring during the Civil War. Using easy-to-understand language, this biography will educate young readers about Tubman and her importance in American history.

Jackie Robinson's immense talent led to an important event in American sports history: the breaking of the color barrier in baseball. This is the story of a legend, how Robinson overcame challenges both on and off the field, and his lasting legacy in the sport of baseball and beyond. Told in easy-to-understand language, this book introduces readers to a baseball idol who broke barriers and changed lives over the course of his incredible career and life.

Martin Luther King Jr. was a tremendous leader and champion for the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s. His courage, kindness, and wise words inspired men and women in the United States and around the world. King's efforts and influence led to change for the better in the United States and continue to resonate today. This biography tells King's life story in an accessible and engaging way, introducing young readers to the legend and the man we celebrate today.