Marilyn Nelson Books

Exploring themes of family and heritage, the story follows Johnnie as she learns about her Papa's past and the significance of his freedom. Discovering that her Papa's birthday is uncertain, she decides to celebrate his journey from childhood in the all-Black town of Boley, Oklahoma. Inspired by his remarkable life, Johnnie organizes a unique party to honor his legacy. This narrative, rooted in true events, highlights the power of storytelling and the bonds between generations, showcasing Marilyn Nelson's talent as a celebrated author and poet.

The collection of poems offers a lyrical portrayal of George Washington Carver's remarkable journey from slavery to becoming the head of the agricultural department at the Tuskegee Institute. Through evocative language and illustrations, it captures the essence of his contributions and legacy in agriculture and education.

A quiet girl makes a powerful impression through her artwork in this lyrical story of introversion and peaceful protest--a stirring picture book from Newbery Honor winner Marilyn Nelson and fine artist Philemona Williamson.Lubaya is a quiet girl who doesn't raise her hand in class and who prefers daydreaming to soccer games. She spends most of her time drawing, often behind the sofa while her family watches TV. That's where she is, creating happy pictures on the backs of her parents' old protest posters, when upsetting news shouts into the living room. The next day her family takes part in a march, and there, on one side of the posters being held high, are Lubaya's drawings of kids holding hands and of the sun shining over the globe--rousing visual statements of how the world could be. "Lubaya's roar may not be loud, but a quiet roar can make history."