KRKB
Kwame Alexander
Author Profile

Kwame Alexander

29 Books
Kwame Alexander is a #1 New York Times bestselling American writer and poet, celebrated for his engaging children's literature. His diverse catalog includes the poetry collection "Light for the World to See", the picture book "How to Read a Book", and the chapter book "The Mighty Macy". He is widely recognized for his unique use of lyrical free verse to explore themes of family, community, and self-discovery, most notably in his Newbery Medal-winning novel "The Crossover".

Light for the World to See: A Thousand Words on Race and Hope

Kwame Alexander

Diverse Voices Empathy
- /5

Kupenda: Love Poems

Kwame Alexander

Diverse Voices Emotions
- /5
The Door of No Return

Black Star

Kwame Alexander

Courage Diverse Voices
- /5

Crush: Love Poems

Kwame Alexander

Anthologies Emotions
- /5
The Crossover

The Crossover

Kwame Alexander

Diverse Voices Family
- /5

He Said, She Said

Kwame Alexander

Social Justice
- /5

Little Boys Soar

Kwame Alexander

Adventure Family
- /5
The Crossover

Rebound

Kwame Alexander

Emotions Family
- /5

Why Fathers Cry at Night: A Memoir in Love Poems, Letters, Recipes, and Remembrances

Kwame Alexander

Biography Emotions
- /5
The Door of No Return

The Door of No Return

Kwame Alexander

Courage Diverse Voices
- /5

This Is the Honey: An Anthology of Contemporary Black Poets

Kwame Alexander, Gerald L. Coleman

Anthologies Culture
- /5

The Undefeated

Kwame Alexander, Kadir Nelson

Award Winners Diverse Voices
- /5

The Mighty Macy

Kwame Alexander, Kitt Thomas

Fiction Libraries
- /5

Swing

Kwame Alexander, Mary Rand Hess

Friendship Music
- /5

Surf's Up

Kwame Alexander, Daniel Miyares

Animals Friendship
- /5

How Sweet the Sound

Kwame Alexander, Charly Palmer

Culture Diverse Voices
- /5
The Crossover

The Playbook

Kwame Alexander, Thai Neave

Leadership Non-Fiction
- /5

Solo

Kwame Alexander, Mary Rand Hess

Family Music
- /5

Booked

Kwame Alexander, Dawud Anyabwile

Family Poetry
- /5

How to Sing a Song

Kwame Alexander, Randy Preston

Creativity Music
- /5

J Vs. K

Kwame Alexander, Jerry Craft

Creativity Friendship
- /5

An American Story

Kwame Alexander, Dare Coulter

Diverse Voices History
- /5

How to Read a Book

Kwame Alexander, Melissa Sweet

Creativity Fiction
- /5

Becoming Muhammad Ali

James Patterson, Kwame Alexander, Dawud Anyabwile

Biography Diverse Voices
- /5

How to Write a Poem

Kwame Alexander, Deanna Nikaido, Melissa Sweet

Art Creativity
- /5

Indigo Blume and the Garden City

Kwame Alexander, Speech, JahSun

Cities Environment
- /5

Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets

Kwame Alexander, Ekua Holmes, Chris Colderley, Marjory Wentworth

Art Biography
- /5

Flying Lessons & Other Stories

Kwame Alexander, Soman Chainani, Grace Lin, Jacqueline Woodson, Meg Medina, Tim Tingle, Ellen Oh, Kelly J. Baptist, Matt de la Peña

Anthologies Diverse Voices
- /5

Our Story Begins: Your Favorite Authors and Illustrators Share Fun, Inspiring, and Occasionally Ridiculous Things They Wrote and Drew as Kids

Elissa Brent Weissman, Kwame Alexander, Chris Grabenstein, Peter Lerangis, Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, Linda Sue Park, Brian Selznick, Rita Williams-Garcia, Grace Lin, Cynthia Leitich Smith, Eric Rohmann, Tom Angleberger, Kathi Appelt, Ashley Bryan, Tim Federle, Candace Fleming, Marla Frazee, Chris Gall, Alex Gino, Gordon Korman, Jarrett J. Krosoczka, Thanhha Lai, Gail Carson Levine, Yuyi Morales, R. J. Palacio, Dan Santat

Anthologies Biography
- /5

A Thousand Words on Race and Hope

Have you ever wondered about the big, important feelings in the world? In "Light For The World To See," Kwame Alexander shares powerful words about race and hope. You'll discover how people are all different and special, just like you, and how we can all work together to make the world a kinder, brighter place. Through beautiful poems and thoughts, this book invites you to think about what it means to be fair, to be brave, and to stand up for what's right. It's about seeing the light in everyone and knowing that even small actions can bring big hope. Get ready to feel inspired and ready to shine your own light!
9-12 Years 96 Pages
N/A /5
Jump in: Have you ever felt a big, warm feeling in your heart for someone special? In Kwame Alexander's book, Kupenda, you'll find wonderful poems that explore all the different ways we love! These aren't just any poems; they are words that celebrate how much we care for our family, our friends, and even the world around us. Why it pulls you in: Imagine reading words that make you think about your favorite people and all the happy moments you share. These poems will help you feel how strong and amazing love can be. You'll discover how simple words can paint big pictures of kindness, warmth, and connection, making your heart glow with joy. Get ready to explore: If you love poetry and thinking about what makes your heart feel full, Kupenda is for you. It's a journey through beautiful language that reminds us to appreciate the love all around us, every single day.
6-8 Years 9-12 Years 54 Pages
N/A /5
The Door of No Return

Black Star

Meet Charley Cuffey, a super pitcher with a big dream! She wants to be the first girl to play professional baseball. Her grandpa, Nana Kofi, tells amazing stories about their family's past, which makes Charley feel even more brave and ready to dream big. But some things are tricky in her town. Charley knows there's a fancy new baseball field she can't play on, and her parents don't want her to know all the reasons why. When Charley gets to play in a big game at a church picnic, she makes a choice that brings big changes. Join Charley as she learns about fairness, history, and standing strong. Can she use her courage and Nana Kofi's stories to understand her world and chase her incredible baseball dream?
9-12 Years 328 Pages
N/A /5
Dive into the beautifully complex world of teenage emotions with this powerful collection of poetry. Whether you are navigating your first major crush, dealing with the sting of heartbreak, or simply trying to figure out where you fit in, these verses speak directly to your experiences. Acclaimed poet Kwame Alexander brings together his own moving love poems alongside stunning pieces from celebrated writers like Nikki Giovanni, Sherman Alexie, and Pablo Neruda. As you read through each carefully crafted stanza, you will find words that capture those intense feelings you might not know how to express yourself. It is a journey through the highs and lows of relationships, offering comfort, insight, and a profound sense of connection. Keep this collection close by when you need a reminder that you are not alone in the confusing, wonderful rush of growing up and falling in love.
13-18 Years
N/A /5
Step onto the court with twelve year old Josh Bell and his twin brother Jordan, where basketball is practically in their blood. Thanks to their father, these brothers are absolute kings of the game. But Josh has another secret weapon besides his killer crossover: he has a serious talent for dropping beats and rhymes. Told entirely through fast paced, energetic poetry, this story pulls you into the thrilling highs and crushing lows of middle school life. As you follow the twins, you will see them face tough challenges that test their bond both on and off the hardcourt. When life throws an unexpected curveball, Josh and Jordan must figure out how to navigate growing up, breaking rules, and dealing with a heart stopping climax that changes their family forever. Get ready for a slam dunk of a read that perfectly captures the rhythm of life.
9-12 Years 13-18 Years 245 Pages
N/A /5
Get ready for a massive collision of worlds when the biggest football star on campus crosses paths with the school's most dedicated activist. Omar has a full ride to college and the hero worship of the entire student body, while Claudia is fiercely focused on Harvard, fighting poverty, and leading serious investigative journalism. She does not have a single second to waste on a popular jock, and he has never had to work hard for anyone's attention. But when a major campus issue forces these two total opposites together, the sparks immediately start to fly. You will follow along as they unexpectedly team up to lead a massive social protest, relying heavily on social media and their own clashing talents. The stakes are incredibly high, the tension is real, and you will be hooked trying to guess if they can change the world without breaking each other's hearts.
13-18 Years 194 Pages
N/A /5
Celebrate the absolute joy and endless energy of everyday adventures in this beautifully photographed journey. Whether you are building a towering fort, racing across the grass, or dreaming up a wild mission in your own backyard, this book captures the magic of being young and free. You will flip through vibrant pages filled with real life moments that look just like your own favorite afternoons. It highlights the laughter, the curiosity, and the brilliant imagination that turns a regular day into an extraordinary quest. Prepare to see yourself reflected in these pages as you are reminded that the sky is truly the limit. It is an uplifting, high flying tribute to the fun, friendship, and massive potential packed into every single day.
6-8 Years 28 Pages
N/A /5
Jump into the summer of 1988 with Chuck Bell! He’s a twelve-year-old boy who is feeling a bit mixed up and sad. To help him through a tough time, Chuck’s parents send him to stay with his grandparents, where things are very different from home. It’s not long before Chuck starts to discover some really cool new things. Get ready to explore the exciting world of jazz music and the fast-paced game of basketball right alongside him! As Chuck learns to dribble, shoot, and find his rhythm on the court, he also starts to uncover fascinating secrets and stories about his family’s past. This heartfelt tale is all about finding new passions, growing stronger after a difficult time, and the amazing power of family. If you enjoy stories about sports, music, and discovering more about yourself and your family, then you’ll love this unforgettable summer with Chuck Bell.
6-8 Years 9-12 Years 13-18 Years 416 Pages
N/A /5

A Memoir in Love Poems, Letters, Recipes, and Remembrances

Have you ever wondered about the big feelings grown-ups have? In "Why Fathers Cry at Night," author Kwame Alexander shares special stories from his life. He talks about his parents and how they showed love, sometimes in surprising ways. He also shares memories of his own journey as a father and how much he loves his daughters. This book is like a peek into a treasure box of feelings, filled with poems, letters, and even yummy family recipes. It shows how love can be many things: sometimes happy, sometimes a little sad, and always important. It's about remembering the people who make us who we are and understanding what it means to care deeply for others.
13-18 Years 256 Pages
N/A /5
Eleven-year-old Kofi Offin has dreams of water. Its urgent whispers call to him with promises and secrets on the banks of Upper Kwanta in West Africa, the only home he has ever known. Kofi loves his life here. He spends his days listening to the fireside tales of his grandfather, spending time with a girl named Ama, and swimming in the river. But Kofi's peaceful world is shattered when a sudden, unthinkable tragedy strikes during a festival between rival villages. Suddenly, he finds himself locked in a desperate fight for his life. The events that follow will tear him away from his family and send him on a harrowing, dangerous journey across land and sea. Everything he loves is left behind, and the future is a terrifying unknown. As Kofi faces unimaginable challenges, he must find a way to survive in a world that has turned upside down. Yet, the mysterious dreams of water that have always haunted him might just hold the key to his freedom. This powerful, gripping story will pull you into a breathtaking adventure about resilience, hope, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
9-12 Years 13-18 Years 432 Pages
N/A /5

An Anthology of Contemporary Black Poets

Immerse yourself in a breathtaking collection of contemporary poetry that celebrates hope, heart, and vibrant heritage. Edited by acclaimed writer Kwame Alexander, this anthology brings together the voices of prominent Black poets who explore the profound themes of joy, love, origin, and resistance. You will discover tender musings on devotion alongside fierce anthems of resilience. The poems weave through the meaning of home, capturing comfort through shared meals like savory rice and beans, and painting vivid imagery of nature and community. Each piece serves as a powerful incantation, giving voice to a people dreaming wildly. Whether you are finding comfort in familiar reflections or having your perspective completely shifted by piercing insights, this rich offering of language drips with musicality and raised fists. It is an essential, deeply moving experience for anyone who truly loves the power of words.
13-18 Years 290 Pages
N/A /5
Discover an incredibly powerful love letter to the amazing heroes who have shaped history with their brilliance and bravery. This beautiful poem celebrates the unstoppable spirit, shining faith, and immense courage of people who dreamed big and worked hard to make those dreams come true. As you turn the pages, you will meet phenomenal athletes, brilliant artists, and courageous leaders who stood tall through difficult times to build a brighter future for everyone. Their remarkable stories of triumph and perseverance will inspire you to look inside yourself and find your own inner strength. It is a brilliant showcase of joy, creativity, and the power of standing together. You will feel proud and uplifted as you learn about these legendary figures who changed the world, proving that no matter what challenges come your way, you can remain completely undefeated.
6-8 Years 9-12 Years 45 Pages
N/A /5
Step into the shoes of Macy, a third grader who just stayed up way past her bedtime to finish the first book of The Mighty Zora series. You know that feeling when you cannot wait to grab the next book? Macy certainly does. But when she arrives at her school library the next morning, she finds a locked door and a sign announcing sudden budget cuts. To make matters more complicated, her father is traveling to Montgomery, Alabama, to share a powerful poem about civil rights, leaving Macy to figure out this giant problem on her own. With a little encouragement from hidden poems her father left behind, support from her mom, and the help of her fellow classmates, Macy realizes she has a voice that deserves to be heard. You will cheer her on as she learns exactly what it means to advocate for her community and fight for the library she loves. Discover how one young girl transforms into a mighty leader in this heartwarming and humorous story.
9-12 Years 144 Pages
N/A /5
Step up to the plate with seventeen year old Noah, whose grand plans for the school year are striking out fast. He and his best friend Walt have just been cut from the high school baseball team for the third year in a row, completely crushing their athletic dreams. To make matters worse, Noah has been hopelessly in love with his friend Samantha since the fifth grade, and he is permanently stuck in the friend zone. But when Noah stumbles upon a stash of old, forgotten love letters, Walt hatches a brilliant, jazz inspired scheme to finally win Samantha's heart. You will ride along on a rollercoaster of awkward moments, deep friendships, and courageous risks. As Walt focuses heavily on reinventing his baseball career and Noah puts his heart on the line, they both learn that sometimes the biggest victories happen when you finally decide to take a swing.
9-12 Years 13-18 Years 448 Pages
N/A /5
Hit the beach with two frog friends who have completely different plans for their sunny day. Bro wants to dive into a thrilling book, but Dude just wants to catch some waves and thinks reading is incredibly boring. As Bro gasps, cheers, and gets swept away by his story, Dude cannot help but wonder what is so exciting. Slowly, the magic of the pages pulls Dude right in. Before they even reach the water, both frogs find themselves riding the exact same wave of imagination. You will laugh out loud as you watch these two best friends discover that a great story can be the biggest adventure of all. This joy filled ride shows exactly what happens when you open your mind to a fantastic book.
6-8 Years
N/A /5
Take a vibrant journey through the incredible history of Black music in America. This celebration in words and art brings to life the rhythms, melodies, and powerful voices that have shaped the soundtrack of a nation. From deeply rooted spirituals to the energetic beats of modern times, you will discover how these musical traditions grew, evolved, and influenced almost every genre we listen to today. The pages invite you to feel the beat and understand the deep emotional stories behind the songs. You will meet the pioneers who poured their hearts into their instruments and microphones, creating sounds that brought communities together and inspired change. Prepare to tap your feet and expand your knowledge as you explore this rich cultural legacy that continues to resonate around the world.
9-12 Years 48 Pages
N/A /5
Score a major victory in your everyday life with this ultimate guide to overcoming obstacles and reaching your goals. Packed with powerful advice and fifty two essential rules, this book takes the brilliant strategies used by legendary athletes and applies them directly to your own challenges. You will read incredible, true stories from sports stars like Stephen Curry and Venus Williams, discovering exactly what it takes to bounce back from a tough loss and keep pushing forward. Whether you are facing a difficult test at school, trying out for a new team, or just needing a little extra motivation to chase your dreams, these uplifting lessons have you covered. Get ready to build your confidence, learn the true value of resilience, and create your very own game plan for absolute success.
9-12 Years 176 Pages
N/A /5
Navigate the chaotic life of seventeen year old Blade, who wants absolutely nothing to do with the rich and famous lifestyle. Being the son of a washed up rock star and struggling addict brings nothing but tabloid rumors and tragic family expectations. The only bright spot in Blade's world is his girlfriend, Chapel, but even that relationship is under threat from her disapproving parents. The one genuine connection Blade shares with his father is the music flowing through his soul. But when a long held family secret completely shatters his reality, music alone is not enough to fix the pieces. Armed with a mysterious letter and a plane ticket to Ghana, Blade sets off on a journey across the globe. You will travel alongside him as he searches desperately for freedom, true love, and the answers he needs to finally understand his own identity.
13-18 Years 458 Pages
N/A /5
Lace up your cleats and hit the turf with twelve year old Nick, a dedicated soccer player who absolutely hates reading books. For Nick, life makes perfect sense when he is flying down the field or trying to impress the girl of his dreams. But off the pitch, his world is starting to unravel. With tension rising at home between his parents and a relentless bully targeting him at school, Nick suddenly finds himself sidelined by challenges he cannot easily dribble past. Written entirely in electric, fast paced verse, this story shows what happens when sports and real life collide. Unexpectedly, Nick discovers that words might actually hold the exact power he needs to stand his ground. You will be rooting for him every step of the way as he wrestles with big changes, learns the true meaning of teamwork, and fights for a victory off the field.
9-12 Years 13-18 Years 320 Pages
N/A /5
Turn up your ears and tune into the magnificent concert happening right in your own backyard. This vibrant journey invites you to quiet down, listen closely, and discover the hidden melodies echoing all around you. From the gentle hum of the wind to the rhythmic chatter of the neighborhood, you will learn how to recognize nature's incredible chorus. As the quiet overture builds into a massive, joyful symphony, you will feel the words vibrate like thunder inside your chest. It is not just about hearing the music; it is about finding the unique song that lives exclusively inside you. With sweeping inspiration and colorful energy, this adventure guides you to open your mouth and let your personal groove take over. Get ready to tap your feet, find your voice, and sing out from the very bottom of your soul.
6-8 Years 9-12 Years
N/A /5
Get ready for the ultimate creative showdown at Dean Ashley Public School! Two incredibly talented ten-year-olds are gearing up for the school's highly anticipated annual creative storytelling competition. Both 'J' and 'K' are determined to take home the grand prize, and their fierce rivalry quickly becomes the talk of the fifth grade. But as the competition heats up, they realize that their individual skills might just perfectly complement each other. Should they keep battling it out as bitter rivals, or should they set aside their differences and join forces? If they team up, they could create an absolutely unbeatable storytelling duo! Dive into this fun, fast-paced story about creativity, teamwork, and the power of a great imagination. You will be cheering for these two brilliant minds as they navigate school drama, discover the true meaning of collaboration, and learn that sometimes the best stories are the ones we write together.
9-12 Years 240 Pages
N/A /5
Join a brave teacher on a profound journey as she helps her classroom understand one of the most difficult chapters in history. This deeply moving picture book tackles the complex story of American slavery, taking you from the vibrant fireside tales of an African village to the harsh realities of forced labor in the South. Instead of shying away from the hard truths, it gently and honestly guides you through the struggle, highlighting the unimaginable strength and unbreakable spirit of the people who endured it. You will witness the incredible resilience of the African American community, honoring their past while looking forward to a brighter, united future. Through stunning, mixed media artwork and powerful, poetic words, you will learn the absolute importance of speaking the truth, remembering our shared history, and carrying the legacy of hope forward into your own life.
9-12 Years 56 Pages
N/A /5
Have you ever wondered how to really read a book? It's more than just looking at words! Kwame Alexander invites you on an imaginative adventure where reading comes alive. First, find your perfect spot, maybe under a big, tall tree. Then, open your book and let the words whisper stories, filling your mind with magic. You might even make new friends on the page, or travel to faraway lands, all without leaving your comfy seat! This wonderful book shows you how to dive deep into every sentence, letting the words dance and sing in your heart. Get ready for a book party where the stories never end, and your imagination can soar!
9-12 Years 32 Pages
N/A /5
Before he became a global household name and a legendary cultural icon, Cassius Clay was just a kid growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, facing the same everyday struggles as anyone else. You will step directly into his shoes in this dynamic biographical novel, told through a brilliant mix of gripping prose and powerful verse. Follow Cassius up to the age of seventeen as he navigates life with his childhood friends, deals with difficulties in school, and confronts the harsh realities of racism. When a neighborhood thief steals his beloved bicycle, a frustrated twelve-year-old Cassius discovers the boxing ring, sparking a passion that will change history. Experience the sweat, determination, and undeniable charisma that led him to his very first Golden Gloves victory. Dive into this inspiring, beautifully illustrated story to witness the incredible early transformation of the boy who would eventually become the unrivaled Muhammad Ali.
9-12 Years 320 Pages
N/A /5
Unlock the secret to writing your very own poetry by simply paying attention to the beautiful world around you. You might think poems are just tricky words on a page, but this playful journey shows you that poetry is everywhere, waiting like an acorn for spring. From the quiet rustle of leaves to the bustling noise of your neighborhood, you will learn how to listen, feel, and capture the rhythm of your daily life. With dynamic and inventive guidance, you are invited to start with a single, curious question and watch it bloom into a full stanza. You will discover how to arrange your thoughts and emotions into words that truly dance. Grab your favorite notebook and get ready to let your imagination run wild, because the perfect poem is already inside you, just waiting to be written down.
6-8 Years 9-12 Years
N/A /5
Join Indigo Blume on an inspiring mission to bring beautiful, blooming life to her bustling inner city neighborhood. When she looks around her concrete surroundings, Indigo does not just see sidewalks and buildings; she sees the perfect canvas for a spectacular green space. You will follow along as she rolls up her sleeves, digs into the soil, and discovers the incredible magic of planting seeds. Step by step, she learns what it takes to help delicate plants grow strong and tall. Her determination soon catches the eye of her neighbors, proving that even the smallest hands can spark a massive, positive change in the community. This uplifting story shows you exactly how much power you have to transform your own environment and make the world a little brighter.
6-8 Years
N/A /5
Have you ever read a poem that made your heart sing or your mind wander to new places? In this glorious and lyrical book, Newbery Award-winning author Kwame Alexander joins forces with Chris Colderley and Marjory Wentworth to celebrate the magic of words. Together, they have crafted beautiful original poems that pay tribute to twenty of the world's most famous poets. As you turn the pages, you will discover how legendary writers have sparked imagination and wonder across generations. The powerful words are brought to life by stunning, vibrant mixed-media illustrations from Caldecott Honoree Ekua Holmes, making every single page a visual and literary feast. This inspiring collection is more than just a book of poetry; it is an invitation to listen closely, think deeply, and find your own creative voice. Whether you are a longtime lover of poetry or discovering it for the very first time, this breathtaking celebration will leave you eager to pick up a pen and write your own masterpiece.
6-8 Years 9-12 Years 56 Pages
N/A /5
Growing up is an adventure filled with wild dreams, embarrassing family fiascos, first crushes, and the challenge of navigating new neighborhoods. In this incredible collection of short stories, ten of the most brilliant authors writing today come together to celebrate exactly what makes every young person both unique and universally connected. You will meet a boy who just might possess magical powers, told entirely in rhythmic verse. You will read about an unbreakable friendship that survives against all odds, and follow a girl who uses wet paint to vividly color the world around her. Each distinct voice brings a fresh perspective to the struggles and triumphs of finding your place in the world. Whether you have ever felt like you did not quite fit in or you simply love a great tale of discovery, these bold stories will challenge and inspire you. Grab this anthology to experience a soaring journey through the beautiful, diverse tapestry of everyday life.
9-12 Years 240 Pages
N/A /5
Have you ever wondered what your favorite authors and illustrators were like before they became famous? Every great storyteller has to start somewhere, and the journey is rarely perfect. This unique and deeply inspiring collection pulls back the curtain on the childhoods of some of today's most beloved creators. Before they were winning massive awards and topping the bestseller lists, these brilliant artists were just regular kids trying to find their creative voices. You will discover the very early, sometimes embarrassing, and always fascinating works of celebrated writers and artists. Read a third grade writing assignment that sparked a lifelong passion, explore the early sketches of a future illustrator, and see the discarded drafts that eventually turned into brilliant poetry. This collection reveals the failures, the rough drafts, and the vital moments of encouragement that helped shape these incredible minds. It is a powerful reminder that creativity takes practice and patience. Whether you love writing, drawing, or just a good story, these vulnerable and smart childhood memories will inspire you to pick up a pencil and start creating your own masterpiece.
9-12 Years 208 Pages
N/A /5
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