Author Profile
Javaka Steptoe
6 Books
Javaka Steptoe is an acclaimed American author and illustrator known for his striking, mixed-media artwork. He won the Caldecott Medal for his picture book 'Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat.' His work often highlights African American history and culture, blending visual arts with poetic storytelling.
Step into the vibrant world of Jean-Michel Basquiat, a little boy from Brooklyn who saw art in every corner of his neighborhood. Long before his unique paintings rocked the art scene, he was a child finding inspiration in poetry, museums, everyday games, and the buzzing energy of New York City. You will discover that true beauty does not always have to be neat or stay perfectly inside the lines. This visually stunning true story guides you through his journey from a curious kid to a modern art phenomenon. The pages burst with bold, colorful collage artwork that echoes his famous style, bringing his powerful message completely to life. As you explore his creative path, you will feel inspired to look at your own world differently and maybe even pick up a brush to express the vibrant ideas hiding inside your own imagination.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
N/A
/5
Get ready for the biggest block party of the year with Steven as he searches for the absolute perfect gift for his favorite traveler, Aunt Carolyn. She always remembers to send him a special postcard from every place she visits, and now he wants to surprise her with something just as meaningful. But what do you do when you want to give a wonderful present but do not have enough money to buy one in a store? You will cheer for Steven as he uses his bright imagination to solve his problem in the most creative way possible. By transforming a simple old toy train, he builds an incredible moving photo album filled with all their favorite memories. You can follow along as he pieces together this clever project, proving that the most valuable gifts always come straight from the heart. It is a brilliant celebration of strong family ties, clever engineering, and the joy of creating something completely unique for the people who mean the world to you.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
40 Pages
N/A
/5
Welcome the newest little member of your family with a beautiful celebration of joy, hope, and pride. Becoming an older sibling or meeting a new baby is a huge milestone, and this bright, colorful book is the perfect way to share your love. As you turn the pages, you will find warm words of encouragement that you can read out loud to the tiny newborn in your life. The bold artwork fills every page with happiness, helping you show the new baby just how much they mean to everyone around them. You can use this sweet story to build a special bond from the very beginning, letting the new arrival know they are safe and surrounded by love. It is a wonderful read to share together as you step into your exciting new role in the growing family.
6-8 Years
8 Pages
N/A
/5
Walk along the seashore with a loving older sister as she plays a magical question and answer game with her little brother. Have you ever wondered what special gifts you can bring back from your adventures to share with someone you love? In this gentle story, a young girl makes wonderful promises to her brother about all the happy things she will do for him as they grow up together. Whether it is bringing him a beautiful shell that holds the sound of the ocean waves or finding other perfect ways to make him smile, her promises show just how deep and special a sibling bond can be. You will love listening to the lyrical rhythm of her words and looking at the bright, bold artwork that fills every page. It is a warm, reassuring journey that celebrates family, imagination, and the simple joy of making the people you care about feel completely loved.
6-8 Years
42 Pages
N/A
/5
Step right onto the busy sidewalks and feel the heartbeat of the city through a collection of vibrant poetry and haiku. If you look closely at the streets around you, what kind of hidden magic can you find in the everyday noise and hustle? This lively book invites you to explore the sights, sounds, and rhythms of city life through carefully crafted verses that fit perfectly in your pocket. You will discover how a simple moment waiting for a train or watching pigeons on a ledge can turn into a beautiful piece of art. The words bounce and sing, bringing the urban landscape completely to life right before your eyes. You can read these short, snappy poems aloud and feel the energy of the neighborhood soaring off the page. It is a wonderful way to see the world from a fresh perspective and learn how to capture your own daily adventures using the power of poetry.
6-8 Years
44 Pages
N/A
/5
Wisdom from the Harlem Renaissance
The Harlem Renaissance was a brilliant era packed with some of the most powerful writers in history. In this unique collection, you are invited to explore the legendary words of master poets like Langston Hughes and Georgia Douglas Johnson in a completely new way. Using a creative method called the Golden Shovel, fresh, original poems are built directly from the lines of these historical classics. As you read, you will see how the struggles, hopes, and dreams of the past perfectly connect with the challenges young people face today. Every single poem is brought to life by breathtaking, full-color artwork created by some of the most exciting African American illustrators working right now. Dive into this gorgeous blend of history and modern art to discover how timeless voices can still inspire us. Experience a rich celebration of culture, strength, and the incredible power of words.
9-12 Years
13-18 Years
132 Pages
N/A
/5
