Author Profile
Alicia D. Williams
4 Books
Alicia D. Williams is a celebrated author of children's and middle-grade literature who crafts deeply emotional and empowering stories. Her acclaimed debut novel, Genesis Begins Again, received numerous honors, including a Newbery Honor and the Coretta Scott King-John Steptoe Award for New Talent. Williams is also celebrated for her engaging picture book biographies, such as Jump at the Sun: The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston and Shirley Chisholm Dared. Through both fiction and nonfiction, her work frequently highlights Black history, culture, and the complex journey of self-discovery. A passionate storyteller and former kindergarten teacher, she strives to create books that help young readers feel seen, heard, and understood.
Nani feels the rhythm of the world in her hands. She loves to drum more than anything else, bringing the entire village together with her joyful beats. But the village falls silent when the grumpy Lion, who rules the land, bans all noisemaking. The once happy villagers are now too frightened to dance or sing. Though her heart races with fear, Nani knows she cannot let the music die. Armed with her drum and a clever mind, this brave young girl decides to stand up to the roaring king. Will her courage and quick thinking be enough to bring the joy of music back to her people?
6-8 Years
38 Pages
The Story of the First Black Woman in Congress
Meet a little girl from Brooklyn who never stops asking questions and refuses to back down. After spending her early years on a farm in Barbados, Shirley returns to the bustling city ready to make her voice heard. She challenges the rules, excels in her classes, and plays vibrant jazz piano instead of traditional classical music. As she grows older, Shirley transforms her bold spirit into a fierce fight against the unfair treatment of women and Black people in America. Taking her passion all the way to the ballot box, she runs for state assembly and wins by a landslide. Soon after, she takes an even bigger leap, campaigning to become the first Black woman in Congress. With her powerful slogan, Unbought and Unbossed, Shirley proves that one courageous voice can change history.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
25 Pages
Jay is a bright, happy boy who loves spending time with his friends, getting warm hugs from his grandmother, and measuring his growing height on the living room wall. But as the pencil marks climb higher, the adults in his life start to worry. His grandfather warns him about standing in large groups, and his father sits him down to explain exactly how to behave if the police ever stop him. Jay just wants to be a regular kid, but he must learn the harsh realities of navigating a prejudiced world. This gentle and honest story explores a vital conversation that families of color share with their children every day. It provides a compassionate starting point for families everywhere to discuss fairness, safety, and the changes needed to build a better future.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
44 Pages
The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston
Zora is a bright young girl who craves stories the way bees crave sweet honey. Growing up, her mother always encouraged her to jump at the sun, knowing that even if she missed, she would at least get off the ground. Carrying this bold advice in her heart, Zora travels from the lively porch of her hometown general store all the way to the bustling streets of Harlem. Along the way, she listens closely to the rich folktales of her people, stories that others have ignored or forgotten. Driven by an unstoppable spirit, she decides to write these incredible tales down for the whole world to read. Discover the true story of how Zora Neale Hurston became a legendary writer and preserved the vibrant culture and voices of her community.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
50 Pages
