Author Profile
Doreen Rappaport
18 Books
Doreen Rappaport is an American children's author best known for nonfiction and picture-book biographies about important people and movements in history. Her books include Abe's Honest Words, Frederick's Journey, Freedom River, Beyond Courage, and 42 Is Not Just a Number. She often blends historical research with vivid, accessible storytelling to introduce young readers to courage, justice, and social change.
The Life of Astronaut Ellen Ochoa
Young Ellen Ochoa loved nothing more than learning. Pushed by her mother and her own endless curiosity, she soared to the top of her classes, studied electrical engineering, and earned three patents by the time she was thirty. But her ultimate dream was even bigger: the stars. When NASA finally opened its doors to women and people of color, Ellen boldly stepped forward. Launching aboard the space shuttle Discovery, she made history as the first Latina to reach outer space. Blending engaging storytelling with Ellen's own powerful quotes, this vivid biography celebrates a pioneering scientist who proved that with brilliance and persistence, the sky is never the limit.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
During the Revolutionary War, the people of colonial Boston are struggling. To make matters worse, greedy Merchant Thomas is overcharging for badly needed sugar—and now he has locked up all the coffee to charge even more for that, too! Young Sarah Homans and the women of Boston decide they have had enough. Banding together, they hatch a plan to teach Merchant Thomas a lesson he will never forget. Based on a true event shared in a letter from Abigail Adams to her husband John, this exciting historical tale proves that even the youngest citizens can stand up for what is right.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
65 Pages
Ruth Bader Ginsburg never backed down from a fight for equality. Encouraged by her mother to be independent and stand up for what is right, Ruth excelled in her education, tying for the top of her law school class. Despite facing deep prejudice as both a woman and a Jew, her brilliant mind and fierce determination led her to a historic career as a lawyer and the second woman ever appointed to the United States Supreme Court. Known for her sharp wit and bold opinions, Ruth became a champion for equal pay and opportunity. This moving picture-book tribute captures the spirit of a cultural icon whose commitment to justice continues to inspire young trailblazers everywhere.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
Growing up in a strict household with a critical mother, Eleanor Roosevelt often felt lonely and found her comfort in books. But her compassionate heart and lively mind soon guided her to a life of extraordinary purpose. Instead of attending parties like other young women of her wealthy class, Eleanor chose to teach children in New York City’s poorest neighborhoods. Her dedication to helping others only grew when she became First Lady. As a fearless ambassador, activist, and champion of civil rights, she changed the soul of America forever. Through eloquent storytelling and beautiful paintings, discover the inspiring legacy of a quiet girl who found her voice and used it to change the world.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
In 1865, a romantic dream begins to take shape across the ocean in France. Edouard Laboulaye wishes to give America a magnificent birthday gift to celebrate its upcoming centennial. Sculptor Auguste Bartholdi soon gives this grand dream the form of a beautiful lady holding a torch high to enlighten the world.
Bringing this gigantic monument to life requires an army of dedicated workers. You will meet the engineers, plasterers, carpenters, and coppersmiths who hammer and shape the hundred-foot-tall statue. When the time comes to build her massive pedestal, you will see how everyday citizens, from children to immigrants, send in their pennies and nickels to fund the project. Through poetic storytelling and stunning illustrations, you can witness the incredible teamwork and shared sacrifice that created one of the most enduring symbols of freedom the world has ever known.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
46 Pages
The Life of Frederick Douglass
Born into slavery and separated from his family as a young child, Frederick Douglass faced unimaginable hardships. Yet, he discovered a secret weapon that would change his life and the world: words. By secretly learning to read and write, Frederick realized that education was the key to his freedom. Escaping to the North at twenty years old, he became a powerful voice for abolition and equal rights for all people, regardless of color or gender. Doreen Rappaport's poignant words, paired with London Ladd's stunning illustrations, bring Frederick's extraordinary journey to life. Discover how one man's courage and belief in justice continue to inspire generations.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was one of the most gifted speakers and influential leaders of all time. Using his own profound words, this visually stunning biography tells the story of a man who championed racial equality and taught others to fight with peace instead of fists. From his childhood experiences with segregation to his historic role in the Civil Rights Movement, Martin's powerful message of love and justice shines through on every page. Combining simple, direct storytelling with extraordinary collage art, this award-winning book offers a striking and accessible introduction to Dr. King's life, his dream, and the enduring legacy of his big words.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
40 Pages
The Life of John Lennon
From a young age, John Lennon dreamed of fame, fortune, and making his mark on the world. As a member of the Beatles, he achieved a level of legendary success that changed music forever. But amidst the screaming fans and global stardom, John realized he was searching for a deeper meaning in his life. His inner quest for happiness and peace not only shaped his personal journey but also brought a powerful new dimension to rock and roll. Through an engaging blend of narrative, iconic song lyrics, and vibrant collage art, discover the energy, vision, and creative genius of a musician whose message of love continues to inspire the world.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
The Life of Theodore Roosevelt
Long before he became a larger-than-life president, Theodore Roosevelt was a sickly boy known as "Teedie." Despite his fragile health, Teedie possessed an unstoppable imagination and ambitious dreams of changing the world. As he grew, his robust spirit and determination transformed him into a fearless leader. During his presidency, he promised citizens a "square deal," stood up to powerful big businesses, and worked passionately to protect America's natural beauty and wildlife. Blending vivid prose with his own historic quotes, this moving biography reveals how a determined young boy grew into a monumental American figure whose legacy still dares us to do mighty things.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
A True Story of the Civil Rights Movement
In 1965 Drew, Mississippi, the schools remained deeply segregated, and the classrooms for Black children were stripped of the resources they needed. For the Carters, a hardworking family of sharecroppers, enough was enough. Believing their children deserved the exact same educational opportunities as anyone else, they made a bold and dangerous decision: they sent their kids to the "all-white" schools. Facing relentless teasing and severe threats, the family stood their ground in the fight for equality. This beautifully illustrated, true story highlights the profound faith, honor, and courage of a family who risked everything to demand a better future.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
85 Pages
From his days as a young boy exploring the unsettled forests of the Midwest, Abraham Lincoln knew in his heart that slavery was deeply wrong. Though he grew up in the backwoods with little formal schooling, Abe was a voracious reader who spent every spare moment filling his mind with history, math, and literature. His self-education and unshakable compassion prepared him for a political career where his honesty earned him the profound trust of the American people. As president, he guided a fractured nation through a bitter civil war and ultimately penned the words that led to the end of slavery. Step into the epic life of a self-made man who became one of America's greatest presidents.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
One thousand feet of dark water on the Ohio River was all that separated the slave state of Kentucky from the free shores of Ripley, Ohio. For those seeking freedom before the Civil War, the journey was perilous. Enter John Parker: a formerly enslaved man who purchased his own freedom and became a successful businessman. Unwilling to leave others behind, John risked his life time and time again to secretly lead families across the river to safety. Based on the incredible true story of a hero on the Underground Railroad, this gripping tale reveals the careful planning, unshakeable faith, and raw courage it took to lead people out of bondage.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
She couldn't attend college. She couldn't hold political office. She couldn't even cast a ballot. But Elizabeth Cady Stanton was not about to let unfair rules stop her. Refusing to accept a world where women were treated as lesser than men, she called on women across the nation to band together and demand absolute equality—especially the right to vote. It was a fight that would take generations of bold women acting with pure determination, powerful words, and unshakable bravery. Featuring the actual words of these fierce trailblazers and vibrant illustrations, discover the incredible true story of the women's suffrage movement and the fearless leader who started all the trouble.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
42 Pages
Imagine a world without sight or sound. For Helen Keller, this was a reality, but it never stopped her from achieving extraordinary things. With the help of her dedicated teacher, Annie Sullivan, Helen learned to communicate and engage with the world around her in profound ways. This deeply moving picture-book biography blends engaging storytelling with Helen's own inspiring quotes. Beautiful illustrations capture the vibrant energy of a woman whose vision for progress and innovation forever changed how society views people with disabilities. Step into Helen's big world and discover an unforgettable portrait of determination, intelligence, and hope.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
During the dark days of World War II, Jacques and his parents are living in Nazi-occupied France, hiding in plain sight by pretending to be Catholic. But when the first night of Passover arrives, Jacques and his father must embark on a dangerous mission. Slipping past Nazi soldiers and journeying deep into the mountains, they gather with other hidden Jewish people to celebrate a humble, secret Seder. Based on the true experiences of resistance fighters and those in hiding, this intense and deeply respectful story illuminates the immense perils of the time. Discover a triumphant tale of resilient people who bravely kept their faith alive against all odds.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
46 Pages
John F. Kennedy is remembered as a widely popular, incredibly charismatic president who successfully guided his nation through intense historical crises. But long before he ever stepped foot in the White House, he was just a young boy who deeply doubted his own strength.
Growing up as a sickly child, John was constantly overshadowed by his robust, athletic, and highly capable older brother, Joe. When tragedy suddenly struck the family, John realized he had to push past his own lingering fears to live up to the massive expectations placed upon him. You will follow his difficult, inspiring path as he fiercely battles through physical pain and deep self-doubt to eventually lead an entire country. Woven with powerful real-life quotes, this striking biography reveals the true courage it takes to transform from an uncertain young boy into an unforgettable American leader.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
Wilma Mankiller grew up experiencing the deep Cherokee tradition of Gadugi—helping one another through hard times. But her world was turned upside down when the government forced her family to leave Oklahoma for California, stripping them of their home and community. Feeling lost in a new city, Wilma found her strength by working with local Native activists in San Francisco. Reconnecting with her roots, she eventually returned to Oklahoma to serve her people. Overcoming resistance, prejudice, and personal tragedy, Wilma rose to become the first female chief of the Cherokee Nation. This inspiring, beautifully illustrated biography celebrates a remarkable leader who empowered her community through empathy and fierce dedication.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
The Story of the Young Women Who Won the World Championship
The year is 1946, and Margaret is sitting in the stands, thrilling to every crack of the bat and stolen base. On the field, the Racine Belles and the Rockford Peaches are battling it out in the championship game of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Watching her heroes make pulse-pounding plays, Margaret dreams of the day she can step up to the plate. As the game stretches into an intense fourteenth inning, Margaret can almost feel the weight of the bat and the excitement of making the baseball fly. Step back in time and experience the passion, grit, and history of the female athletes who proved you can be tough, talented, and play a mean game of baseball.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
