Author Profile
Nikki Grimes
24 Books
Nikki Grimes is an acclaimed American author and poet known for her profound contributions to children's and young adult literature. Her works often explore the African American experience and celebrate historical figures, as seen in books like "Talkin' About Bessie." She has received numerous honors, including the Coretta Scott King Award, for her powerful and evocative storytelling.
Meet Bessie Coleman, a woman who looked at the sky and saw no limits. Growing up picking cotton, Bessie dreamed of flying airplanes. Since flight schools in the United States would not accept her because of her race and gender, she boldly taught herself French and traveled all the way to France to earn her pilot's license. In this unique biography, you will hear the story of her incredible life told through the voices of her family, friends, and the people who watched her soar. Each page introduces a new person sharing their special memories of Bessie, painting a complete picture of the brave woman who became the first African American female pilot. Step into her world and discover how a young girl with a big dream grew up to touch the clouds and change history forever.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
N/A
/5
The sun has gone down, but one little boy is absolutely not ready to go to sleep. Instead of resting in his cozy bed, he transforms into a wild forest of animals. He growls like a fierce bear, tosses his imaginary mane like a proud lion, and hides quietly like a slithering snake. His mother patiently plays along with every single animal antic, working gently to wrangle her wild creature into his pajamas. As he dodges his bedtime routine, a parade of playful animal friends weaves through his bedroom, making the nighttime routine a lively adventure. Slowly but surely, the roaring and hunting turn into heavy eyelids and quiet yawns. Discover a warm, loving story full of rich imagination that perfectly captures the playful battle of staying awake. You will love watching this energetic child finally curl up and drift off into sweet dreams.
6-8 Years
35 Pages
N/A
/5
Paris has never known what it feels like to have a forever family. After being separated from her loving older brother, Malcolm, she is placed in yet another foster home. This time, she finds herself living with the Lincolns, a family that seems almost too good to be true. Paris struggles to understand the rules of this new house and faces tough challenges at her new school, dealing with mean girls and the heavy feeling of being an outsider. Despite the warm meals and kind smiles from her foster parents, her heart constantly aches for her brother. As she cautiously builds new friendships and discovers her own inner strength, Paris must figure out if she can finally let her guard down. Walk alongside Paris on her emotional journey as she learns to trust the people around her and searches for a place where she truly belongs.
9-12 Years
N/A
/5
Joylin has always been perfectly happy wearing baggy clothes and dominating the neighborhood basketball court. But the moment she steps into middle school, everything flips upside down. Suddenly, her best female friend starts talking about makeup and boys, and even her closest guy friend begins treating her differently. Joylin feels like she has crash-landed on an alien planet where the rules change every single day. She starts noticing boys in a new way and wonders if she needs to change her beloved tomboy style to fit in. Told entirely in fast-paced, relatable poems, this story captures the confusing, messy, and sometimes hilarious moments of growing up. Experience the awkward hallway encounters and the tough choices Joylin faces on and off the court. Join her as she figures out how to embrace these surprising changes without losing the strong, confident athlete she has always been.
9-12 Years
162 Pages
N/A
/5
Getting into the bathtub can sometimes feel like a boring chore, but not when your bathroom transforms into a wild ocean. When it is time for a little one to wash off the day, Mom and Dad use their imagination to turn the evening routine into a massive nautical adventure. The regular running faucet suddenly becomes a roaring, magnificent waterfall crashing down into the tub. A simple rubber duck transforms into a mysterious creature swimming through the deep, bubbly sea. Together, the family battles the splashing waves and sails imaginary boats across the soapy water. This lively story turns a common daily task into a magical journey full of laughter and joy. Jump right into the water and follow along as parents and child navigate the high seas, getting squeaky clean just in time to dock the ship and tuck into bed for the night.
6-8 Years
35 Pages
N/A
/5
Gabby uses daydreams like a protective shield. Whenever her parents start arguing, she simply lets her mind drift away to beautiful, quiet places. But after her parents divorce and she is forced to navigate a brand new school, her constant daydreaming starts causing serious problems. Her mother scolds her, her new teacher demands her attention, and the other kids tease her for staring off into space. Gabby feels completely misunderstood until she connects with a friend who also loves to get lost in thought. Things really begin to change when a caring teacher recognizes Gabby's vivid imagination and encourages her to write those daydreams down on paper. Suddenly, the distracting thoughts that always got her in trouble become powerful poems. Discover how a quiet girl finds her boldest voice, transforming her deepest fears and wildest thoughts into a notebook full of soaring, brilliant words.
9-12 Years
97 Pages
N/A
/5
Two teenage boys living thousands of years apart share an identical, crushing pain. Ishmael is the oldest son of the biblical patriarch Abraham, forced to watch his father's attention shift completely to a newly born stepbrother before being cast out into the harsh desert. Sam is a modern teenager navigating the busy streets of New York City, grappling with the bitter reality of his father abandoning their family to start a brand new life with a different woman and a new son. Told through intense, alternating poems, their stories weave together to explore the raw anger and deep sorrow of feeling replaced. Both teens must figure out how to process their resentment toward the fathers who left them behind and make peace with the innocent younger brothers who took their place. Dive into this powerful exploration of faith, forgiveness, and the difficult journey of healing a broken heart.
13-18 Years
210 Pages
N/A
/5
Growing up, Nikki Grimes learned early on that the world could be a deeply unpredictable and dangerous place. Moving through a series of challenging foster homes and navigating a turbulent relationship with a mother struggling with illness, her childhood was filled with trauma and uncertainty. To survive the heavy emotional toll of her environment, she turned to a simple notebook and a pen. Writing became her safest refuge, a private sanctuary where she could pour out her fears, process her pain, and slowly begin to understand her own immense resilience. Through stunning, deeply personal poems, she recounts the harrowing obstacles she faced and the incredible strength it took to overcome them. Witness the true story of how a young girl found her voice amid the chaos of her youth. This powerful memoir reveals the extraordinary ability of words to heal old wounds and spark a brilliant, creative future.
13-18 Years
N/A
/5
Dyamonde Daniel
Rich
By:
Nikki Grimes
The local library is hosting a massive poetry contest, and Dyamonde Daniel is absolutely thrilled. The grand prize is a crisp one hundred dollar bill, and Dyamonde and her best friend Free cannot stop dreaming about all the amazing things they could buy. But their excitement shifts when they discover a shocking secret about their quiet classmate, Damaris. They learn that she has been living in a homeless shelter and barely has enough to get by. As Dyamonde and Free get to know her better, they realize that Damaris is not only kind, but she is also the most talented poet in their entire class. Now, the friends must rethink everything they believe about what it actually means to be wealthy. Join Dyamonde as she uses her big heart and lively spirit to support her classmate, proving that true richness comes from friendship, compassion, and doing the right thing.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
59 Pages
N/A
/5
Danitra Brown
Danitra Brown Leaves Town
By:
Nikki Grimes
Summer vacation has finally arrived, but Zuri Jackson is not feeling very excited. Her absolutely favorite person in the world, Danitra Brown, is leaving the city to spend the entire summer visiting relatives in the country. Zuri wonders how she will possibly survive the long, hot days without her best friend right down the block. To stay connected, the two girls decide to write letters back and forth. Through their lively, poetic messages, you get to experience two completely different summer adventures. Danitra writes about chasing glowing fireflies and sleeping under a giant sky filled with bright stars, while Zuri shares stories of loud block parties, intense handball games, and colorful city fireworks. Read their letters to discover how true friendship can stretch across miles of highways. You will love seeing how these two best friends stay close in their hearts even when they are far apart.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
Mr. Ward's high school English class is completely transformed the day Wesley Boone decides to read his poetry out loud. What starts as a simple homework assignment quickly explodes into weekly open-mic sessions that take the entire classroom by storm. One by one, eighteen different students gather the courage to step up to the front of the room and share their deepest, most private thoughts. Through their raw, spoken-word verses, the teenagers strip away the tough masks they wear in the hallways. You will meet students hiding painful family secrets, battling intense anger, and desperately searching for a sense of belonging. As they listen to each other's words, the classmates realize they are not as alone or different as they originally thought. Step inside this powerful classroom and discover an inspiring story about breaking down walls, building trust, and finding the incredible bravery to reveal your true self.
13-18 Years
178 Pages
N/A
/5
Jazmin does not just live her life. She writes it down, catches its rhythm, and turns every sharp, funny, painful, hopeful moment into words.
Growing up in 1960s Harlem, fourteen-year-old Jazmin fills her notebook from the stoop where she watches the world move around her. Her days hold laughter, anger, temptation, confusion, and dreams that refuse to stay small. With her steady sister beside her and her own fierce voice growing stronger, Jazmin begins to see that life can be messy and beautiful at the same time.
Told with vivid energy and emotional honesty, Jazmin's Notebook is a young adult novel about creativity, identity, family, and the power of paying attention to your own story. It speaks to readers who know that becoming yourself can feel uncertain, exciting, and necessary all at once.
13-18 Years
N/A
/5
When Kamala Harris was just a little girl growing up in Oakland, she loved attending civil rights marches with her parents. Surrounded by people fighting for what was right, she learned very early that true freedom is something you have to stand up for. Whether she was bravely arguing for the right to use a neighborhood soccer field in middle school or speaking up for citizens in the halls of Congress, Kamala always used her strong voice to help others. This beautifully illustrated true story follows her incredible journey from a curious daughter of immigrants to a powerful leader. You will see how her deep belief in fairness guided every single step of her life. Read along to discover how her determination and hard work eventually led her to make history as the Vice President of the United States, proving that big dreams really can come true.
6-8 Years
40 Pages
N/A
/5
Dyamonde Daniel
Almost Zero
Dyamonde Daniels has her eyes on a brand new pair of bright red high-top sneakers. There is just one huge problem standing in her way: they cost a lot of money. When Dyamonde tries to convince her mother that it is a parent's job to buy their kids exactly what they need, the plan backfires completely. Instead of getting the shoes, her mother decides to teach her a tough lesson by taking away everything except her absolute bare necessities. Suddenly, Dyamonde finds her wardrobe stripped down to almost zero outfits. As she struggles with her surprisingly empty closet, she discovers that one of her classmates is dealing with a situation much harder than her own missing clothes. Realizing what truly matters, Dyamonde shifts her focus from fresh sneakers to finding a clever way to help her friend. Join Dyamonde as she learns a powerful lesson about wanting, needing, and the importance of a generous heart.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
158 Pages
N/A
/5
Dyamonde Daniel
Make Way for Dyamonde Daniel
Dyamonde Daniel is new in town, but she is not the kind of kid who waits around to belong. Smart, bold, and full of ideas, she steps into her new neighborhood and classroom ready to make things happen.
There is just one mystery she cannot ignore: the other new kid in class always seems grumpy. Dyamonde could stay away, but that is not her style. With curiosity, confidence, and a big heart, she sets out to understand what is really behind his frown.
This lively early chapter book introduces a memorable heroine with plenty of spark. Perfect for readers who enjoy school stories, new friendships, and characters who speak up, think hard, and care deeply.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
115 Pages
N/A
/5
Jayden is not thrilled about leaving his familiar home in New York City to move all the way to New Mexico. Looking out the window, he cannot imagine how this dry, unfamiliar landscape could ever feel like a real home. But when he finally steps outside to take a walk, the desert begins to reveal its hidden magic. He discovers vibrant flowers blooming in stunning, bright shades against the dry earth. He spots curious lizards darting across the rocks and watches magnificent birds soaring through the endless turquoise sky. Towering red rock pillars rise in the distance, showing him a completely different kind of beauty than the tall city buildings he left behind. Follow Jayden as his uncertainty slowly turns into quiet wonder. This gentle, poetic story captures the awe of exploring a new environment and realizing that home can be found in the most surprising places.
6-8 Years
39 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
Danitra Brown
Danitra Brown, Class Clown
Zuri Jackson is dreading the start of a brand new school year. The thought of hard math problems and strict teachers fills her with nervous butterflies. Luckily, she does not have to face the classroom alone because her best friend, Danitra Brown, is right by her side. Danitra is completely fearless, free-spirited, and always ready to make the whole class burst into laughter. Through a lively collection of rhyming poems, you get to experience the daily ups and downs of their school adventures. While Zuri worries about getting the right answers, Danitra shows her how to find the fun in every single lesson. Together, they navigate hallway mix-ups, cafeteria lunches, and the stress of homework. Read along to find out how a wonderful friend can transform a scary school year into a journey full of smiles, confidence, and unforgettable memories.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
N/A
/5
Danitra Brown
Meet Danitra Brown
There is nobody in the entire neighborhood quite like Danitra Brown. Dressed in her favorite bright purple clothes, she is simply the most wonderful, fearless girl in town. For Zuri Jackson, having Danitra as a best friend makes every single day an exciting adventure. Together, the two girls conquer their city streets, sharing deep secrets, jumping rope, and standing up to local bullies. Through a beautiful collection of lively poems, you are invited to join them on their daily journeys. You will experience the sting of scraped knees, the comfort of a loyal pal, and the pure joy of childhood games. Whether they are laughing on the front stoop or facing down fears, their bond proves that everything is easier when you have a true friend by your side. Meet these two unforgettable characters and celebrate the simple, powerful magic of an unbreakable friendship.
6-8 Years
36 Pages
N/A
/5
Garvey has a mind full of stars and science fiction, but his father only wants to talk about sports. No matter how hard he tries, Garvey cannot make himself care about football or basketball, leaving a painful gap between him and his dad. Dealing with bullies at school and feeling entirely misunderstood at home, he often turns to extra food for comfort. Everything shifts when a loyal friend pushes Garvey to join the school chorus. Standing with the singers, Garvey discovers he has a powerful, beautiful voice that demands to be heard. The music gives him a newfound confidence that begins to change how he sees himself. Through the rhythm of the songs, he searches for a way to finally connect with his father. Step into Garvey's world and experience a touching story about finding your own unique rhythm and choosing to be exactly who you are.
9-12 Years
130 Pages
N/A
/5
Dyamonde Daniel
Halfway to Perfect
Dyamonde Daniel loves everything about her mother's homemade pancakes, and her friend Free loves eating almost anything. But recently, their classmate Damaris has been quietly pushing food around her plate without taking a single bite. Dyamonde notices the change immediately and suspects it has something to do with the cruel jokes some kids have been making about people's weight. Damaris is terrified that the other students are whispering about her behind her back. Dyamonde knows for a fact that Damaris is beautiful and perfect exactly the way she is, and she refuses to let her friend feel bad about herself for another second. Armed with her signature spunk and endless loyalty, Dyamonde sets out on a mission to show Damaris how to ignore the bullies. Follow along as these bold friends tackle tough conversations about healthy eating, body image, and the true meaning of self-acceptance.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
130 Pages
N/A
/5
Long before he became the President of the United States, Barack Obama was a young boy experiencing life in places like Hawaii and Jakarta. Growing up in a diverse family, he quickly learned the importance of understanding different cultures and listening to people's unique stories. This stunningly illustrated biography traces his remarkable path from a curious student to a dedicated community organizer fighting for social change. You will see how he carried the torch of past civil rights leaders, working tirelessly to ensure that the promises of equality and justice applied to everyone. With lyrical words and beautiful collage artwork, this inspiring book highlights the hard work and deep empathy that shaped his leadership. Discover the incredible true story of a man who believed in the power of hope and proved that anyone can rise up to make a massive difference in the world.
6-8 Years
48 Pages
N/A
/5
A week after his father’s funeral, a young boy finds an envelope left just for him. Inside is a hand-drawn map of the woods they used to explore together, with one mysterious red X marking a spot deep among the trees. Even though he is feeling angry and lost, the boy decides to follow the trail, stepping back into the quiet shadows of the beech and oak trees they both loved.
As you walk alongside him through the rustling leaves, you will encounter the same wrens and snakes that he once pointed out to his dad. When he finally reaches the secret destination, he discovers a treasure that reveals a side of his father he never knew existed. This beautifully moving story, brought to life through the collaborative art of a legendary father and son duo, shows how nature and shared memories can help a hurting heart find its way back to peace and connection.
6-8 Years
43 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
