Brian Pinkney

Have you ever loved playing a game that just did not seem to love you back? Owen adores playing ball, but after a particularly tough day on the field, he finds himself sitting on the bench. Feeling down, he watches his ball roll far away and slip right through a hole in the fence. But Owen is not ready to give up yet. When he chases after his runaway ball, he steps into an unexpected and daring adventure that goes far beyond the sports field. Join Owen as he discovers his own courage and learns that sometimes the greatest victories happen when you are not even playing the game. This exciting journey shows you how to bounce back and find the magic waiting just outside the fence.

Otter and Beaver are the best of friends, and they both love spending time at their favorite stream. But they love the water for completely different reasons! Otter thinks the fast-flowing stream is the perfect place to splash, swim, and play silly games. Beaver, on the other hand, looks at the water and sees a lot of hard work waiting to be done. While Otter splashes around with twigs, Beaver is busy using those same sticks to build a sturdy dam. Can these two very different friends figure out how to share their favorite place? Join this funny and energetic adventure that explores what happens when playing clashes with working. You will learn all about teamwork, resolving conflicts, and finding the perfect balance between getting things done and having fun.

Brandon absolutely loves his special blanket, but he is not so sure how he feels about his new baby brother. Suddenly, all the attention in the house has shifted. When it is time for supper, bath time, and bedtime, the baby seems to take up everyone's time, leaving Brandon feeling very angry and left out. But do not worry, because Brandon and his trusty blanket have a few wonderful ideas to make things better! Step into a relatable and action-packed story about what happens when your family grows. You will explore the big feelings that come with sibling rivalry and discover the joy of becoming an older brother. This funny and insightful tale is perfect for anyone navigating the wild adventure of welcoming a new baby home.

Carter really wants a puppy, but he receives a truck instead. What do you do when you have a brand-new truck that you wish was a dog? You put a leash on it and take it for a walk in the park! Follow along as Carter treats his favorite new toy just like a real pet, discovering that a truck can be just as exciting as a furry friend. It zooms, it beeps, and it simply will not sit still. This playful and imaginative story captures the joy of pretend play and the fun of making your own adventures. Will Carter figure out how to tame his fast and rascally new companion? Get ready to vroom, beep, and bark your way through a wonderful day at the park.

It is one of those quiet days when Max simply does not feel like talking to anyone. While sitting on his front steps and watching the clouds roll by, a strong breeze shakes a nearby tree, dropping two heavy twigs right at his feet. Max picks them up, and suddenly, he discovers the perfect pair of drumsticks! Instead of using his words, Max begins tapping out the exciting rhythms of the city around him. He mimics the fluttering pigeons, the pattering rain, the chiming church bells, and the rumbling subway cars. When a lively marching band turns the corner, something truly magical happens. Discover how music can be the most powerful voice of all in this wonderful story about expressing your feelings, finding your rhythm, and sharing your unique song with the world.

It is time for Kenny to wake up and start a brand-new day! In this vibrant and warm story, you get to follow along as Kenny tackles all the big moments of his busy schedule. First, he has to figure out what to wear, and maybe his mom's shoes or his grandpa's hat are the perfect fit. Next, he must find the bravery to face the loud, monstrous vacuum cleaner. After that, it is time to head outside for a fun soccer lesson with his big sister. Finally, when the long day is done, his loving family is right there to help him get ready for bed. Enjoy four simple and energetic stories that celebrate family, growing up, and the everyday adventures of being a kid.

Tracing the history of the Jewish people from twelfth-century England to twentieth-century Israel, this unique collection shines a powerful light on moments of struggle and survival. Eight distinct poems represent each passing night of Hanukkah, illuminating different historical periods where families faced profound adversity but kept their faith alive. Readers witness the glow of the menorah through the eyes of children who lived through the Crusades, the Spanish Inquisition, and other defining eras of hardship and resilience. The steadfast flame of the stone lamp serves as a vital symbol of hope, courage, and cultural endurance across hundreds of years. Paired with evocative artwork, these moving verses offer a deeply reflective and emotional perspective on the enduring spirit of a resilient community.

On the lush, tropical island of Martinique, Clement and Hippolyte share a bond of friendship that is stronger than brotherhood. When Clement falls deeply in love with a beautiful young woman, the two inseparable friends journey across the island so he can propose. However, the woman's guardian is a dark wizard who fiercely opposes the marriage. When the brave couple attempts to flee together, the vengeful wizard unleashes a terrifying storm of dark magic to destroy them. Now, Hippolyte must step into the path of danger to shield his best friend from sinister curses and roaming zombies. As the magical attacks grow increasingly deadly, Hippolyte realizes that protecting his friend's future might require sacrificing his own life. Adapted from a traditional tale from the French West Indies, this breathtakingly illustrated adventure tests the absolute limits of loyalty. It is a powerful, haunting story of courage, dark island magic, and a friendship so profound it can overcome even the darkest spells.

Bright brown babies shine, wiggle, laugh, dream, and grow in a book filled with rhythm, warmth, and love. Bright Brown Baby brings together five poems that celebrate Black and brown babies and the caring grown-ups who adore them. The language is musical and made for reading aloud, with joyful lines that honor early childhood, family closeness, and the wonder of a new life taking shape. For young readers, the poems offer a cozy, affirming experience full of sound and feeling. For families, teachers, and librarians, this picture book treasury is a loving celebration of identity, tenderness, and everyday joy shared between children and caregivers.

Alvin Ailey found a language in movement. Through dance, he told stories of memory, struggle, beauty, and Black experience. This picture book biography follows Ailey from childhood into the world of modern dance, showing how his passion grew into choreography that moved audiences. It also introduces the dance company he founded, a company created to bring powerful performances and African American cultural expression to the stage. Alvin Ailey is an engaging choice for children interested in dance, art, biography, and Black history. With warm storytelling and expressive illustrations, it helps young readers see how a person’s life, culture, and imagination can become movement that speaks to others.

Sojourner Truth did not walk quietly through history. She stepped forward with strength, stomped against injustice, and used her voice so others could hear the truth. Born into slavery, Sojourner grew into a free woman who spoke out against slavery and stood up for human rights. This picture book biography introduces young readers to her bold spirit, her powerful speeches, and her belief that freedom was worth fighting for. With lively language and a strong sense of movement, Sojourner Truth’s Step-Stomp Stride helps you meet a remarkable woman whose words made people listen. It is a vivid first biography for children learning about courage, Black history, and the power of speaking up.

Four young men sit down at a lunch counter, but their quiet action speaks loudly. They are not there to cause trouble. They are there to ask for the same respect everyone deserves. Sit-In tells the story of the 1960 Woolworth lunch counter protest in Greensboro, North Carolina, a peaceful stand that helped grow the Civil Rights Movement. With rhythmic, memorable language, the book shows how courage can begin with one simple choice and spread through a community. This powerful picture book introduces young children to fairness, peaceful protest, and the real history of people who challenged segregation. It is a strong read-aloud for families, classrooms, and libraries.

One voice preached. One voice sang. Together, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mahalia Jackson helped lift a movement. Martin & Mahalia follows two remarkable lives as they grow toward a historic moment in the fight for civil rights. Martin’s words called people to justice. Mahalia’s gospel music carried strength, hope, and feeling. Their gifts came together during the 1963 March on Washington, where spoken words and song helped inspire a nation. Told in poetic language, this picture book biography invites young readers to see how music, faith, courage, and leadership can work side by side. It is a thoughtful introduction to the Civil Rights Movement and to two unforgettable American voices.

When Mama has to leave the house to run some errands, baby sister starts to cry. Now it is completely up to Papa and big brother to turn those tears into smiles! Do you know the famous lullaby about buying a mockingbird and a diamond ring? In this joyful and lively version of the classic song, you will see a family try absolutely everything to comfort their littlest member. Papa promises all sorts of wonderful gifts and silly surprises to bring joy back to the baby's face. Discover a beautiful story filled with warmth, music, and unconditional love. It is the perfect tale to read aloud together, showing how far a family will go to make sure their baby is happy and feeling safe.

Benjamin Banneker was a brilliant, self-taught mathematician and astronomer who accomplished amazing things, including writing the first published almanac by a Black man. But even though he was born free, he lived during a time when most Black people in America were enslaved. This deeply troubled him, and he knew he had to speak out. In 1791, he bravely wrote a powerful letter to Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, calling him out for owning slaves while writing the Declaration of Independence. Dive into the inspiring true story of a man who used his mind and his voice to demand justice and equality. You will discover his incredible scientific achievements and read about the extraordinary correspondence between these two historical figures as they debated freedom and human rights.

Cosmo is an ordinary boy who happens to live on the planet Mars! He has a big sister named Jewel who can be a bit of a pain, and a robot named Rex who is totally broken. But Cosmo's luck is about to change for the better. His parents have just gifted him a brand-new Solar System Utility Belt packed with ten supersonic attachments, from a Sun Laser-Beam Flashlight to a Pluto Maxi-Scope. With a high-tech belt like this, absolutely anything is possible! When his malfunctioning robot suddenly goes haywire and threatens his sister, Cosmo must think fast and use his new gadgets to save the day. Blast off into an exciting outer space adventure filled with futuristic tools, quick thinking, and a brave brother who steps up when it matters most.

Henry is a hardworking paperboy who absolutely loves reading the adventures of his favorite comic strip superhero, Falconman. He spends his days wishing he could take to the skies just like his idol. One afternoon, while riding his bike on his delivery route, Henry has a mysterious and magical collision with a sparrow. Suddenly, he discovers that he can fly! Donning the superhero name Sparrowboy, Henry takes to the air to deliver his newspapers from the clouds. But his new powers are meant for more than just delivering the daily news. When a local bully starts causing trouble, it is up to Sparrowboy to swoop down and take his neighborhood under his wing. Get ready for a whimsical, high-flying adventure that proves anyone can be a superhero when they choose to do what is right.

A mother's love is a quiet, powerful promise. When you are just a newborn, she can easily cradle you to sleep, studying your face and holding your tiny hand in hers. But as you grow older and step out into the wider world, she knows she cannot always be right beside you to keep you perfectly safe. Through beautiful, heartfelt poetry, a mother expresses her deepest hopes and dreams for her child's future. She beautifully promises that even when she cannot physically hold your hand, she will always hold you closely in her heart, trusting that you are protected by a higher power. This tender, deeply moving story is a beautiful testament to the unbreakable bond of family and the comforting strength of unconditional love.

This story walks. It walks with tired feet, determined feet, and feet that refuse to give up. Boycott Blues tells the story of the Montgomery bus boycott through rhythmic language shaped by the feeling of the blues. After Rosa Parks is arrested for keeping her seat, a community answers by refusing to ride the buses. People find new ways to travel, support one another, and keep moving toward justice. With vivid words and expressive art, this picture book introduces children to a major moment in the Civil Rights Movement. It shows how peaceful protest can require patience, courage, and teamwork, making history feel alive through sound, movement, and determination.

Meet Edward Kennedy Duke Ellington, a slick-stepping, piano-playing kid who grew up to become a legendary King of the Keys! Long before he was famous, Duke taught himself to press the pearly piano keys, finding inspiration in the lively sounds of ragtime music. Soon, his incredible talent took him straight to 1920s Harlem, the vibrant heart of the jazz universe. Step back in time to experience the rhythm and swing of a true musical genius. You will follow Duke as he forms his world-famous orchestra, writes over a thousand brilliant compositions, and brings his hot-buttered, sassy-cool tones all the way to the stage of Carnegie Hall. This swinging tribute to an American icon will have your toes tapping and your imagination soaring to the beat of his beautiful blues.

Young Mentu was born on an island and has never seen the distant shores of Africa. But his beloved Grandmother Twi carries Africa deeply in her blood, and she shares the powerful old magic of her homeland with him through ancient songs, stories, and the steady beat of goatskin drums. Mentu learns to respect the profound strength hidden within their music. One day, a massive ship docks at Teakettle Creek, carrying newly captured people who are pounding a fierce rhythm from inside the hold. The roaring beat calls out to Grandmother Twi, urging her to take a stand for freedom. Now, she must make a heartbreaking choice between the powerful lure of the drums and the grandson she loves. Experience a spellbinding tale of courage, heritage, and the enduring quest for freedom.

Every year, we celebrate a very special day to honor an incredible American hero. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. had a powerful dream of peace, equality, and kindness. This gentle and moving biography takes you through his life, starting from his childhood and showing how he grew up to become one of the most important civil rights leaders in history. With beautiful, striking illustrations, you will learn about his deep commitment to bringing people of all races together. You will discover why he worked so hard to make sure everyone was treated fairly and with respect. By exploring his brilliant moments and his peaceful fight for freedom, this story helps young readers understand exactly why we honor his memory, his lessons, and his lasting dream for a better world.

When a terrifying fire suddenly breaks out in the forest, all the animals are frozen with fear. From the massive elephant down to the tiny ant, everyone is far too scared to do anything but watch their home burn. But then, one brave little hummingbird decides she cannot just stand by. She knows she has to do whatever she can to save her nest, even if her efforts seem impossibly small. This deeply inspiring and beautifully illustrated fable shows you that courage comes in all sizes. Follow the brave hummingbird as she inspires the rest of the paralyzed animals to overcome their doubts and work together. You will discover that no matter how little you might feel, you have the power to help change the world for the better.

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.

JoJo absolutely loves taking Tae Kwon Do, but a big challenge is heading her way. Master Kim has just announced that she is finally ready to test for her yellow belt! Suddenly, JoJo has butterflies fluttering in her stomach. Can she really execute a perfect flying side kick and break a wooden board in half? To make matters worse, she is also worried about the creepy tree outside her window that looks like a sneaky bandit in the dark. Everyone in her family gives her advice on how to perform, but JoJo soon realizes that she has to figure it out for herself. Join JoJo as she learns to trust her own abilities, push past her fears, and find the true inner strength needed to become a real martial artist.