Leah Henderson Knihy

March through history and discover twenty-five groundbreaking protest movements that have shaped the way we fight for equality and justice today in this stunningly illustrated and sweeping book!

A moving tribute to the little-known history behind the first Memorial Day, illustrated by Coretta Scott King Award winner Floyd CooperToday is a special day. Eli knows it’s important if he’s allowed to miss one second of school, his “hard-earned right.”Inspired by true events and told through the eyes of a young boy, this is the deeply moving story about what is regarded as the first Memorial Day on May 1, 1865. Eli dresses up in his best clothes, Mama gathers the mayflowers, Papa straightens his hat, and together they join the crowds filling the streets of Charleston, South Carolina, with bouquets, crosses, and wreaths. Abolitionists, missionaries, teachers, military officers, and a sea of faces Black, Brown, and White, they march as one and sing for all those who gave their lives fighting for freedom during the Civil War.With poignant prose and celebratory, powerful illustrations, A Day for Rememberin’ shines light on the little-known history of this important holiday and reminds us never to forget the people who put their lives on the line for their country. The book is illustrated by award-winning illustrator Floyd Cooper and includes archival photos in the back matter, as well as an author’s note, bibliography, timeline, and index.

Set in contemporary Senegal, the story follows an orphaned boy grappling with a moral dilemma as he strives to honor a promise made to his dying father. The narrative weaves elements of magical realism into the boy's journey, highlighting the tension between choosing the right path and taking the easier route. This middle grade debut offers a poignant exploration of duty, integrity, and the challenges faced by a young boy in a vibrant yet complex world.

A moving tribute to the joy and grounding that fathers bring to their children's lives.On that very first day, Bundled in blankets, You cried to be heard. "Shh, baby bird, I've got you," are Daddy's first words.What does a daddy do? From day one, this daddy speaks love to his little one. And along with that love, his words and actions speak many other things, too: like truth, joy, comfort, and pride. Like many dads, he answers a million questions and tries to make sure that days are full of fun adventures, giggles, and hugs. Dads are good at scaring away imaginary monsters, and honest about how to confront the real ones too. They set an example for the future, speaking out for equality and justice, while sharing lessons from the past. But most of all, daddies encourage their young ones to fight for a better world, with the comfort of knowing their dads are right beside them.

Mamie "Peanut" Johnson had one dream: to play professional baseball. She was a talented player, but she wasn't welcome in the segregated All-American Girls Pro Baseball League due to the color of her skin. However, a greater opportunity came her way in 1953 when Johnson signed to play ball for the Negro Leagues' Indianapolis Clowns, becoming the first female pitcher to play on a men's professional team. During the three years she pitched for the Clowns, her record was an impressive 33-8. But more importantly, she broke ground for other female athletes and for women everywhere.

A retelling of a tale of bravery against seemingly insurmountable odds and a community working together to overcome adversity, reminding us that no challenge is too great, and that even the smallest of us can make a world of difference. Includes the origins of the folktale and facts about hummingbirds.

Set on Election Day, the story follows Quetta and her family as they navigate various challenges on their way to vote. Through their journey, Quetta learns about the significance of voting and the struggles faced by those who fought for their rights. Her mother and grandmother instill in her the importance of civic engagement, ultimately empowering Quetta to understand the impact of her voice in shaping her community.

Journey to 1939 Harlem in this time-travel adventure with an inspiring message about believing in yourself.