by Sandra Nickel, illustrated by Calvin Nicholls; Levine Querido, 2026; a stand-out bio told in the style of a fairy tale brims with examples of Andersen’s fortitude and triumph despite bruising ridicule and failure.
Biography
The Curious Life of Cecilia Payne: Discovering the Stuff of Stars
by Laura Alary, illustrated by Yas Imamura; Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2025; a stand-out picture book biography for Gr. 3-4 that introduces an astronomer who exhibited pluck, curiosity, smarts, and growing self-confidence while facing numerous obstacles throughout a life of impressive accomplishments.
Who Was Wilma Mankiller?
by Andrea Page, illustrated by Stephen Marchesi; Penguin Workshop, 2025; An accessible chapter book biography highlighting the life and accomplishments of Wilma Mankiller, the first woman principal of the Cherokee Nation.
Resources for Sharing Outstanding Children’s Books by Authors and Illustrators of Color
This month’s Children’s Book Corner blog post is dedicated to shining a light on outstanding children’s books by people of color and offering resources for sharing their books with readers.
Hosea Plays On
by Kathleen M. Blasi, illustrated by Shane W. Evans; Sterling, 2019.
This picture book shines a light on Hosea Missouri Taylor, Jr. a musician with a mission. He was successful at engaging young children in his hometown of Rochester, New York with his skills at playing the saxophone, clarinet, trumpet, and flute. But he did more than that. He shared his passion for music–and for community service–by offering free music lessons and purchasing instruments for children. He led by example, bettering the lives of those with whom he interacted.
When Sue Found Sue
Written by Toni Buzzeo, illustrated by Diana Sudyka; Abrams, 2019.
When Sue Found Sue is an affirming picture book biography of paleontologist Sue Hendrickson. The young reader learns about science, exploration, archeology, paleontology, discovery, and T. rex while gaining insight into human nature—and the wisdom and joy in following your own path.