If you enjoy reading books by Ashley Bryan then you might also like the following authors:
Jerry Pinkney was a gifted illustrator who filled his children's books with warmth, vibrant energy, and rich cultural imagery. Like Ashley Bryan, he explored African-American history, culture, and folklore through striking illustrations and heartfelt storytelling.
His book The Lion & the Mouse is a beautiful, wordless retelling of Aesop's fable, presented entirely through expressive, detailed watercolor art.
Leo and Diane Dillon were an extraordinary husband-and-wife illustration team. Their artwork combines detailed images, vivid colors, and thoughtful storytelling, often celebrating diverse cultures and themes of understanding and unity, similar to Ashley Bryan's approach.
Their picture book Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People's Ears brings to life a West African tale through vivid illustrations rich in atmosphere and imagination.
Tom Feelings was an illustrator and author whose art deeply reflected themes of African heritage, awareness, and identity. Like Ashley Bryan, his stories and illustrations carry emotional depth and historical significance.
His powerful visual narrative The Middle Passage: White Ships/Black Cargo portrays the painful history of the transatlantic slave trade through powerful charcoal drawings that evoke emotion and reflection.
Kadir Nelson is an illustrator and storyteller whose captivating artwork captures history, figures, and moments of resilience in African-American culture. Fans of Ashley Bryan will appreciate Nelson's attention to beauty, dignity, and historical context.
His book We Are the Ship: The Story of Negro League Baseball combines stunning, realistic paintings, detailed research, and engaging narration to celebrate the spirit and courage of Black baseball pioneers.
Virginia Hamilton was an influential author who expertly blended African-American folklore, history, and contemporary issues in her works. Her storytelling has depth, warmth, and authenticity, appealing to readers who appreciate Ashley Bryan's respect for culture and tradition.
The People Could Fly: American Black Folktales is a remarkable work, highlighting Hamilton's graceful retellings of folktales that celebrate the resilience and imagination of African-American heritage.
Patricia C. McKissack created engaging children's books that celebrated African-American history and culture. She told thoughtful stories with warmth, humor, and insight into experiences children could relate to.
In Flossie and the Fox, McKissack uses playful storytelling and humor to show a clever young girl outsmarting a tricky fox.
Her style is lively, accessible, and rooted in traditions of oral storytelling, much like Ashley Bryan's warm and spirited works that preserve and share African-American folktales.
Nikki Giovanni's poetry and children's books explore identity, empowerment, and social themes through clear and heartfelt language. She writes honestly and positively about African-American life, inspiring both children and adults to be proud and curious.
Her collection Spin a Soft Black Song combines beautiful verse, vivid emotions, and an accessible style similar to Bryan's. Readers who love Ashley Bryan's thoughtful storytelling and joyful rhythms will find much to appreciate in Giovanni's works.
Eloise Greenfield wrote sincere and emotionally rich stories that celebrated family, community, and heritage. Her writing is gentle and full of lyrical rhythm, bringing comfort and hope to young readers.
In her book Honey, I Love, Greenfield captures the joys and special everyday moments experienced by children, reflecting the warmth and sincerity seen also in Ashley Bryan's work.
Jacqueline Woodson writes stories that focus on themes of belonging, family connections, race, and identity. She uses simple yet poetic language to explore deeply personal and meaningful experiences.
Her book The Day You Begin encourages young readers to find the courage to connect and embrace who they are—much like Ashley Bryan's empowering and affirming stories that value individuality and cultural heritage.
Javaka Steptoe creates captivating children's books filled with innovative illustration techniques and vibrant stories honoring African-American culture.
His visually expressive style brings stories to life, celebrating the creativity and heritage of African-American artists and innovators.
In Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, Steptoe offers an inspiring tribute through stunning visuals and accessible language—just as Ashley Bryan inspires young readers with his own unique storytelling and artistic approach.
Bryan Collier creates vibrant, expressive illustrations that blend collage and watercolor techniques. His books often highlight African American history, culture, and identity through powerful visual narratives.
One great example is Uptown, a colorful exploration of Harlem's lively neighborhoods full of music, art, and community spirit.
Floyd Cooper was celebrated for his soft, warm illustrations and thoughtful storytelling, offering gentle yet profound perspectives on African American experiences. His artwork highlights themes of family, history, and quiet determination.
Readers who appreciate Ashley Bryan's heartfelt stories will likely enjoy Cooper's book The Blacker the Berry, a poetic celebration of diverse African American identities.
Ekua Holmes uses striking mixed-media collages filled with colors, textures, and rich symbolism. She beautifully captures the humanity and strength in stories of African American history and community.
If you've enjoyed Ashley Bryan's expressive art style, try Holmes's illustrations in Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer, Spirit of the Civil Rights Movement, a powerful portrayal of an important civil rights activist.
Carole Boston Weatherford is acclaimed for her lyrical storytelling and engaging historical narratives. She often explores themes of resilience, identity, and African American heritage.
If you enjoy Ashley Bryan's meaningful poetry and storytelling, you might like Weatherford's Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom, a moving tribute to heroism and hope.
Julius Lester explored African American heritage, history, and folklore through storytelling filled with warmth, humor, and wisdom. His stories are often told simply yet profoundly, respecting cultural traditions and personal dignity.
Fans of Ashley Bryan will connect with Lester's respect for human values and storytelling traditions in John Henry, a beautifully retold American folk legend.