If you enjoy reading books by Laban Carrick Hill then you might also like the following authors:
Ashley Bryan was a storyteller, artist, and poet who brought African and African American heritage to life in his work. One of his books, “Beautiful Blackbird,” celebrates the power of individuality and pride in one’s identity.
Inspired by a Zambian folktale, the story follows Blackbird, the only bird with black feathers, as he helps other birds appreciate their own beauty. The vivid illustrations and rhythmic language make the story unforgettable while celebrating self-love and community.
Bryan Collier is an award-winning illustrator and author known for his vibrant and powerful picture books that often center on history and culture. One of his standout works is “Rosa,” written by Nikki Giovanni and illustrated by Collier.
The book tells the story of Rosa Parks and her quiet act of courage that became a defining moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Collier’s illustrations, combining watercolor and collage, bring Rosa’s world to life in a vivid and emotional way.
He captures the tension and hope of the era, reminding readers of the humanity behind pivotal moments in history.
Kadir Nelson is an author and illustrator known for creating deeply memorable picture books.
One of his works, “Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans,” takes readers on a journey through American history, told from the perspective of an elder recounting stories to younger generations.
The book introduces key figures and events in a way that feels personal and human, with striking artwork that brings each moment to life. Nelson’s ability to combine narrative with rich illustrations makes his work stand out.
Carole Boston Weatherford is an author known for writing powerful and heartfelt books that shine a light on historical figures and events.
In her book “Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom,” she tells the story of Harriet Tubman’s courageous journey as she led enslaved people to freedom through the Underground Railroad.
The book captures Tubman’s faith and determination as she faces danger to help others. It weaves in moments of prayer and inner strength that show her unwavering spirit, which made her such an inspiring figure in history.
Nikki Grimes is an author and poet who writes stories that often explore themes of resilience and self-discovery. Her book, “Bronx Masquerade,” introduces a group of students in an English class who open up to each other through poetry.
The characters each face their own challenges, whether it’s struggling with family expectations or feeling invisible. The poems they share reveal their hopes and fears, showing how creativity helps them connect and express what they can’t say out loud.
Christopher Paul Curtis is an author known for writing heartfelt stories that center on young characters facing significant moments in their lives. One of his books, “Bud, Not Buddy,” follows a 10-year-old boy named Bud Caldwell during the Great Depression.
Bud, who lives in Michigan, decides to search for his father after finding a flyer for a jazz band that he believes holds clues about his family. As Bud sets off on his journey, he encounters challenges and surprising events that shape his understanding of the world and himself.
Curtis weaves humor and emotion into this story, making Bud’s adventure both touching and unforgettable.
Jacqueline Woodson writes with a warm and poetic style that draws readers into heartfelt stories about family, identity, and growing up. Her book “Brown Girl Dreaming” is a memoir told through verse, where she reflects on her childhood in the 1960s and 70s.
The story shows her experiences of moving between South Carolina and New York, navigating the differences in these places, and discovering her love for storytelling.
It’s a personal and deeply moving book that lets readers see the world through her eyes as she grows into her voice as a writer.
Tonya Bolden is an author known for bringing history to life through engaging and deeply researched works. Her book “Maritcha: A Nineteenth-Century American Girl” tells the true story of Maritcha Lyons, a young African American girl born free in Manhattan in the 1800s.
Through Maritcha’s own memoirs and historical records, Bolden follows her journey as she faces discrimination, fights to attend a whites-only high school, and witnesses key moments in history.
The book doesn’t overwhelm with irrelevant detail—it focuses on Maritcha’s life and her inspiring determination, giving readers a vivid sense of what it was like to grow up in her time.
Rita Williams-Garcia is known for her engaging stories that bring characters and settings to life with vivid authenticity.
One of her notable books, “One Crazy Summer,” follows three sisters, Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern, as they travel from Brooklyn to Oakland in the summer of 1968 to spend time with their enigmatic mother, Cecile.
The girls expect a warm reunion, but instead, they find themselves navigating Black Panther rallies and dealing with their mother’s cold, distant behavior. The story is rich with history and family dynamics, offering a unique perspective on a pivotal time in America.
Patricia C. McKissack was a talented writer known for her stories that bring history and African American culture to life. One of her books, “Goin' Someplace Special,” tells the story of a young girl named 'Tricia Ann growing up in the segregated South.
She dreams of visiting a place where everyone is treated equally. Along the way, she faces challenges that test her courage and determination. The story is inspired by the author’s own childhood, and it paints a vivid picture of resilience and hope in a time of inequality.
McKissack’s writing often highlights themes of strength and perseverance, connecting readers to important moments in history.
Deborah Hopkinson is an author who writes historical books for young readers. One of her works, “Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt,” tells the story of a young enslaved girl named Clara. Clara works as a seamstress on a plantation, but she dreams of freedom.
Using scraps of fabric, she creates a quilt that hides a map to guide others to the Underground Railroad. The story shows her courage and cleverness while drawing from real historical struggles.
Fans of Laban Carrick Hill might enjoy her immersive storytelling and the way she brings history to life.
Andrea Davis Pinkney is an award-winning author known for books that bring history to life through vivid storytelling and rich detail.
One of her books, “Sit-In: How Four Friends Stood Up by Sitting Down,” tells the true story of four college students who participated in the Greensboro lunch counter sit-ins during the Civil Rights Movement.
It highlights their bravery as they peacefully stood against injustice, refusing to leave until they were served. With its vibrant illustrations and focus on a pivotal moment in history, the book captures the spirit of determination and equality.
Walter Dean Myers wrote stories that connect with readers by diving into real-life struggles and relationships. One of his books, “Monster,” tells the story of Steve Harmon, a teenage boy on trial for murder.
The book stands out because it mixes a courtroom drama with a screenplay format, reflecting how Steve sees himself. It’s an honest and powerful look at identity, choices, and how others judge us.
Myers often created stories that feel truthful and raw, touching on themes that stick with you long after you finish.
Sharon Draper is an author known for stories that often spotlight young characters navigating tough circumstances. Her book “Out of My Mind” tells the story of Melody, a girl with cerebral palsy who has a brilliant mind but can’t speak or walk.
Trapped in her silence, she dreams of a way to share her thoughts with the world. The story takes you through her struggles at school, her interactions with classmates, and her determination to be heard despite her limitations.
It’s an emotional journey of resilience and the power of communication.
Faith Ringgold is a storyteller and artist who blends history and culture in her work. Her book *“Tar Beach”* tells the story of an eight-year-old girl named Cassie, who imagines flying over 1930s Harlem at night.
Through her flights, Cassie dreams of freedom and possibility while reflecting on her family and the world around her. The book combines vivid artwork with a warm, heartfelt narrative that captures a child’s perspective in a challenging time.