Bookmarks: Celebrating Black Voices
This 12 episode series features prominent Black voices - authors, athletes, actors, musicians, and comedians - reading children's books from Black authors that highlight the Black experience. The series is hosted and executive produced by then 15-year-old activist, author and founder of #1000BlackGirlBooks campaign, Marley Dias. Marley is now 18 years old. (Check out her website.)
Click on the book to hear it read by the celebrity reader. (Some of the readers are the authors.*)
Some of these books are Accelerated Readers. Look for "AR" number. (updated 2/01/23)
Some of these books are Accelerated Readers. Look for "AR" number. (updated 2/01/23)
by Natasha Anastasia Tarpley
Illustrated by E. B. Lewis read by Tiffany Hadish Summary: Buns. Afros. Braids. Any way you wear it, the hair you were born with is naturally beautiful — and uniquely amazing. (6:46)
AR Quiz No. 67124 |
by Grace Byers
illustrated by Keturah A. Bobo read by Grace Byers* Summary: Simple words send a powerful message: When you love yourself — and those around you — there's nothing you can't do! (7:18)
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by Derrick Barnes
illustrated by Gordon C. James read by Caleb McCaughlin Summary: A transformative trip to the barbershop freshens up a young boy's look — and makes him feel like a king. (7:14)
AR Quiz No. 194442 |
by Melanie Goolsby
illustrated by Princess Kay read by Marsai Martin Summary: This alphabet book highlights the accomplishments of 26 inspiring Black women, from Ava DuVernay to Zakiya Randall. (5:39)
(Also check out ABCs For Boys Like Me.) |
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by Julius Lester
illustrated by Karen Barbour read by Common Summary: Race is part of our story, but it isn't all we are — because, beneath our skin, we all look the same. Our differences are in the details. (11:16)
AR Quiz No. 85036 |
by Jacqueline Woodson
illustrated by Rafael Lopez ready by Jacqueline Woodson* Summary: Finding the courage to share your story can connect you to others — even when you feel all alone. (7:11)
AR Quiz No. 197645 |
by Dr. Ibram X. Kendi
illustrated by Ashley Lukashevsky read by Kendrick Sampson Summary: Learn nine simple steps to becoming antiracist so you can teach others in your life to do the same. (4:44)
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by Misty Copeland
illustrated by: Christopher Myers read by Misty Copeland* Summary: A young dancer aspires to be just like her idol, the famed "Firebird" ballerina who worked hard to achieve her own dreams. (5:38)
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by Lupita Nyong’o
illustrated by Vashti Harrison read by Lupita Nyong’o* Summary: A shooting star helps a bright young girl born "the color of midnight" learn to embrace her beauty, inside and out. (11:12)
AR Quiz No. 505104 |
Jill Scott reads Pretty Brown Face and Brown Boy Joy. Click HERE to listen to both books.
Summary: Big dreams, beautiful faces. Two picture books put Black boys in the spotlight, celebrating the little things that bring us all joy. (6:10)