Books in Influential People series

Laurie Hernandez won big in gymnastics at the 2016 Olympics. Read about the hard work and training that helped make her an Olympic champion!

Author Kwame Alexander writes books for children of all ages. His book The Crossover won the Newbery Medal in 2015. Learn more about his writing success!

Misty Copeland is one of America's most famous ballerinas. Learn about how she broke barriers for dancers of color and worked her way to the top!

Colin Kaepernick is a famous football star. He protested police treatment of black people in the United States by kneeling during the national anthem. Read about how he started a movement!

As a sixth-grader, Marley Dias started a campaign to help make sure girls of all races have access to books that feature main characters who look like them. She also went on to write a book of her own. Learn more about how she is making a difference for other young girls!

Comedian Jordan Peele won an Oscar for his movie Get Out. Read more about how he became the first African American screenwriter to win this award!

Singer-songwriter Khalid shot to fame with his song "Location." Find out how this singer became a best new artist!

When Lupita Nyong'o was a young girl, she didn't think she could be a famous actor. Now she is an Academy Award winner. Learn more about her rise to stardom!

As the first African American United States president, Barack Obama broke down barriers and led others to make a difference. Learn more about his road to the White House and how he plans to keep making a difference!

Author Kwame Alexander writes books for children of all ages. His book The Crossover won the Newbery Medal in 2015. Learn more about his writing success!

Chadwick Boseman shot to fame with his lead role in the blockbuster Black Panther. Find out more about his rise to stardom!

Jaden Smith acts, sings, and designs clothes. Read about how he has used his talents to launch this exciting and varied career!