Books in African-American Biographies series

Blue, Rose

Benedict Arnold was a U.S. soldier in the Revolutionary War who earned a reputation for bravery and the respect of George Washington. However, his later actions in the Revolution made him the most famous traitor in U.S. history. This book looks at the life

Profiles Bill Russell, whose career as an outstanding rebounder for the Boston Celtics led him to become the first African American elected to the Basketball Hall of Fame and the first African American to coach in the NBA.

Recounts the life of the famous blues singer who flourished during the 1920s.

Explore the life of Sitting Bull in this fascinating biography. Richly supported by photos, art work, and a family tree, readers will come away with an enhanced understanding of an important figure in American history.

Examines the life and career of the Baptist minister who supported the use of nonviolent resistance to discrimination and describes his involvement in many important events in the civil rights movement.

Explores the life and career of Barbara Jordan, from her childhood in Houston, through her distinguished career in public office, to her powerful influence as a speaker

Wilma Rudolph was one of the best runners in the world. She ran so fast and broke so many records that she was know as the “fastest woman in the world.” This biography tells her story and show how perseverance and unique qualities can continue to set exam

A biography of the performer and talk show host, discussing her childhood of neglect and her rise to the top of the entertainment world.

Drawn from in-depth interviews with Walter Dean Myers and his family, a detailed portrait of the literary master explores his characters that define today's teens and are based on his own struggles and experiences.

Having been a gang member as a youth, civil rights leader Kweisi Mfume had to work hard to turn his life around and find a future for himself --which he succeeded in doing in a big way by receiving a college degree, becoming a political activist, radio announcer, congressman, and NAACP president.

Recounts the life and struggles of the man who raised the American flag on the North Pole in 1909, describes how his knowledge and skills helped make the event possible, and discusses why his contributions were ignored at the time.