Vanessa Brantley-Newton

Zulay and her three best friends are all in the same first grade class and study the same things, even though Zulay is blind. When their teacher asks her students what activity they want to do on Field Day, Zulay surprises everyone when she says she wants to run a race. With the help of a special aide and the support of her friends, Zulay does just that.

Harriet Powers was born into slavery but learned a great deal about fabric and quilting which she used when freed after the Civil War. Her story unfolds in upbeat illustrations and informative text. An author’s note provides additional insight into the artist and her quilts.

A confident little boy takes pride in his first day of kindergarten. Starting kindergarten is a big milestone! He’s dressed himself, eaten a pile of pancakes, and can’t wait to be part of a whole new kingdom of kids. And afterward, he can’t wait to tell his proud parents all about his achievements, and then wake up to start another day.