KL
Author Profile
Kelly Starling Lyons
32 Books
Kelly Starling Lyons is an award-winning American children's book author dedicated to centering Black heroes and celebrating African American history and culture. Her engaging picture books and chapter books, including Ellen's Broom and Tiara's Hat Parade, explore meaningful themes of family, community, and heritage. Through her prolific storytelling, she strives to ensure that all children can see themselves represented in literature.
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The year is 1862, and the cannons of the Civil War echo in the distance. Hope watches her father slip away into the night to join the Union army and fight for their freedom. Before he leaves, he hands her a special conch shell, telling her that the sound inside holds the promised song of liberty.
As the days turn into a long and difficult wait, Hope clings to the shell and the dream of her family being reunited. When President Lincoln finally issues the Emancipation Proclamation, a new chapter begins for Hope and her loved ones.
This touching story brings a vital moment in American history to life through the eyes of a brave young girl. You will feel the power of family, the pain of waiting, and the ultimate joy of seeing a familiar figure walking over the horizon to come home.
6-8 Years
36 Pages
Step into one of the largest events in American history through the eyes of a little girl. When a young girl travels to Washington, D.C. with her father on October 16, 1995, she witnesses something truly extraordinary. Black men of all ages and backgrounds are gathering at the Lincoln Memorial for the Million Man March. They are joining together to inspire each other and make positive changes for their families and neighborhoods. Holding her father tight, the young girl sees a peaceful, powerful movement unfold right in front of her. You will feel the energy of the crowd and the deep bond between father and daughter as they share this historic day. This moving story brings a major historical event to life, showing how love, unity, and family can make a lasting mark on the world.
6-8 Years
Have you ever wondered about the powerful songs that inspire people for generations? Come discover the amazing story behind "Lift Every Voice and Sing," also known as the Black National Anthem!
Long ago, in 1900, two brothers in Florida wrote this special song for students to sing. From that day on, its hopeful words have brought strength and courage to families, passed down from parents to children, and even to their grandchildren. Imagine a song so important that it helped inspire people during big moments like the Civil Rights Movement, and is still sung at family gatherings and school celebrations today.
Join us on a journey through time to see how this beautiful song became a powerful voice, reminding everyone to have faith and hope, no matter what. It's a song that brings people together and lifts spirits high!
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
An ordinary backyard sandbox is about to become the ultimate summer vacation spot. Ty is an expert at using his imagination, and today he is turning the sand into a beautiful, sunny beach. He wriggles his toes, hunts for special seashells, and builds a magnificent castle right in his own yard. He even splashes in the imaginary ocean waves.
Suddenly, a colorful beach ball flies right over the fence. Ty discovers that his neighbor is playing next door, and he realizes that a sunny beach day is much more exciting when you have someone to share it with. You will love exploring with Ty as he makes a brand new friend and shares his creative world. This joyful early reader is filled with bright pictures and simple words that make practicing reading a breeze. It is a wonderful celebration of playtime, sharing, and making your own magic.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Grab your cape and mask, because a brand new superhero is in town. Ty absolutely loves everything about superheroes. He reads action-packed books about them and watches them save the day on television. When he puts on his own special costume, he transforms into the amazing Super Ty.
Super Ty zips around the house, using his special skills to help his Momma and save the day. But even the strongest heroes run into problems they cannot fix alone. When Ty faces a challenge that is simply too big for one person, he learns that every great hero needs a super team. Luckily, his brother is right there to lend a hand. You will cheer for Ty as he discovers that working together is the best superpower of all. This delightful early reader features simple text and exciting moments that will help you build your reading confidence while flying high with imagination.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Dom dreams of galloping through the fields, but those massive animals are terrifying up close. She desperately wishes she was brave enough to ride, but every time she looks at a horse, her stomach does flips. Her Momma promises that feeling nervous is completely normal when you are trying something new, but Dom cannot imagine ever feeling ready to climb into the saddle.
Instead of giving up, Dom starts spending quiet moments with her favorite horse, Magic. She gently brushes his coat and talks to him, realizing that Magic seems to understand all her secret worries. Magic is patient and calm, giving Dom the tiny spark of courage she needs. When she finally takes a deep breath and steps into the stirrup, something wonderful happens. The frightened pounding of her heart perfectly matches Magic's steady, comforting steps. You will feel Dom's triumph as she transforms her fear into pure joy. This beautiful story shows that taking your time and trusting a gentle friend is the best way to conquer your biggest worries.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Do you love to put on a show and share your special talents? Get ready for "Showtime!" where the stage is set for big dreams and even bigger fun! This exciting story invites you to follow a young performer as they prepare for a very special event. Will everything go perfectly as planned, or will there be some unexpected, wobbly moments along the way?
You'll get to experience the thrill of getting ready for the spotlight, from practicing hard to finding the courage to step onto the stage. It's a heartwarming tale about being brave, believing in yourself, and the wonderful feeling of teamwork. This book is perfect for anyone who loves to sing, dance, act, or simply enjoys cheering on their friends as they shine! It reminds us that everyone has a unique light to share.
6-8 Years
How can you possibly pick just one favorite time of year? Lyric is trying to decide, and every single season has something amazing to offer. When spring arrives, she loves listening to the birds sing and jumping rope in the blooming park. But just when she thinks spring is the absolute best, summer rolls in with sunny beach trips, loud music, and delicious family cookouts.
Then the air turns crisp, and fall brings swirling leaves and warm sweet potato pies that make her mouth water. Finally, winter blankets the world in magical snowflakes, cozy fires, and joyful holiday celebrations. Follow Lyric on a wonderful journey through the calendar as she discovers the unique beauty hidden in every changing month. You will want to sing along with this joyful celebration of weather, family, and the fun activities that make the whole year so incredibly special.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
The house is buzzing with activity right before dinnertime, and Ty is searching for a playmate. He really wishes his family would stop working and play a fun game with him. But Mom and Dad are completely busy, and his brother is rushing around finishing chores. No one has a single second to spare for fun.
Luckily, Ty has a brilliant mind and knows exactly how to create his own adventure. If his family cannot play with him, he will just have to use his powerful imagination to build an exciting journey right in the living room. It is time to blow the whistle and shout all aboard for a fantastic ride. You will love watching Ty transform a boring evening into a thrilling train trip. This cheerful early reader is packed with simple words and celebrates how a little creativity can turn an ordinary day into something spectacular.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Get ready for an outdoor adventure that is moving entirely indoors. Ty and his family have been looking forward to a fantastic camping trip all week long. They have their gear packed and their spirits high. But then the dark clouds roll in, and nonstop heavy rain completely ruins their outdoor plans.
While everyone else feels disappointed by the gloomy weather, Ty knows that a little rain cannot stop a big adventure. Using his famous imagination and a lot of positive energy, Ty figures out a brilliant way to bring the wilderness right into the living room. You will have a blast joining Ty as he builds an indoor campsite and shows his family how to have fun no matter what the sky looks like. This vibrant graphic novel is perfect for new readers, featuring exciting comic panels and a joyful story about turning a bad day into the best camp-out ever.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Walking into the classroom feels incredibly lonely when your favorite person is no longer there. Since Jada Jones's best friend moved to a different town, school has become the absolute last place she wants to be. She would much rather spend her afternoons wandering outside, hunting for shiny, fascinating rocks to add to her growing collection. Rocks are predictable, quiet, and much easier to figure out than finding new friends.
Things finally start to look up when her teacher announces a massive class project focused entirely on rocks and minerals. Jada is absolutely thrilled to share her rock expertise. But her excitement crashes when she realizes one of her group members hates all of her ideas. Even worse, the teammate does not seem to like Jada at all. You will be turning pages fast to see if Jada can save her science grade and win over a tough crowd. This charming chapter book beautifully captures the awkwardness of changing friendships and the joy of letting your unique talents shine.
6-8 Years
96 Pages
Get ready to stomp your feet and swing your tail to the biggest prehistoric party in town. It is time for the dinosaurs to show off their absolute best dance moves. When the music starts pumping, these massive creatures cannot help but hit the dance floor. You will see enormous T-Rexes twirling, spiky Stegosauruses spinning, and long-necked giants grooving to the beat.
But the dance floor keeps getting more and more crowded as new friends rush in to join the fun. Everyone wants to show off their rhythm and style. Can they keep the party going without bumping into each other? You will want to jump up and dance right alongside these energetic reptiles. This hilarious and bouncy story is packed with lively rhythm, silly dinosaur action, and nonstop dancing fun that will keep you moving from the first page to the very end.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
56 Pages
Meet Jada Jones, your new favorite fourth-grade scientist. Whether she is hunting for the perfect rock or figuring out how to balance school projects with her friendships, Jada always brings her big heart and curious mind to every problem she faces. This collection brings together five of her best adventures in one exciting set.
Step into Jada's world as she runs for student council, plans the ultimate science-themed sleepover, and discovers that sometimes the hardest experiments involve navigating tricky moments with her classmates. Along the way, you will learn fun science facts and see how Jada uses her love for STEM to help her community and support her friends.
Perfect for readers who love exploring how the world works, this collection celebrates being true to yourself and the power of a great scientific discovery. Join Jada as she proves that anyone can be a rock star in their own unique way.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
Jump in
You are invited to the best party of the year. Jada is hosting her very first sleepover, and she has planned an amazing lineup of science experiments. From kitchen chemistry to glowing slime and secret invisible ink, it is going to be a night full of discovery.
Why it pulls you in
Things do not go exactly according to Jada's master plan. Her friends start getting tired of all the science lessons and just want to hang out and play. Jada loves her experiments, but she loves her friends too. Now, she has to figure out the perfect formula to mix science with classic sleepover fun before the night is ruined.
What you will discover
You will join Jada as she learns a valuable lesson about listening to others and finding a balance between what she loves and what her friends enjoy. Packed with cool science ideas and relatable friendship challenges, this story shows that sometimes the best experiments are the ones you do together.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
96 Pages
Do you dream of having a dog of your very own? Miles certainly does! More than anything, he wishes he had a furry friend to play with, cuddle, and care for every single day. The problem? His parents aren't so sure he's ready for such a big responsibility just yet.
When Miles and his classmates welcome some super cool pet frogs into their classroom, Miles sees it as his perfect opportunity. This is his chance to show everyone, especially his parents, that he truly can take good care of animals. He tries his absolute best to be a great pet sitter, but sometimes, things don't go exactly as planned. Get ready for some funny (and a little bit messy!) mix-ups as Miles learns what it really takes to be responsible.
Can Miles pull it all together and prove, once and for all, that he's responsible enough for a dog of his own? Join him on this heartwarming and humorous adventure about dreams, responsibility, and the messy fun of learning to care for all kinds of critters!
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
96 Pages
A simple afternoon of baking bread is about to turn into a magical journey through time. While little Zoe helps her grandmother knead the dough, she notices the fascinating details on her grandmother's hands. As Zoe watches the rose-painted nails and the shiny wedding ring glide across the flour, those wise hands begin to tell incredible tales of the past.
Every wrinkle and movement shares a piece of family history that Zoe has never heard before. You will be enchanted as you listen along with Zoe, discovering how a lifetime of hard work, joy, and deep love leaves beautiful marks on the people we care about. As the bread bakes, Zoe starts to imagine the wonderful stories her own hands might tell one day. This heartwarming picture book is a beautiful celebration of family wisdom, sharing traditions, and the unbreakable bond between a grandmother and her granddaughter.
6-8 Years
32 Pages
Miles Lewis has been waiting his entire life for the ultimate science showdown. The city-wide science competition is finally here, and his biggest dream is actually coming true. He is thrilled to be placed on an all-star team with the smartest kids in school, including his brilliant friend Jada Jones. Miles loves science more than anything, so this should be the easiest project ever.
But once the team starts working together, everything goes terribly wrong. While his teammates are coming up with amazing ideas and building incredible models, Miles keeps making frustrating mistakes. The group starts arguing, their project slows down, and Miles suddenly feels like he is ruining everything. Is he really the science expert he thought he was, or is he just a total failure? You will relate to every moment of self-doubt as Miles tries to find his confidence again. This fantastic chapter book explores the pressure of working in a group, the fear of not being smart enough, and the true meaning of teamwork.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
96 Pages
The Story of Architect Philip Freelon
Every incredible building begins with a quiet dream and a brilliant mind. Meet Philip Freelon, a visionary artist who grew up with a deep love for his family's rich history and a powerful desire to build structures that mattered. Philip understood that buildings are not just bricks and glass. They are places where communities gather, learn, and celebrate their shared culture.
Follow his remarkable journey from a creative young boy drawing sketches to a master architect trusted with one of the most important projects in America. Philip was chosen as the lead architect for the groundbreaking Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. You will be inspired as you discover how his artistic vision and dedication to Black culture helped design a spectacular monument for the entire world to see. This stunning biography shows you how one man used his talent and passion to construct a lasting legacy, proving that you can literally build your dreams from the ground up.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
Your family has a special tradition hanging right on the wall. For Ellen, the broom above the hearth is more than just a tool to sweep the floor. It is the very thing that made her parents a family back when they were not legally allowed to marry. Now that the laws have changed during Reconstruction, former slaves can register as lawful husband and wife. Ellen and her family are dressing up in their Sunday best for the long trip to the courthouse. But Ellen makes sure to bring the special broom along for the journey. Old traditions matter just as much as new freedoms. Watch Ellen burst with pride as her parents jump the broom one more time. This beautifully illustrated story shows how deeply family bonds can reach and honors a powerful moment in history.
6-8 Years
33 Pages
Tiara has a beautiful gift for telling stories, and her momma has a wonderful gift for making spectacular hats. Together, they love celebrating their family fashion traditions. But when a brand new store opens in town selling cheaper hats, Momma is forced to put her hat-making dreams away. The vibrant hats she used to make sit hidden in boxes, and Momma loses her joyful spirit. Tiara knows she has to do something to bring her mother's passion back to life. Using her own creative mind and a lot of determination, Tiara comes up with a brilliant plan to remind her community about the magic of a handmade hat. You will love joining Tiara as she organizes a special parade to help her momma dream again. This heartwarming story shines with family love, creative problem-solving, and the power of a daughter's belief in her mother.
6-8 Years
35 Pages
The True Story of Misty Copeland
Before she was a world-famous ballerina performing on the biggest stages, she was just an ordinary girl with an extraordinary dream. Misty Copeland made history when she became the first African American Female Principal Dancer for the prestigious American Ballet Theatre. But her journey to the top of the ballet world was not easy, and it certainly did not happen overnight.
How did a young girl who started dancing much later than her peers rise to become a global icon? You will discover the incredible true story of Misty's early life, the tough challenges she faced, and the intense dedication it took to perfect her craft. She had to overcome doubts, break down barriers, and work harder than anyone else in the studio. This inspiring biography shows you exactly what it takes to leap over obstacles and achieve greatness. It is the perfect read for anyone who has big dreams, loves to dance, and wants to learn how one American girl changed history with her grace and strength.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
48 Pages
Get ready to hit the trails with your favorite science-loving student. Jada Jones is absolutely thrilled about her class field trip to the great outdoors. Even better, her nature-loving Pop Pop is coming along as a chaperone. Jada cannot wait to show off her grandfather to all her friends and share her impressive knowledge of the natural world. She is ready to be the star of the forest.
But the wilderness holds a few unexpected surprises. Along the hiking paths and towering trees, Jada faces challenges she did not plan for. When the class encounters a soaring zip line, Jada suddenly feels her confidence slip away. She is not sure she has the courage to take the leap. What happens when the girl who always has the answers starts to doubt herself? You will be cheering for Jada as she learns that being brave does not mean you are never scared. This exciting chapter book mixes outdoor adventure with real-life school drama, perfect for anyone who loves exploring nature and overcoming big fears.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
96 Pages
Jada Jones loves helping her community, but the latest student council project has her feeling completely totally terrified. The council is hosting a school dance to raise money, and Jada wants to support the great cause. There is just one huge problem. Jada cannot dance at all.
While her friends are excited to hit the dance floor, Jada feels sick to her stomach. She wants to be a good leader and show she cares, so she decides to tackle this problem like a true scientist. Jada heads to the library to research dance moves, practices her steps at home, and asks her friends for urgent help. But will all this preparation be enough to overcome her nerves when the music starts playing? Join Jada as she discovers that you do not need perfect rhythm to make a big difference. This delightful chapter book shows how hard work, good friends, and a little bit of bravery can help you step out of your comfort zone and shine.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
96 Pages
The race for class representative is officially on, and Jada Jones is ready to win. She has great ideas for her school and is campaigning as hard as she can. Jada wants to prove she is the best person for the job, so she starts making big promises to her classmates to get their votes.
But running for office is a lot more complicated than she expected. Suddenly, rumors start spreading around the school about Jada having a secret fear of public speaking. She does not know who started the whispers, and she is not sure which friends she can actually trust. The pressure is building, and her list of campaign promises is getting impossible to keep. Is winning the election really worth losing her closest friends? You will be hooked on every page as Jada navigates the messy world of school politics. This engaging chapter book is perfect for anyone who loves reading about real school challenges, friendship drama, and learning how to be an honest leader.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
96 Pages
The annual Fun Run is the biggest event at Brookside Elementary, and Miles Lewis is completely focused on the finish line. Miles wants to be one of the top five runners in the whole school. He is incredibly fast when it comes to short sprints, but long-distance running drains his energy fast. To reach his goal, Miles uses his love of science to design the ultimate training routine. He creates a strict exercise plan and studies nutrition to build up his endurance.
When the day of the big race finally arrives, Miles is ready to leave the competition in the dust. But right in the middle of the run, he notices another student struggling to keep moving forward. Miles suddenly has a difficult choice to make. Should he keep pushing for his own personal victory, or should he slow down to help a friend in need? You will run right alongside Miles as he figures out what being a true winner actually means. This engaging chapter book is packed with sports action, clever science facts, and big decisions.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
96 Pages
Pack your winter gear and get ready to travel to the North Pole with Ty and Momma! Using the power of a giant imagination, Ty turns an ordinary day into a spectacular holiday trip.
As you explore this sparkling winter world, you will meet a giant singing polar bear and a very friendly snowman. You will see a beautiful Christmas tree shining brightly in the snow. But the biggest question of all is whether Ty will finally get to meet Santa Claus. He is wishing as hard as he can!
This cheerful story brings the joy of the holiday season right to your hands. With bright illustrations and words that are easy and fun to read, you will love going on this magical snowy adventure. It is the perfect holiday journey to share with your family, showing that the best adventures start right inside your own mind.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Hey there, future scientist! Get ready to join Miles Lewis as Valentine's Day approaches. Miles isn't super excited about all the hearts and mush, but he is definitely looking forward to the amazing candy experiments happening in his science class! Imagine all the sweet fun and cool discoveries you could make with candy.
When his teacher asks for grown-up helpers, Miles and his friend Jada have a brilliant idea. They both want to invite their grandparents! As they chat, they start to notice something interesting: Miles's Nana and Jada's Pop Pop have a lot in common. Could these two become more than just volunteers? Miles and Jada put on their detective hats to see if they can spark a special connection between their grandparents.
Get ready for some sweet science, fun with friends, and maybe even a little bit of playful matchmaking in this exciting story!
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
96 Pages
Ty can't wait to ride his brand-new scooter at the park! He sees other kids zipping and zooming by, but when Ty tries to ride, all he can do is wobble. It's super tricky, and he wants to give up. Have you ever felt that way when trying something new?
It's tough when things don't go as planned! But a kind new friend helps Ty remember that practice and a little bit of imagination can make a big difference. Together, they discover the joy of trying again, even if you stumble.
Join Ty on his exciting park adventure as he learns to be brave and keep going. This cheerful story celebrates friendship and the wonderful power of persistence. Soon, Ty might just be zipping and zooming like a pro, all thanks to trying one more time!
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
30 Pages
Step into the museum
Put on your invisible lab coat and join Ty and his brother Corey for an exciting day of discovery. As soon as you walk through the museum doors, you become a real scientist. You will study fascinating bugs, hunt for ancient fossils, and even figure out how to catch the wind.
Why you will love this adventure
Sometimes being younger means you cannot join in on every activity. But Ty proves that a giant imagination is the best tool a scientist can have. When a lab experiment is meant only for older kids, Ty uses his brilliant mind to create magical science fun right at home.
Get ready to discover
This joyful story is packed with bright art and words that are fun to read out loud. You will learn that you do not need a fancy laboratory to make incredible discoveries. You just need curiosity and a great imagination!
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages
Hey there, young chef! Get ready to join Miles and his best friend, RJ, as they whip up some fun in their school's big bake sale. Miles is super confident that his Nana's famous tea cakes are a guaranteed win. But RJ has a secret reason for needing that prize money – he accidentally broke his mom's favorite keepsake, and he really wants to replace it!
As they mix, measure, and bake, things don't always go as planned. You'll see them face all sorts of hilarious mishaps and tricky moments in the kitchen. Will their delicious desserts be enough to win? More importantly, will Miles and RJ discover the real secret ingredient for success?
Join Miles and RJ on an adventure where they learn that working together, being honest, and adding a little bit of love to everything you do is the best recipe of all. This chapter book is packed with sweet treats, friendship, and even a sprinkle of science!
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
96 Pages
Discover the powerful voice and unstoppable courage of a true civil rights hero! While many people know Coretta Scott King as the wife of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., she was a fierce and brilliant leader in her own right. Long before she met her husband, Coretta was a talented singer and a dedicated activist who believed deeply in equality and justice. Throughout her life, she used her voice to fight for the rights of Black Americans and women everywhere. Even in the face of incredible danger and heartbreak, she never stopped marching, organizing, and inspiring others to stand up for what is right. Part of the She Persisted chapter book series, this moving biography by award-winning author Kelly Starling Lyons brings Coretta's incredible journey to life. Featuring beautiful illustrations and an introduction by Chelsea Clinton, this book highlights how Coretta Scott King's dedication changed history. Get ready to be inspired by a woman who proved that persistence and peaceful protest can truly change the world.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
80 Pages
The sun is barely up, but Lil Alan and his family are already packing the car for the best road trip of the year. They are driving down home to Granny's house for their big family reunion. Going down home means stepping onto the land where their ancestors walked and sharing amazing stories with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
Every year, the children present a special tribute to honor their family's rich history. The other kids have their songs and poems perfectly planned. But Lil Alan is struggling to figure out what he can share that will show how much this history means to him. You will feel the warmth of true family love as Lil Alan searches his heart for the perfect gift. This beautiful story celebrates the deep roots and strong traditions that connect generations together.
6-8 Years
9-12 Years
32 Pages