Books by Marilyn Nelson

Marilyn Nelson writes picture books and middle grade and young adult for ages 4–18, exploring themes of self-confidence & identity, justice & fairness, history.

Standalone Books (Ages 12–18)

American Ace

Marilyn Nelson

Sixteen-year-old Connor digs into his family history and discovers his grandfather was likely a heroic Tuskegee Airman.

Ages 12–18

How I Discovered Poetry

Marilyn Nelson

Fifty intimate poems capture the evolution of a young artist growing up during the turbulent and transformative Civil Ri

Ages 12–17

Sweethearts of Rhythm: The Story of the Greatest All-Girl Swing Band in the World

Marilyn Nelson

For the teen exploring how music can bridge divides, this poetic journey celebrates the grit and harmony of a groundbrea

Ages 12–18

A Wreath for Emmett Till

Marilyn Nelson

A sophisticated wreath of poems honors the memory of fourteen-year-old Emmett Till and his pivotal role in the American

Ages 12–18

Fortune's Bones: The Manumission Requiem

Marilyn Nelson

For the teen processing the weight of history and systemic injustice: a poetic requiem that restores humanity to a man w

Ages 12–18

Augusta Savage: The Shape of a Sculptor's Life

Marilyn Nelson

For the teenager who feels the pull of creative expression but faces systemic barriers. A powerful verse biography about

Ages 12–18

Carver: A Life in Poems

Marilyn Nelson

For the young reader seeking inspiration in the face of hardship, this lyrical biography shows how curiosity and grit ca

Ages 11–18

By Age Range

Ages 4–7

3 books

Ages 8–11

4 books