Books by Mary E. Lyons

Mary E. Lyons writes picture books and middle grade and young adult for ages 4–14, exploring themes of history, celebrating heritage, resilience & perseverance.

Standalone Books (Ages 12–18)

Painting Dreams: Minnie Evans, Visionary Artist

Mary E. Lyons

Vivid paintings rooted in religious visions and African ancestry tell the story of Minnie Evans, a self-taught folk arti

Ages 8–12

Catching the Fire: Philip Simmons, Blacksmith

Mary E. Lyons

The great-grandson of slaves uses fire and iron to create beautiful art, rising from a humble apprentice to a world-famo

Ages 8–12

Letters from a Slave Boy: The Story of Joseph Jacobs

Mary E. Lyons

Through secret letters, nine-year-old Joseph Jacobs records his life in 1839 North Carolina as he searches for the truth

Ages 9–13

Feed the Children First: Irish Memories of the Great Hunger

Mary E. Lyons

For the child curious about their Irish heritage or learning about human resilience during difficult times. This book us

Ages 8–12

Dear Ellen Bee

Mary E. Lyons, Muriel M. Branch

An unlikely duo consisting of a former slave and her former owner risk everything to gather intelligence in the heart of

Ages 10–14

By Age Range

Ages 4–7

1 books

Ages 8–11

6 books

Ages 12–18

5 books