Books by Marilyn Nelson

Marilyn Nelson writes picture books and middle grade and young adult for ages 4–18, exploring themes of resilience & perseverance, self-confidence & identity, curiosity & wonder.

Standalone Books

Pemba's Song: A Ghost Story

Tonya Hegamin, Marilyn Nelson

Pemba, 15, moves from Brooklyn to Connecticut, where paranormal experiences link her to a mulatto slave girl from the pa

Ages 4–11

Beautiful Ballerina

Marilyn Nelson

For children who dream big and love dance, this lyrical picture book celebrates the dedication and grace needed to achie

Ages 4–8

American Ace

Marilyn Nelson

After his grandmother's death, Connor's father falls into a deep depression upon learning his biological father was not

Ages 12–18

How I Discovered Poetry

Marilyn Nelson

Marilyn Nelson's memoir in verse captures her development as an artist and young Black woman in the 1950s. It's an eye-o

Ages 12–18

Snook Alone

Marilyn Nelson

When a ferocious storm separates loyal rat terrier Snook from his human, Abba Jacob, Snook must learn to fend for himsel

Ages 4–7

By Age Range

Ages 4–7

3 books

Ages 8–11

2 books

Ages 12–18

2 books

If Your Family Loves Marilyn Nelson, Also Try

Gabriela Goldin Marcovich

My Latin America and the Caribbean: a Celebration

Michael Burgan

Rhode Island

Zita Newcome

Pop-up Toddlerobics: Fun Action Rhymes

Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve

The Hopis

April Jones Prince

Who Was Mark Twain?