Books by Marilyn Nelson

5 books · Ages 4–18

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 (Ages 4–7)

Cover of Pemba's Song: A Ghost Story
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
Cover of Beautiful Ballerina
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
Cover of Snook Alone
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
Pemba's Song: A Ghost Story
Beautiful Ballerina
Snook Alone
Ages 8–11
2 books
Pemba's Song: A Ghost Story
Beautiful Ballerina
Ages 12–18
2 books
American Ace
How I Discovered Poetry

Common Themes

Resilience & PerseveranceSelf-Confidence & IdentityCuriosity & WonderLove & FamilyLoneliness & BelongingJustice & FairnessSadness & GriefFriendship & Loyalty

If Your Family Loves Marilyn Nelson, Also Try

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My Latin America and the Caribbean: a Celebration
New Mexico
Michael Burgan
New Mexico
Pop-up Toddlerobics: Fun Action Rhymes
Zita Newcome
Pop-up Toddlerobics: Fun Action Rhymes
Cress Watercress
Gregory Maguire
Cress Watercress
The Hopis
Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve
The Hopis