A Song for Harlem

Reach for this book when your child is hesitant to share their own stories or feels like their personal background is too ordinary to be interesting. Set during the vibrant Harlem Renaissance, this historical fiction follows Lilly Belle as she leaves her rural home for a summer writers workshop in the city. Guided by the real-life legend Zora Neale Hurston, Lilly Belle discovers that her voice has power and her heritage is a source of strength. This is an excellent choice for children ages 8 to 12 who are exploring their creative identities or learning about Black history. It offers a gentle but profound exploration of self-confidence and the importance of preserving oral traditions through literature.