Spring into reading: 5 new children’s books for learning and family fun

Spring is the perfect time to read together as a family. Books are filled with the resources and information needed to support each child’s development. They cultivate language skills, cognitive development, and emotional awareness. They also help children relate to the world around them and become global citizens.
The five children’s books published by Planting People Growing Justice Press as part of its 2025 Spring Book Collection, do all that and more. They inspire life skills and leadership potential, while relatable characters and positive messaging instill cultural pride and awareness.
Meet the Books
1) “Akua Goes to the Post Office” by Dr. Artika Tyner. Life skill: The importance of written communication – Young readers join an inquisitive young girl, Akua, and her family on a trip to the post office. They are introduced to how mail is sorted and delivered. They learn how fun it can be to keep in touch by writing letters.
2) “Kojo Goes to the Library” by Dr. Artika Tyner. Life skill: The importance of literacy and education – By following a bright young boy, Kojo, on his first trip to the library, young readers are introduced to the joy that can be found in the world of books, storytelling, and learning. They watch him as he gains a love for reading and realizes the power of knowledge.
3) “Carl Walker: The Sound of Justice” by Majeste Phillip. Life skill: The importance of using your leadership skills to uplift the community – Young readers meet a Rondo community leader, Reverend Carl Walker, who brought the joy of music to thousands of people of all ages. They learn how Walker West Music Academy gives students the musical skills to tell their own stories and a space to come together around music.
4) “Shirley Chisholm: Champion for Change” by Dr. Tonya Allen. Life skill: The importance of courage and justice – By learning about the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress, young readers are inspired to become difference-makers. In 1972, she demonstrated what it meant to be “unbought and unbossed” when she ran for president of the United States. Our youth can see how her legacy of change lives on and continues to inspire future leaders.
5) “The Amazing Foods of Africa: A to Z” by Dr. Artika Tyner and Dorthy Gbolo. Life skill: The importance of culture and history – Families are introduced to the foods from the continent of Africa. This experience encourages young readers and families to explore their cultural history and celebrate their heritage through food. It is an invitation to learn and grow while cooking and enjoying a meal together.

A call to action
A “first educator” refers to the fundamental primary role that parents and caregivers play in a person’s early development and education. They instill essential life skills, morals, and behaviors.
By incorporating personal narratives into daily life, first educators can help children develop important literacy skills, emotional intelligence, and social understanding. Storytelling is not just a way to preserve history or teach morals. It is a powerful tool for connecting with others and fostering personal growth. Encourage your children to share their stories and watch as they grow into confident, empathetic, and articulate individuals.
Through her organization, Planting People Growing Justice Leadership Institute, Dr. Artika Tyner offers resources to foster literacy and education.