Why read Nina?

Book cover of Nina: A Story of Nina Simone

Book description

A BIG ISSUE BOOK OF THE YEAR

Longlisted for the UKLA Book Awards

This illuminating and defining biography from bestselling author Traci N. Todd, with illustrations from award-winner Christian Robinson, tells the story of Eunice Waymon, who grew up to become Nina Simone - and shares her bold, defiant, and…

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Why read it?

2 authors picked Nina as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Lisa Rogers

Author

I’m always fascinated by the transformative moment – how and when people decide to use their voices for change.

Nina Simone’s musical talent was recognized early, and she faced discrimination early, too. As the Civil Rights Movement grew, Simone at first focused on building her career. Her transformative moment was born of rage at the murder of civil rights leader Medgar Evers and the Birmingham, Alabama, 16th Street Baptist Church bombing that killed four young girls and severely injured another.

Protest songs poured out of her, and she became the fearless voice of the Civil Rights Movement. Powerful and inspirational!

From Lisa's list on music innovators.

Alison Hawkins

Author

Christian Robinson will have you swooning in this illustrated story of Nina Simone. He uses paint and collage mixed media to bring life to this stunning biography.

The illustrations are so beautiful and sophisticated, that they should truly be enjoyed by people of all ages. I especially love the graphic recreations of Nina Simone’s iconic fashion looks. And don’t forget to take a peak under the book jacket.

From Alison's list on children’s illustrated stories by Black artists.