Smith, Elliott

The US government forced Japanese Americans to live in US incarceration camps during World War II (1939-1945). Through photographs from the past and present, discover how fear and racism led to the incarceration camps, what life in the camps was like, and what happened after Japanese Americans left the camps. Then learn about US incarceration camps' connection to modern issues and see how people are making sure this difficult time in history is never forgotten or repeated. Read Woke Books are created in partnership with Cicely Lewis, the Read Woke librarian. Inspired by a belief that knowledge is power, Read Woke Books seek to amplify the voices of people of the global majority (people who are of African, Arab, Asian, and Latin American descent and identify as not white), provide information about groups that have been disenfranchised, share perspectives of people who have been underrepresented or oppressed, challenge social norms and disrupt the status quo, and encourage readers to take action in their community.

The entertainment industry includes TV shows and movies, plays, comedy, and more. New people are always ready to show off their talent. Black entertainers such as Queen Latifah, Donald Glover, and Zendaya transform the industry and move people's emotions. They deliver performances and create works that inspire audiences in every generation. Discover more Black entertainers and learn about their many achievements and how they continue to impact entertainment.

Athletes and the sports they play are popular across generations. Black athletes throughout time have become legends in their sports. They help shape the game, create change, and continue to break barriers in sports where they've been historically underrepresented. Their talent and passion inspire present and future players. Find out more about athletes such as Simone Manuel, Satchel Paige, and Maya Moore and celebrate their achievements in sports.

An easy-to-read graphic novel that reveals why Jackie Robinson's shattering of the color barrier in baseball is among the greatest moments in history.

"Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker T.J. Watt learned to chase down quarterbacks at the University of Wisconsin. In 2021, he led the NFL in sacks and won the Defensive Player of the Year award"--.

"Explore the life of Justin Jefferson, one of the most exciting wide receivers in the NFL. Jefferson's football skills have made him a superstar, and Minnesota Vikings fans love to watch his touchdown dance"--.

"Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry is the NBA's greatest long-range shooter. Catch an inside glimpse of his life, including his athletic family, his journey to the NBA, and more"--Provided by publisher.

"The Civil War began after eleven southern states seceded in order to keep slavery. Discover how enslaved people experienced the war, from serving on the front lines to glimpsing and winning freedom"--.

"Slavery grew in America with the enslavement of indigenous peoples and millions of Africans. Learn about the Middle Passage and how the slave trade operated and was brought to its end"--.

"Even after the institution of slavery became illegal, the legacy of slavery continued through injustices created by the Jim Crow laws. Learn more about these discriminatory laws that have shaped America's past and present"--Provided by publisher.