We Dream a World: Carrying the Light From My Grandparents Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King written by Yolanda Renee King and illustrated by Nicole Tadgell
As the granddaughter of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, Yolanda Renee King wrote a beautiful book inspired by her grandparents and the incredible impact they had during a time when America was working hard to break down the walls between people of different races. Told from her perspective, the book also shows why it is so important to keep her grandparents’ values alive and to continue to carry their message forward. The illustrations by Nicole Tadgell use subtle colors that give a dreamy effect, bringing the words to life in a way that feels both soft and empowering. Together, the story and illustrations make it easy to picture a world built on equality and understanding, while encouraging readers of all ages to keep the vision of Dr. and Mrs. King alive for generations.
Sharing the Dream written by Sheila P. Moses and illustrated by Keith Mallett
Sharing the Dream tells the story of the March on Washington through the eyes of a young girl named Agnes, showing a child’s perspective on one of the most important moments in the Civil Rights Movement. On her way to the march, she notices that a water fountain doesn’t have a “whites only” sign, and her parents explain that “today everyone is one,” helping her understand what Dr. King and the movement were fighting for. The book also highlights other influential figures who spoke at the Lincoln Monument, like John Lewis and Josephine Baker. Through Agnes’ eyes, readers can understand why the march was so impactful and how the events on August 28th, 1963 helped shape history.
Dear Martin by Nic Stone
Justyce McAllister is an honors high school student trying to live by Martin Luther King Jr.’s teachings while navigating the challenges of being a Black teenager in today’s society. After an encounter with a police officer, he begins writing letters to Dr. King to process his thoughts and questions about what equality and justice really means. Dear Martin also shines a light on the people and moments that shape Justyce’s understanding of the world, showing both the obstacles he faces and the support that helps him keep going. Although this book has been challenged and banned in some libraries and schools, it remains an important read because it doesn’t shy away from or sugarcoat the realities of racism in America, and it encourages reflection on the principles and values Dr. King lived by that is still meaningful today.
Books that honor Martin Luther King Jr. are more than just stories. They are reminders of the values he stood for and why his historic “I Have a Dream” speech continues to be important in the year 2026. Whether it’s seeing the March on Washington through a child’s eyes in Sharing the Dream, reflecting on the love and courage of his family in We Dream a World, or thinking about how his teachings can guide young people today in Dear Martin, each book offers a way to connect with Dr. King. They show how we can treat each other with respect and speak up against injustice, especially in a time when conversations about equality are more important than ever.
Keonte Emerson, Pine Reads Review Writer, Editor, and Social Media Manager