The Story of Nelson Mandela: An Inspiring Biography for Young Readers

Biographical Note:
FLOYD STOKES, LHD, is the founder and executive director of the American Literacy Corporation (ALC), which is a nonprofit organization that promotes reading to children. He's also the author of more than 20 children's books. Floyd lives in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Learn more about his work at SuperReader.org.

Review Quotes:
"Finally, a book that teaches our newest readers about the power of 'good trouble' through Mandela's lifelong fight for equality. Beautifully told, vibrantly illustrated, and inspirational, The Story of Nelson Mandela teaches us all of the power we have to create change." --Mitchell Orr, educator, parent and activist

Review Quotes:
"Floyd Stokes has done an impressive job of relating the life and legacy of Nelson Mandela in a way that children will find easy to understand and inspiring. Stokes is an engaging storyteller who is committed to encouraging young readers to explore the world through books. Parents and teachers will appreciate the book's 'think tank' moments that invite readers to offer their own insights into Mandela's life. And they will be especially impressed at how Stokes maintains a positive tone while dealing with the difficult topics of racism and oppression in South Africa. Overall, Stokes has produced a treasure that provides a fitting introduction to one of the most important figures in world history." --Joyce Davis, NPR foreign corresponder, PennLive opinion page editor, president and CEO of World Affairs Council of Harrisburg

Review Quotes:
" The Story of Nelson Mandela underscores the importance of education and the need to take a stand for what is right. Stokes shares the story of Mandela in a way that is relatable to all young readers while providing a rich history lesson that will inspire. This book is a must-have for any school library!" --Michelle Felton, school administrator and former social studies teacher

Review Quotes:
"Floyd has drawn on his vast experience in the field of children's literacy to compose a beautiful and important biography of Nelson Mandela for young readers. The legendary Black South African leader was a personal hero of mine. He remains an inspiring figure whose life and the cause to which he devoted it should be known, studied, and understood by future generations. The Story of Nelson Mandela is a valuable contribution to the effort to ensure that this great man is never forgotten." --Ron Claiborne, former ABC News correspondent

Publisher Marketing:

Discover the life of Nelson Mandela--a story about uniting a country for kids ages 6 to 9

Nelson Mandela was the first Black president of South Africa, and he dedicated his life to fighting for equal rights for all South Africans. Before he became a symbol of peace and justice around the world, Nelson was a thoughtful kid who loved to play outside and learn new things. Throughout his life, he used his voice to fight against apartheid and didn't back down even after spending 27 years in prison. Explore how Nelson went from being a young boy to a civil rights hero.

• Independent reading--This Nelson Mandela biography is broken down into short chapters and simple language so kids 6 to 9 can read and learn on their own.
• Critical thinking--Kids will learn the Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How of Nelson's life, find definitions of new words, discussion questions, and more.
• A lasting legacy--Watch Nelson progress from kid to president of South Africa with a visual timeline marking the major milestones of his life.

How will Nelson's strength inspire you?

Discover activists, artists, and athletes, and more from all across history with the rest of The Story Of series, including famous figures like: Sojourner Truth, Martin Luther King Jr., John Lewis, Ruby Bridges, and Barack Obama.

Contributor Bio:Stokes, Floyd

FLOYD STOKES, LHD, is the founder and executive director of the American Literacy Corporation (ALC), which is a nonprofit organization that promotes reading to children. He's also the author of more than 20 children's books. Floyd lives in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Learn more about his work at SuperReader.org.