Common Sense Media Review
By Diondra K. Brown
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Bold story of famed singer's life and civil rights activism.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
NINA: A STORY OF NINA SIMONE is a lyrically based retelling of the life story of Nina Simone. Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon, in a small town in North Carolina in 1933, Nina was graced with musical talents from the time she was a young child. Learning to sing before she talked, and playing the piano before going to school, she depended on the love and support of her family to make her musical dreams a reality. With a strong and sweet voice that had a "thunderous roar," Nina made bold music during the civil rights era and tried to inspire others to fight for a better tomorrow.
Is It Any Good?
Debut author Traci N. Todd and award-winning illustrator, Christian Robinson shine a stunning light on an American treasure who crossed many barriers and whose voice has stood the test of time. Nina: A Story of Nina Simone is a memorable celebration of fierce woman who was inspired by the world around her instead of being defeated by it. The bold and inventive pictures, paired with melodic words, engage readers from the start. A musically themed call to action for racial justice and hope for a brighter tomorrow, the book will surely ring true for many generations to come.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Nina: A Story of Nina Simone details the famed singer's life. What is something new you learned about her?
Nina Simone's music is very famous. Have you ever listen to her songs? If so, which song is your favorite? If not, listen to a song or two with your parent, teacher, or another trusted adult.
Illustrator Christian Robinson used collage techniques in the book. Can you create a picture with newspaper, book, or magazine clippings along with crayons, markers, or paint? Remember to use lots of colors!
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Christian Robinson
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Activism , Arts ( Music and Sing-Along ) , History
- Book type : Non-Fiction
- Publisher : G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : September 14, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 56
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Coretta Scott King Medal and Honors
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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