A while back, my family and I dusted off our library and dug back into the joy of reading. And so far, it has stuck with us! Since National Read A Book Day is September 6, it’s the perfect time to discover, or rediscover, Atlanta’s wealth of literary talent, independent bookstores, and local-themed books, just for kids.
National Read A Book Day:: Celebrate with Atlanta Authors, Books, & Bookstores
Who to read
Atlanta-based Children’s Authors
Becky Albertalli: Her most famous book was turned into the movie, Love, Simon, and there’s more where that came from!
Robert Burch: This author was well-known for his stories about small-town life, and the lessons we learn as we grow. One notable book is Queenie Peavy.
Roshani Chokshi: She writes middle and young-adult books, all with a mystical theme, such as The Gilded Wolves and Aruh Shah and the City of Gold.
R Gregory Christie: Technically, he’s an illustrator, but his work is beautiful, and the books he creates art for telling important stories in history.
Eric Litwin: Chances are, you’ve heard of the “Pete the Cat” series. We get to claim Pete’s creator as one of our own! He also has a series called “The Nuts” and “Groovy Joe.”
Terra Elan McVoy: This author also writes middle and young adult books, with a common theme of love and friendships. Also, McVoy is my maiden name, so I am claiming her as a relation.
Natalie Nelson: Multi-media artist who creates award-winning picture books, such as The King of the Birds and Holi-Monday!
Aisha Saeed: Her work spans all ages; she has something for everyone, including the YA novel Yes No Maybe So and the children’s book, Bilal Cooks Daal.
Surishtha and Kabir Sehgal: While they have written several children’s books, one book, A Bucket of Blessings, was adapted into a stage production at the Alliance Theatre.
Laurel Snyder: In addition to her “Charlie & Mouse” series, this prolific writer has created picture books, poetry, and chapter books for kids.
What to Read
Atlanta-themed children’s books
Here are some fun books that celebrate the people and places of Atlanta!
The Awesome Atlanta Mystery, by Carole Marsh
Good Night Atlanta, by Adam Gamble
A Kid’s Guide to Atlanta, by Sara Day and Paul Scharff
Immigration Stories from an Atlanta High School: Green Card Youth Voices, by Tea Rozman Clark, Darlene Xiomara Rodriguez, et al.
Atlanta, GA: Cool Stuff Every Kid Should Know, by Kate Boehm Jerome
Atlanta from A to Z, by Morgan H. Rose
Ballpark Mysteries #18: The Atlanta Alibi, by David A. Kelly and Mark Meyers
P is for Peach, by Carol Crane and Mark Braught
Where to buy
Atlanta Independent Bookstores
You’ve found your next favorite author or book – what better way to support the city than by patronizing one of these local shops?
Brave and Kind Books: Decatur – They offer virtual book fairs and author events
Listening Tree: Also in Decatur – Your kids can join a book club or learn more about their young entrepreneurship program.
Little Shop of Stories: You guessed it, Decatur! This store hosts storytime on Facebook, as well as a community reading group.
FoxTale Book Shoppe: Woodstock – Your little ones can hang out in the kids’ room while you browse.
Tall Tales Bookstore: Atlanta, in the Toco Hills shopping center. They also have something for everyone in the family.
Posman Books: Ponce City Market or the Avalon – After your kids have checked out their section in the back, they can pick up a cool puzzle, or go to a tokidoki event (I know, I had to Google it too!)
Rhen’s Nest Toys: While you are at the Ponce City Market, check out this place as well – they have a nice selection of children’s books too.
Medu Bookstore: Greenbriar Mall – this is the second-largest African-American-owned bookstore in Atlanta.
The Story Shop: Located in Monroe, GA, it may be a bit of a drive for some, but it’s a beautiful place, and you can even book a family portrait there.
