Nina

By Traci N. Todd, Christian Robinson (illustrator),

Book cover of Nina: A Story of Nina Simone

Book description

A BIG ISSUE BOOK OF THE YEAR

Longlisted for the UKLA Book Awards

This illuminating and defining biography from bestselling author Traci N. Todd, with illustrations from award-winner Christian Robinson, tells the story of Eunice Waymon, who grew up to become Nina Simone - and shares her bold, defiant, and…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

2 authors picked Nina as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I’m always fascinated by the transformative moment – how and when people decide to use their voices for change.

Nina Simone’s musical talent was recognized early, and she faced discrimination early, too. As the Civil Rights Movement grew, Simone at first focused on building her career. Her transformative moment was born of rage at the murder of civil rights leader Medgar Evers and the Birmingham, Alabama, 16th Street Baptist Church bombing that killed four young girls and severely injured another.

Protest songs poured out of her, and she became the fearless voice of the Civil Rights Movement. Powerful and inspirational!

From Lisa's list on music innovators.

Christian Robinson will have you swooning in this illustrated story of Nina Simone. He uses paint and collage mixed media to bring life to this stunning biography.

The illustrations are so beautiful and sophisticated, that they should truly be enjoyed by people of all ages. I especially love the graphic recreations of Nina Simone’s iconic fashion looks. And don’t forget to take a peak under the book jacket.

Want books like Nina?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Nina.

Browse books like Nina

Book cover of Ta-Da!
Book cover of Saving American Beach: The Biography of African American Environmentalist MaVynee Betsch
Book cover of Rocket Says Look Up!

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,586

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in singers, the Civil Rights Movement, and African Americans?

Singers 73 books
African Americans 813 books