Welcome to Dr. Odum’s Bookshelf!
Dr. Odum’s Bookshelf is a monthly literacy series created to connect readers of all ages with books that educate, inspire, and encourage meaningful conversations.
As an educator, instructional leader, and Literacy Initiatives Manager, Dr. Doneisha Odum has spent her career supporting students, educators, and families while promoting strong literacy practices and creating engaging learning experiences. Her work in education has reinforced one simple belief: the right book can teach far more than what is written on its pages.
This series was created to make literacy accessible, relevant, and enjoyable. Each month, Dr. Odum will spotlight a thoughtfully selected book and share why it deserves a place on your reading list. Selections may introduce readers to important people and moments in history, explore culture and community, encourage personal growth, or simply remind us of the joy of a great story.
Readers can expect selections for different ages and reading levels, along with a brief explanation of why Dr. Odum chose each book and what readers can take away from it.
For this collection, the selections connect especially well to the theme “Memphis in America’s 250th: Stories that Shaped Our Nation,” highlighting people, ideas, music, history, and experiences that connect Memphis and the South to the broader American story.
Memphis in America’s 250th: Stories that Shaped Our Nation
Memphis has played a powerful role in America's story, and these featured books bring that history to life. Whether exploring the lives of influential leaders, celebrating musical legends, or following fictional families through important moments in history, each selection highlights the people, ideas, and events that connect Memphis to our nation's past and present. As we have celebrated America's 250th anniversary, we invite readers of all ages to discover how one city's stories continue to shape the American experience and inspire future generations.
A Lesson for Martin Luther King Jr. by Denise Patrick
Reading Level:
Elementary
What can we learn from one of history’s most influential leaders? This inspiring book introduces young readers to the values Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. lived by, including kindness, courage, fairness, and service to others. It encourages readers to think about how they can make a positive difference in their own communities.
I selected this book because it introduces young readers to Dr. King through the values that shaped his life; kindness, courage, fairness, and service. I especially like that it encourages children not only to learn about Dr. King, but also to think about how they can make a difference in their own communities.
Who Was Elvis Presley? by Geoff Edgers
Reading Level: Elementary/Middle
Discover the story of the young man who became the King of Rock and Roll. This engaging biography takes readers through Elvis Presley’s life, from his childhood in the South to his rise as a music icon. Along the way, readers will learn about his lasting connection to Memphis and his impact on American music.
Memphis has an incredible musical legacy, and Elvis Presley is an important part of that story. This book gives younger readers an accessible way to explore his journey while learning about Memphis's influence on American music and culture.
The Watsons Go to Birmingham by Christopher Paul Curtis
Reading Level:
Middle Grades
Join the Watson family on a memorable road trip that is equal parts funny, heartwarming, and thought-provoking. Through the eyes of ten-year-old Kenny, readers experience an important moment in American history while exploring themes of family, resilience, and growing up.
I selected this book because it does something I value in children's literature; it uses an engaging family story to help young people understand a serious moment in American history. Readers experience humor, family, resilience, and growing up while also being challenged to think more deeply about our country's past.
Who Was Ida B. Wells? By Sarah Fabiny
Reading Level: Elementary
Ida B. Wells believed that one person could make a difference, and she proved it through her courage and determination. This engaging biography introduces readers to the life of the journalist, educator, and civil rights leader who spoke out against injustice, even when it wasn't easy. I appreciated how the book explains her accomplishments in a way that's easy to understand while showing the importance of standing up for what's right. Readers will come away inspired by her bravery, resilience, and commitment to creating positive change.
Road to Memphis by Mildred D. Taylor
Reading Level:
Young Adult
Cassie Logan returns in this compelling story about friendship, justice, and standing up for what is right. Set in the 1940s South, the novel explores difficult choices, personal growth, and the strength needed to face challenges with courage.
This book is for older readers because it explores friendship, justice, courage, and the difficult choices people sometimes have to make when standing up for what is right. It gives young adults an opportunity to engage with history while also thinking about character, relationships, and personal growth.
Before John Was a Jazz Giant by Carol Boston Weatherford
Reading Level:
Elementary
Before he became one of the greatest jazz musicians of all time, John Coltrane was a child inspired by the sounds around him. This beautifully illustrated book celebrates creativity, curiosity, and the experiences that helped shape a musical legend.
This book reminds young readers that even legendary people were once children discovering their interests and talents. John Coltrane's story beautifully connects music, creativity, curiosity, and childhood experiences, and provides another opportunity to celebrate the rich musical traditions that have shaped American culture.
The Story of Martin Luther King Jr. by Johnny Ray Moore
Reading Level:
Elementary
This accessible biography introduces young readers to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Through engaging storytelling, readers learn about his leadership, his dream for equality, and the lasting impact he continues to have on our world.
Even our youngest readers should have opportunities to learn about people who helped change the world. Its accessible approach introduces children to Dr. King's leadership, his commitment to equality, and the legacy he left for future generations.
Keep reading, keep learning, and I’ll meet you back here next month for another selection from Dr. Odum’s Bookshelf!