Creative nonfiction is the fastest growing genre in children’s publishing. Simply put, it is non-fiction that reads like fiction. Although everything is factual and actual, these books neither look nor read like a textbook. Instead, you’ll find expressive, colorful—even lyrical— language employed. These stories feature a strong protagonist, interesting settings and an exciting narrative arc. The accompanying art is just as good as anything you’ll find in a fiction book.
For nonfiction, the age range for picture books extends higher than for fiction. Simpler stories, with a lower word count, can be read to young children. Older children will read these books independently and may even use them for research. As these books generally include additional information, time lines and research in the back matter and address the Common Core Standards, they are often appropriate for classroom use.
Picture book biographies can fall into this category, and I’ve been reading loads of them lately. With a special nod to Baby Boomer grandparents, I made up a list of some books that will educate and entertain children and adults alike.
Me…Jane, Patrick McDonnell’s award-winning book about the inspiring Dr. Jane Goodall, captures the joy and wonder of her childhood.
The Watcher: Jane Goodall’s Life with the Chimps, the acclaimed book by Jeanette Winter, follows Jane from her childhood to her work in Africa to her life today.
Just Being Audrey by Margaret Cardillo offers us a complete portrait of Audrey as a little girl, actress, icon and inspiration.
The Beatles Were Fab (and They Were Funny) by Kathleen Krull is a fun, colorful and nostalgic (for those of us who remember the 60′s) look at the Beatles.
Jim Henson—The Guy Who Played with Puppets, also by Kathleen Krull, illuminates the life of Jim Henson, who transformed children’s television by making learning fun.
Balloons Over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade captures the playfulness, genius, and dedication of puppeteer extraordinaire, Tony Sarg.
Bon Appetit! The Delicious Life of Julia Child is a comprehensive and enchanting picture book biography by Jessie Hartland.
The Champ: The Story of Muhammed Ali by Tonya Bolden touches upon some of the most complex and fascinating aspects of this world-wide-known figure.
You Never Heard of Sandy Koufax? by Jonah Winter shines a light on the amazing baseball player and man.
Marcel Marceau: Master of Mime by Gloria Spielman and Monsieur 
Marceau: Actor Without Words by Leda Schubert are two fine biographies that tell the story of this entertainer who worked with the French underground during World War II.
The Fantastic Undersea Life of Jacques Cousteau by Dan Yaccarino educates us about this ocean explorer while conveying his life-long wonder and excitement.
A Note ~ In looking over this list, I realized that at least half the subjects of these picture book biographies experienced some form of discrimination or deprivation; even so, they believed in themselves and overcame those obstacles and achieved great success.
Read more from Belinda Brock on her blog, Grandbooking
Belinda Brock
My background is in teaching and educational publishing. Currently, I am a writing coach working with students who are applying for college, graduate or professional school. I am in the midst of setting up a small publishing company to publish my children's stories. My blog, Grandbooking, focuses on children, books and literacy.
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