by Anne on September 17, 2009
Jacob Lawrence, artist
Sept. 17, 1917-June 9, 2000

Story Painter: The Life of Jacob Lawrence by John Diggleby (Chronicle, 1998)
Lawrence, an accomplished African American painter who grew up in Harlem fostered his talent at a young age and by 30 was considered an incredible talent. A story of determination.
The University of Washington site has excellent bio and links.
Lena Horne, musician
June 30, 1917-

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)
Horne, best known for her hit song, Stormy Weather, sang and acted in several Hollywood musicals beginning in 1938.
PBS Online News Hour celebrated Horne’s 80th birthday. Read all about it here.
John F. Kennedy, U.S. President
May 29, 1917-November 22, 1963

A Picture Book Biography of John F. Kennedy by David A. Adler, illustrated by Robert F. Casilla (Holiday House, 1992)
The 35th President of the United States was a huge advocate for the space program, created the Peace Corps and sought to end racial discrimination.
Go to The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum to read Kennedy’s White House Diary and take a virtual tour.
by Anne on April 26, 2009
I.M. Pei, architect
Apr. 26, 1917-

How We are Smart by W. Nikola-Lisa, illustrated by Sean Qualls (Lee & Low Books, 2006)
With an eye for the modern, Pei, a Chinese architect, has designed the Louvre Pyramid, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Javits Convention Center, and the East Building of the National Gallery of Art as well as many other breath-taking structures.
View images of Pei’s work at GreatBuildings.com
by Anne on April 25, 2009
Ella Fitzgerald, musician
Apr. 25, 1917-June 15, 1996

Ella Fitzgerald: The Tale of a Vocal Virtuosa by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney (Jump At The Sun, 2002)
Legendary singer Ella Fitzgerald shines in this biography about her, told by Scat Cat Monroe, a feline in a zoot suit.