That They Lived: African Americans Who Changed the World by Rochelle Riley and Cristi Smith-Jones (review)

That They Lived: African Americans Who Changed the World is an empowering book that seeks to show young readers they can achieve their dreams and enact positive change. Through a series of biographical essays that trace the lives of famous African Americans from childhood, author Rochelle Riley celebrates their accomplishments while demonstrating that they had the same dreams, concerns, challenges, and gifts that today's youth may find relatable. To further allow children to see themselves in these figures, the essays are paired with Cristi Smith-Jones's black-and-white photographs of her daughter, Lola, and Riley's grandson, Caleb, as they recreate famous images of the people explored in the stories. Although the book goes beyond the scope of Michigan history, the inclusion of Motown legends Aretha Franklin and Stevie Wonder will certainly add to its appeal for those also looking to introduce their children to famous Michiganders.