Where to Start with Alicia D. Williams
Alicia D. Williams is an acclaimed American author and educator whose stories weave hope, identity, and resilience into the lives of young readers. If you are new to her work, the best place to start depends on the age of the reader. Because her books are entirely standalone stories, there is no strict chronological plotline to follow. Instead, you can choose the path that best matches your reading preferences or classroom needs.
For middle-grade readers (ages 8 to 12) and young adults, starting with her stunning debut novel, Genesis Begins Again, is highly recommended. It offers a powerful introduction to her realistic characters, emotional depth, and raw honesty. If you prefer poetry and fast-paced styling, her novel-in-verse, Mid-Air, is another fantastic entry point. For younger audiences or families seeking read-alouds, her picture books and biographies like Jump at the Sun or Shirley Chisholm Dared serve as the perfect introduction to historical storytelling.
Middle-Grade Novels
Williams has written two major middle-grade novels that address deep, emotional topics with grace and vulnerability. Although they are independent projects, reading them in publication order allows you to see her growth as a novelist.
1. Genesis Begins Again (2019)
This award-winning contemporary novel follows thirteen-year-old Genesis Anderson as she struggles with colorism, family instability, and self-acceptance. Genesis has a list of things she hates about herself, and her dark skin is at the top. When her family is evicted and moves to a new neighborhood, Genesis must navigate a new school while finding her voice through choir. This debut earned a Newbery Honor, the Coretta Scott King–John Steptoe Award for New Talent, and was a finalist for both the Kirkus Prize and the William C. Morris Award.
2. Mid-Air (2024)
Written in lyrical verse, this tender and poignant novel centers on a young boy named Isaiah as he navigates the sudden, tragic loss of his best friend. The story explores male friendships, emotional vulnerability, vulnerability, and the complex process of healing from grief. The book was longlisted for the 2024 National Book Award for Young People's Literature, cementing Williams's reputation for tackling heavy topics with immense empathy.
Picture Books, Biographies, and Illustrated Works
In addition to her longer novels, Williams is a prolific writer of children's picture books. These works are ideal for younger readers (ages 4 to 9) and are often used in elementary school classrooms to teach history and social-emotional skills.
1. Jump at the Sun: The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston (2021)
This picture book biography celebrates the life of legendary folklorist and author Zora Neale Hurston. It details how Hurston listened to stories on the porches of Eatonville, Florida, and grew up to capture those voices for generations to come. It serves as a great introduction to historical research and oral histories.
2. Shirley Chisholm Dared: The Story of the First Black Woman in Congress (2021)
Williams highlights the trailblazing life of Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress and the first to run for the Democratic presidential nomination. The book focuses on Chisholm’s determination, her childhood in Barbados and Brooklyn, and her bold political career. It won the Jane Addams Children’s Book Award.
3. The Talk (2022)
This gentle yet profoundly honest picture book tackles the difficult conversation that many Black and brown parents must have with their children about systemic racism and staying safe. Following a young boy named Jay as he grows up, the book shows how a warm childhood is met with the reality of social prejudices, earning a Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor and a Golden Kite Honor.
4. Nani and the Lion (2026)
An original folktale illustrated by Anna Cunha, this story features Nani, a young girl who loves to drum. When a grumpy, noise-hating lion becomes king and outlaws all sounds, the villagers are silenced. Nani must find the courage to use her drums to stand up to the bully and bring joy back to her community. It is a beautiful fable about speaking up and using one's voice.
Chronological vs. Publication Order
Since Alicia D. Williams writes standalone fiction and biography, there is no narrative continuity linking her books together. You do not need to worry about spoilers or reading order timelines. However, if you are looking to read her books systematically, following the publication order is the easiest approach. This timeline begins with her debut novel in 2019 and moves through her illustrated books and verse novels, showcasing her expanding storytelling formats from traditional prose to verse and folklore.
What to Know Before You Start
Before diving into Alicia D. Williams' catalog, it helps to understand her background as a storyteller and educator. Williams brings a theatrical, oral-tradition sensibility to her writing. Her novels and picture books are designed to be read aloud, with rhythmic prose and distinct character voices. Parents and teachers should note that while her books are highly accessible, they do not shy away from complex themes like racism, colorism, grief, and emotional trauma. These books serve as excellent conversation starters for families and classrooms.