Renée Watson Reading Challenge – The Chronicles Of A Children’s Book Writer – Earl Dizon

One of the writers I think of when Portland is mentioned is Renée Watson so it was bound to happen that I would want to read all her books. 2025 was that year.

Below are the books I reviewed. (I may have skipped on reviewing a few titles for some weird reason.) As of 2026, I think I’ve read all her books.

Harlem’s Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills by Renée Watson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A biography of a life whose talent is overshadowed only by her generosity, who used her vocal talents not only to stir souls with her songs but to speak out against injustice… Once you read Florence Mills’ story, you’d wish there were some audio and video to go along with this picture book!

Maya’s Song: An Unforgettable Picture Book About Maya Angelou, Poet Whose Words Uplifted Generations for Kids by Renée Watson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Renée Watson does it again in this appropriately lyrical biography of the celebrated writer and activist Maya Angelou. Also contributing to the awesomeness of this book is Bryan Collier’s always impressive artwork.

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Summer Is Here by Renée Watson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Fun and joyful both in text and illustrations.

A Place Where Hurricanes Happen by Renée Watson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Beautiful and bittersweet story following four friends before, during, and after a hurricane.

Ways to Make Sunshine by Renée Watson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

If Ramona Quimby took place in modern times, she would be best friends with Ryan Hart. I love that she lives in Portland and does what the locals do. The positivity in this series is such a wonderful treat for readers.

Ways to Share Joy by Renée Watson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ve been surprised at how much I’ve been enjoying this series. It’s a gentle dose of storytelling that I didn’t know I was craving so much of. Ryan Hart continues to try to find the perfect mix of ingredients to have happy relationships with her family and friends.

All the Blues in the Sky by Renée Watson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This novel in verse is a tenderly told tale of grief, of loss at a young age.

Some Places More Than Others by Renée Watson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Amara finally gets to visit Harlem and see where her father grew up, she doesn’t realize how much tension there really is between her dad and granddad! This middle grade novel is perfect for anyone who enjoys family drama and learning about the past.

Piecing Me Together by Renée Watson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I felt like this novel was when I finally realized Renee Watson’s style- and appreciated how she can lyrically weave a compelling story with commentary on important issues. Would be good for upper middle grade readers as well as young adults.

What Mama Left Me by Renée Watson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I was surprised by how heavy this book got. I’ll say readers should be prepared of what they’re getting into when they pick this book up- and to give themselves permission to take it slow or put it down completely.

Black Girl You Are Atlas by Renée Watson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

One of the most powerful and beautiful poetry collection I’ve read this year.

Love Is a Revolution by Renée Watson
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I really wanted to like Nala especially when her lying to impress a guy required her to start volunteering but I couldn’t really cheer on a person who wasn’t actively trying to help others.

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Watch Us Rise by Renée Watson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this young adult novel. It shows two best friends trying to find their voices in a world where people would prefer them to be quiet. I appreciated that they showed even the closest of friends may not fully understand what the other person is and that it takes open minds and communication to work things out.

This Side of Home by Renée Watson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Once again, Renee Watson crafts a wonderful novel full of complex dynamics and difficult topics to ponder.

Skin & Bones by Renée Watson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In Renee Watson’s first foray in writing adult fiction, she’s hopefully widening her reach so more people can discover her amazing knack of creating complex characters and writing about issues that may not be talked about while also providing much-needed education about the past.

I’m looking forward to more stories!