Julius Lester...

Julius Lester is a popular author who writes books that seem to focus on life and situations that have caused life changes. For example, several of his books were written about problems in the world such as: slavery, civil rights movements, death/murder, etc. He is an African-American author, therefore many of his writings are focused around topics that affect or stem from the Black Culture. Some critics feel that his writings are too advanced or developmentally inappropriate for children and should be listed as for adults. However, he feels he writes for audiences of all ages. Some of the books he has written are:

John Henry
To Be a Slave
Guardian
Let's Talk About Race

I've reviewed many of his books in bookstores and websites, but I read Let's Talk About Race and thoroughly enjoyed it. It is intended for childrend between the ages of 4/5-8. It describes a person's identity as being more in depth than just the basis of race. It allows children to see that we are more alike than we actually appear on the outside. It's an awesome book to introduce diversity and to oppose prejudiced attitudes.