In the elementary classroom, teachers often introduce new units through the use of trade books. Children's literature, the best of which brings social studies content to life, is usually more engaging than textbook prose. Children's literature that shares the experiences, contributions, and perspectives of various cultural groups achieves several goals at once. It can help elementary students develop a sense of civic efficacy and acquire the attitudes and skills (such as tolerance and assertiveness, active listening and clear speaking) that are essential to the functioning of a multicultural society. The authors of this article recommend a series of books that they have found to be especially successful in introducing students to social studies concepts and African American historical figures: the "Joe Joe" books by Jean Alicia Elster. Through these fictional stories, all students are introduced to the real accomplishments of a variety of influential African Americans. The students witness Joe Joe taking the knowledge and inspiration he has gained from learning about historical figures and applying them to challenges in his own life. The authors also provide suggestions for integrated learning, hands-on activities designed to engage students and assist them in making connections between the Joe Joe stories and their own real-world experiences. A sidebar to this article explains how the Joe Joe series relates to national, state, and local standards. An interview with the author, Jean A. Elster, is also included. (Contains 6 endnotes.)