Shelby County A to Z, presented by The Shelby County Youth and Education Nonprofit Committee, celebrates the largest county in Tennessee using colorful photography and illustrations. The adventurous picture book takes you on a journey through the alphabet with over 40 highlights of significant locations, landmarks, and individuals in an engaging format for early readers.
Every kindergartner in Memphis-Shelby County Schools received a complimentary copy of Shelby County A to Z amid the Shelby County Mayor's Office's celebration of literacy and kindergarten milestones.
Courtesy of Kifani Press
Shelby County A to Z
Illustrations by Ashley Foxx, April Foxx | Photography by Jamie Harmon and Community Contributors
We understand the importance of foundational literacy and that our earliest readers need to engage with books that reflect the diversity of their lives,” says Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris. “Our picture book is just one way to continue to invest in our students from the very start. Shelby County A to Z will help our earliest readers learn about the people, places, and things that make our community great.”
Since 2022, The Shelby County Youth and Education Nonprofit Committee has worked with literacy experts and community leaders to develop a book that not only aids in learning but also enriches a child’s understanding of their hometown in a way that looks and feels like their daily lives.
The book follows the successful release of Adventures with Amir and Zuri: Shelby County A to Z, a companion text for readers in second through fifth grades from the Shelby County Office of Innovation.
Shelby County A to Z is also equipped with free educational resources for readers and educators to enjoy, along with a downloadable digital version of the book and "read aloud" video.
Families are invited to join the Shelby County A to Z Community Expo on Sat., August 17, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., at Benjamin Hooks Library. The event will include book give-aways, discovering local businesses, organizations, and resources while enjoying live entertainment, interactive activities, and learning more about the great things Shelby County has to offer.
To learn more about Shelby County A to Z, downloadable resources, and the community expo, visit shelbycountyatoz.com.