Fall 2025

Grant West

Learning through Music

From the Series Difference Makers

  • Interest Level: Grade 3 - Grade 5
  • Reading Level: Grade 4

Grant West, founder of Walker West Music Academy in St. Paul, Minnesota, has dedicated more than thirty years to shaping the lives of children through the transformative power of music.

As a passionate educator and mentor, West has guided countless students in discovering their unique voices, developing confidence, and learning the valuable leadership and teamwork skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Walker West Music Academy is more than a music school—it is a welcoming community where students of all backgrounds gather to explore, grow, and express themselves through the universal language of music.

West’s approach goes beyond teaching musical techniques. He believes music can be a tool for personal development, helping children build self-discipline, resilience, and the ability to collaborate effectively with others. Under his leadership, Walker West has become a vibrant hub where students are encouraged to dream big, push their boundaries, and make meaningful contributions to the world around them.

Format Your Price Add
979-8-89605-002-5
$22.99
978-1-959223-69-6
$10.99
Available at all major wholesalers and distributors. Save 25% off list price on library bound hardcovers and all eBook and eBook with Audio editions when you buy direct! Digital purchases will be accessed on Lerner Digital Bookshelf. An account will be created for you after purchase.
Interest Level Grade 3 - Grade 5
Reading Level Grade 4
Genre Social Studies
Category 5 Kinds of Nonfiction, 5KN: Narrative Nonfiction, Biography, Diverse Books: Race & Ethnicity, Diversity, SEL: B Self-Management, Social Emotional Learning
Copyright 2025
Publisher Planting People Growing Justice Press
Imprint Planting People Growing Justice Press
Language English
Number of Pages 32
Publication Date 2025-08-01
Text Type Narrative Nonfiction
BISACS JNF007040, JNF036000, JNF050000
Dewey 780
Dimensions 6 x 9
Guided Reading Level T
ATOS Reading Level 5.3
Accelerated Reader® Points 0.5
Features Author/Illustrator biography, Original artwork, and Reviewed

Author: Tristan Hitchens-Brookins

Tristan Hitchens-Brookins is a law student at Michigan State University and a Law and Policy intern for Planting People Growing Justice. Raised in Saint Paul, Minnesota, he aspires to serve his community in the field of immigration law.

Illustrator: Chasity Hampton

Chasity Hampton has been a professional illustrator for a decade. Starting Whimsical Designs by CJ, LLC, she aspired to craft art that reconnects people with their inner child. Hampton endeavors to evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia through her art.

Lerner eSource™ offers free digital teaching and learning resources, including Common Core State Standards (CCSS) teaching guides. These guides, created by classroom teachers, offer short lessons and writing exercises that give students specific instruction and practice using Common Core skills and strategies. Lerner eSource also provides additional resources including online activities, downloadable/printable graphic organizers, and additional educational materials that would also support Common Core instruction. Download, share, pin, print, and save as many of these free resources as you like!

Difference Makers

In this captivating series, young readers are introduced to a diverse array of inspiring leaders who have made a significant impact in their communities and beyond. Each book in the series features a different trailblazer, showcasing their unique journey,… View available downloads →

Reviews

School Library Journal, Series Made Simple

“Accomplished trailblazers receive long-overdue recognition in this inspiring and informative series. . . . A powerful series that celebrates resilience, representation, and lasting change.”—School Library Journal