Adventures with Amir & Zuri:
Shelby County A to Z

Click to Order from novel Memphis

Shelby County
Residents Wrote
a Literacy Book.

Thoughtful volunteers, local literacy experts, and Shelby County Government worked together to create the ultimate literary adventure - featuring more than 55 local attractions and historical figures that make Shelby County great.

More than 10,000 books will be distributed to local 2nd graders. Additionally, you can order your free copy online.

Click to Order from novel Bookstore in Memphis

literacy for emerging readers

Perfect for 2nd-5th graders

About This Project

Every Book Includes a Special Message from Mayor Lee Harris

  • reading is awesome
  • reading is awesome
"This project was dear to my heart because through it, we were able to create a little curly-haired cutie named Zuri. Representation matters and little girls in Memphis should see their curiosity and imagination reflected in their books."
Jennifer SharpOn Character Development
"Learning about Shelby County through the eyes of a child proved to be inspiring - and sometimes challenging! I believe we all can learn something from how Amir and Zuri see their hometown. This project made me fall in love with Memphis."
Cameron WilsonOn the Visuals
"What began as a community project has grown into the ultimate undertaking. More than 300 residents contributed to this project, and they are just getting started."
Janet LoOn Community Engagement
"We are a community working together to create a Shelby County where children receive the education they deserve. Amir and Zuri: Shelby County A to Z is a fun and educational book that will help our children learn about our rich county."
Supt. Toni WilliamsOn Student Engagement
"Some of our community's burdens can feel heavy after awhile - especially the challenge to improve student literacy. But, writing a book that inspires, encourages, and teaches while bringing families closer together has been the joy we all needed."
Danielle InezOn the Mission
"This literacy book is what it's all about. Local government, our schools, parents, and the community at-large can work together to accomplish seemingly impossible feats and create a Shelby County that will be strong for generations to come."
Lee HarrisOn "Our Next Era"

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Keep in touch with Mayor Lee Harris’ Office of Innovation & the Shelby County Non-profit Committee.