Women of Note
Artists/Photographers
Dorothea Lange
Mike Venezia
In the "Getting to Know the World's Greatest Artists"series, Mike Venezia has made a career out of writing basic but solid introductions to the art world's big names. An artist himself, Venezia's gimmick is to sprinkle cartoon-like commentaries along with the Real McCoy. Sometimes these efforts leave the reader wondering why the space wasn't used for more reproductions of real art, but in the case of Lange, it works. Venezia's double-page spread explaining the Great Depression to youngsters is brilliantly keyed right to their level, as is his cartoon that succinctly explains Lange's divorce. Dorothea Lange's photography takes over from there, as it should. Her work is gripping--from a study of her own polio-stricken foot to her unforgettable images of poverty-stricken migrant workers. The end result is a successful introduction to Lange's work and to the art of photography. 2000, Children's Press, $22.50. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr
ISBN: 0-516-22026-8
Focus: Five Women Photographers (Julia Margaret Cameron, Margaret Bourke-White, Flor Garduño, Sandy Skoglund, Lorna Simpson)
Sylvia Wolf
Sylvia Wolf focuses on Five Women Photographers who stretched the boundaries of photography as an expressive medium. She includes pioneer portraitist Julia Margaret Cameron, who broke the rules of mid-18th century formal portraiture with photographs that reflect her subject's personality, and contemporary artist Lorna Simpson, born in 1960 and Sandy Skoglund, whose creations last only until she photographs them. Ms. Skoglund's cover photo of 25 Day-Glo "Radioactive Cats" will entice readers; Ms. Wolf's words will keep them reading about the women and their work. 1994, Whitman, $18.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin
Range and excellence mark the work of the women and the pages of Wolf's collected biographies. Each of the five women shines with excellence, creativity, and the dedication to pursue their individual visions. The book moves from the psychological intensity of nineteenth century photographs by Julia Cameron to recent photos by African-American Lorna Simpson, whose mind-altering blends of photos and words push against societal constraints. 1994, Whitman, $18.95. Ages 9 up.Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-80752-531-6
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 1997 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 1994 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Not Just for Children Any More, 1998 ; Children's Book Council; United States
Notable Books for Children, 1994 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, September 1994 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books for Young Adults, 1994 ; Cahners; United States
Georgia O'Keeffe
Linda Lowery
Illustrated by Rochelle Draper
It is always fascinating to see how artists change and develop over their lifetime. This story explores the creative inspirations and discoveries made by the artist Georgia O'Keeffe. She started by teaching art classes in South Carolina and then began painting imaginary shapes and describing emotions with charcoal. She had her own way of seeing things. She painted the ordinary things around her- apples, skies, barns, houses, New York buildings, big colorful flowers, old bones, and New Mexico deserts, in a new way. The author has touched on some of the controversy elicited when O'Keeffe's pictures were first shown. A good introduction to the life of Georgia O'Keeffe. There is an afterword and a list of important dates to supplement the information in the text. 1996, Carolrhoda, Ages 6 up, $ 17.50 and $5.95. Reviewer: Sally J. K. Davies
ISBN: 0-8761-4860-7
ISBN: 0-8761-4898-4
Georgia O'Keeffe
Robyn Montana Turner
"I found that I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn't say in any other way-things I had no words for." presage the wonderful story of Georgia O'Keeffe, an artist whose images of flowers and desert scenes have inspired and entranced her audience. A well-written and informative text will be an inspiration to its readers, and it is complemented by numerous reproductions of the artist's work. 1991, Little Brown, Ages 8 to 12, $15.95. Reviewer: Linda Kelly
Robyn Montana Turner is the author of an exceptionally well produced series on women artists. The biographies contain first-rate, full-color reproductions, black-and-white illustrations and photographs written in a simple, conversational style that vivifies the artists and their works. Ms. Turner's five "Portraits of Women Artists for Children" feature Mary Cassatt, Frida Kahlo, Faith Ringgold, Georgia O'Keefe, and Rosa Bonheur. 1993 (orig. 1991), Little Brown, $15.95 and $6.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin
ISBN: 0-316-85654-1
ISBN: 0-316-856495-7
ISBN: 0-316-85649-5
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of the Social Studies, 1991 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Teachers' Choices, 1992 ; International Reading Association; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Maine Student Book Award, 1992-1993 ; Maine
Inspirations: Stories about Women Artists
Leslie Sills
Wonderful stories about the lives of Georgia O'Keeffe, Frida Kahlo, Alice Neel, and Faith Ringgold lavishly illustrated with full color reproductions of their works should inspire budding artists. O'Keeffe paints images from the New Mexican high desert while Kahlo depicts images from Mexico, Neel provides the reader with her rough expressionist portraits, while Ringgold paints images of the black people and their Harlem community. 1990 Notable Children's Book. 1989, Albert Whitman, Ages 10 to 12, $17.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8075-3649-0
Margaret Bourke-White
Catherine A. Welch
Illustrations by Jennifer Hagerman
This biography is intended for kids who are just beginning to read on their own. However, it would also make a fine addition to an adult literacy or English-as-second-language program. The narrative is vivid, yet easy to comprehend, and its illustrations take readers along on the acclaimed photographer's many adventures. 1997, Carolrhoda, Ages 7 to 10, $13.13. Reviewer: Donna Freedman
ISBN: 1-5750-5049-8
Margaret Bourke-White: A Photographer's Life
Emily Keller
Margaret Bourke-White is best remembered for her work as a photographer for Life magazine. She was an adventurous and successful woman who traveled around the world and across the nation to capture the major events of the 1920's, '30's, and '40's. Accompanied by many photos of Margaret and by Margaret, the text provides more than just a snapshot of this photographer's life. It delves into her personal life and explains historical events that impacted her career. This biography leaves the reader with a sense of admiration for Margaret, a leader in a time when women were not career-minded or independent. 1996, Lerner, Ages 12 up, $22.95. Reviewer: Tim Whitney
ISBN: 0-8225-4916-6
Best Books:
The Children's Literature Choice List, 1997 ; Children's Literature; United States
Mary Cassatt
Ernestine Giesecke
Mary Cassatt was a successful American female painter at a time when this description was almost an oxymoron. Her life, according to this book for the very young, seems smooth and bland, even though her achievements were astounding. Many of her paintings are reproduced, both in color and black and white, but they are sprinkled throughout, along with other pictures and photographs, in such a way that her own progress from a mainstream Parisian Salon exhibitor to an informal impressionist portrait painter is hard to follow. I would have preferred that the biographical ones (her home, her Paris studio) had been grouped, as well as her earlier work, so that her transition and transformation to the sensitive mother-and-child works for which she is best known could have been more ordered, leaving a more lasting impression on the reader. I also would have preferred a different portrait of Cassatt to end the book. While the befurred and befeathered black-gowned artist is quite striking as a formal study, I believe it may impress young children as somewhat frightening, not at all the image they might identify with the painter of so many loving and warm figures. 2000, Heinemann Library/Reed Educational & Professional Publishing, $19.92. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Judy Chernak
ISBN: 1-5757-2955-5
Women Artists of the West: Five Portraits in Creativity and Courage
Julie Danneberg
Through the lives of five women artists at the beginning of the twentieth century, this book describes the inspirational draw that the rugged beauty of the West held for many people. The five artists profiled are Maria Martinez (Native American potter), Georgia, O'Keefe (painter), Laura Gilpin (photographer), Dorothea Lange (photographer), and Mary-Russel Colton (painter). These women are worth studying for their perseverance and dedication to their art, particularly in a field that had been traditionally male. The book is written in a first person interview style with the artists, their husbands, families, and friends all describing what their lives were like. Through their stories we learn about the cultures of the West, the lives of the Native Americans, the migrant workers, the Great Depression, and the St. Louis World Fair. All of these details give the reader a sense of what life was like in the early 1900s. Each page has one or more sidebars that add additional third-person information to the stories and each section is followed by a bibliography. Unfortunately, the pages are black and white and only one image of each artist's work is included. For this reason, the book may inspire a young reader to learn more about a particular artist, but should not be looked to as a visual aid. As part of the "Notable Western Women Series" it does an excellent job describing the allure of the West and depicting the resolve these women had in pursing their passion. 2002, Fulcrum Publishing, $12.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Sarah Seage
ISBN: 1-5559-1861-1
Athletes/Aviators
Amelia Earhart
Jill C. Wheeler
Besides being the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean she was an inspiration to other women, encouraging them to take on challenges of their choosing. Her early childhood was not the typical one. She didn't wear dresses, play with dolls, or spend time learning to sew and keep house. She and her sister, Muriel, wore pants, played baseball, went fishing, and built a roller coaster. Her first exposure to airplanes was at State Fairs and Air Shows. When Amelia took a short ten-minute ride in an open-cockpit biplane she knew she was hooked. After she received her pilots license leaps and bounds were being made in the field of aviation. Charles Lindbergh had become the first person to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. The focus then turned to finding a woman who could do the same thing. Amelia jumped to it. On her first flight across the Atlantic, she was only a passenger and not the actual pilot. Regardless, this venture made her the first woman to fly across the Atlantic as either a pilot or passenger. She became a celebrity but she felt uncomfortable because she was not the one who actually flew the plane. She eventually flew solo across the Atlantic, the Pacific and was on a trip around the world when she mysteriously disappeared. The mystery still remains as to what happen to her, but her legacy as a woman of courage still stands. 2002, ABDO & Daughters, $24.21. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Leila Toledo
ISBN: 1-5776-5318-1
Babe Didrikson Zaharias: All-Around Athlete
Jane Sutcliffe
Illustrated by Jeni Reeves
Her mother called her "Baby," not her given name of Mildred. Because she could hit a baseball so well, the neighborhood children called her "Babe" after the King of Swat, and that was the way she was known her entire life. When Babe was a teenager, she told her family that one day she would participate in the Olympics. On her way to that goal, she played on a women's basketball team, and won medals at track and field events. With her skills, determination, hard work and practice she set three world records and won two gold medals and a silver at the 1932 Olympics and earned the title, "World's Greatest Woman Athlete." Well-chosen incidents in simple sentences and large type present the story of this amazing athlete's childhood and her rise to national prominence. An afterword tells how she then went on to a career in professional golf. The soft-toned illustrations fulfill their purpose of supporting clues for the text in this beginning reader, part of the "On My Own" series. 2000, Carolrhoda, Ages 6 to 9, $19.93. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 1-57505-421-3
Babe Didrikson Zaharias: The Making of a Champion
Russell Freedman
Born into a large Norwegian immigrant family in Texas, Mildred "Babe" Didrikson went on to become a fabulous athlete, selected as the best female athlete of the first half of the 20th century. She was determined and disciplined. If Babe decided to participate in a sport, she persevered until she was the best. She won Olympic gold in track and field, played organized basketball, and helped form the Ladies' Professional Golf Association. After she was diagnosed and treated for colon cancer, Babe became an ardent spokesperson for fundraising efforts. Her life constantly tested boundaries: the limits of athletic performance, constraints on female athletes, and the social taboo against discussing cancer in public. She was brash and confident, characteristics that were unexpected in women of her time. Freedman obviously developed great respect and admiration for "the Babe" and invites us to join him in enjoying this fascinating woman. Copious photographs support the text; an annotated bibliography and index are included. 1999, Clarion, Ages 10 up, $18.00. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-395-63367-2
Bessie Coleman: First Black Woman Pilot
Connie Plantz
"The sky is the only place where there is no prejudice. Up there...everyone is free," said Bessie Coleman, a black woman who longed to fly airplanes. Born in 1892, however, Bessie discovered multiple barriers to her dream. At a time when blacks were lynched in America and women were second-class citizens, American flight schools would not allow her to enroll. So in 1920, Bessie traveled to France to earn her international license, a prestigious award that Amelia Earhart didn't receive until 1923. Unfortunately, when Bessie returned to America no one would hire her; they wouldn't even sell her a plane. She pursued her dream anyway, buying a plane in France and becoming a stunt pilot in order to raise money to begin her own aviation school. Despite exceptional piloting skills, Coleman enjoyed embellishing her accomplishments and charming reporters with her "good looks, sense of theater, and eloquence." A puzzling but apparently accidental airplane crash ended her life at the age of 34, but her example inspired the creation of flight schools for African-Americans. Plantz captures all the drama, pride and hardship of Bessie's eventful and inspirational life in this absorbing addition to the "African-American Biographies" series. 2001, Enslow, $20.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Betty Hicks
ISBN: 0-7660-1545-9
The Best of the Best in Gymnastics
Rachel Rutledge
Women gymnasts have always possessed precision, power and grace. But it was not until 1972 that a young Soviet athlete, Olga Korbut, stepped into the Olympic spotlight and changed the face of the sport forever. Until Korbut, the stars of women's gymnastics were mature, conservative, technically sound veterans in their twenties or early thirties. Today's gymnasts are young risk-takers with a keen competitive spirit and a passion for perfection. This nonfiction book profiles eight of the world's best female gymnasts-Simona Amanar, Vanessa Atler, Dominique Dawes, Ling Jie, Svetlana Khorkina, Kristen Maloney, Shannon Miller and Dominique Moceanu. Chapters giving a brief overview of the sport are also included. This is a great reference book for school or library, and a gift book for the budding gymnast! Part of the "Women of Sports" series. 1999, Millbrook, Ages 8 to 12, $22.90 and 6.95. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree
ISBN: 0-7613-1321-4
ISBN: 0-7613-0784-2
Billie Jean King: Tennis Trailblazer
Joanne Lannin
The younger generation may not have been lucky enough to see Billie Jean King perform on the tennis court, but that doesn't mean it can't appreciate her accomplishments. In a day when an interest in sports was considered a poor trait for a woman to possess, King not only had an interest, she had exceptional talent and a will to succeed. When her parents urged her to give up football and baseball, King complied. She took up piano and tennis instead. Later, when piano came to interfere with her tennis training, she gave that up, too. With the support of her family, she decided on her goal-"to be the best tennis player in the world." Joanne Lannin provides a complete, well-researched biography including not only King's tennis accomplishments and the infamous "Battle of the Sexes" match, but also her activities in support of equal rights off the court. Readers will appreciate the straightforward account of the then-controversial life of this "pioneer." Lannin's three-page bibliography identifies many more valuable resources for interested readers. 1999, Lerner, Ages 10 to 14, $25.26 Reviewer: Heidi Green
ISBN: 0-8225-4959-X
Bonnie Blair - Top Speed Skater
Liza N. Burby
This volume of the "Women in Sports" series features world speed skater and Olympic medal winner, Bonnie Blair. Simple text and full-page photos follow Bonnie from her initial fascination with speed skating at age seven to her three time Olympic medal competitions. The story is not only informational, but also inspiring through Bonnie's own philosophy of doing one's own best rather seeking to win. A glossary of skating terms is included. The Bonnie Blair story is one of six in the series. 1997, The Rosen Publishing Group, Ages 5 to 8, $10.46. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger
ISBN: 0-8239-5066-2
Christa McAuliffe: A Space Biography
Laura S. Jeffrey
The shocking moment when onlookers and television viewers watched as the space shuttle Challenger exploded seventy-three seconds after launch is described in the first chapter of this book, and additional details of the disaster and investigation are included in a subsequent chapter. The body of the book, part of the "Countdown to Space" series, is devoted to the life story of schoolteacher Christa McAuliffe who was chosen as the first citizen passenger in the space program. Sharon Christa Corrigan was born in 1948 and as a young child and teenager was active in her school and community. In 1970, after graduating from college, she married Steve McAuliffe and began teaching. She continued to teach after the birth of their two children and in 1982 started working at Concord High School in Concord, New Hampshire. A popular and admired teacher, she created a course focusing on ordinary people in American history. At that time she had no idea that she would be chosen, as an ordinary American, to do the extraordinary. Photos of McAuliffe training for the launch are included along with childhood and family pictures. 1998, Enslow, Ages 9 to 12, $18.95. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford
Ellen Ochoa
Pamela Walker
Part of the "Welcome Books Real People" series, Ellen Ochoa is one of six titles that introduces the youngest readers to biographies. This is a nicely designed series and this book features the first Hispanic female astronaut. The 24-page format and small, square trim size make the books easy for little hands to hold. The text is consistently placed. One or two sentences in large, plain type face the bleed-to-the-edge photographs or full-color art. The illustrations reinforce the narrative, rather than enhance. Emergent readers can choose from a variety of multicultural personalities or historical figures. Each title has seven sections. The first three are devoted to the subject's life. "New Words" defines words outside the controlled vocabulary. "To Find Out More" lists further reading and web sites. The last page consists of the index and professional references. The "Real People" series has one flaw. Readers who can decode words like "astronaut" deserve meatier material than, for example, "she worked hard, but she had fun." 2001, Children's Press, $13.50. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Candice Ransom
ISBN: 0-516-23433-1
ISBN: 0-516-23587-7
Ellen Ochoa: The First Hispanic Woman Astronaut
Maritza Romero
When Ellen Ochoa was thirteen, she was named "outstanding seventh and eighth grade student," and excelled in music and spelling-nice, but not what you'd expect from a future astronaut. But an astronaut is exactly what she became. Unfortunately, most of the kids reading this book will never find that out because they'll put it down before they get to the end. There's good information here; it's just presented in a manner that isn't at all inspiring. And while it's clearly written for early readers, the vocabulary is better suited for preschoolers. Part of the "Great Hispanics of Our Time" series. 1997, PowerKids Press, Ages 7 to 9, $13.95. Reviewer: Armin A. Brott
Encyclopedia of Sports in the United States
Kevin Osborn
Athletes, events, games and milestones are catalogued here in this detailed compendium of sports in the United States. Noteworthy in its detail, this book relates various accounts of sports in this country. Focusing on a wide variety of athletes, it uses sports as a window into American society. Each chapter begins with an introduction that sets the historical stage for the period to be covered with brief information about the times, including sports of the era and significant events outside the athletic world. An impressive number of athletes are profiled. In addition to such well-known male personalities as Babe Ruth, Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, and Arnold Palmer, many prominent women, including Billie Jean King and Babe Didrikson Zaharias, are included as well. The encyclopedia also commendably encompasses lesser-known sports figures, such as Miki Gorman, the first woman to win the Boston and New York Marathons, and Sharon Hedrick, a wheelchair Olympic gold medalist. While the encyclopedia discusses Jackie Robinson and his seminal role in integrating major league baseball, it does not include any information about the athletes who struggled while desegregating such other major sports as basketball and football. The athletes' profiles, heavily laden with statistical information, could have been more engaging if they included more personal information about their subjects. Nonetheless, this is an impressive, thoughtful effort, an excellent choice as source material for school projects. 1997, Scholastic, Ages 12 up, $17.95. Reviewer: Bruce Adelson
ISBN: 0-590-69264-X
Finding Where The Wind Goes: Moments From My Life
Mae Jemison
From her earliest memories of childhood in Decatur, Alabama, through growing up in Chicago, to success at Stanford University and Cornell Medical School, Mae Jemison shares her life's story with young readers. Jemison, now in her early forties, has packed enough into life to serve as multiple role models to girls who wonder what their futures might hold. Her autobiography is written in an episodic and conversational, sometimes awkward, style that is easily accessible to youngsters. Early in the book, especially, Dr. Jemison describes growing up in a warm, protective African-American family and draws the reader in with funny, tender memories and insights. The second part of the book recounts her whirlwind progress through Stanford and Cornell, her stint as a Peace Corps medical officer in West Africa, and her crowning achievement as the first African-American woman in space. Frequent dashes of her pithily articulated philosophy add zest to the ride. The reader may, however, finally wonder whether Dr. Jemison has ever failed in anything she attempted. Nonetheless, her over-riding metaphor of following the wind with an open questing mind is an appropriate one for this impressive woman, whose life is a work-in-progress. 2001, Scholastic Press, $16.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Michele Tremaine
ISBN: 0-439-13195-2
ISBN: 0-439-13196-0
Best Books:
Amelia Bloomer List, 2002; American Library Association-SRRT
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Girl Power on the Playing Field
Andy Steiner
What is it like to always feel not good enough just because you are a girl? This nonfiction book by Andy Steiner combines her own experiences with comments and stories by other girls. The overall focus is on girls in sports. By telling their stories, girls effectively describe the impact, both good and not so good, that playing a particular sport has had on their self esteem, friendships and the decisions they have made or may make in the future about their place in this world. This book is well organized into progressive chapters starting with "On your Mark" which includes various experiences girls have had in sports. Further chapters discuss "Why Girls Quit," "Why Girls Play," "Body Image and Self-defense" and most positively, "Trailblazers and Mentors." In the end, Steiner gives sound practical advice about the various sports, what you'll need to play, benefits, and how to learn more--a reference to additional reading material. The varied layout, variety in type, and highlighted quotes from girls keep this book interesting and the reader engaged. Girls from age ten and up will find it fun, motivating, and most importantly an opportunity to challenge their own and other's stereotypes and the limitations they have imposed. 2000, Lerner Publication Company, Ages 10 up, $9.00. Reviewer: Kathleen Orosz
ISBN: 0-8225-2690-5
Girls Got Game: Sports Stories and Poems
Edited by Sue Macy
Better than gym class/better than recess/better than pizza for lunch...my jump shot/as it drops/through the net/with a swish." So reads a poem by Christa Champion, a multi-sport coach and player. This collection of poetry and short stories celebrates girls' skill and power as athletes along with the discrimination and challenge that seems to plague their every effort. Ruthie, pushed to run by her track star mother, really just wants to block and tackle on the football team. Amanda is "having the quits" about the synchronized swimming team, until her now frail and withered grandmother talks of her own small cadre of swimming friends who had to battle fathers who didn't want their daughters lifting "naked legs straight up in the air." Abbie is faced with a tetherball championship against a boy who had taught her all she knew and has become her first summer love. Each story or poem has been written by women who are both athletes and writers, but who are better known as one or the other--Virginia Euwer Wolff, Lucy Jane Bledsoe, Pat Connolly. In every story, the overwhelming impact of sport rings through--"We were only completely comfortable when we stopped thinking and stopped comparing, and just immersed ourselves in the beauty and art of sport." 2001, Henry Holt, $15.95. Ages 9 to 15. Reviewer: Karen Leggett
ISBN: 0-805-06568-7
Best Books:
Amelia Bloomer List, 2002; American Library Association-SRRT; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Good Sports: Winning, Losing and Everything in Between
Therese Kauchak
Illustrated by Norm Bendell
The American Girl Library brings readers this thorough and easy to read book about the hows, whens, and whys of begin a good sport. Included in chapters with such titles as "Game Time" and "Go Team!" is very useful information about being a team player and handling tough situations and difficult teammates. There's information for readers who want to compete at the highest level of their performance potential as well as for readers who take their sports more casually. There's even good information here for boys--but chances are they'll not be game enough to read about it in this book. There are important messages about competition and team spirit here; as well as good, practical suggestions for handling difficult parent/coach/peer pressures. The cartoon illustrations are a light touch adding humor (but not much diversity) to the topic. 1999, Pleasant Company, Ages 7 to 12, $8.95. Reviewer: Judy Katsh
ISBN: 1-56247-747-1
Ice Stars
Sydelle A. Kramer
Illustrated by Jim Campbell
Ice-skating is one of the most popular Olympic sports and also a sport that consistently receives high television rating. One of the reasons is the beauty, grace and skill of recent women figure skating stars. In this chapter book, kids are introduced to four medal-winning skaters: Kristi Yamaguchi, Oksana Baiul, Nancy Kerrigan, and Michelle Kwan. Their lives and their introduction to skating were all very different. Kristi overcame a birth defect (clubfeet), and Oksana survived in spite of being a penniless orphan. What they share is the determination, discipline, and talent that make true champions. Their brief looks at their lives are interesting and inspirational. A good choice for reluctant readers. 1997, Grosset & Dunlap, Ages 7 to 10, $13.99 and $3.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-448-41649-2
ISBN: 0-448-41590-9
Julie Krone: Unstoppable Jockey
Jeff Savage
Among the many firsts that she has achieved in her career, Julie Krone was the first woman to win a Triple Crown Race with her success in the 1993 Belmont Stakes. Starting with this inspiring achievement, Savage's biography discusses Krone's childhood and personal life but focuses primarily on her career, in which she has had to fight against prejudice and injury to continue riding. Many color photographs accompany the text. A glossary and a section of statistics and highlights of her career are also included. 1996, Lerner, Ages 10 up, $19.95 and $5.95. Reviewer: Tim Whitney
ISBN: 0-8225-2888-6
ISBN: 0-8225-9728-4
Mia Hamm
John Torres
The "Real-Life Reader Biography" series brings the lives of contemporary figures to print. Viewed as role models who have overcome great obstacles, the subjects of these nonfiction tales come from a variety of ethnic backgrounds and economic and social arenas. Mia Hamm is undoubtedly the most popular woman soccer player today. She participated in the 1996 Olympics and has won the prestigious Chevrolet/U.S. Soccer Female Athlete of the Year Award for five consecutive years. Mia was inspired by her adopted brother Garrett, who introduced her to the game and who, unfortunately, died in 1997. This short biography will appeal to elementary and middle school readers, reluctant readers, and ESL students. Chronology, index. 2000, Mitchell Lane Publishers, Ages 7 to 12, $15.95. Reviewer: Mary Sue Preissner
ISBN: 1-883845-94-7
Mia Hamm: Striking Superstar
Mark Stewart
Part of the publisher's "Soccer's New Wave" series, chronicling many of today's new athletic icons, this title profiles soccer star Mia Hamm who won an Olympic Gold Medal as a leading member of the American Olympic soccer team. She is now a prominent reason why soccer has become so popular with young players, particularly girls, who have their own star athlete to emulate. Today, replicas of her number 9 Team USA Olympic jersey are big sellers, testifying to her enormous popularity, previously unheard of for a woman soccer player. Hamm's exposure to the sport began early in her life, when, as the daughter of a fighter pilot, she was a military brat, living an itinerant life as her father's assignments changed. But being exposed to different sets of children on a regular basis as her family moved around turned into a benefit to the future Olympian, exposing her early on to a wide variety of competition. Like other books in this series, this title explores the subject's life, from childhood to star, in a light, easy to understand style. Although there is not much detail in this 48-page title, this book will undoubtedly grab the attention of those reluctant readers who happen to be sports fans. 2000, The Millbrook Press, Ages 8 to 10, $20.90. Reviewer: Bruce Adelson
ISBN: 0-7613-1802-X
Michelle Kwan: Heart of a Champion: An Autobiography
As told to Laura James
Middle schoolers will love this conversational presentation of ice-skating's Michelle Kwan. In addition to discussing the events surrounding her skating successes and failures, she presents her thoughts, emotions, and philosophies. This young lady presents her professional goals as well as the importance of her family and its support, especially in the volatile world of competitive ice-skating. Readers will enjoy the 16 pages of color photographs with hand-written comments. The bottom outside corner of the right pages contains an image of a skater. Flip through them and watch the tiny skater jump and spin. Includes a glossary. 1997, Scholastic, Ages 10 to 14, $14.95. Reviewer: Mary Sue Preissner
Mae Jemison
Sonia W. Black
Mae Jemison is a role model by any measure. A woman of diverse interests such as dance, science, travel and social work, she most notably became the first African-American woman selected by NASA to be an astronaut in 1987. As a young girl, she dreamed of traveling to outer space while also participating on her school's cheerleading squad. After graduating from medical school, she served as a doctor in Sierra Leone and Liberia for the Peace Corps. By the time she applied to NASA's astronaut program, she had already established herself in the field of medicine, but her wanderlust took her to outer space and back. In this inspirational biography, we learn of Mae's journey from childhood that ultimately takes her on this space mission, as well as her experiences aboard the space shuttle, Endeavor. An easy yet informative read, this biography would work well in the classroom and also for pleasure. Eight pages of photos highlight the career of Mae Jemison. 2000, Mondo, $3.99. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Karen Deans
ISBN: 1-5725-5801-6
Best Books:
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2001; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Mae Jemison: The First African American Woman Astronaut
Liza N. Burby
Mae Jemison dreamed of being an astronaut from the time she was a very young child in Chicago. Although she studied chemical engineering and eventually became a doctor, she never wavered in her desire to fly in space. In 1986, she was one of 2,000 people who applied to NASA for the astronaut training program. She was selected and after several years of training and working for NASA, on Sept. 2, 1992, she became the first African American woman to go out in space. This book is part of a series "Making Their Mark, Women in Science and Medicine." Mae Jemison is an excellent example; she shows children that dreams do come true. 1997, Rosen Publishing Group, Ages 5 to 8, $13.95. Reviewer: Leila Toledo
ISBN: 0-823-95027-1
Mae Jemison: A Space Biography
Della A. Yannuzzi
This is a well-organized, well written account about the first African-American woman in space. It will especially appeal to children who are interested in becoming an astronaut. Organized into five chapters, the book begins with Dr. Jemison's lift off into space aboard the space shuttle. Next, a journey through her early years of school until her graduation from medical school and volunteer work with the Peace Corps. Photos of Dr. Jemison's life are interspersed. The next couple of chapters detail interesting insights into her training with NASA and finally her blast off into space. A concluding chapter describes what Dr. Jemison has accomplished since her travels into space. The book ends with a chronology of her life, a glossary of space terms, further readings on the subject of space and an index. This is a wonderful account of a positive role model for girls. Readers will learn many interesting experiences about Dr. Jemison's journey along with the hard work and dedication that it takes to become an astronaut. This is part of the "Countdown to Space" series. 1998, Enslow Publishers Inc., Ages 7 to 12, $18.95. Reviewer: Melissa A. Caudill
More famous African-American Women
Nancy Kerrigan: In My Own Words
Nancy Kerrigan and Steve Woodward
In this book the Olympic skater details her dedication to the sport, from her first days on the ice at the age of six to her silver medal winning performance in Norway. The theme throughout is the hard work and personal sacrifice necessary to succeed in the rarefied world of international competition. Support from a loving family is another component to Nancy's success. The text does not require in-depth knowledge of skating terminology to be understood, and the lesson is applicable to any sport or activity that requires dedication from young participants. 1996, Hyperion, Ages 8 to 12, $4.50. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-7868-1042-4
On the Ice with Tara Lipinski
Matt Christopher
When Tara Lipinski was 2 years old, she pretended to accept a medal as she watched the 1984 Olympics on television, little knowing what lay ahead. When she was three, her mother took her to a roller-skating rink (only because the rink was giving away Care Bears), and Tara began to get hooked on skating. After winning several roller-skating competitions, Tara switched to ice-skating and rode her incredible talent all the way to the 1998 Olympics, where she became the youngest-ever winner of the gold medal in Ladies Figure Skating. Christopher chronicles Tara's successes as well as her falls, and the amazing sacrifices made by Tara's family in order to support her career. Tara's sheer love for the sport shines through, as does her strong belief in international sportsmanship. With a strong sportswriting style and eye for detail, Christopher has once again created a biography that is sure to fly from the shelves. 1999, Little Brown, Ages 8 to 12, $4.50. Reviewer: Kathleen Kelly
ISBN: 0-316-14257-3
Play Like a Girl: A Celebration of Women in Sports
Sue Macy and Jane Gottesman
Women's athletics are enjoying a renaissance. With many highly publicized success stories, such as the WNBA, the USA Women's Gold Medal Softball team, soccer standout Mia Hamm, and many others, female sports stars are enjoying unprecedented attention, adulation, and media exposure. This colorful book, filled with impressive photos, celebrates women athletes. It contains thoughtful quotes from female sports figures and writers describing athletics in often lyrical fashion. "Every time, just before I take off in a race, I always feel like I'm in a dream," said Toni Cade Bambara. Madeline Blais is quoted as saying, "When you're losing, like tonight, it's over in seconds, a sudden skid on glare ice." With its poetic, almost ethereal style, this book will not be for everyone. But it does live up to its title-celebrating women in sports. 1999, Henry Holt, Ages 10 up, $15.95. Reviewer: Bruce Adelson
ISBN: 0-8050-6071-5
Sally Ride-A Space Biography
Barbara Kramer
Part of the "Countdown to Space" series, this volume chronicles the life of Sally Ride, the first woman astronaut in the United States. It is an inspiring story about a regular kid whose special interest in space finally led her to become a very special person in space travel history. Born in California, Sally takes an unlikely route through a seemingly normal upbringing to become a household name. The book describes in detail her first journey on the spaceship Challenger, as well as Sally's subsequent accomplishments. Accompanied by actual photographs of space flight, the book emphasizes that through inspiration and hard work, anything is possible. 1998, Enslow Publishers, Ages 8 up, $18.95. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger
Sky Pioneer: A Photobiography of Amelia Earhart
Corinne Szabo
Amelia's childhood was filled with fun, a love of reading, and a pair of loving and fairly progressive grandparents who filled in for her peripatetic parents. During World War I, Amelia worked as a nurse's aide in a military hospital and then decided to study medicine. During her days at medical school, she was introduced to flying, and it became a passion. From then on Amelia broke the barriers for women in aviation. She was the first woman to fly the Atlantic, initially as a passenger and then as a solo pilot. She spent her all too brief years as an advocate for women's education and rights. The story is well told with wonderful quotes and black-and-white photographs of her early years and adult accomplishments. Most of us will recognize the name, and now those who read this book will know about her life and her commitment to equality for women- particularly in the aviation field. Amelia broke the ground for women who today work as commercial pilots. 1997, National Geographic, Ages 9 up, $16.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
Up in the Air: The Story of Bessie Coleman
Philip S. Hart
In this interesting biography, Hart describes the life of Bessie Coleman, the first African-American woman to fly an airplane. The book describes Bessie's childhood in Waxahachie, Texas in the early 1900's where she often had to miss going to her segregated school. She had to stay home and watch her younger sisters while her mother went to work. Despite her difficult childhood, Bessie became fascinated with flying airplanes, and in 1920, she achieved her dream of flying. Overcoming racism and limited funds, she made a career as a barnstorming pilot. Her dream of opening a school for black aviators was cut short by a fatal accident, but many other black aviators carried on her dream. Filled with vintage photographs, this easy to read text makes Bessie Coleman and her dreams come alive for young readers. 1996. Carolrhoda, Ages 8 to 12, $21.50 and $6.95. Reviewer: Rebecca Joseph
ISBN: 0-87614-949-2
ISBN: 0 87614-978-6
The Story of Figure Skating
Michael Boo
This is an amazing compendium of the facts and faces of an exciting, modern-day sport, including why it's called "figure skating." This hefty hardcover introduces us to such historical figures as Jackson Haines, the American-born "father of figure skating" and Sonja Henie, skating's first "ice queen." It traces the evolution of the sport's major disciplines--singles skating, pairs skating and ice dancing--as it relives career highlights of skating stars of the past, such as Dick Button, Peggy Fleming and Dorothy Hammill. The author draws on an insider's knowledge, gained through the dozens of interviews he has conducted for American Skating World magazine, as he sheds light on skating moves, skate design, costumes, judging standards, training and promotion. Over seventy photographs amply illustrate the triumphs and tragedies of more than a century of figure skating. There's even an inside look at a Zamboni machine! 1998, William Morrow and Company, Ages 12 up, $16.00. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree
ISBN: 0-688-15820-X
Superstars of Women's Golf
Barry Wilner
This is a well-researched, hardcover book that addresses the need for more information about women sports professionals. A title in the "Female Sports Stars" series, the book starts at the very beginning, with the establishment of the Ladies Professional Golf Association in 1950, and continues to trace its evolution up to today's top international players. Mini-biographies of five of the greatest women golfers are also given: Babe Didrikson Zaharias, Nancy Lopez, Betsy King, Pat Bradley, and Patty Sheehan. The author, Barry Wilner, has been a sportswriter for the Associated Press for over twenty years. Illustrated with black and white photos throughout. Includes suggestions for further reading. A great reference book to have on hand when the LPGA turns 50 in the year 2000! 1997, Chelsea House Publishers, Ages 8 to 12, $7.95. Reviewer: Dianne Ochiltree
ISBN: 0-7910-4390-8
Tara Lipinski: Queen of the Ice
Bill Gutman
Olympic gold medal winner Tara Lipinski's brief but outstanding career is described in this biography. After the first two pages that introduce Tara and Michelle Kwan's figure skating competition at the 1998 Winter Olympic Games, the story is launched. Tara's athletic life began at age three on roller skates. The story builds as Tara's sacrifices and competitions are described. Figure skating as a sport is given brief attention, enought to place Tara's efforts in context. The wins and losses leading up to the Olympics and Tara's decision to turn pro afterwards are reported. However, her joyful and disciplined personality is revealed through appropriate quotes and anecdotes, and the writing moves the reader to the heights she experienced with the Olympic win. The book is illustrated with good quality color photographs of Tara on and off the ice. Young readers with or without an interest in figure skating will enjoy this book. 1999, The Millbrook Press, Ages 9 to 16, $19.90 and $7.95. Reviewer: Jacki Vawter
ISBN: 0-7613-1456-3
Tomboy Of The Air: Daredevil Pilot Blanche Stuart Scott
Julie Cummins
In 1910 when Blanche Stuart Scott became the first woman to drive an automobile cross-country, there were only 218 miles of paved roads in the U.S. (excluding the cities) and there were road maps for only certain parts of the country. During that trip, she made the statement, "Anyone poking around in the clouds in a glorified kite had to be a nut...a complete and absolute idiot!" Little did she know at the time that within months, she would become the first woman pilot in the U.S. Through daring and tenacity, "Daredevil Pilot Blanche Stuart Scott" set several aviation records for women, years before they had the right to vote. In spite of hate letters, broken bones and attempts on her life, she continued to fulfill her dream. Interesting facts and quotes from the biography are skillfully interwoven in the text and are accompanied by black-and-white photographs. Readers can see for themselves how flimsy these early planes were and how courageous she was. Not only will this fill in some gaps in our knowledge of women's history, it will also empower young women to pursue their own dreams, whatever they may be. Chronology, bibliography and index are included. 2001, HarperCollins, $16.95 and $16.89. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-06-029138-9
ISBN: 0-06-029243-1
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Utah Children's Book Awards, 2003 ; Utah
Weatherspoon's Basketball for Girls
Teresa Weatherspoon, Tara Sullivan and Kelly Whiteside
Teresa Weatherspoon is a two-time winner of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) Defensive Player of the Year award. In addition to being a professional basketball player, she also provides advice to young girls who wish to play the sport. The basics of the game including dribbling, passing, shooting, rebounding, offense and defense are stressed in this volume. Also, Weatherspoon provides information about warming up, stretching and conditioning before beginning play or practice. The appendices recap Weatherspoon's playing record and professional career and also include a glossary of basketball terms. This book is a good choice for any girl interested in basketball. Illustrated with black-and-white photos of Teresa Weatherspoon in practice and at games, there are also photos of a girl's basketball team practicing with Weatherspoon. Sprinkled throughout the book are personal observations written by Weatherspoon that are meant inspire and enlighten girls about life. A welcome addition to sports literature for girls, especially those who wish to learn more about basketball and fans of the WNBA. Girl's basketball coaches also may find this volume useful. 1999, John Wiley and Sons, Ages 10 up, $14.95. Reviewer: Ru Story-Huffman
ISBN: 0-471-31784-5
Wilma Rudolph
Victoria Sherrow
Illustrations by Larry Johnson
The inspiring story of Olympic champion runner Wilma Rudolph is simply told for young readers in this brightly illustrated biography. Covering the same incidents in Rudolph's life as Kathleen Krull and David Diaz's 1996 picture book biography Wilma Unlimited, this telling will probably be easier for independent reading. There is one black-and-white photo of Rudolph, an afterward telling of Rudolph's life following the 1960 Olympics, and a list of important dates, but there is no bibliography. The date of Rudolph's death is given twice as 1995. Other sources give the date as November 12, 1994, causing one to question the thoroughness of the editing and researching of this series. It is part of the "On My Own Biographies" series. 2000, Carolrhoda, Ages 7 to 9, $21.27. Reviewer: Linnea Hendrickson
ISBN: 1-57505-246-6
Winning Ways: A Photohistory of American Women in Sports
Sue Macy
Sue Macy's enlightening black-and-white photohistory highlights the ups, downs, and Winning Ways of American women who slowly but surely changed the men-only- sports status quo, from 1890s bicyclers to 1990s ballplayers. 1996, Holt, Ages 11 up, $15.95. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin
ISBN: 0-8050-4147-8
WNBA We Got Next
Gail Herman
Illustrated by Edward Heins
One in a series of "All Aboard Reading" books, this one is for level three readers--second to third grades. It the story of the beginning of the Women's National Basketball Association, whose games were first televised in June 1997. The book traces the history of women's basketball and the emergence of the WNBA's most famous players. There are brief descriptions of the various teams that make up the WNBA and the first championship game. The tone is inspirational, and designed to create interest in women's sports. The book is liberally illustrated with photos and drawings. 1998, Grosset & Dunlap, Ages 7 to 9, $3.99. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger
ISBN: 0-448-41865-7
Women in Space
Carole S. Briggs
This A & E biography takes an overview look at the space program, both Russian and U.S., and profiles the events and women who have been a part of this exploration. This would be a marvelous complement to school research papers on the space program. However, the biographical information provided on the female astronauts is not enough to sustain in-depth inquiry into any of their individual lives. Includes a glossary, illustrations, and bibliography. 1999, Lerner Publications, Ages 11 up, $18.95. Reviewer: Mary Sue Preissner
Wonder Women of Sports
S.A. Kramer
Illustrations by Jim Campbell
Amy van Dyken, Gail Devers, Dominique Moceanu and Rebecca Lobo all became well known to millions of Americans through their achievements at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. This compilation, with concise prose and interesting details, tells how they overcame various obstacles to attain stardom. An asthmatic girl, Van Dyken struggled with sports and teasing peers. She battled her asthma and won a gold swimming medal in Atlanta. Moceanu suffered a severe leg injury before the '96 games. Nevertheless, she competed and helped her women's U.S. gymnastic team become the first to win the gold medal. A tomboy growing up, Lobo was told by one of her teachers to be more "ladylike" and abandon sports. Fortunately, she did not listen, growing up to help the University of Connecticut win the 1996 NCAA women's basketball championship and win a gold medal in women's basketball in Atlanta. Devers has Grave's Disease, a glandular affliction that once made even walking painful. With proper care and medication, she conquered the disease, winning track and field gold medals at the '92 & '96 Olympics. This book, part of the "All Aboard Reading" series, is a good choice for young readers interested in unconventional sports stories. 1997, Grosset & Dunlap, Ages 7 to 9, $3.95. Reviewer: Bruce Adelson
ISBN: 0-448-41589-5
Yankee Doodle Gals: Women Pilots of World War II
Amy Nathan
Did you know that there were women pilots who flew planes during World War II? Learn all about the courageous women who were part of the WASPs (Women Airforce Service Pilots, 1942-1944) and how they were pioneers in creating important duties that helped out the United States of America during World War II. Many of the women were teenagers and college students, and some worked full-time as librarians and even models. They quickly decided to leave their schools and jobs to follow their lifelong dream of flying airplanes. The author, Amy Nathan, has done a great job in honoring the women who were WASPs and explaining what it meant to these women to serve their country as well as their responsibilities. This book is ideal for young adult readers, especially for those who are interested in or have a passion about flying airplanes. Included are black-and-white photos that were taken during the training period and of women pilots getting reading for their flights, as well as brief biographies about various women. This book would be useful to both children and adults undertaking research about WWII. The text is easy to read and understand and gives detailed information without all of the gruesome details of negative events of the war. The book is a must-have for any history book collection. 2001, National Geographic Society, $21.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Christy Oestreich
ISBN: 0-7922-8216-7
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2003; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Brave Women
Abbie Against the Storm
Marcia Vaughan
Illustrations by Bill Farnsworth
Through beautifully painted illustrations the story of Abbie's brave adventure of tending to the running of a lighthouse is told. Out of all of her sisters she alone works with her farther to understand the means to upkeep the lighthouse. When her father had to leave to gather more food and supplies she must watch over her ailing mother, her sisters, and maintain the lighthouse through ice storms and mountainous waves. She constantly questions her strength and ability, but always remembers the ways that her father taught her. The bond between the father and daughter touches the reader throughout the entire story and allows Abbie to persevere. Abbie's survival skills and confidence protect her family until her father's arrival. Based on a true story this story also includes an epilogue to keep the reader informed of Abbie's further lighthouse adventures. 1999, Beyond Words Publishing, Ages 8 to 12, $15.95. Reviewer: Lori M. Saporosa
ISBN: 1-58270-007-9
Amidst the Gold Dust: Women Who Forged the West
Julie Danneberg
Those early pioneer women had their share of adventure. Five women are introduced to the reader and each of their tales is unique. Isabella Bird, Clara Brown and Margaret Brown found their special place in Colorado history; Nellie Cashman in Arizona and Sara Winnemucca in Nevada. Each woman is described by people who knew her and also by comments made about herself. There are photos of historical items they might have used in their everyday lives. As each cameo is presented, the reader gets a sense of the history of that time period. A bibliography for each of these women allows readers to find more materials, if they are interested. The women all have very interesting stories, full of the adventure of the early West. It is quite impressive to see how much these five women contributed to their communities and the world in general. 2001, Fulcrum Resources, $12.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Barbara Youngblood
ISBN: 1-5559-1997-9
Anne Bailey: Frontier Scout
Mary R. Furbee
Nineteen-year-old Anne Hennis knows England is not for the poor, the uneducated or the female, and embarks as an indentured servant to the New World. Anne works four years without pay; twelve hours a day, seven days a week. She learns to cook, to hunt and to farm, which prepare her for married life with Richard Trotter. She and Richard settle in the mountains, build a cabin, clear some land and Anne has a baby son, William. Richard joins the royal forces to fight Indians on the Virginia frontier and is killed in 1872, leaving Anne to support herself and William. She becomes a guide and then a scout, leaving seven-year-old William to be raised by friends. Years later Anne marries a fellow scout, John Bailey, and lives to a story-telling old age. Some called her "mad Anne Bailey" because of her roughness and scorn for conventional behavior. Solidly researched and tautly written, the book has an index, an appendix of Anne Bailey poems, a ten-page bibliography and suggestions for further reading. This story of frontier life and a woman's growing independence will fascinate boys as well as girls. Part of the "Women of the Frontier" series. 2001, Morgan Reynolds, $20.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Nancy Tilly
ISBN: 1-88384-670-6
Best Books:
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Born to Be a Cowgirl: A Spirited Ride Through the Old West
Candace Savage
Cowgirls were a small minority in the Old West. Women who chose to pursue bronc busting and cattle drives, had to buck prevailing social customs in order to follow their dreams. Starting with an historical perspective featuring Fannie Sperry, Savage peppers her narrative with mentions of many real-life cowgirls. Wilma Matthews worked on one of Sam Houston's cattle drives only because she fooled him by dressing as a boy. Lizzie Johnson Williams taught school and wrote romance stories to earn enough money to purchase her own ranch and cattle. Martha Cannary sold pamphlets about her life story--everyone was curious about Calamity Jane. A bit of social acceptance was signaled by female participation in the Calgary Stampede and rodeos. These events provided thrills and cash prizes...until outcries about women being injured or killed put a stop to their competition. Everyday faces gaze out of period photographs, revealing cowgirls as rodeo riders and farm hands, as well as mothers and housewives. There are good glossary and reference sections. This book will appeal to girls with a sense of adventure and who share Fannie Sperry's philosophy: "If there are not horses in heaven, I do not want to go there." 2001, Tricycle Press, $9.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Chris Gill
ISBN: 1-58246-020-5
ISBN: 1-58246-019-1
Best Books:
Amelia Bloomer List, 2002; American Library Association-SRRT; United States
Capitol Choices, 2001; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Parent's Guide to Children's Media, 2001; Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc.; United States
Boston Jane: An Adventure
Jennifer L. Holm
Motherless Jane Peck is a hopeless tomboy, expert at throwing clumps of manure at passing carriages and acknowledged as the best spitter in the neighborhood. Her physician father's apprentice, William Baldt, encourages her to enroll at Miss Hepplewhite's Young Ladies Academy. But all of her skills at Etiquette, Embroidery, Watercolors, Drawing, Music, and French Conversation prove to be of little use when Jane follows William west to the Oregon coast to be his bride. As soon as Jane arrives she finds that William has abandoned her, and she is left as the only white woman living with roughneck, hard-drinking adventurers and a community of Chinooks who resent her East Coast airs. Predictably, of course, Jane recovers her true identity as a strong woman rather than a prim and proper lady, learns to mend roofs and harvest oysters, rescues herself from a raging river torrent, befriends the Chinooks, gets rid of William when he reappears, and finds true love with a scarred sailor man. While the vividly realized Pacific Northwest setting lends interest to Jane's story, the plot itself is formulaic, and the broad, slapstick humor undercuts any deeper emotional resonance. 2001, HarperCollins, $16.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Claudia Mills
Comfort reads will take you far away from the troubles of the world, wrap you in family warmth, and instantly create the close family times we are all craving. Such favorites are high in humor and adventure. These qualities can be found in Jennifer Holms' new book (Holms won a Newbery Honor award with her first book, Our Only May Amelia). Her second, Boston Jane, has another feisty, fascinating, upbeat heroine and is a mix of adventures, history, a little bit of romance, and lots of humor. Sixteen-year-old Jane is the beloved daughter of a widowed doctor. He admires her untamed spirit and his benign neglect turns mid-19th century Philadelphia into her playground. Jane is a tomboy who is skilled at throwing rotten apples, wears a stained smock, and is happy to sit on a patient to help her father. Jane adores her father and her simple life, until she's humiliated by snotty Sally Biddle who interrupts her fun "like a mosquito scenting a plump, bare leg." Jane decides to become proper and convinces her father to let her attend Miss Hepplewhite's Academy. Despite his fears that she'll become one of those "useless women who cares for nothing but dresses", her father gives his permission. Miss Hepplewhite follows "The Young Lady's Confidante" and Jane is amazed to discover she has "been standing, walking and sitting the wrong way all these years." She succumbs to rigorous polishing and also to William, a young man apprenticed to her father. When William goes West to make his fortune he asks her to marry him. Jane agrees and begins a second transformation en route to the territory of Washington. At sea she cares for fellow passengers, adapting her embroidery talents to sew up wounds. Upon landing she learns William has left Shoalwater Bay and she must fend for herself. Her training doesn't do much good in this rough wilderness. In short order, her expensive dresses are eaten by a hungry cow, she must share a cabin with flea-bitten crude men, trade her corset for Chinook dress, and as the only woman around receives "more proposals of marriage by more men in need of a good bath than I care to remember." Finally, Jane's grit, courage and good sense emerge. She discards William when it becomes apparent his proposal is based on land acquisition. She chooses instead Jehu, an honest scar-faced sailor who loves her. Part of the read aloud success of this book comes from its style and voice, which are as strong and buoyant as the heroine. Holmes' characters are well developed and their perceptions show they have a better sense of Jane than she has of herself. But Jane's path to self-knowledge provides lots of reading joy en route. 2001, HarperCollins, $16.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-06-028738-1
ISBN: 0-06-028739-X
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2002; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Parent's Guide to Children's Media, 2001; Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc.; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Utah Children's Book Awards, 2003; Utah
Extraordinary Women of the American West
Judy Alter
Often when the American West is mentioned, it creates visions of cowboys and Indians, mountain men and trappers or miners panning for gold. Women were there and they had a hard life on the prairies and in cattle country. Starting with Sacajawea who helped the Lewis and Clark expedition, readers learn about sixty six more famous and infamous women who helped to settle lands West of the Mississippi (although the book excludes those first states west of the river). As the author notes in the introduction, history is predominately seen through the eyes of Anglo (European white) women because they kept the diaries and journals and wrote letters detailing their experiences. For each biography thee is a photograph, drawing or picture of a statue representing the woman, there are also a few other pictures relevant to the time period. This is not a book for casual reading, although some of the individuals featured are quite interesting, but a very good reference for libraries and classrooms. Further reading list, web sites, museum collections and index. 1999, Children's Press/Grolier, Ages 10 up, $33.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-516-20974-4
Great Women of the Old West
Judy Alter
Published as part of the "We the People" series, which is devoted to presenting key historical events in U.S. history, the book opens with an introduction to American Indian women. The first profile is that of Sacagawea, the young Shoshone woman who led explorers Lewis and Clark to the Pacific Ocean. From there the book briefly introduces women of other nationalities who settled in the area, including Spanish women and Eastern settlers. It ends with a short description of women of today's west, such as Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Perhaps because of the constraints on the book to be short and fit into a series, the book is less detailed and comprehensive than one would like but it may whet the reader's appetite to learn more. Included are a short glossary and a chart of important dates, as well as a helpful bibliography for readers who want to read more about women of the west. 2001, Compass Point Books, $21.26. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Valerie O. Patterson
ISBN: 0-7565-0099-0
Into A New Country: Eight Remarkable Women of the West
Liza Ketchum
The women included in this fascinating book truly were remarkable. Reading the stories of these largely unknown women brings to life the difficulties that both men and women experienced in the West before and during the time of the Gold Rush. Women had harder times than the men did. Society placed what they thought were unreasonable limits on them, so that to reach their dreams they had to fight all of society as well as their families. Susan Shelby Magoffin was born in 1827, and accompanied her husband on the Santa Fe Trail when she was eighteen. She died at 28, and her diary lay forgotten for nearly 150 years. Bridget (Biddy) Mason was born a slave, but became one of the wealthiest women in Los Angeles. Bethenia Owens-Adair became the first women physician in the West. Two Native American sisters fought for the welfare of their people. Lotta Crabtree's mother was infected with "Gold-Rush Fever" and dragged her daughter west. Lotta soon became famous as an entertainer. Mary McGladery Tape fought for the rights of Asian-Americans. Katherine Ryan was known as "Klondike Kate." This is a very well put-together volume of fascinating stories. Illustrated with daguerreotypes and photos, it doesn't gloss over the hardships involved, and altogether makes the reader wish that he/she could have known these pioneers. 2000, Little Brown & Company, $18.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
ISBN: 0-316-49597-2
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2002; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
More Spice Than Sugar: Poems About Feisty Females
Compiled by Lillian Morrison
Illustrated by Ann Boyajian.
These poems celebrate the greatness of women and girls as they excel in a variety of endeavors, including sports and careers once available only to males. There are no boundaries. Several of the concrete poems are really a delight, including "Lashondra Scores" by J. Patrick Lewis, which follows the path of a basketball as it arcs to the hoop, and "The Hamill Camel," which like skater Dorothy Hamill, streaks and swirls across the page. Other poems celebrate both famous and unknown women--those who sacrificed and worked to make their children's lives better and those whose fame we know, like Amelia Earhart, Fannie Lou Hamer, Clara Barton and Molly Pitcher. All of the poems are accompanied by delightful black-and-white sketches. What a wonderful collection to have available for young girls--one that clearly demonstrates that there are no longer any boundaries. Table of contents and notes. 2001, Houghton Mifflin, $15.00. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-618-06892-9
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Osceola Memories of a Sharecropper's Daughter
Collected and edited by Alan Govenar
Illustrated by Shane W. Evans
Osceola Mays always wanted to write poems, but she only had one pencil and she needed to save that for school. Fortunately, she could remember the poems, songs, and stories taught to her by her mother and grandmother in the rich oral tradition of her slave ancestors. Many of these histories were taught so children could learn about events such as the Civil War, slavery and Gilliam's Storm which was sent because " white people weren't very nice to the black folks." In this rich patchwork of memories, Osceola, who was born in East Texas in 1909, shares her life. A carryover from slave days was to be given a name of a white child in the area, thus she was named Garnell at birth. After an impressionable visit of an Indian man, she insisted on taking his name and was from then on called Osceola. As the daughter of a sharecropper there was little money to spare, but on each Santa Claus Night, Osceola knew she would get a present. When her mother died, the presents stopped. The memories could never die, and Osceola shared them through interviews with the author over a fifteen-year period. They are richly and eloquently shared in just sixty-four pages and the folk art paintings enhance the text. Readers will be touched and enriched by Osceola's memoirs, getting a glimpse of an extraordinary "ordinary" woman. 2000, Hyperion Books for Children, Ages 8 to 12, $15.99. Reviewer: Laura Hummel
ISBN: 0-7868-0407-6
Outrageous Women of Colonial America
Mary Rodd Furbee
In a well-written, highly entertaining and eye-opening text, Furbee tells the stories of fourteen women in Colonial America. Some of the names such as Abigail Adams, Phillis Wheatley and Betsy Ross have been written about in many other books and are probably the most familiar, but the stories of the others are not so well-known. Queen Weetamoo of the Wampanoag bravely led her people against the encroaching white settlers, but eventually lost her life in the fight. Peggy Shippen Arnold, the wife of famed traitor Benedict Arnold, managed to escape a traitor's fate and lived a comfortable life in England where her work as a spy was amply rewarded. Anne Trotter replaced her husband as a frontier scout after he died during a fierce battle with the Shawnee. After her services were no longer needed as a scout she became a peddler and in her seventies built her own cabin and settled down near her son. Furbee has truly cast a bright light on these women who bucked mores of the day to establish a place for themselves in history. 2001, John Wiley, $12.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-471-38299-X
Outrageous Women of the American Frontier
Mary Rodd Furbee
Outrageous Women is a book about little known women of the West. Although there are a few notable women such as Calamity Jane and Sacagawea, most of the women highlighted have been nameless and lost in history. For example, there was Nellie Cashman who operated restaurants and hotels in Mining Camps and Libbie Custer, the wife of General George Custer. She followed her husband around to live on frontier army posts. Narcissa Whitman became a missionary and teacher. Although the women outlined in this book may not have achieved fame and fortune, they were strong women who were determined to make a life for themselves in the early days of the western frontier. Black-and-white photographs accompany the text. 2002, John Wiley and Sons, $12.955. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Della A. Yannuzzi
ISBN: 0-471-38300-7
Outrageous Women of the Renaissance
Vicki Leon
Ms. Leon has brought to life several interesting ladies who made their mark in the history of their countries and in many cases the world. These talented women hail from France, Italy, Holland, Sweden, Denmark, the British Isles, Spain, Portugal and the New World. One of my personal favorites is Grace O'Malley of Ireland (1530-1603). She was the daughter of a shipping family who did a bit of pirating on the side. Grace was actively involved in the business and often was the captain of ships in the line. A contemporary of Elizabeth I, the two met in 1593 to discuss pirating of British ships by Grace's fleet and the release of Grace's son, held captive by Elizabeth. To have been witness to their discussions would have been very, very interesting. I really enjoyed this book and recommend it not only for young people but also adults. 1999, John Wiley, Ages 10 to 14, $12.95. Reviewer: Barbara Youngblood
ISBN: 0-471-29684-8
Petticoat Spies: Six Women Spies of the Civil War
During the Civil War over three million American men went off to fight in the bloodiest conflict in the republic's history. As those men marched off to fight and die, millions of women remained at home seeking ways in which they too could serve their respective governments. One way in which some women chose to serve was in the role of spies. Both northern and southern women gathered intelligence for their forces and in turn impacted the course of the war. Here, in Peggy Caravantes account of six such clandestine female warriors, readers will meet a select group of Civil War era women. In each instance the author tells the story of one of these fascinating and colorful characters of the American past. Meet Belle Boyd, who convinced youthful Yankee officers to confide in her and then turned her knowledge over to Confederate leaders. For Pauline Cushman, her attempts to serve as a Union spy nearly cost her life as she was captured, sentenced to be hung, and then rescued by Federal troops. Emma Thompson's story is even more complicated as she pretended to be a man and served as a "male" espionage agent for the Union army. These, and three other, tales of female Civil War spies are offered to readers in an exciting and informative manner. This is a book that readers with any interest in the Civil War will find enjoyable. 2002, Morgan Reynolds, $20.95. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck
Renegades, especially in a time of war, do not always present themselves as loud, feisty soldiers who go screaming into battle on horseback. Some work quietly behind the scenes, including the six women featured in this book. Rather than go into combat, they used cunning and spy techniques to get past guards and give information to the leaders of both the Union and the Confederacy. Sarah Emma Edmonds, for example, mastered many disguises, including that of a black male slave. The women faced the chance of being caught and killed, each so her country would have a chance at winning the war. Used as an accompaniment to a classroom textbook, these stories could supplement a discussion of the unsung heroes of the Civil War or be used to provide information about American women's history. The book begins with an introduction that gives some background about the beginning of the Civil War, why it was fought, and the leaders of the Union and the Confederacy. Each story is accompanied by a black-and-white picture of the woman being described and includes quotations from letters written by the women, newspapers and the soldiers who fought alongside the women. At the end of the book the reader will find a bibliography, a glossary, an index and a list of citations for chapter quotations. 2002, Morgan Reynolds Publishers, $20.95. Ages 9 to 13. Reviewer: Carlie Kraft
ISBN: 1-88384-688-9
Remember the Ladies: 100 Great American Women
Cheryl Harness
Imagine a room filled with women like Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya Angelou, Elizabeth Cady Stanton--all watching Abigail Adams use a computer. This carefully painted image in Cheryl Harness' book suggests just how far ahead of their times most women in the book really were, including Abigail Adams when she urged her husband John to "remember the ladies and be more generous to them than your ancestors." Harness includes a few sentences about each of the hundred women she has chosen, from Virginia Dare and Pocahontas all the way to Madeleine Albright, Toni Morrison and Oprah Winfrey. The book introduces young readers to many women they know and more they don't; if you question the selection or omission of particular women--and you will--at least Harness gets a good discussion going. She even invites readers at the end to come up with their own list--"When you get to 100, you'll have a pretty good idea about your America--and yourself." The watercolor illustrations are meticulous and colorful, with excellent detail, even in the crowd scenes. The layout, however, is crowded and confusing. The picture book-size volume includes a glossary and bibliography as well as a few historic sites and key organizations. 2001, HarperCollins, $16.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Karen Leggett
ISBN: 0-688-17018-8
ISBN: 0-688-17017-X
Best Books:
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Rhode Island Children's Book Award, 2003; Rhode Island
Sacagawea, 1788-1812
Rosemary Wallner
Sacagawea is remembered for her contributions to the Lewis and Clark expedition, which began in Saint Louis, Missouri and ended at the Pacific Ocean. She proved to be an able translator as well as a guide to survival in the wilderness. We find all this out in the first chapter, and it comes as a bit of a jolt to then begin with her birth in Chapter Two. No sooner is she born than are we given a recipe for gooseberry cobbler. Although graphic elements add another dimension to the tale, they, too, seem somewhat disconnected to the story, even distracting. The writing itself is accurate, if not inspired. With her colorful pictures, the illustrator has done a lovely job of depicting the dress of the times, living accommodations, daily life, and interactions of the Lemhi Shoshone with the white man. As part of a series, "American Indian Biographies," this book will fit in well with the study of history and American cultures. It contains a chronology, glossary, list of other research sources, and an index, all of which lend themselves to open-ended and ongoing study. 2002, Blue Earth Books/Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Susan Schott Karr
ISBN: 0-7368-1213-X
Sybil Ludington's Midnight Ride
Marsha Amstel
Illustraated by Ellen Beier
One of the easy-reading "On My Own History" series, this true story covers the ride 16-year-old Sybil Ludington took to warn settlers near Danbury, Connecticut, that the British were burning the city. Washington had sent four hundred farmers home for spring planting when the British sprung their attack. The young girl eluded outlaws, knocked on doors with a stick so she wouldn't have to dismount and warned her friends and neighbors, calling them to gather at her house and march against the British. This stirring story is well-told, using six or seven sentences to a page, and an afterword tells how Sybil lived to a ripe old age with plenty of progeny. Beier's watercolor illustrations get the job doneand an author's note sets the stage. Perfect for young history buffs, this book would be a wonderful addition for less able readers studying Colonial themes in the upper elementary grades if they aren't put off by "grades 2-3" prominently stamped on the cover. 2000, Carolrhoda, Ages 7 to 9, $21.27 and $5.95. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 1-57505-211-3
ISBN: 1-57505-456-6
The Way West: Journal of a Pioneer Woman
Amelia Stewart Knight
Illustrated by Michael McCurdy
In 1852, Amelia Stewart Knight and her family join the westward movement traveling from Iowa to Oregon. Despite the hardships of the journey including children succumbing to mumps, fording rivers without bridges and being pregnant with her eighth child, Knight kept a daily journal which has been adapted in this picture book. McCurdy's unique illustrations-woodcuts tinted with watercolor washes catch the pioneer spirit with close up views of the Knight family and their adventures while on the Oregon Trail. Elementary school teachers and librarians will find this a useful addition to their units on America's westward expansion. It would be wonderful to use in an art class as part of a cross curriculum lesson plan. 1993, Aladdin, Ages 7 to 10, $5.99. Reviewer: Wendy Pollock-Gilson
ISBN: 0-689-82580-3
They Called Her Molly Pitcher
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Cynthia von Buhler
During the Revolutionary War some colonial women followed their men to Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, where they helped with cooking, cleaning, and nursing the sick. One such woman was Mary Hays who was nicknamed Molly. Under the leadership of George Washington the rag-tag army suffered from lack of supplies and training, but they excelled at guerilla warfare. At the battle of Monmouth the colonials and British clashed. The day was terribly hot and the British suffered in their uniforms, many succumbed to heat stroke. The colonials removed heavy clothing and were kept cool thanks to Molly. She had a pitcher with her and filled it repeatedly with cool water for the fighting men. When her husband was wounded she took up his position and fired the canon. Her perseverance and bravery soon gave her two more names. The men called her Molly Pitcher and Washington bestowed the rank of sergeant to her. There is no reason for young readers to be bored with history when it is presented in such an engaging manner. The meticulously detailed biography is written on linen and accompanied by glorious oil paintings that capture the emotion and fervor of battle. The legendary Molly Pitcher surely deserves a place in a social studies curriculum. 2002, Alfred A Knopf, $15.95. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Laura Hummel
ISBN: 0-679-99187-5
ISBN: 0-679-89187-0
Those Extraordinary Women of World War I
Karen Zeinert
In 1917 the United States entered World War I. At that time, American women stepped forward to fill many of the same roles that their grandmothers held during the Civil War. Many took the place of men in factories as the demands for wartime goods soared. Other women joined various relief organizations where their primary duties included supplying "doughboys" with extra items of comfort. In some cases, women joined the medical corps and served as rear echelon or battlefield nurses. Countless other American mothers, sisters, aunts and girlfriends knitted socks or kept the home fires burning in anticipation of the return of their loved ones. The saga of American women during the Great War is stirringly told in this history book. The author touches on the major ways in which American women contributed to the war effort. Specific individual women are highlighted, such as Jeanette Rankin, the sole woman in the U.S. Congress at the time the declaration of war was called for by Woodrow Wilson. Ms. Rankin voted against war in 1917 and again in 1941 after Pearl Harbor. Her brave story, as well those of countless other women who labored to help the Allies defeat Germany, is ably chronicled in this fine book laced with many illustrations. 2001, Millbrook, $27.40. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck
ISBN: 0-7613-1913-1
Best Books:
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
A Voice From the Wildernesss: The Story of Anna Howard Shaw
Don Brown
Don Brown adds to the impressive numbers of picture book biographies with this inspiring story of one woman who raised her voice to secure women's right to vote. Anna Howard Shaw came to America in 1857 and immediately displayed her resilient nature when her father settled Anna, her mother and siblings in the roughly cleared forest of Michigan. In this desolate frontier, Anna worked hard to make a life for her family while sampling the simple pleasures of reading and finding beauty in the nature that surrounded her. Driven by ambition, she went from teaching in a one room schoolhouse to attending college where she graduated and became first a minister and later a doctor. The inequities she saw in the wages given to women prompted Anna, who once preached to an imagined audience in the forest, to speak out for a woman's right to vote. The pioneer girl had found her cause, and using "her own scale and keeping her own measurement," she made a difference. Warm watercolor illustrations capture the spirit of a woman who was no stranger to adversity but learned to face it head on. 2001, Houghton Mifflin, $16.00. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Beverley Fahey
ISBN: 0-618-08362-6
Best Books:
Amelia Bloomer List, 2002; American Library Association-SRRT; United States
The Wells Fargo Book of the Gold Rush
Margaret Rau
Illustrations from the Wells Fargo archives
Filled with drama, adventure, greed, strong men, brave women and life in the Wild West, the story of the California gold rush remains compelling history. Margaret Rau's new book is a welcome addition. It begins chronologically with James Marshall's 1848 discovery of gold on John Sutter's land and his efforts to keep the news a secret. It continues with the arduous journeys of the "forty-niners" by sailing ship and wagon, recounting the incredible hardships they endured to reach San Francisco. Those who survived pushed on to establish claims and search desperately for gold, for many had gambled everything to find the end of the rainbow. After the basic chronology, Ms. Rau treats a number of other subjects in separate chapters, many overlapping in time, but all adding to a satisfying whole. There are chapters about San Francisco, California's statehood, the arrival of women, entertainment, the Mexican and Native American populations, the boom times and the recession. By 1859, most of those who'd rushed west, but whose pockets remained empty, drifted away. The story was over. Many black-and-white photographs and illustrations from the Wells Fargo Historical Archives enhance the text. 2001, Atheneum Books for Young Readers, $18.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Ellen R. Butts
ISBN: 0-689-83019-X
Best Books:
Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Women of the Frontier
Charles W. Sundling
When exploration of the Louisiana Territory began in early 1840, very few women were recorded as being a part of the wagon trains that headed west. However, by 1900, 800,000 women were living in this new land west of the Mississippi. Although the trip was especially hard for women, many made the trip looking for better lives for themselves and their families. The reader learns about life on the wagon trains, the marriage traditions, and the social life of these pioneer women. Included with the index and glossary is a list of recommended web sites for further research. This is part of a six-volume series entitled "Frontierland." All titles are worthy of elementary and middle school collections. This is an especially good series for those reluctant male readers. 2000, ABDO Publishing, $19.93. Ages 8 to 14. Reviewer: Joyce Rice
ISBN: 1-5776-5046-8
Women of the West
Bobbie Kalman and Jane Lewis
Bobbie Kalman has found the formula to be both financially successful and pedagogically useful. Her books, and this is no exception, with their indexes, glossaries and combination of photographs and drawings, render so many periods of history interesting and accessible to schoolchildren and are a welcome tool for elementary school teachers. This particular volume covers immigration, dangers of everyday life, various racial groups, fashion and customs, and political issues relevant to women. Emphasis on the role of women is not overplayed; veracity of photographs is sometimes questionable, though (the children on p. 23 and Nellie McClung on p. 31 give pause). Evocation of Canadian equivalents, including the locating of McClung, may be slightly gratuitous, so that a Canadian school library would not likely purchase this. The reading level is at an average fourth or fifth grade; and the copious illustrations make it a useful social history tool even for children with reading problems. Part of the series "Life in the Old West." 2000, Crabtree Publishing Company, $7.95. Ages 9 to 11. Reviewer: Martha Cunningham
ISBN: 0-7787-0080-1
ISBN: 0-7787-0112-3
Women of the Wild West
Katherine Krohn
This is part of the "A&E Biography" series and the profiles cover a rather eclectic group of women. There is the miner's wife who went into the restaurant business during the California gold rush by building outdoor tables and buying provisions at the local store. Then there is the story of young Virginia Reed who was a survivor of the Donner Party's attempt to cross the Rocky Mountains. Students may be surprised to learn how young many of these women were. Often life was hard and some of these girls felt they had no choice but to strike out on their own to earn a living. Annie Oakley (Phoebe Ann Mosey) was one such young woman and she was able to help her family by capitalizing on her marksmanship. Not so well known is Pearl Hart who ran away from home at the age of seventeen. Her claim to fame is being the first known stagecoach robber in the Arizona Territory. Other women featured include Laura Ingalls Wilder, Sacagawea and Calamity Jane (Martha Jane Cannary). 2000, Lerner, $25.26 and $7.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford
ISBN: 0-8225-4980-8
ISBN: 0-8225-9690-3
Women With Grit
Bonnie Highsmith Taylor
Aided by a glossary, Taylor gives enough details for young readers to grasp the fundamentals of what it took to become a pioneer American professional woman. Her black-and-white vignettes describe the paths of Maria Mitchell, astronomer, (1818-1889), Susan B. Anthony, activist for the rights of women (1820-1906), Harriet Tubman, conductor on the underground railroad, (1820-1913), Bethenia Owens-Adair, pioneer doctor, (1840-1926), Linda Richards, America's first trained nurse, (1847-1930), Marian Anderson, famous black singer, (1902-1993), Margaret Bourke-White, photographer, (1905-1991), and Jackie Cochrane, "first lady of aviation" (1912-1980). A high interest low vocabulary books that will also appeal to adults learning English. 2000, Perfection Learning, $8.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Carolyn Dennette Michaels
ISBN: 0-78915-045-X
Women in Business
Cool Women, Hot Jobs ... And How You Can Go For It, Too!
Tina Schwager & Michele Schuerger
The authors have done a good job interviewing twenty women, some very young, who have succeeded in a wide range of professions. A number of the women had chosen traditional jobs for women; executive director of a non-profit organization, wedding planner and fashion designer. The more exceptional and non-traditional careers represented include fighter pilot, FBI agent, dolphin trainer and zoo director. Many of the women knew from childhood how they wanted to spend their professional lives, but there were also numerous times an opportunity/obstacle presented itself and changed a life in the process. I found the story of Maureen Holohan the most inspirational. She was an athlete and played professional basketball as an adult. However, an injury ended her career. She was also very interested in writing for children. When she couldn't find a publisher for her books, she published her own books. She arranged a book tour to 125 cities and 450 schools and managed to sell 65,000 books. She was eventually offered a contract with Simon and Schuster. In addition to the interviews, the authors provide a game plan for finding a dream job. 2002, Free Spirit, $15.95. Ages 8 to adult. Reviewer: Kristin Harris
ISBN: 1-57542-109-7
Girl, You're Amazing!
Virginia Kroll
Illustrated by Mélisande Potter
Upbeat rhymes affirm that girls can do anything and everything from "helping your brother with math he finds tough" to " seeing the puppies are fed just enough." The colorful, mixed media illustrations exude humor and extend the possibilities of what girls can become. Throughout this volume girls are friends, athletes, dancers, artists and caring family members. Teachers could use the rhyming pattern as an extension for children to write poems about their own gifts and strengths. Celebrate a girl and share this book with her, for there are no limits as to what she can become. This picture book is a strong purchase for home, elementary schools and public libraries. 2001, Albert Whitman, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Wendy Pollock-Gilson
ISBN: 0-8075-2930-3
Good Girl Work: Factories, Sweatshops, and How Women Changed Their Role in the American Workplace
Catherine Gourley
The title "good girl work" actually means "good work for girls." This book about the beginning of the women's labor movement begins tracking the movement in 1897, although it skips around a lot. Before the movement, wives were often considered to be indentured servants. With the coming of the Industrial Revolution, though, children became useful as factory workers. As early as 1836, young girls sang, "Oh, isn't it a pity that such a pretty girl as I/ should be sent to the factory to pine away and die." Songs and parades to fight poor working conditions and low wages did no good for the girls. In fact, girls who protested were no longer considered "good girls" and might be let go from their jobs. But in the later part of the century, the rise of labor unions, at first restricted to men, gave many women hope. Courley uses photographs of girls and women at work in what seem to be intolerable conditions, combined with quotations from these girls, as well as from men and women of the time. The struggle to bring decent wages and working conditions to this neglected half of the work force was hard and lengthy. Even the terrible Triangle Fire in 1911 wasn't enough to change the system that had been so good to so many (owners). A year after the fire, Margaret Hinchey, a protester who was arrested and sent to the New York prison called the "Tombs," wrote to Leonora O'Reilly of the Women's Trade Union League, "Use me in any way you can for the good of the cause. I am yours to the end." A highly recommended book. 1999, Millbrook, Ages 9 up, $23.40. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
ISBN: 0-7613-0951-9
Gutsy Girls: Young Women Who Dare
Tina Schwager and Michele Schuerger
Gutsy Girls is a collection of stories about young women who succeed in unusual hobbies and non-traditional careers. While the stories are inspiring and could easily motivate a teen to try something new, the simplistic and formulaic writing style becomes predictable and dull far before a reader finishes reading about the 25 girls. Each segment includes some basic information about the individual and her family, a picture or two, the story of her experience and success in her chosen activity, a brief section summarizing her accomplishments and motivation, and a "Go Exploring" section that lists resources and organizations a reader my contact for more information. The book closes with a section on developing the mental and physical skills needed to be a "Gutsy Girl" and an historical list of women who have made history in various fields. Overall, the book is a good reference for girls looking for a new hobby or activity, but is not a good choice for casual reading. 1999, Free Spirit Publishing, Ages 12 to 16, $14.94. Reviewer: Karen Porter
ISBN: 1-57542-059-7
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 1999 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers, 2000 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Madam C. J. Walker: Self-Made Businesswoman
Della A. Yannuzzi
Hard work, intelligence and a belief in yourself can go a long way, but Sarah Breedlove McWilliams aka Madam C. J. Walker is a real inspiration. Close to forty, she pulled up stakes and went to Denver to open up her own business selling hair care products to African American Women. She prospered and eventually established a factory and in just seven years she had a network of 1500 agents. Although she lacked formal education, Walker hired tutors for herself and was a strong supporter of education. She made contributions to schools and even established Leila College to train her agents. She became a millionaire and unfortunately died fourteen years after establishing the business. The concluding chapter brings readers up to date about the fate of the company, her daughter and adopted granddaughter as well as the beautiful homes she owned in New York. An interesting biography featuring selected black-and-white photographs and illustrations. Chronology, notes and index. Part of the "African-American Biographies" series. 2000, Enslow, Ages 11 up, $19.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-7660-1204-2
Women's Rights: Changing Attitudes 1900-2000
Kaye Stearman
This nonfiction book is one of a series on twentieth century issues, and it begins at the turn of the century and continues through to the dawn of the new millennium. With concise writing, photographs and drawings, women's rights are reported in a historical and global context, from citizenship rights to equal rights and equal opportunities. The topics covered include birth control, women in the work force during wars, liberation, abortion, women as soldiers, women in politics, women in science, and lesbianism. Sidebars are of two kinds-opinion, in which a quote appears, and key moment, in which a historical event is described. No graphs or charts are provided, but a glossary, a bibliography, and useful addresses of organizations sans web sites are included. 2000, Raintree/Steck-Vaughn, Ages 12 to 16, $27.12. Reviewer: Jacki Vawter
ISBN: 0-8172-5892-2
Dancers/Singers
Gloria Estefan
Rebecca Stefoff
This readable and informative biography of this popular Cuban-American singer is also profusely illustrated. Part of the series "Hispanics of Achievement" this book, like others in the series focuses on the lives of prominent Hispanic men and women throughout history. It underscores the important role Hispanics have played in shaping world culture and, in this case, the world of music. It contains many black-and-white illustrations, bibliography and index. 1995 (1991), Chelsea House, Ages 10 up, $19.95 and $8.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-7910-1244-1
Gloria Estefan
Michael Benson
Lerner Publications and A&E (Arts and Entertainment Television) have collaborated to create a series of biographies about famous contemporary and historical personalities. If this one about the Cuban singer and her band (Gloria Estefan and The Miami Sound Machine) is any indication of the quality, then the series is highly recommended. Gloria's adult life is featured in this 100-page biography, though her roots and her childhood are given enough coverage that readers will understand who Gloria Estefan really is. Her successes, failures, triumphs, and tragedies are richly detailed and more interesting than voyeuristic to read. The appended discography and videography, along with the facts about this talented and innovative musician will more than satisfy fans. They and other readers will come away from this book with an appreciation for the musician's political commitment to free her homeland and the social consciousness that has helped her translate fame into works of charity and unity. 2000, Lerner Publications Company, $25.26 and $7.95. Ages 9 up. Reviewer: Judy Katsh
ISBN: 0-8225-4982-4
ISBN: 0-8225-9692-X
Isadora Duncan: Revolutionary Dancer
Larry Sandomir
Isadora Duncan is the perfect choice for inclusion in a series on "American Troublemakers." As the facts of the life of this unorthodox and controversial mother of modern dance unveil, kids could be alternately delighted and maybe just a little shocked by her modus operandi. Duncan's burning ambition, her personal life-style of free love (strongly influenced by the early divorce of her parents during her childhood in San Francisco), her artistic high points, and her tragedies (the early loss of all three of her children born out of wedlock) not to mention her own stylish and extraordinary death are all detailed. Sandomir goes to some lengths to justify Duncan's deviations from the period norm of moral standards in this workmanlike but stolid biography of one of the world's true eccentrics. 1995. Raintree Steck-Vaughn, Ages 12 up, $27.11 Reviewer: Kathleen Karr
ISBN: 0-8114-2380-8
Letter to the World: The Life and Dances of Martha Graham
Trudy Garfunkel
Written by an author who loves to attend dance performances, this book is richly detailed with facts about Martha Graham's life and accompanied by excellent photographs. Graham was born in 1894, performed until she was seventy-four, and choreographed until her death at ninety-six. Her persistence and her love of dance led Graham to become one of America's most inspirational and successful dancers and choreographers. Garfunkel's book is a tribute to Graham's persistence and her love of dance. 1995, Little Brown, Ages 10 up, $16.95. Reviewer: Rae Valabek
ISBN: 0-316-30413-1
Anna Pavlova, Genius of the Dance
Ellen Levine
After eight-year-old Anna's mother took her to see the Sleeping Beauty ballet, the young Pavlova was determined to become a ballerina. She was not allowed to join the Imperial Ballet School until she was ten, but when she did, she quickly became one of its most talented dancers. Her great talent combined with hard work and a great love for the dance helped Anna become the most famous ballerina, first in Russia, and later in the world. Short, lively chapters give readers a good appreciation of not only her dancing, but also her world travels, her relationships with members of her troupe and ballet schools, and her ability to actually create new dances. Anna comes to life for the reader as a person as well as a dancer and artist. 1995, Scholastic, Ages 10 to 14, $14.95. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 0-590-44304-6
Best Books:
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of the Social Studies, 1995 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, April 1995 ; Cahners; United States
Evelyn Cisneros, Prima Ballerina
Charnan Simon
Simon ably relates the fascinating story of Mexican-American Evelyn Cisneros and her rise to stardom as a principal dancer with the San Francisco Ballet. This photographic essay shows Cisneros both in practice and performance. Her stunning performances have earned her many awards. Emphasis is also placed on her efforts to inspire young children through talks at schools. 1990, Children's Press, Ages 5 up, $17.50. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-516-04276-9
Marian Anderson
Anne Tedards
This is a biography of the well-known opera and concert singer who, among other achievements, was the first black soloist to sing at the White House and to perform with the Metropolitan Opera Company. She served as a delegate to the United Nations, sang at the inauguration of Presidents Eisenhower and Kennedy, and received numerous awards and degrees. Her struggle against prejudice to become one of the great opera performers of the century serves as a model for all. 1988, Chelsea House, Ages 12 up, $17.95 and $9.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 1-5554-6638-9
When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson
Pam Muñoz Ryan
Illustrated by Brian Selznick
Ryan and Selznick have teamed up again to create a wonderful picture book biography of the great African American singer, Marian Anderson. Ryan's text begins in Marian's early years as her enormous musical talent is seen and nurtured. It also covers the prejudice Marian encountered as a child growing up in Philadelphia in the early part of the 20th century. Marian tried to enroll at a music school to study and was turned away because she was black. Yet her own church community saw the glory in her talent and helped support her as she developed it. As a professional adult, Marian sang to crowds in Europe, only to return home where concerns about "mixed audiences" and "appropriate venues" overshadowed her career. Marian went on to become one of the most famous singers of the 20th century. In 1939, Marian Anderson, much more than just a marvelous singer by that time, was invited to sing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on Easter Sunday. 75,000 people of all colors came to share in Marian's great gift. While I found the text strong, the illustrations are beyond gorgeous. Selznick chose to use a sepia/chocolate tone throughout that is so rich and deep we can only see the color as beautiful. Marian's skin tones resonate throughout the book and that says so much. His sense of placement in Marian's performance scenes makes the reader feel as if they are in that particular audience. I particularly liked how Selznick's opening page is inviting us into a theater slowing filling up and it's counterpoint, at the end, has us in the theater watching the great Marian Anderson sing. He provides a luminous quality to Marian throughout that gives us a sense of how special she was--quite a visual challenge when the musical realm was where she reigned. Selznick did it here with attention to the lighting of his main character--a nice theatrical touch. The back matter was a wonderful enhancement to the text. I was so interested in Anderson by the end of the book that I was grateful for the extra information. And Selznick's story of how he came upon this information from his uncle speaks to the serendipity in life. This moving book works on so many levels--a strong biography, a wonderful multicultural story, a gorgeous picture book, and a story of profound determination. Overall, I had such a feel for Marian Anderson when I finished this book and I really hadn't before. It was just what I wanted from a biography. 2002, Scholastic, $16.95. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Joan Kindig
ISBN: 0-439-26967-9
Best Books:
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2002 ; Children's Literature; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 2002 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, October 7, 2002 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, November 2002 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2002 ; Cahners; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Robert F. Sibert Information Book Award 2003 United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Texas Bluebonnet Award, 2004 ; Texas
Musicians
Her Piano Sang: A Story about Clara Schumann
Barbara Allman
Illustrated by Shelly O. Haas
It's fascinating to realize that many people have heard of Brahms, Bach and even Robert Schumann, Clara's husband, but few have ever heard about the renowned German composer and pianist, Clara Wicok Schumann. Clara was a child prodigy who started public performances in 1831 at age 9 under the tutelage of her father. This biography traces both Clara's musical career and her personal life which were both filled with struggles and challenges. Throughout the book, the reader is introduced to other famous musicians and composers who were friends of Clara's and who were in awe of her ability to make the piano sing. A wonderful story about a brilliant female musician. 1997, Carolrhoda Books, Ages 8 up, $18.95. Reviewer: Pat Metz
ISBN: 1-5750-5012-9
Hidden Music: The Life of Fanny Mendelssohn
Gloria Kamen
Kids reading this engrossing biography, especially girls, will surely be thankful that they were born in the 20th and not the 19th century. Fanny was a talented and accomplished musician, but due to the mores of the time, she was never able to showcase her compositions or virtuosity. She lived in the shadow of her brother Felix, and the story reveals that she depended on him to be her window to the world. For reasons unexplained, Felix grew distant from her and did not champion the publication of her music. In fact, he published some of her songs under his name. Fanny's more than 400 compositions are just beginning to come to light, and with this biography, Kamen has helped to shed light on the life of a truly amazing woman. Kamen's black and white sketches are a delight. The Epilog cites women who have since made a name for themselves as composers and conductors. A glossary and index are included. 1996, Atheneum, Ages 10 up, $15.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-689-31714-X
Best Books:
Books for You: An Annotated Booklist for Senior High, Fourteenth Edition, 2001 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of the Social Studies, 1996 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Public Service/Politics/Human Rights Advocates
Abigail Adams: First Lady and Patriot
Pat McCarthy
This comprehensive biography of Abigail Adams, wife of the second President, focuses on Adams's role as wife and mother, as well as on her reputation as "the first feminist in America." As is probably not surprising in a biography of a colonial woman, Adams's life is described primarily in relation to her more public husband, sons and other male relatives. Details of fashion, correspondence and family squabbles are also included, and these, as well as accounts of the all-too-common deaths of infants and children, give readers a sense of the domestic realities and tragedies of women's lives. A closing chapter entitled "The Legacy of Abigail Adams" puts her life in perspective. Sidebars provide definitions and historical context, and endnotes, a glossary, a chronology, an index and suggestions for further reading (including Internet sites) will aid in research. Readers desiring to read the biography straight through, though, might be disappointed at the scarcity of illustrations; although black and white reproductions of most of the major players are included, the only illustration in the book of Adams herself is the same one that appears on the book's cover. Inclusion of additional maps or drawings from the era could greatly enhance the biography's readability. This book is part of the "Historical American Biographies" series. 2002, Enslow, $20.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Norah Piehl
ISBN: 0-7660-1618-8
Anna Eleanor Roosevelt
Dan Santow
Eleanor Roosevelt is among the best known and most admired First Ladies. She grew up in a privileged family but with a dysfunctional set of parents, and after her mother died she was sent to live with her grandmother. A shy and not particularly attractive child, Eleanor didn't come into her own until she went to school abroad. She and her fifth cousin, Franklin Roosevelt met again on a train trip while he was a junior at Harvard and from there love blossomed. They married and raised a family of five children while Franklin became involved in state and then national politics. Eventually Eleanor became an outspoken proponent of child labor and crusaded to improve the living conditions of many Americans. She became a much sought after speaker and went on the stump for her husband. After his death she continued to be involved in world issues, served as a delegate to the United Nations and on the board of NAACP. She never stopped and she truly rose above any constraints that faced women and First Ladies in particular. The book is liberally illustrated with black-and-white and full color photographs. There is a timeline, list of all the presidents and first ladies, quick facts pages about Eleanor and Franklin, bibliography, list of Internet sites and an index. Part of the "Encyclopedia of First Ladies" series. 1999, Children's Press/Grolier, Ages 10 up, $33.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-516-20481-5
Aung San Suu Kyi: Fearless Voice of Burma
Whitney Stewart
An extremely readable biography of the Burmese leader based on personal interviews with Aung San Suu Kyi and others in Burma. Stewart offers interesting details about the cultural and emotional underpinnings of her subject, who won the 1991 Nobel Prize for Peace while under house arrest. Children who have grown up taking democracy for granted may be appalled by the sort of things that go on, even in this day and age, when powerful government officials want to silence dissent. Yet, the courage, strength and continuing struggle of Kyi and her people should also impress them. 1997, Lerner, Ages 9 up, $23.95. Reviewer: Donna Freedman
ISBN: 082254931X
Best Books:
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of the Social Studies, 1997 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 1998 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Barbara Pierce Bush
Judith E. Greenberg
Barbara Bush is a descendent of President Franklin Pierce, married George Bush and became Fist Lady and depending on how the 2000 election goes may become the mother of a president. With all of that, she comes across as a warm, levelheaded woman who was entirely devoted to her husband, his career and her family. She traveled extensively with George and became an expert at moving and setting up a household, having done so (29 different homes during her first 40 years of married life). In addition to learning about Barbara and her family, kids will get a larger view of what was happening in the country through the many full and three-quarter page insets. A good introduction to this contemporary first lady that is liberally accompanied by black-and-white and full color photographs. There is a timeline, list of all the presidents and first ladies, quick facts pages about Barbara and George, bibliography, list of Internet sites and an index. Part of the "Encyclopedia of First Ladies" series. 1999, Children's Press/Grolier, Ages 10 up, $33.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-516-20475-0
Civil Rights Pioneer: A Story about Mary Church Terrell
Gwyneth Swain
Illustrations by Ellen Beier
Less widely known than other African American role models of the past century, Mary Church Terrell was a force in the earliest years of the Civil Rights movement. The child of former slaves, young Mary earned a college degree when women of any race were seldom educated. Her husband, Robert Terrell, boasted equal achievements and was the country's first black Federal judge. However, Mary Terrell's accomplishments were independent of her husband's successes. As president of the National Association for Colored Women, she led the fight for kindergartens for black children and fought to integrate lunch counters in Washington, D.C. This is a lively and engaging biography of an inspiring woman. 1999, Carolrhoda Books, Ages 8 to 12, $21.97. Reviewer: Lois Rubin Gross
ISBN: 1-57505-355-1
Clara Barton And Her Victory Over Fear
Robert Quackenbush
This biography of Barton for younger children lays strong emphasis on her childhood years. Overcoming shyness and a common fear of things like thunder storms, Clara grows up to wander the fields of Civil War battles, bringing succor to the wounded as the thunder of gunfire and cannon ring in her ears. Proper emphasis is also placed on her founding of the American Red Cross. 1995, Aladdin, Ages 7 to 11, $4.95. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr
ISBN: 0-689-80124-6
Cleopatra
Diane Stanley and Peter Vennema
Illustrated by Diane Stanley
Striking paintings in ancient Roman style, combined with an accurate and lively text, make this biography of Cleopatra particularly appealing. Although a picture book format is used, the text is longer than most of this genus and the subject matter more suitable to an older age than the usual picture book audience. The authors have done a wonderful job of dispelling myths about Cleopatra and of making a rather complex historical milieu accessible to both young readers and adults. Mosaic borders on each page add to the beauty of the book's design and have become a Stanley trademark. Includes index, bibliography, preface, introduction, epilogue and maps. Publishers Weekly Best Book. 1994, Morrow, Ages 8 up, $15.00 and $14.93. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 0-688-10413-4
ISBN: 0-688-10414-2
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 1994 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Books for Children, 1994 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Publishers Weekly Best Children's Books, 1994 ; Cahners; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, July 1994 ; Cahners; United States
Confederate Ladies of Richmond
Susan Provost Beller
Richmond, Virginia is a beautiful city with broad, tree-lined streets and spacious homes. It is a city steeped in the history of this country. The "ladies" of Richmond tell the story of their city and their experiences during the Civil War. Those who share their diaries were the educated women of the upper classes of this Southern society. They express their beliefs about slavery, war, and respect for the fighting soldier. The fourteen chapters give the reader a first-hand look at the Civil War and it's effect on the society of Richmond. Source notes, recommended websites, and an index are included. This book would be a good addition to a social studies unit about the Civil War. 1999, Twenty-First Century Books, Ages 10 to 14, $25.90. Reviewer: Joyce Rice
ISBN: 0-7613-1470-9
Dare to Dream: Coretta Scott King and the Civil Rights Movement
Angela Shelf Medearis
Illustrated by Anna Rich
In this biography of civil-rights leader Coretta Scott King, Angela Shelf Medearis has captured to perfection the feeling of a small southern town, and the bewilderment of a child prevented from doing something because she was African-American. Coretta Scott King was born in Alabama in 1927. The schools she went to were segregated, the movies and restaurants and even drinking fountains were either segregated or off limits to African-Americans. The Scott family was not well off, but they owned their own farm and always had "food and fun." Her parents loved their children and wanted them to be well educated and to "try to be somebody." When Coretta Scott married Martin Luther King, Jr., she dreamed with him that some day America would be a place where any child could grow up feeling secure and free. The man was killed, but the dream lives on. This book makes it live for a new generation. 1994, Dutton, Ages 8 to 11, $13.99. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
ISBN: 0-525-67426-8
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Second Edition, 1997 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
A Date with Destiny: The Women in Military Service for America Memorial
Brent Ashabranner
Photographs by Jennifer Ashabranner
From the women pilots who instructed their male counterparts in World War II, to the black nurses who served despite segregation and quotas, women in uniform have a long and proud history. Women have served heroically in every American war, even as they were denied veterans' benefits and military burials. In 1997, a memorial was finally established at Arlington National Cemetery to tell their stories. This book, created by a father-daughter team, follows the quest to establish the memorial, and also recounts some of the fascinating stories in the memorial's exhibits. The women's stories are definitely the highlight of the book. A bit too much time is spent on other things, like a detailed account of the first Veterans' Day observance at the memorial. Still, like the memorial, this book successfully tells of an important and almost-forgotten part of history, making the point that women should be "judged on their ability rather than on gender." This book is part of the "Great American Memorials" series. 2000, Twenty-First Century, Ages 11 to 15, $23.90. Reviewer: Emily Schuster
ISBN: 0-7613-1472-5
Dorothea Dix: Crusader for The Mentally Ill
Amy Paulson Herstek
Medical treatment for those people with mental illness was virtually nonexistent before Dorothea Dix began her campaign in the 1840s. Some were placed in prisons with hardened criminals, others were left to wander homeless, and still others were locked up in the homes of their families. Dorothea Dix knew her country could do more for these sick people who deserved proper care. She began investigating the living conditions of mentally ill people in the state of Massachusetts. What she found was profoundly shocking and disturbing to her, so much so that it incited her go before the Massachusetts legislature and push for reform. Her perseverance and courage opened the government's eyes to the plight of the mentally ill. This biography captures Dix's crusade as well as the details of her earlier years. The book is part of the "Historical American Biography" series, which highlights other pioneers in U.S. history, such as Abigail Adams, Susan B. Anthony, Daniel Boone and Paul Revere. 2001, Enslow, $20.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Sheree Van Vreede
ISBN: 0-7660-1258-1
Edith Kermit Carow Roosevelt
Barbara Silberdick Feinberg
Theodore Roosevelt (also know as Teedie in his early years and Teddy later in life) seemed to be smitten by Edith Carow but during the summer of 1878 they had a falling out. Teddy met and fell in love with another woman Alice Lee. She and his moth died on the same day, leaving Teddy with an infant daughter named Alice. Alice was still very much in love with teddy and they finally wed in 1886. She managed a family of six children including his daughter Alice. Politics beckoned and Roosevelt ran as Vice President with McKinley. When McKinley was shot their life together changed as they moved into the White House for the next eight years. The come across as a couple that shared a real zest for life. Edith lived for twenty-nine years after the death of her husband. She traveled widely and even got involved in politics. A good introduction to this first lady whose life was spent spanning two centuries that saw incredible political and social change around the world. The book is liberally illustrated with black-and-white and full color photographs. There is a timeline, list of all the presidents and first ladies, quick facts pages about Edith and Teddy, bibliography, list of Internet sites and an index. Part of the "Encyclopedia of First Ladies" series. 1999, Children's Press/Grolier, Ages 10 up, $33.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-516-21001-7
Eleanor Roosevelt: A Life of Discovery
Russell Freedman
As wife of the 32nd President of the United States, Eleanor Roosevelt was the first President's wife to have an independent role-as spokeswoman for the powerless and downtrodden. She wrote a daily syndicated column expressing her views. After her husband's death, she served as one of the first delegates to the United Nations. She also hosted one of the first interview programs on television. Eleanor's life is a lively story of one woman's courage and dedication. The well-researched text is perfectly complemented with photographs. A Newbery Honor Book and Horn Book Fanfare award recipient. 1993, Clarion Books, Ages 10 up, $17.95. Reviewer: Beth Shotwell-Valeo
In one of 1993's best biographies, Russell Freedman chronicles the life of Eleanor Roosevelt (1884-1962). As America's First Lady she was both official hostess and avid champion of human rights. After her husband's death in 1945, she continued to work for peace and earned the title "First Lady of the World." Mr. Freedman's selection of 125 archival photographs, which show Mrs. Roosevelt with family, friends, and at work, illustrate a work that captures both the private and public side of this greatly admired woman. 1993, Clarion, $17.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin
Russell Freedman's photobiography of Eleanor Roosevelt is a paean to this remarkable First Lady's achievements. Despite her shyness and insecurities, she became one of the most admired women of the century. A Newbury Honor Book, 1994, it is an excellent gift for adults, too. 1993, Clarion, $17.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman
Truly a lofty standard by which all First Ladies are judged, this distant cousin and wife of Franklin D. Roosevelt, was raised in luxury, the serious and plain child of society parents. This is a lengthy account of Eleanor Roosevelt, written for better readers. Her life is an inspiration to youngsters urging them to rise above that which is expected of them to the greatest heights. Champion of the tired and poor, Mrs. Roosevelt, like Lady Liberty, lit lamps against ignorance and prejudice that still burn today. 1993, Clarion, $17.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Deborah Zink Roffino
ISBN: 0-899-19862-7
Best Books:
Best of the Best Revisited (100 Best Books for Teens), 2001 ; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
Books in the Middle: Outstanding Books, 1993 ; Voice of Youth Advocates; United States
Bulletin Blue Ribbons, 1993 ; Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 1993 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
English Journal Honor Listing, 1994 ; English Journal; United States
Lasting Connections, 1993 ; American Library Association; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Not Just for Children Any More, 1998 ; Children's Book Council; United States
Notable Books for Children, 1993 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Children's Books in the Language Arts, 1994 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of the Social Studies, 1993 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Outstanding Non Fiction Choices, 1994 ; Language Arts; United States
Publishers Weekly Best Children's Books, 1993 ; Cahners; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, June 1993 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 1993 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books for Young Adults, 1993 ; Cahners; United States
Senior High School Library Catalog, Sixteenth Edition, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Boston Globe--Horn Book Awards Winner 1994 Nonfiction United States
Flora Stieglitz Straus Award Winner 1993 United States
The Golden Kite Award Winner 1993 Nonfiction United States
Jane Addams Book Award Honor Book 1994 Longer Book United States
John Newbery Medal Honor Book 1994 United States
Reading Magic Awards Winner 1993 United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Charlie May Simon Children's Book Award Reading List, 1995-1996 ; Arkansas
Maine Student Book Award, 1994-1995 ; Maine
Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award, 1996 ; Illinois
South Carolina Book Awards, 1996 ; South Carolina
Utah Children's Book Awards, 1995 ; Utah
William Allen White Children's Book Award, 1995-1996 ; Kansas
Failure Is Impossible: The Story of Susan B. Anthony
Lisa Frederiksen Bohannon
Born into a nurturing and hard-working Quaker family, Anthony learned to value education and to treat all people with dignity and respect. Swept into the campaign to ban alcohol in an attempt to improve social conditions in America, Susan became disenchanted when she saw that women--who were the heart and soul of the clergy-dominated movement--were denied a voice and a vote at temperance conventions. The experience, however, set the stage for her life-long struggle for women's equality. This concise biography, which takes its title from the reformer's own words, conveys a sense of Anthony's indefatigable spirit and boundless energy. It illuminates the times in which she lived and demonstrates the interrelationship of the temperance, abolitionist and women's suffrage movements. Each chapter contains excerpts from primary source material including letters, diaries and speeches that provide the reader with a glimpse at Anthony's relationships with Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucy Stone and Lucretia Mott, among others. The quotes are referenced in a source list which is accompanied by a bibliography and list of related web sites. Part of the "Feminist Voices" series. 2001, Morgan Reynolds, $20.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Ellen R. Braaf
ISBN: 1-88384-677-3
Failure Is Impossible!: The History of American Women's Rights
Martha E. Kendall
From the moment Americans first landed in this country, women have been struggling to have their voices heard and rights respected. This comprehensive reference looks at the history of the women's rights movement from the early Colonial days to the present. The author accurately describes the actions, sacrifices and achievements of dozens of courageous women including Ann Hibbens, Deborah Sampson, Lavinia Waight, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth, Amelia Bloomer, Abigail Duniway, Charlotte Perkins Gilman, Mary Higgins Sanger, Betty Friedan and Gloria Steinem. The development of various women's movements is included--the Women's Christian Temperance Union, the National Suffrage Association, the League of Women Voters, the National Woman's Party, the National Organization for Women and the Women's Liberation Movement. Students will enjoy reading this well-researched book, which is packed with detailed background information, interesting facts, intriguing stories, black-and-white sketches and photos, relevant quotes, a short biographical section featuring twenty-three remarkable women, a timeline, a selected biography, a list of books for further reading and an index. It is wonderful to read about notable American women who have defied all odds, challenged the establishment and fought for what they believed in and paved the way for today's young women. Bravo to these outstanding individuals! Don't miss this impressive volume. 2001, Lerner Publications, $22.60. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Debra Briatico
ISBN: 0-8225-1744-2
Best Books:
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young Readers, 2002; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Female Leaders
Edited by Richard Rennert
This slim volume contains pertinent facts about eight African-American female achievers. Each brief chapter touches on the background and accomplishments of these women in the diverse fields of politics, education, law, civil rights, business, and journalism. Some of the subjects will likely be familiar, such as Barbara Jordan, but there are others from the 19th Century who aren't as well known, such as businesswoman Madame C. J. Walker. The book needs to be updated and would clearly be enhanced by selecting additional outstanding black women for inclusion such as Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, and Ella Sheppard, who was born a slave in 1851 and became a renowned gospel pianist. Clearly, the worlds of entertainment and business also have leaders worthy of inclusion in this book, which is one in the publisher's "Profiles of Great Black Americans" series. 1994, Chelsea House, Ages 10 up, $15.95 and $5.95. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati
ISBN: 0-7910-2057-6
Frances Perkins: Champion of the New Deal
Naomi Pasachoff
Women are so much a part of society, business, and government today that we forget that until recently they couldn't even vote. Frances Perkins was born in 1880 Boston to a New England family in which both parents descended from early British settlers. She attended Mount Holyoke College at a time when few women graduated high school. Her education there prepared her "to do meaningful and socially valuable work in the world." Fortunately she was able to do just that. After graduation she taught, and became the founder of a Girls' Club for factory- and shop-girls aged 14 to 16. Over the next few years, she taught and worked at settlement houses in Connecticut and Philadelphia as an untrained social worker. She later moved to New York City, where she went to graduate school at Columbia University. She "felt herself in the very heart of both the theoretical and practical efforts to socialize the life of the modern city." She saw injustice and corruption, she learned to speak in public, and finally was hired as the chief executive officer of the New York Consumers' League. And we're only on page 25! The story of how Perkins was appointed as the first woman Cabinet officer by Franklin Roosevelt is wonderfully told. Those who like to read biographies, history, or stories of strong, intelligent women will thoroughly enjoy this book. 1999, Oxford, Ages 9 up, $22.00. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
ISBN: 0-19-512222-4
Harriet Tubman
Nancy J. Nielsen
Consultant, Xiomara Santamarina
When Araminta Ross was born about 1820, no one knew the impact she would have on slavery. As a youngster, her name was changed to Harriet. Though small in stature, she sported the strength of a man. As an adult she was hired out to a man who offered her the right to buy freedom. However, before she could do so she heard she would be sold south. Her husband, John Tubman, did not want to escape north so Harriet saw no option but to go alone. Along the way the Underground Railroad helped her. Once free, Harriet began a quest to help others reach freedom and was likened to the biblical character Moses. She routed slaves to freedom in the U. S. and Canada putting her own life in jeopardy. During the Civil War she was a spy and nurse and helped slaves who worked for Union. After the war she helped older free slaves and became a suffragist seeking women's right. As part of the series "Let Freedom Ring" this biography is a must for all schools. With concise chapters, informational timeline, and added resources this book fills the National History Standards for grades 5 to 12. 2002, Bridgestone Books/Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 10 to 16. Reviewer: Nancy Garhan Attebury
ISBN: 0-7368-1087-0
Harriet Tubman: Conductor on the Underground Railroad
Ann Petry
Born a slave in Dorchester County on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, Harriet Tubman often dreamed of freedom. But after risking everything to make her escape, she realized that her own freedom was not enough. Harriet wanted other slaves to experience freedom in the North and became a conductor on the Underground Railroad, devoting her life as a "Moses" to deliver hundreds out of the bondage of slavery. The book does an excellent job of portraying the human side to the legendary Tubman, detailing her life from birth to death. At the end of each chapter, other significant events pertaining to slavery during the time period in Harriet's life are explained in italics. The index makes the book a good reference, while the writing style makes it a good read. This is a thrilling biography. 1996 (orig. 1955), HarperTrophy, Ages 12 up, $4.50. Reviewer: Tim Whitney
ISBN: 1-559-05097-7
Best Books:
Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002 ; California Department of Education; California
Harriet: the Life and World of Harriet Beecher Stowe
Norma Johnston
This thorough, well-documented biography of Harriet Beecher Stowe, the author of the controversial and extremely influential Uncle Tom's Cabin, does a very good job of presenting Harriet's personal life, how it was molded by, and helped to mold the often turbulent political and social conditions of the mid-1800s. Readers should be intrigued to find out about the talented and sometimes quarreling Beecher clan; Harriet's loving but somewhat non-traditional marriage, and how she struggled to obtain and work in "a room of my own," amidst the turmoil of seven children. Besides the famous Uncle Tom's Cabin, Harriet also wrote Dred, another anti-slavery novel and many lesser-known stories and articles. Her meetings and friendships with well-known people of the time, like Lincoln and Lady Byron, add to this account of her interesting life and times. Black and white photos, an author's note, index and further reading section are included. 1996, Beech Tree, Morrow, Ages 14 up, $4.95. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 0-688-14586-8
Heart and Soul: The Story of Florence Nightingale
Gena K. Gorrell
When most people think of Florence Nightingale, they think simply of a nurse or an "angel of mercy," as she was often called. This stunning biography reveals the true grit and strength of character that this privileged woman possessed. Through unshakable determination, fierce willpower and an ever-increasing awareness of social injustice, Florence broke away from her frustrating life and status as a proper Victorian lady. She became a pioneer in the fields of nursing, sanitation and hygiene, and military medical practices, among many other areas. Florence Nightingale is most famous for revolutionizing nursing practices and standards during the Crimean war. But she also championed many causes in an effort to bring about needed social reforms, at a time when the rich ruled and the poor were left largely to fend for themselves. She did this in spite of her own fragile health, both real and imagined, and doggedly tried to right the wrongs she had seen and heard of throughout the world. Careful thought and detailed research bring to life the meticulous and demanding person known as the "lady of the lamp." A truly captivating read that is filled with detailed information and references. This biography is a must-have for libraries and middle school science and/or health classrooms, if only for the lesson that "anyone who tries hard enough can change the world." 2000, Tundra Books, Ages 10 to 15, $18.95. Reviewer: Trina Heidt
ISBN: 0-88776-494-0
Helen Keller
Cynthia Klingel and Robert B. Noyed
Wonderbooks, published by The Child's World, Inc., has a much-needed low level nonfiction series. The series in Level 2 include such titles as Charles Schulz, Rosa Parks, and Jackie Robinson. Helen Keller is also in this series. The story of Helen Keller is an outstanding example of a person who conquered several physical handicaps. She was born normal in Alabama on June 27, 1880. Before she was two she became very ill and was no longer able to see, hear or speak. From then on she lived in a frustrating world where she could not communicated with others. Her parents tried to help her and a doctor recommended she go to a special teacher. Her name was Annie Sullivan. She came to live with Helen and devoted her life to help Helen overcome her disabilities. She taught her a special way to speak by touching Helen's hand and spelling words on them. The first word she learned was "water." Helen grew up with Annie close by her side interpreting for her. Helen was a very bright person and soon learned quickly. After studying very hard she was able to graduate from college, write books and give speeches. Her good teacher and friend, Annie, died, and a new helper entered Helen's life. Her name was Polly Thompson. Helen lived a long life enduring her handicaps. She died in 1968 at the age of 87 and is honored for her bravery. Excellent full-page photographs depict various aspects of Keller's life. An index, web site and other suggested books are included. Part of the "Wonders of Reading" series. 2002, The Child's World, $21.36. Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Donna Nelsen
ISBN: 1-5676-6952-2
Hillary Rodham Clinton: First Lady
Suzanne LeVert
The Gateway Biography series focuses on admirable contemporaries. In addition to Hillary Rodham Clinton, others in this series include Amelia Earhart, Christa McAuliffe, Colin Powell, and Mother Threasa-each a source of inspiration and a possible role model for preteen readers. This particular book covers the first lady's background, education and career achievements. It touches on circumstances that made her aware of the needs of those less fortunate. Cited in the narrative are persons who must have had an important influence on her development and strong religious beliefs. The relationship with her husband and the importance of strong family ties with their daughter are brought into focus, providing a sharp contrast to accusations by other women about her husband. Hillary is portrayed as a highly intelligent woman energized by her deep concern for public service. 1994, Millbrook, Ages 8 to 10, $15.90 and $6.95. Reviewer: Beth Shotwell-Valeo
ISBN: 1-5629-4726-5
ISBN: 1-5629-4432-0
Ida B. Wells-Barnett: A Voice Against Violence
Patricia and Fredrick McKissack
Ida B. Wells-Barnett was born three years before the Civil War ended, but still had to live through very turbulent times in the southern states. She was lucky enough to be able to receive a full education and to enjoy some of the freedoms that were granted African-Americans after the Civil War. But she also endured the hardships that were enacted under Jim Crow laws in the south. Wells-Barnett was a very intelligent woman, and she worked hard to educate others. For a short time she was a teacher, but after witnessing and suffering discrimination, she began to work to get laws passed that would protect the rights of all citizens of the United States. She lectured about violence that African-Americans faced, and she also worked for women's suffrage. Wells-Barnett lived a full and eventful life, marrying and giving birth to seven children while still working hard for causes she believed in. The McKissacks provide a heady glimpse at a strong and courageous woman. Easy to read and fully illustrated with pictures from Wells-Barnett times, as well as several portraits, the book also includes a timeline, a glossary, sources to consult for more information and an index. Part of the "Great African-Americans" series. 2001, Enslow Publishers, $14.95. Ages 7 to 10. Reviewer: Danielle Williams
ISBN: 0-7660-1677-3
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Society of School Librarians International Book Awards Honor 2001 Social Studies: K-6 United States
If a Bus Could Talk: The Story of Rosa Parks
Faith Ringgold
Our narrator, a young girl on her way to school, boards an unusual bus and takes an enlightening journey in this fictionalized biography of Rosa Parks, civil rights activist. The bus tells its startled passenger Rosa's story, from growing up with the constant threat of a Ku Klux Klan attack to her act of passive resistance against the segregation of bus passengers. Faith Ringgold's account of racism in 1960's Montgomery is not meant to be comprehensive-but it is clear and concise, as is her explanation of the effects of Parks' courageous act. Her acrylic drawings are appealing and folksy. Readers will share the joy when the final passenger boards the bus and it is Rosa Parks herself. 1999, Simon and Schuster, Ages 4 to 8, $16.00. Reviewer: Heidi Green
ISBN: 0-689-81892-0
Indira Gandhi: Daughter of India
Carol Dommermuth-Costa
Indira Gandhi became the first female prime minister of India, serving in that position from 1966 to 1977 and then again from 1980 to 1984, when she was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards. Her life in politics, however, began at an early age, during India's quest for independence from British colonial rule. As a child, she experienced the imprisonment of her father and other family members for opposing British rule, and she met and consulted with Mohandas Gandhi and other political figures. When Indira's father, Jawaharlal Nehru, became India's first prime minister after the country won independence in 1947, Indira became her father's closest adviser. She was elected President of the National Congress Party in 1959 and was elected prime minister after her father's death. During her first period in office, Indira led the country into the nuclear age, oversaw a war with Pakistan, which led to the creation of Bangladesh, and became a leader of the Third World. In 1980, at 62 years of age, she was elected to a third term as prime minister. An intelligent, sometimes controversial person, Indira Gandi comes across in this well crafted biography as a complex leader beloved for her devotion to her country. 2001, Lerner, $25.26. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Valerie O. Patterson
ISBN: 0-8225-4963-8
Máiread Corrigan and Betty Williams: Making Peace in Northern Ireland
Sarah Buscher and Bettina Ling
Their city of Belfast, Northern Ireland had been the scene of great violence since 1969. In 1976, these two strangers came to the same conclusion-the paramilitary groups must be shown that the people want peace for themselves and their children. They brought together Catholics and Protestants and formed an organization called the Peace People, and in 1977 they were awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Clear background information is presented on the history of Ireland. Biographical information about Máiread and Betty is provided in separate chapters. The growth of the movement they founded and the toll on their personal lives follows. The book does not gloss over the controversy surrounding the awarding of the Nobel Prize. Those who want to know more about the history of "The Troubles" in Northern Ireland will find this book interesting. It will also be valuable for school assignments. Black and white photographs are interspersed throughout. Part of the "Women Changing the World" series, readers will discover how a single bold step can make a difference. 1999, The Feminist Press, Ages 9 to 14, $19.95. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 1-55861-200-9
ISBN: 1-55861-201-7
Marcia Clark: Voice for the Victims
Katherine E. Krohn
Marcia Clark gained fame as the lead prosecutor in the famous O. J. Simpson murder trial. She fought, but lost, her fierce battle in the courtroom. This timely biography covers not the "Trial of the Century," but Marcia's professional background, education and personal history. This book includes plenty of color and black-and-white photographs, and the author writes in a clear, simple prose which will reach many young readers, particularly girls (and boys) seeking a contemporary female role model. 1997, Lerner Publications, Ages 8 to 14, $18.95. Reviewer: Catherine Campbell Wright
ISBN: 0-8225-2892-4
Mary Church Terrell: Leader for Equality
Patricia and Fredrick McKissack
Mary Church Terrell was born during the Civil War, in Memphis, Tennessee. Her father, Robert, had been born a slave, but she was born free. He became a very wealthy businessman and Mary grew up as a child of privilege. In the 1870s, as Jim Crow laws were being enacted, Mary was sent to college in Ohio. Oberlin College was very unusual because it was integrated--men, women and African-Americans were educated together. Mary spent her life fighting for equal rights for blacks and women all over the world. She became the first president of the National Association of Colored Women, and joined the NAACP shortly after it was founded in 1909. She campaigned against the segregation of black soldiers during WWI and for the right of women to vote. In the early 1950s, in her eighties, Mary took part in sit-ins to protest segregation in the south. She died in 1954, shortly after schools were desegregated. There is a lot of information in the 27 large-print pages of the book, but some of it is found only in photo captions (in one instance, the caption contradicts the text) or in the timeline at the back of the book. Many readers may ignore the captions as well as the timeline, and will miss some interesting material. Although the McKissacks have long been lauded as outstanding authors, this may not be one of their best efforts. It provides, however, a solid informational base on which to build. Part of the "Great African-Americans" series. 2002 (orig. 1991), Enslow Publishers, $14.95. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Ellen R. Butts
ISBN: 0-7660-1697-8
Mary Todd Lincoln
Dan Santow
Abraham Lincoln is a much-admired president, but his wife Mary has not been held in high regard. As readers learn about her life and the tragedies that she faced they may be a little more sympathetic. She was a woman who suffered many tragedies in her life the first being the death of her mother when she was six. Life with her new stepmother was not easy. Mary was fortunate in that her father believed in education for both girls and boys. Vivacious and intelligent, part of Mary's attraction to Lincoln was his intellectual ability and her belief that he would someday be president. Indeed he did gain the presidency and Mary's life took a big change. She was unable to truly manage money and with the social obligations in Washington, she put the family into considerable debt. After the loss of her sons Edward and Willie and the death of her husband Mary relied on her son Tad for comfort and support. After his death, her behavior became stranger and stranger until she was finally committed to an institution. Eventually she was released and spent her last years traveling and living at her sister's house in a darkened room-a sad end for the wife of one of our greatest presidents. The book is liberally illustrated with black-and-white and full color photographs. There is a timeline, list of all the presidents and first ladies, quick facts pages about Mary Todd Lincoln and Abraham Lincoln, bibliography, list of Internet sites and an index. Part of the "Encyclopedia of First Ladies" series. 1999, Children's Press/Grolier, Ages 10 up, $33.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-516-20481-5
Meet My Grandmother: She's a Supreme Court Justice
Lisa Tucker McElroy (with help from Courtney O'Connor)
Photographs by Joel Benjamin
Courtney O'Connor provides a lighthearted look at one of the United States Supreme Court's heavy hitters, Sandra Day O'Connor, who just happens to be her grandmother. Justice O'Connor is portrayed as an ordinary grandmother who enjoys spending time shopping, visiting the sights of Washington D.C., and just "hanging out" with her granddaughter. Courtney and Justice O'Connor also invite readers to join them in chambers to see what a day in the life a Supreme Court Justice involves. Photos provide visual accompaniment to the straightforward text. This would be a nice addition to any school library as a reference book. 1999, Millbrook, Ages 8 to 10, $22.90. Reviewer: Trina Heidt
ISBN: 0-7613-1566-7
Miss Alma, Friend of Missions
Beth Branyon
This brief, large format biography is part of the "Little Missionary Books" series, which tells the stories of "Key Baptist women who have served in the missions." Based on interviews with the missionaries and their families, the books contain lively reconstructed conversations interwoven with the basic facts and events of their lives. Considerations of God's will and plans for their lives are integral parts of the books. Many small black and white drawings and photos are included. 1996, Providence House, Ages 10 up, $7.95. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 1-5773-6012-5
Miss Eloise, First Lady of Foreign Missions
Beth Branyon
This brief, large format biography is part of the "Little Missionary Books" series, which tells the stories of "Key Baptist women who have served in the missions." Based on interviews with the missionaries and their families, the books contain lively reconstructed conversations interwoven with the basic facts and events of their lives. Considerations of God's will and plans for their lives are integral parts of the books. Many small black and white drawings and photos are included. 1996, Providence House, Ages 10 up, $7.95. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 1-8815-7678-7
Mother Teresa
Candice F. Ransom
Illustrations by Elaine Verstraete
Charity for the poorest of the poor filled the heart of a young Albanian girl named Agnes who committed her life to serve first as a convent nun, and later in the streets of Calcutta, India, where she took on a new name, Sister Teresa. Because of her passion to care for and house the sick, the Missionaries of Charity organization was founded. It flourishes today in some 126 countries. As head of the group, she was named Mother Teresa. Her service for the street-poor continued with the people she loved until her death at age 87. In this 48-page biography, the author's choice of simple, yet descriptive words works well with the artist's watercolor illustrations, which are as soft and compassionate as the subject herself. Part of the "On My Own Biography" series. 2001, Carolrhoda Books, $19.93. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Patricia Timbrook
ISBN: 1-5750-5441-8
Nobody Particular: One Woman's Fight to Save the Bays
Molly Bang
The dense, black-and-white, comic-book format of this story is framed in broad margins composed of the brilliant azures and emeralds of water and land, land and water. In this very interesting work that stretches the form of the illustrated storybook, Bang tells in simple direct prose the true story of Diane Wilson, an ordinary woman who ended up fighting extraordinary battles. Wilson, a shrimper and mom, took on the international Formosa Plastics Corporation and fought against their offshore dumping of toxins. She won a major out-of-court settlement, and it began the dedication of her life to the cause of sustainable development. Simple as Diane's voice feels in the telling, it is in some ways like the contrast of black-and-white with green and blue--it is juxtaposed with the complexities and collusions that make possible the corporate exploitation of place and people. The lightening of color, and the use of photographic material in the final illustration offer a fine example of the integration of text and image. An author's note provides an update to the story. 2000, Henry Holt, $18.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Uma Krishnaswami
ISBN: 0-805-05396-4
Best Books:
Amelia Bloomer List, 2002; American Library Association-SRRT; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Outrageous Women of the Middle Ages
Vicki Leon
Illustrated by Lisa M. Brown
Biographies of fourteen outspoken, influential, courageous, and often controversial women who lived in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East during the Middle Ages are presented as accurately as is possible, given the difficulty of obtaining primary source materials. While intermediate readers may find information about some, such as Eleanor of Aquitain, Hildegard of Bingen, and Clare Scifi of Assisi in various sources, it is more difficult for children to locate material about famous women in the Middle East such as Anna Comnena of Istanbul and Damia al-Kahina of North Africa or in the Far East, such as Sonduk of Korea or Murasaki Shikibu of Japan. Useful hand-lettered maps introduce each section, black and white drawings are inspired by Medieval sources, and sidebars include interesting bits on related material: predicting the future with bones, relics, the Crusades, Asian writing, etc. While the often colloquial prose may put off some, it lightens the text and Brown's snappy march through events manages to bring with it plenty of historical background for young readers to gain a quick understanding of the central issues of each woman's times. Suggested readings for children and a timeline are included. 1998, John Wiley, Ages 10 to 14, $12.95. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-471-17004-6
A Picture Book of Florence Nightingale
David A. Adler
Illustrated by John and Alexandra Wallner
This biography would not inspire anyone to follow in Florence Nightingale's footsteps. First of all, the drawings are not appealing. All of the faces are similar, making them confusing even with the text. Adler also has left out crucial information. For example, What was she interested in at school? Who in her life (besides God) influenced her decision to become a nurse? No mentors are mentioned. It is not convincing that two years of active duty as a nurse in Crimea made her such an important figure. When she finishes there, the book leaves the predominant impression that she languished at home in ill health, although for the next 50 years she was a tireless writer and activist. Adler could have done her life's story more justice, as she made great contributions to the nursing profession. 1992, Holiday House, Ages 6 to 10, $14.95. Reviewer: Mary Freeman
ISBN: 0-8234-0965-1
Pocahontas, 1595-1617
Liz Sonneborn
The story of Pochontas is one in a series called the "American Indian Biographies." The author is upfront about the fact that little is known about Pocahontas's early life, yet she tries to bring us as close as she can to knowing this famed and courageous woman. In her culture, as the daughter of Chief Powhatan, Pocahontas was about as close to royalty as was possible in her Powhatan tribe. She provided a vital link with early American settlers and helped to see to their welfare during some of the harsh winters. Although Pocahontas lived until only 22, her life was a full one. She married the English settler John Rolfe and traveled to England. The majority of the illustrations are in full color, and the illustrator has experimented with varied styles of painting and drawing; it is a technique that adds visual interest to the book. A few photographs, graphic features such as a map of the area where Pocahontas lived, and quotes from some of the people of the time, bring the story to life. This book will provide a welcome supplement to a juvenile study of American history and cultures, and it is with this intention that it also contains a glossary, list of research references, chronology, and index. 2002, Blue Earth Books/Capstone Press, $22.60. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Susan Schott Karr
ISBN: 0-7368-1214-8
Pocahontas: Powhatan Peacemaker
Anne Holler
This biography of a wealthy young Native American girl, Pocahantas, is part of Chelsea House's "North American Indians of Achievement" series. It's a heartbreaking story, beautifully told with chronology, a list of books for further reading, and an index. It is also liberally illustrated with contemporary paintings, drawings, and maps. A companion volume to The Powhatan Indians. 1992, Chelsea House, Ages 9 up, $19.95 and $8.95. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
ISBN: 0-7910-1952-7
ISBN: 0-7910-1705-2
Prudence Crandall: Woman of Courage
Elizabeth Yates
Prudence Crandall was a Quaker woman of strong principles who set herself against her town and the entire state of Connecticut when she founded a school for young black ladies in 1833. This fictional biography by Newbery winner Yates is a timely, perhaps overdue, reissue of her 1955 book. In tones as sober as her heroine, Yates reconstructs the period of the birth of the Abolitionist movement. William Lloyd Garrison (of Liberator fame) and his cohorts march believably through the narrative as they use Miss Prudence for the greater glory of the Cause. Yet it is neither innumerable insults, harassment, trials, or jail which finally cause her school to close. It is late-blooming love. This is a fascinating book which realistically portrays the plight of women, both white and black, within the confines of antebellum America. 1996, Boyds Mills Press, Ages 10 up, $16.95. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr
ISBN: 1-56397-391-X
Rosa Parks
Cynthia Klingel and Robert B. Noyed
Wonderbooks, published by The Child's World, Inc., has a much-needed low level nonfiction series. The series in Level 2 includes such titles as Helen Keller, Charles Schulz, and Jackie Robinson. Rosa Parks is also in this series. She was born on February 4, 1913 in Pine Level, Alabama. She was raised there and lived in the state of Alabama almost 45 years. When she was growing up she saw that African-Americans were not allowed to do many things or go to many places that white people could go to. She even had to sit in the back of a bus instead of choosing where she wanted to sit. To Rosa this seemed very unfair. She wanted to change things when she became an adult. One day in Montgomery, Alabama she finally got her chance. She was riding on a very crowded bus when a white person got on and wanted her seat. The law at that time said that black people must give up their seat to white people. Rosa refused to move. Soon the police were called and took her off the bus. She was arrested. Her friends became angry and refused to ride the bus until the law was changed. The boycott was successful and a year later the law was changed. Today African-American can enjoy the same rights as everyone else thanks to the brave deed of Rosa Parks. Interesting full-page photographs depict different aspects of Park's life. An index, web site and other suggested books are included. Part of the "Wonders of Reading" series. 2002, The Child's World, $21.36. Ages 5 to 7. Reviewer: Donna Nelsen
ISBN: 1-5676-6951-4
Rosa Parks
Lola M. Schaefer.
Part of the "First Biographies" series, this book is designed for the beginner reader. Its text is very simple, relating facts in a very broad and general manner. A progressive timeline accompanies every page allowing the reader to easily understand the chronology of information and events. Full-page photographs are abundant with simple captions of explanation. Additionally, it has a table of contents, glossary, bibliography, index and related web sites section. A beginner reader will enjoy learning historical information about Rosa Parks in this no nonsense and non-intimidating book. It is a good choice for any classroom's "beginner reader" section. 2002, Capstone Press, $14.60. Ages 4 to 7. Reviewer: Andrea Sears Andrews
ISBN: 0-7368-1176-1
Sojourner Truth: A Voice For Freedom
Patricia and Fredrick McKissack
Sojourner Truth's original name was Isabella, but she later picked the name Sojourner because she traveled from place to place. She decided her last name should be Truth because as she traveled around she intended to spread the truth about slavery and the quest for freedom and human rights. She was born in slavery in 1797 in New York, but with the help of a Quaker family, she was freed shortly before an anti-slavery law took effect in that state in 1827. The hardships she experienced as a slave, which included the selling of her siblings and of never knowing when her own children might be sold, are brought home to the reader, who must wonder how this woman found the strength and faith to become a spokesperson for her race and for women as well. Her story is written in a simple, narrative way for the very young student. Perhaps her rise to prominence, which eventually brought about a meeting with President Abraham Lincoln, might have been explained more fully, but information is given about resources for further study and a time line and glossary are also included. A "Great African Americans" book. 2002 (orig. 1992), Enslow Publishers, $14.95. Ages 6 to 9. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford
ISBN: 0-7660-1693-5
Spyglass: An Autobiography
Edited by Karyn Monget
This is the true and compelling account of a young girl's participation in the French Resistance during World War II. It details Deschamps' conversion from being simply a young schoolgirl to an active member of the Resistance. It provides an opportunity for young readers to get a more personal and realistic look at events that took place during those difficult years. 1995, Holt, Ages 10 up, $16.95. Reviewer: Rae Valabek
ISBN: 0-805-03536-2
Best Books:
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, June 1995 ; Cahners; United States
Young Adults' Choices, 1997 ; International Reading Association; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
South Carolina Book Awards, 1999 ; South Carolina
Through My Eyes
Ruby Bridges
I am old enough to remember the news coverage of Ruby Bridges and the integration of schools in New Orleans. To read her story almost forty years after the event was quite moving. That someone so young could have experienced so much hatred and tension and come out of it a normal person is in itself amazing. Ruby credits her loving family, neighbors and a wonderful teacher, Mrs. Henry, and a volunteer child psychiatrist, Robert Coles, as those who helped her make it through the year when she integrated William Frantz Public School. But make no mistake, readers will come away knowing that it was Ruby, her belief in God, and the basic goodness of the world that helped her through. Today she works through the Ruby Bridges Foundation to bring equal opportunity in the form of resources and enrichment classes to inner city kids. A book that should be on every library shelf and one that lends itself to a discussion of race relations past and present. 1999, Scholastic, Ages 8 to 12, $16.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-590-18923-9
Votes For Women!: The Story Of Carrie Chapman Catt
Barbara Somervill
At the age of thirteen, Carrie Chapman Catt was stunned to learn that women in the United States were not allowed to vote. Over the course of her life, she would do what she could to fight for this right and to elevate the standing of women as American citizens. A native of Iowa, Carrie began her studies in a one-room schoolhouse near her family's farm. Driven and determined, she defied her father's expectations of her and went on to graduate from college with a degree in General Science for Women. It was during these years that she discovered her skill for public speaking, a skill that would serve as her ally during her career. For over twenty years, Carrie led the National American Woman Suffrage Association. She also formed the International Woman Suffrage Association and traveled extensively on its behalf. In her portrayal of Carrie, the author, Barbara Somervill, gives the reader thorough background information on the Suffrage movement, which will provide a neat tie-in to the study of American history. 2003, Morgan Reynolds, $21.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Susan Schott Karr
ISBN: 1-88384-696-X
Wilma Mankiller
Linda Lowery
Illustrations by Janice Lee Porter
When Wilma Mankiller left Oklahoma, she vowed that she would return to the wide-open spaces she loved. It took a few years, but she did indeed return with her own children. She took a job with the Cherokee Nation and eventually became their chief. She served two terms as chief, and she worked hard to help her people improve their living conditions. Now Wilma travels and lectures about Native American life. Woven into the story is a brief history including the Cherokee relocation (Trail of Tears) and the inner strength that helped many survive then and gave Wilma the strength to survive her own trials and tribulations. An easy to read, informative biography, liberally illustrated with full color art. 1996, Carolrhoda, Ages 7 up, $14.95 and $5.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8761-4880-1
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 12th Edition, 1999 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002 ; California Department of Education; California
Wilma Mankiller
Jacki Thompson Rand
Illustrated by Wayne Anthony Still
In this volume in the "Native American Stories" series, we are introduced to the Cherokee leader, Wilma Mankiller, who made history in 1985 when she became the first woman Principal Chief of the Oklahoma Cherokee. The brief biography begins with some background information on Cherokee history and culture. It then goes on to describe Wilma's childhood, family, education and some of her personal life, before presenting her more recent accomplishments which include working to find jobs, improve education, and preserve traditions while still preparing the Oklahoma Cherokee to meet the challenges of the future. The simple text and picture book format with many color pictures should help the book appeal to a wide age range. A time line of Mankiller's life is included. 1993, Raintree, Steck-Vaughn, Ages 7 to 13, $19.97 and $4.95. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 0-8114-6576-4
ISBN: 0-8114-9094-7
Votes For Women!: The Story of Carrie Chapman Catt
Barbara Somervill
At the age of thirteen, Carrie Chapman Catt was stunned to learn that women in the United States were not allowed to vote. Over the course of her life, she would do what she could to fight for this right and to elevate the standing of women as American citizens. A native of Iowa, Carrie began her studies in a one-room schoolhouse near her family's farm. Driven and determined, she defied her father's expectations of her and went on to graduate from college with a degree in General Science for Women. It was during these years that she discovered her skill for public speaking, a skill that would serve as her ally during her career. For over twenty years, Carrie led the National American Woman Suffrage Association. She also formed the International Woman Suffrage Association and traveled extensively on its behalf. In her portrayal of Carrie, the author, Barbara Somervill, gives the reader thorough background information on the Suffrage movement, which will provide a neat tie-in to the study of American history. 2003, Morgan Reynolds, $21.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Susan Schott Karr
ISBN: 1-8838-4696-X
You Want Women to Vote, Lizzie Stanton?
Jean Fritz
Illustrated by DyAnne DiSalvo-Ryan
As a little girl of the early 1800s, Elizabeth Cady tried hard to please her father, Judge Cady, after he lamented, "I wish you were a boy," by working to become as brave and as smart as her elder brother had been. With her usual lively, conversational text, including reconstructed dialogue and quotes from primary sources, Fritz introduces young readers to a remarkable woman who combined mothering a large family with a lifelong struggle for women's rights. One of the main speakers and planners of the first Women's Rights Convention, in Seneca Falls, in 1848, Elizabeth promoted the then radical goal of equal rights for women, including the right to vote. Her friendships and work with other famous reformers of the day, such as Susan B. Anthony and Lucretia Mott, is another appealing part of this award-winning biography. An index, bibliography, source notes and amusing, black and white drawings are included. 1999 (orig. 1995), Putnam Penguin, Ages 9 to 14, $5.99. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 0-698-11764-6
ISBN: 0-399-22786-5
Science/Medicine
African American Women Scientists and Inventors
Otha Richard Sullivan
Jim Haskins, general editor
Author Sullivan has compiled twenty-six short biographical sketches of mostly little known African American women scientists and inventors. The book is divided into three parts: The Early Years, Into the New Century, and Modern Times. Women such as Mae Jemison, the first African American woman to fly into space and Alexa Canady, a pediatric neurosurgeon are highlighted. Others are Betty Wright Harris, a chemist who works in the field of nuclear weapons, and Marjorie Stewart Joyner who invented a permanent-wave machine. There are sidebars throughout the book that relate to the womens' work. In the first chapter, a sketch on Ellen Eglin, an inventor of a clothes-wringer in the 1880s, is given. However, the sidebar, which talks about The Spirit of Invention, mentions a man Benjamin Banneker. This is the only exeption; the rest of the book deals with the achievements of women. Beside the original twenty-six women, other, shorter biographical sketches are given. There are black and white drawings of some of the inventions and photographs of the women. There is also a sidebar that lists the notable firsts for African American Women Doctors. A chronology and bibliography are also included. This is a nice book about the achievements of African American women. 2002, John Wiley and Sons, $22.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Della A. Yannuzzi
ISBN: 0-471-38707-X
American Women of Medicine
Russell Roberts
Ten exceptional American women are nicely profiled as "women of medicine," which includes not only physicians but nurses and women who made important contributions to health care. Dorthea Lynde Dix, a wealthy woman in the 1800s dedicated her life to improving care for the mentally ill. Elizabeth Blackwell, the first "modern" woman to become a physician, was rejected by every hospital in New York City for practice. Shy Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross. Susie King Taylor was an early African-American nurse who rose from slavery. Susan LaFlesche Picotte became the first American Indian woman to become a physician in 1886. Nurse Clara Maass died of yellow fever after dedicating her life to caring for victims of the disease and using herself as an experimental subject. Other profiles include Gertrude Radnitz Cori, the first American woman to win a Nobel Prize in the sciences, Mary Edwards Walker, Antonia Coello Novello, and Mae Carole Jemison. Each woman's story includes a large black-and-white photo, and occasional additional photographs of related interest, such as that of a surgeon about to amputate in a tent in the Civil War. The life stories are succinct and interesting, and an attentive reader will note that the careers of several emerged during the Civil War. Useful chapter references are included, a book list for further reading, an Internet address for each woman and an Index. Part of the "Collective Biographies" series, this book is recommended. 2002, Enslow Publishers, $20.95. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Elaine Wick
ISBN: 0-7660-1835-0
American Women of Science
Carole Ann Camp
This well-written introduction to the lives and accomplishments of ten American women scientists consists of an overview of women in science, ten short essays, lists of further reading and useful Internet addresses. The individual essays describe each woman's scientific pursuits in detail, while offering just enough biographical material to add some human interest. Two black-and-white photos, one a portrait, accompany each essay. The ten women are geologist, Florence Bascom; geneticist, Barbara McClintock; physicist, Maria Goeppert-Mayer; mathematician, computer scientist and Navy admiral, Grace Murray Hopper; marine biologist and environmentalist, Rachel Carson; nuclear physicist, Chien-Shiung Wu; medical physicist, Rosalyn Yalow; chemist, Stephanie Kwolek; physicist, Shirley Ann Jackson; and AIDS researcher, Flossie Wong-Staal. Students interested in the achievements of women scientists will find this collective biography a good place to start. It is part of the "Collective Biographies" series. 2001, Enslow Publishers, $20.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Joyce Schwartz
ISBN: 0-7660-1538-6
Angels of Mercy: The Army Nurses of World War II
Betsy Kuhn
Off to war they went, the eligible young men drafted to serve their country regardless of whatever plans they had made for their lives. And right along with them went a total of 59,000 women-to nurse, cheer, and share the often-brutal conditions of their soldier peers. Some went for glory, some for travel or romance; but most simply wanted to help. This book chronicles their story through firsthand interviews, personal reminiscences, and numerous official photographs. Between 1941 and 1945, nurses served at Pearl Harbor, Bataan, Corregidor, North Africa, Anzio, Normandy and many other famous battle scenes. They also were with the troops who liberated the concentration camps. The nurses' story is an exciting and sobering one, leavened with humor and the humanity of somehow celebrating Christmas and Hanukkah as each year's holidays arrived in some of the worst situations imaginable. The book should be a welcome addition to the time-honored stories of Clara Barton and Florence Nightingale. 1999, Atheneum, Ages 10 up, $18.00. Reviewer: Judy Chernak
ISBN: 0-689-82044-5
Birds in the Bushes: A Story About Margaret Morse Nice
Julie Dunlap
Illustrations by Ralph L. Ramstad
Margaret Morse Nice was one of the world's first ethnologists, the scientists who study animal behavior. Marriage and family sidetracked her hopes for a Ph.D., but she managed to maintain her keen curiosity and ability to observe important details. Since her five children kept her close to home, she chose to study the song sparrows in her backyard. Eventually, she wrote two volumes about the behaviors evinced by "her" sparrows. An engaging biography that demonstrates the qualities needed for a successful scientific career: determination, curiosity, diligence and delight in one's subject. 1996, Carolrhoda, Ages 10 to 14, $17.50. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 1-57505-006-4
Bird Watching with Margaret Morse Nice
Michael Elsohn Ross
Illustrations by Laurie A. Caple
Naturalist and bird watcher Margaret Morse Nice is served well by this biography. Ms. Nice's life was devoted to careful observation of the song sparrows in her yard, which led to extraordinary understanding of the role of birdsong and territorial behavior. She also fought for conservation efforts, and earned an advanced degree is psychology for her study of language acquistion by her children. Interspersed with the biographical detail are pages detailing aspects of birdwatching, such as choosing binoculars, observing nesting behavior, and planting a garden with birds in mind. The text skillfully introduces these subjects within the biography, so that the inset pages seem natural rather than intrusive. Photographs of Nice and her family, as well as detailed watercolors of the birds she studied, round out the book. 1997, Carolrhoda, Ages 8 to12, $19.93. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 1-57505-002-1
Best Books:
Best Books for Children, 1998 ; Science Books & Films; United States
Best Books for Junior High and High School Readers, 1998 ; Science Books & Films; United States
Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children, 1998 ; National Science Teachers Association; United States
The Chimpanzee Family Book
Jane Goodall
Photographs by Michael Neugebauer
Jane Goodall writes with the sensitivity of an advocate and the intellect of a scientist about the chimpanzee family. She is obviously at home, not just in the country of Tanzania, but also in the environment of the creatures she studies. She names the chimps, giving all chimpanzees in the same family names starting with the same letter. The book follows the chimps for a day beginning with Gremlin gently grooming her baby Galahad. Gremlin's oldest brother is Goblin and he is the boss of their community. The family relationships are important, as illustrated by the way Wunda, a nine and a half-year-old chimp, cares for her little brother, Wolfi, after the death of their mother. The author cites cases where baby chimps themselves died because they were so upset after losing their mothers. Each chimpanzee's own personality shows through in the actions and antics captured in the excellent photographs of the creatures and their world which accompany the text. Part of the "Animal Family" series. 1997 (orig. 1989) North-South Books, Ages 8 up, $8.95. Reviewer: Carolyn Mott Ford
ISBN: 1-55858-803-5
The Chimpanzees I Love: Saving Their World and Ours
Jane Goodall
In personable first person language, Jane Goodall narrates how she came to be a foremost scholar of chimpanzee communities. While the book's primary purpose is to convince us that chimpanzees are remarkable, endangered and worth preserving, certainly its subtext is how someone with a passion, support from family (in this case a remarkable mother), and mentors (in this case Louis B. Leakey) has made a tremendous difference in the world. Six chapters show how Goodall inserted herself into a chimp community, how chimps communicate, a pair of mother/baby stories, a typical day for a chimp in the forest, the mind of a chimp as indicated in laboratory studies in captivity and the action she is taking and hopes others will take up to preserve chimps in the wild. Throughout the book, the reader experiences remarkable stories of chimp behavior similar to humans except for using speech (but chimps can "talk" with sign language and computers). Photographs from all periods of Goodall's life make the text even more approachable, and endearing chimp photos win our sympathy and attention, as does the text. Endmatter features a map of the Central African area in which Goodall works, interesting facts, a primate family tree, information about Roots & Shoots, Goodall's environmental education program for young people, and other resources. There is no index but report writers will be so engrossed in the text, which is easily entered mid-book, that searching for relevant information will not be difficult. An important and involving book about saving the African chimpanzee. 2001, Scholastic Press, Ages 9 to 14, $17.95. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-439-21310-X
Dian Fossey and the Mountain Gorillas
Jane A. Schott
Illustrations by Ralph L. Ramstad
Dian longed to go to Africa to study gorillas. Although she was not a formally trained scientist, she studied and read all she could about the Mountain Gorillas. In 1967, her dream came true and she set up camp in the Virunga Mountains in Rwanda. She called the area Karisoke, named after the mountains that loomed above. Dian began to record all aspects of the lives of the 300 remaining Mountain Gorillas. She followed one named Digit for ten years until he was killed by hunters. In order to protect the gorillas, Dian wrote Gorillas in the Mist and went on the speaking circuit. She raised world awareness and the funds necessary to hire guards and spur additional research. In the afterword, readers learn that she met an untimely death at the age of fifty-three; she was apparently killed by hunters. Her studies spanned eighteen years and her final resting-place is beside her beloved gorilla Digit. Part of the "On My Own Biography" series for grades 2 and 3. 2000, Carolrhoda/Lerner, Ages 6 to 8, $19.93 and $5.95. REVIEWER: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 1-57505-082-X
ISBN: 1-57505-477-9
Elizabeth Blackwell: The First Woman Doctor
Ira Peck
On January 23, 1849 Elizabeth Blackwell graduated from Geneva College of Medicine in upstate New York. This event marked the first time in modern western history that a woman was certified as a physician. Elizabeth Blackwell went on to serve as a doctor for decades, despite many barriers put before her. Working in a field that was considered the sole territory of men, Dr. Blackwell encountered a wide range of prejudice. For many people, the fact that being a physician involved having an understanding of human anatomy precluded the involvement of any respectable female in that profession. In other instances, the then-commonly held belief that women were intellectually inferior to men made them a poor choice as a potential physician. Additionally, Elizabeth Blackwell lived in an era when a woman's place was considered to be the home. All of these, and many other, social taboos hindered Elizabeth Blackwell's attempts to establish her medical career. However, despite these roadblocks, Elizabeth became a pioneer in her field. Originally, intent upon a career in surgery, Elizabeth was directed into obstetrics & pediatrics by both opportunities and bias. Sadly, while tending to a child with an eye ailment, Elizabeth suffered an exposure to infection that ultimately cost her the use of one eye. Yet, in spite of this handicap, Elizabeth Blackwell went on to serve patients across many years. Upon her death in 1910, she remained a leader in the field of woman's rights. It is the life story of this intrepid and talented woman that is told in this brief illustrated biography. This well-written life story is both enlightening and moving. It is important to recall the prejudices that hindered, and still to an extent hinder the pathways of women professionals. This book is a study that reinforces the accomplishments of a brave woman and also addresses the biases that have blocked the career channels of many women. 2000, The Millbrook Press, $22.90. Ages 10 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck
ISBN: 0-7613-1854-2
Eugenie Clark: Adventures of a Shark Scientist
Ellen Butts and Joyce Schwartz
Local authors Ellen Butts and Joyce Schwartz describe the amazing life and work of a world-renowned ichthyologist. Born in 1922, Genie came of age at a time when the few women working outside the home were usually secretaries or teachers. But the girl who kept a huge fish tank in a tiny New York apartment was determined to get her doctorate in zoology and become a scientist. In addition to providing an illuminating portrait of an intelligent, warm woman, this biography is full of details sure to connect with kids. I especially enjoyed learning about Genie's gift to the Crown Prince of Japan in 1965 and how she brought the young live nurse shark on board the plane in a container the size of a hatbox. 2000, Linnet, Ages 8 to 12, $19.50. REVIEWER: Mary Quattlebaum
ISBN: 0-208-02440-9
Extraordinary Women of Medicine
Darlene R. Stille
Inspire young women to follow their dreams. Keep the following handy for all children to acknowledge women's work. Stille's single volume of more than fifty Extraordinary Women of Medicine includes Drs. Lillian D. Wald, founder of public health nursing, and Bernadine Healy, the first woman to direct the National Institutes of Health. A useful glossary and list of related on-line sites and organizations are appended. 1997, Children's, $37.00. Ages 10 up. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin
ISBN: 0-516-20307-X
Best Books:
Annual Best Children's Science Book List, 1997 ; Science Books & Films; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Extraordinary Women Scientists
Darlene R. Stille
This book presents the lives and contributions of 49 women scientists encapsulated in short biographies, accompanied by black and white photos. The disciplines represented vary from anatomy to nuclear physics to space science to zoology. Each biography begins with a paragraph summarizing what is to follow; this serves as a teaser for readers who may be browsing. The subjects are presented in alphabetical order rather than being grouped by area of scientific endeavor; the scientist's field appears near the page numbers to aid readers flipping through the volume. A bibliography and index follow; a listing of the subjects by area of scientific inquiry, or inclusion of this information in the table of contents would be a helpful addition in subsequent volumes. 1995, Childrens Press, Ages 10 up, $35.00 and $15.95. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-516-00585-5
Best Books:
The Children's Literature Choice List, 1996 ; Children's Literature; United States
Fabulous Female Physicians
Sharon Kirsh and Florence Kirsh
Although women have been taking care of the sick for thousands of years, they have not been welcomed as physicians. Here is the story of ten females from different parts of the world who fought against cultural barriers in order to become doctors. As a result, they were pioneers in the field of medicine. For example, Dr. Emily Stowe became the first Canadian woman doctor, Dr. Susan LaFlesche Picotte, the first Native American woman doctor, Dr. Matilda Evans, the first Black woman doctor in South Carolina, Dr. Maria Montessori, the first female physician in Italy, and so forth. Ironically, these women were told that they could not study the naked human body alongside men; but women patients were refusing to be examined by male doctors. Through hard work, determination, and dedication, these females were able to become physicians and treat women, the poor, and minorities who would otherwise have had no medical care. The doctors' lives were full of adventure as they often practiced in remote areas, such as Uganda or Kangaroo Island off the coast of Australia. This book, from "The Women's Hall of Fame Series," should be an inspiration for young women. It includes map, photos, glossary, and other references. 2002 (orig. 2001), Second Story Press, $7.95. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Carol Raker Collins
ISBN: 1-896764-43-6
Fish Watching with Eugenie Clark
Michael Elsohn Ross
Illustrations by Wendy Smith
As in other "Naturalist's Apprentice" books, this one introduces a person, a career, and ways a young person might practice some of the skills in the field. Noted marine biologist and longtime teacher at the University of Maryland Eugenie Clark is profiled here and her work with fish explored. Clark was fascinated with fish and spent many childhood hours in a New York aquarium while her widowed Japanese mother worked. World War II persecution of Japanese Americans touched her family briefly but her career was even more influenced by her determination to overcome sexism in the male-dominated field of marine biology. She learned to dive, earned a Masters and Ph.D., studied platys, swordtails, sharks, garden eels, lived around the world, married four times, and had four children. Clark's lifetime contribution to marine biology is similar in depth and breadth to Sylvia Earle's, another pioneer in the field. The book includes a timeline, glossary, bibliography (which lists her fine children's book, The Desert Beneath the Sea co-authored by Ann McGovern), index, and numerous framed boxes suggesting projects, sketching challenges, and information about fish species. Useful in any school themes which study the sea, the book also compellingly presents a career in marine biology, surely one of the cutting-edge sciences for this century. 2000, Carolrhoda, Ages 9 to 14, $19.93. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 1-57505-384-5
Girls Think of Everything: Stories of Ingenious Inventions by Women
Catherine Thimmesh
Illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Since the dawn of time, women and girls have perceived a need to make everyday life easier and more efficient. Inquisitive thoughts gave way to innovative inventions. Unfortunately, women's inventions have been downplayed or ignored. This book tells some of their stories. In the year 3000 B.C., the 14-year-old Chinese empress His-ling-shi discovered silk. Thanks to her ingenuity, we have a beautiful and useful cloth. One of our best-loved foods--chocolate chip cookies--were invented when innkeeper Ruth Wakefield sought to save time by tossing chunks of chocolate into cookie batter, hoping they would melt. Southerner Mary Anderson invented a more utilitarian invention--windshield wipers--after riding a streetcar whose windshield was rendered useless on a snowy day. Sadly, Anderson never garnered commercial recognition for her brilliance. Pediatric nurse Ann Moore invented the Snugli baby carrier after spending time in Africa and seeing babies cradled on their mothers' backs. Her creation sparked a multi-million dollar business. The book also credits Becky Shroeder, who at 12, became the youngest girl to receive a patent--for a board that glows, enabling people to write in the dark. This book is sure to be a winner among boys and girls, inventors and non-inventors alike. 2000, Houghton Mifflin Co., $16.00. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Julie Steinberg
ISBN: 0-395-93744-2
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children, 2001; National Science Teachers Association; United States
Parent's Guide to Children's Media, 2000; Parent's Guide to Children's Media, Inc.; United States
Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002; California Department of Education; California
Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 2000; Smithsonian; United States
Teachers' Choices, 2001; International Reading Association; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Children's Book Award 2001 Older Reader United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award, 2003; Oklahoma
Girls Who Looked Under Rocks: The Lives of Six Pioneering Naturalists
Jeannine Atkins
Illustrated by Paula Conner
eannine Atkins pays tribute to pioneer naturalists like Jane Goodall and Rachel Carson and honors the spirit of all youngsters enthralled by the natural world. Short biographies of six women trace their quest for greater knowledge to their childhoods, often in eras of strict gender roles. The painter-stepfather of Maria Sibylla Merian was scolded by neighbors for teaching the girl to draw along with her brothers in 17th century Germany. In early 20th century America, Frances Hamerstrom, who with her husband was at the forefront of ecological studies, had to sneak out of the family mansion at night to visit the marsh frogs. Details of those times and the girls' pluck are rendered beautifully in Paula Conner's pen-and-ink illustrations. 2000, Dawn, $8.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum
ISBN: 1-58469-011-9
Best Books:
Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children, 2001; National Science Teachers Association; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Benjamin Franklin Award Honor 2001 Juvenile-Young Adult Nonfiction United States
Leaders In Medicine
Shaun Hunter.
Young girls aspiring to become physicians will find this book, from the "Women in Profile" series, an interesting and motivating read. The lives and achievements of six pioneering women doctors are documented in separate biographical sketches. Each biography includes a section on the subject's Early Years, Developing Skills and Accomplishments, as well as a key events timeline, quick notes of trivia, background sidebars, and representative photographs. Key words are highlighted in boldface throughout the book and are defined in the glossary at the back. An additional feature is an end section including short, single paragraph biographies of other notable women in medicine. A suggested reading list and an index are also included. Excellent, well organized, and easily read. 1999, Crabtree Publishing, $21.28 and $8.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Sherry Philippus
ISBN: 0-7787-0032-1
ISBN: 0-77870-010-0
Best Books:
Best Books for Children, 1999 ; Science Books & Films; United States
The Life of Florence Sabin
Judith Kaye
One of the two statues provided by the state of Colorado to grace the U. S. Capitol's Statuary Hall is a memorial to Florence Sabin, a tireless campaigner for public health. Born into an impoverished mining family at a time when Colorado was frontier, Florence struggled successfully to fulfill her dream of becoming a physician. After graduating from Johns Hopkins, she entered a research career that eventually led to her election to the National Academy of Sciences, the first woman to be so honored. Forced to retire at 67 from the Rockefeller Institute, she returned to Colorado and was quickly involved in a campaign to improve health conditions in that state, especially the dreadful toll of tuberculosis. Her story is clearly told in this biography, which includes several photographs of its subject. 1993, Twenty-First Century Books/Henry Holt, Ages 9 to 14, $13.98. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-805-02299-6
Best Books:
Annual Best Children's Science Book List, 1994 ; Science Books & Films; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Lise Meitner: Pioneer of Nuclear Fission
Janet Hamilton
An addition to the "Great Minds of Science" series, this biography of the little known Meitner adds another woman to the male-dominated list of scientists. Meitner was born in Vienna in 1878 into a cultured Jewish family that valued education. One in the first group of girls allowed to attend a university, she decided to concentrate on physics, a small field where her chances of finding work were almost nonexistent. Through diligence and extraordinary hard work, Meitner found a lab where she could conduct her experiments and published her work, which focused on the chemistry of uranium and eventually contributed to the development of the nuclear bomb. After meeting Max Planck, she moved to Berlin in order to attend his lectures. Unlike Einstein and other Jewish scientists in Germany, Meitner thought she could ride out the Nazi storm. Of course, she couldn't and finally escaped to Sweden in 1938. She continued to work, but her life there was lonely and unhappy, and in the late fifties, she moved to Cambridge, England, where she lived until her death in 1968. This workmanlike biography focuses on Meitner's science rather than her personal life, with activities, a chronology, glossary, and index, as well as suggestions for further reading at the end of the book. 2002, Enslow, $20.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Miriam Rinn
ISBN: 0-7660-1756-7
Maria's Comet
Deborah Hopkinson
Illustrations by Deborah Lanino
From the intriguing first sentence, its first line set in dark red type, "As darkness falls, Papa goes up to the roof to sweep the sky," Hopkinson deftly uses poetic language and the feel of folktale to tell a story based on the life of Maria Mitchell, America's first woman astronomer. As the author explains in her note, she has "tried to capture Maria's wonderful questioning spirit and dedication to women's education by showing a girl who discovers and stands up for her desire to explore the world of science." The book contains notes on astronomy and a glossary. Lanino's gentle, folk-like acrylic paintings, reminiscent of Barbara Cooney, capture not only the homey details of life in an early nineteenth-century Nantucket Quaker home, but also the mystery and wonder of the night sky and young Maria's fanciful imaginings. 1999, Atheneum, Ages 4 to 8, $16.00. Reviewer: Linnea Hendrickson
ISBN: 0-689-81501-8
Marie Curie
Leonard Everett Fisher
The famous discoverer of radium is revealed in this biography to be a brilliant woman who fought against oppression by the Russians in Poland and against sexism wherever she lived. Despite poverty, rumors, and ill-health due to her experimentation, Curie won the Nobel Prize twice. She also was the first woman to teach at the Sorbonne and she won respect and acknowledgment for her gifts throughout the world. 1994, Macmillan, Ages 6 up, $14.95. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-02-735375-3
Marie Curie
Dana Meachen Rau
This biography tells the story of a remarkable woman whose life was dedicated to science at a time when few women were involved in its pursuit. Understanding the unique contribution Marie Curie made will be hard for a young person of today to grasp, but this brief account puts it simply for the reader. The unglamorous photographs paint the reality and the significance of her struggle. Without dwelling on the sacrifices she made, her huge contribution to science and medicine is acknowledged. Bold-face print indicates difficult terms, which are defined in a glossary. A timeline of important events in Marie Curie's life and an index are helpful. Library and web site exploration is encouraged. Part of the "Compass Point Early Biographies" series. 2000, Compass Point Books, Ages 8 to 12, $19.93. Reviewer Margarette Reid
ISBN: 0-7565-0017-6
Mary Anning and the Sea Dragon
Jeannine Atkins
Illustrated by Michael Dooling
One of several excellent stories (others are by Catherine Brighton and Laurence Anholt) about the young discoverer of the first entire ichthyosaur in the early 1800's, this book is distinguished by its vivid text and dramatic illustrations. In her dead father's sturdy top hat to protect her from falling rocks, eleven-year-old Mary Anning roamed the seashore and crumbling cliffs of Lyme Regis looking for shells and fossils to sell in her family's curiosity shop. She chipped and brushed away at fossils and persisted in removing the stone that would later make its way to London. An author's not explains that Mary lived to see the coining of the word "dinosaur" in 1841, never married, and furthered the study of paleontology. Dooling's oil paintings capture the sweep of the foggy gray-tinted seashore and the individuality of the young scientist whose patience, persistence, and curiosity are an inspiration to scientists of any age. 1991, Farrar Straus & Giroux, Ages 7 to 11, $18.00. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-374-34840-5
Mary Anning: Fossil Hunter
Sally M. Walker
Illustrated by Phyllis V. Saroff
The bicentennial of Mary Anning's birth produced a plethora of biographies, some with handsome illustrations and vigorous prose. This biography has neither, with average but scientifically correct illustrations in tones of beige, browns and greys and a straightforward controlled vocabulary. However, this biography does the job with emphasis on the role her brother Joseph had in her discoveries of an ichthyosaur skeleton, and her discoveries made later in life. Based on a long list of primary sources, this is a valid informational book for young report-writers, with a timeline and an afterword included, but no index. Part of the "On My Own Biography" series. 2001, Carolrhoda, Ages 7 to 10, $19.93. Reviewer Susan Hepler
ISBN: 1-57505-425-6
The Math Book for Girls and Other Beings Who Count
Valerie Wyatt
Illustrations by Pat Cupples
This creative companion to The Science Book for Girls and Other Intelligent Beings (1997) introduces readers to challenging math activities and puzzles that are designed to develop critical thinking skills. This collection of math problems invites kids to measure their body parts, calculate hair growth, build a dome, design patterned wrapping paper, write coded messages, make a pizza graph, bake a cake, create a Moebius strip, and much more. Readers follow along with Nora (Natural Observation Research Activator), a fairy godmother of sorts, and her friends as they encounter all kinds of math questions throughout their daily routines. In addition to witty vignettes and step-by-step activity ideas, this resource also contains colorful artwork, diagrams, charts, short biographies of real-life women who use math in their jobs, notes to parents and teachers, a glossary, and an answer key. This humorous and engaging activity book makes math fun and shows learners (both girls and boys) how to solve mathematical conundrums in their everyday lives. It's a sure-fire winner that belongs on the shelf next to Jon Scieszka's Math Curse (1995) and Marilyn Burns' Math for Smarty Pants (1982) and The I Hate Mathematics! Book (1975). 2000, Kids Can Press, Ages 8 to 12, $14.95. Reviewer Debra Briatico
ISBN: 1-55074-830-0
May Chinn: The Best Medicine
Ellen R. Butts and Joyce R. Schwartz
Illustrated by Janet Hamlin
Despite her birth into an impoverished African-American family in turn of the century New York, May Chinn was clearly destined for greatness. Her mother believed in her and saved money to provide her with the college education that would lift her from poverty. May entered Columbia to study music, but faced such great discrimination that she despaired of ever building a career in that field. An encouraging professor convinced her to switch to science, a fortunate change that later led to a medical degree. She ran a family clinic in Harlem and worked in a cancer detection clinic for years. Tireless in her pursuit of knowledge, she studied for a degree in public health, which she put to use in efforts to improve the health of people in Harlem. May's inspiring story is well told in this biography, one in a series of "science superstars." 1995, Scientific American, Ages 10 up, $14.95 and $4.95. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-7167-6589-6
ISBN: 0-7167-6590-X
Meeting Dolphins
Kathleen Dudzinski
Beach trips, backyard frolics, picnics in parks and gardens-summer abounds with opportunities to enjoy the denizens of the natural world, from the tiny ladybug to the 40-foot squid. Kathleen Dudzinski takes a close look at an engaging ocean inhabitant in Meeting Dolphins As a marine biologist, Dudzinski swims with dolphins to study how they communicate in the wild. Her first-person account, accompanied by stunning photographs, helps bring youngsters into the world of these creatures, so playful they even fashion "toys" out of objects in the water. 2000, National Geographic, Ages All, $17.95. Reviewer Mary Quattlebaum
ISBN: 0-7922-7129-7
Meeting Dolphins: My Adventures in the Sea
Kathleen Dudzinski
The subject of the IMAX film Dolphins tells her own career story while providing dolphins information in this nonfiction photo essay. Dudzinski's oceanic interests began when she spent time with her family at the Massachusetts seaside every year and also raised and observed animals. Both prepared her well to begin a career in marine biology. Her college work led her to dolphins as did two graduate programs which included studying how dolphins communicate. She has also invented an underwater camera with microphones to record and study dolphin sounds and their clues to dolphin behaviors. Numerous large photos present the young woman at work underwater, in the lab, and on boats and show multiple behaviors of dolphins fighting and playing, signaling with teeth or bubbles, or interacting with humans. Thirty-six different species of dolphins are depicted to scale in an elegant double-page spread at the book's end which call attention to dolphin variety. A useful research tool if a student can dig for the information, the readable text presents plenty of facts and scientific speculation to digest. Other interesting backmatter includes a "warning" about the illegality of trying to swim with wild dolphins, resources to contact, and an index. Put this on display with recent biographies of Eugenie Clark and Sylvia Earle and books about ocean research to introduce children to oceanography, one of the most exciting career fields around. 2000, National Geographic, Ages 8 to 12, $17.95. Reviewer Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-7922-7129-7
Nobody Particular : One Woman's Fight to Save the Bays
Molly Bang
The dense, black-and-white, comic-book format of this story is framed in broad margins composed of the brilliant azures and emeralds of water and land, land and water. In this very interesting work that stretches the form of the illustrated storybook, Bang tells in simple direct prose the true story of Diane Wilson, an ordinary woman who ended up fighting extraordinary battles. Wilson, a shrimper and mom, took on the international Formosa Plastics Corporation and fought against their offshore dumping of toxins. She won a major out-of-court settlement, and it began the dedication of her life to the cause of sustainable development. Simple as Diane's voice feels in the telling, it is in some ways like the contrast of black-and-white with green and blue--it is juxtaposed with the complexities and collusions that make possible the corporate exploitation of place and people. The lightening of color, and the use of photographic material in the final illustration offer a fine example of the integration of text and image. An author's note provides an update to the story. 2000, Henry Holt, $18.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Uma Krishnaswami
ISBN: 0-805-05396-4
Best Books:
Amelia Bloomer List, 2002 ; American Library Association-SRRT; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Pond Watching with Ann Morgan
Michael Elsohn Ross
Illustrations by Wendy Smith
This unique biography-one of the "Naturalist's Apprentice" series-is part personal history, part field guide, and part wet lab. In the early nineteen hundreds, when most still held that a woman's place was in the home, Ann Morgan could be found slogging around in the mud studying stump-legged mayflies or in a frozen winter stream scraping gemmules-the buds of shriveled sponge colonies-from a rock. A gifted teacher, researcher, conservationist and author, she was one of only three women to be listed among the 250 leading scientists in American Men of Science (1933). By profiling Dr. Morgan's research, teaching, and conservation activities, Ross skillfully weaves a great deal of scientific information through the narrative. Illustrations resembling pages torn from an old journal focus on many freshwater species (i.e. dragonflies and damselflies, mayflies, freshwater sponges, newts, painted turtles, and brook trout). Also included is advice on choosing a field guide, using a magnifying lens, and establishing a mini aquarium. 2000, Carolrhoda Books, Ages 10 up, $19.93. Reviewer Ellen R. Braaf
ISBN: 1-57505-385-3
Potions to Pulsars: Women Doing Science
Sue Bursztynski; illustrated by Marilyn Pride
Eighteen brief chapters, written in an informal style with rather sensational newspaper-like lead-ins, present a wide range of women scientists--from Agnodike, a doctor in 4th century BC. Athens (who had to pretend to be a man), to women astronauts of the present. Other scientists profiled include Marie Curie and her daughter Irene, Jean Macnamara (physician), Hidegard of Bingen (naturalist and writer), and Maria Mitchell (astronomer). Many black and white drawings, some color photos, an introduction, index, glossary and further reading section add to the educational value of this collective biography which should be inspiring to young science fans of either sex. 1995, Allen & Unwin, $6.95 and $6.95. Ages 10 to 15. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 1-86373-927-0
ISBN: 1-86448-246-X
Rachel Carson
William Accorsi
Rachel Carson made people think about their relationship to the environment. In this biography, readers meet Carson as a young and precocious girl who had written a story for a children's magazine by the time she was ten. As an adult she continued to write, and her famous book Silent Spring explores the connection between pesticides and the premature death of plants and animals. She was an acclaimed scientist and author who unfortunately died at a very young age. 1993, Holiday House, Ages 4 to 8, $15.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8234-0994-5
The Science Book for Girls and Other Intelligent Beings
Valerie Wyatt
Illustrated by Pat Cupples
This book can help girls become positive about science as a subject and possible career. Ms. Wyatt's projects and experiments are clearly presented and illustrated by Pat Cupples in the collaborators' typically upbeat style. Though--or particularly because--the images are almost entirely female, this first-rate paperback is valuable for both girls and boys. 1993, Kids Can, $8.95. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin
ISBN: 1-55074-113-6
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Silver Birch Award, 1994 ; Ontario, Canada
Sylvia Earle: Guardian of the Sea
Beth Baker
Sylvia Earle, a foremost explorer, pioneer in sea study, and one of the staunchest defenders of the sea and its creatures, is well-served by this readable entry in the "Lerner Biography" series. When young, she was fascinated by animals and science in general, and her family's move to Florida presented her with just the opportunity to study the ocean firsthand. She began her career in marine science as a teenager when she learned to use diving gear and enrolled in a summer marine biology course at Florida State. Advanced degrees followed at a time when women scientists were so unusual that one faculty almost denied her a fellowship on the grounds that she would only end up becoming a housewife. Today's girls owe much to pioneers like Sylvia Earle for her steadfast forging of a career in science that was formerly thought of as men's territory. With over 6,000 diving hours logged, Earle lived under the ocean in the 1970s Tektite project and has studied all sorts of underwater creatures from algae to white whales. Her work with whales is chronicled in the film Gentle Giants of the Pacific, which has been shown in over 20 nations. Her desire to walk on the ocean floor led her to the "Jim suit", after which she and others developed the underwater explorer vehicle called Deep Rover. Married four times, Earle seems, says the author, married to the sea. Today, she is Explorer in Residence at the National Geographic Society in Washington, D.C. and a noted environment spokesperson. Earle's own book Dive (National Geographic, 1999) covers some of the same scientific material but for a younger reader. Illustrated with color photographs. An index, related bibliography, and web site resources are included. 2001, Lerner, Ages 9 to 14, $25.26. Reviewer: Susan Hepler
ISBN: 0-8225-4961-1
The Technology Book for Girls and Other Advanced Beings
Trudee Romanek
Illustrations by Pat Cupples
How to interest girls in technology is the question answered cleverly in this book. It begins with a fictionalized account of Gina's science project assignment-"Advanced Technology in Our Everyday Lives." The book moves swiftly to television remote controls as Gina discovers that there IS advanced technology all around us. The infrared signal in the remote leads to an understanding of the infrared signal's function in smoke detectors, automatic doors and hand dryers. In brief, tightly packaged chapters with supportive illustrations, the text continues with laser beams in bar code scanners and CDs to optical fibers in endoscopes and telephone cables. Gina and readers learn how satellite communication and radio waves allow her cell phone to reach her dad's pager. Sidebars provide additional information, experiments and features about the work of female engineers and scientists. Although the design of the book is busy, the overall effect is appealing once the reader is hooked on the premise that the information is useful and understandable. Back matter includes science fair project ideas and a note to parents, teachers and group leaders3/4less than 20% of all U.S. undergraduate engineering students in 1999 were female. The book's aim is to inspire girls and would turn on fourth or fifth grade girls who are about to tune out science lessons. 2001, Kids Can Press, Ages 8 to 12, $14.95 and $8.95. Reviewer Jacki Vawter
ISBN: 1-55074-936-6
ISBN: 1-55074-619-7
Twentieth-Century Women Scientists
Lisa Yount
Ms. Yount surveys and assesses the work of contemporary women scientists and tells the stories of ten women who have made significant contributions. Her scientists include Lise Meitner, who was first to realize that the cores of atoms could be split to release tremendous energy and Katsuko Saruhashi, whose concern about seawater's carbon dioxide levels preceded worldwide interest in the "Greenhouse effect" by 45 years. 1995, Facts on File, $19.95. Ages 11 up. Reviewer: Beverly Kobrin
ISBN: 0-816-03173-8
Best Books:
Annual Best Children's Science Book List, 1996 ; Science Books & Films; United States
Women in Earth Science Careers
Jetty Kahn
This volume in the easy-to-read, "Capstone Short Biographies" series introduces young readers to five women scientists who work in five different earth science careers. The scientists: Sheryl Luzzadder Beach, Sandra Corso, Jami Girard, Kelley Anne Gittis and Patricia Rogers, represent the fields of: hydrology, geophysics, mining engineering, paleontology and space geophysics. The brief, five-page chapters and many color photos should help this collective biography appeal to reluctant readers. An introduction, index, glossary, bibliography, and lists of useful addresses and Internet sites are included. 1999, Capstone High/Low Books, Ages 8 to 13, $19.00. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 0-7368-0012-3
Women in Engineering Careers
Jetty Kahn
This short biography is also an introduction to the field of engineering. Highlighted are 5 women who have chosen engineering as a career. Each woman has a different type of engineering job, from aerospace to travel to mechanical engineering. Also included is an overview of engineering, a glossary of terminology, bibliography and sites on the World Wide Web. This book is useful for young girls exploring career opportunities. Many think of engineering as a male dominated field, and it is important to realize the potential for women. Part of the "Capstone Short Biographies" series; additional titles include an exploration of the world of astronauts, aviators, inventors, scientists and explorers. A good title for a school or public library. 1999, Capstone Press, Ages 10 up, $19.00. Reviewer: Ru Story-Huffman
ISBN: 0-7368-0013-1
Women in Life Science Careers
Jetty Kahn
The fourth of a series of books depicting women scientists on the job, it also provides some background into each field of science, including educational requirements. Strong role models for girls such as Sallie Chisholm, a microbiologist and professor at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) who studies the importance of phytoplankton in our oceans, are described as having the strong attributes many of us associate with men. The book is well organized with the standard Table of Contents, Glossary, and Index sections. The addition of Contact Addresses and Internet Sites aids the interested reader who may wish to delve further. An important message for young girls entering the uncertain years of adolescence. 1999, Capstone, Ages 8 up, $19.00. Reviewer: Betsy Barnett
ISBN: 0-7368-0014-X
Women in Physical Science Careers
Jetty Kahn
Physical scientists can be found in many different settings. Some work for companies planning new products. Some work at schools where they conduct research or teach. Some can even be found in government positions. A physical scientist is a person who studies energy and matter to learn how they work together. This series presents short biographies in an easy to read format for the middle school student who just cannot get through a complete biography. These books are presented in a format that will be acceptable to the older elementary student and to the middle school student. The inclusion of a glossary, index, and related Internet web site addresses makes this a valuable resource. This is a part of the "Capstone Short Biographies" series. 1999, Capstone High/Low Books, Ages 10 to 14, $19.00. Reviewer: Joyce Rice
ISBN: 0-7368-0015-8
Women in Space
Carole S. Briggs
This A & E biography takes an overview look at the space program, both Russian and U.S., and profiles the events and women who have been a part of this exploration. This would be a marvelous complement to school research papers on the space program. However, the biographical information provided on the female astronauts is not enough to sustain in-depth inquiry into any of their individual lives. Includes a glossary, illustrations, and bibliography. 1999, Lerner Publications, Ages 11 up, $18.95. Reviewer: Mary Sue Preissner
ISBN: 0-8225-4937-9
Young Women of Achievement: A Resource For Girls in Science, Math, and Technology
Frances E. Karnes and Kristen R. Stephens
This is an outstanding resource for girls and young women who are interested in science, mathematics, and technology as it contains the most extensive collection of female role models in these fields. Recently there has been an emphasis on recruiting girls and young women into the fields of science, mathematics, and technology but very little effort to provide support and encouragement. By providing role models as mentors for girls interested in these fields the future retention will be greatly enhanced. The book is divided into four parts with useful tips and ways to acquire the resources necessary to achieve success. Part One is the planning phase. There is a comprehensive listing of the career possibilities, where the jobs are, and how to decide on a career goal. Included are suggestions on classes to take, books to read, clubs and organizations to join, and how to go about finding a mentor. Part Two includes stories of accomplishments of girls ages eighteen and younger and girls nineteen and older. Through their stories they share their struggles and achievements that provide inspiration to those interested in science, mathematics, and technology. Part Three provides a time line of famous women in theses fields. The section on words of inspiration by young girls is in itself a motivational force. For example an eighth grader says, "Follow your heart." Another advises, "Go for it." Also this section has journal activities for keeping track of progress and achievement. Part Four includes resources, books, Web sites, organizations, special programs, and competitions. 2002, Prometheus Books, $21.00. Ages 13 up. Reviewer: Leila Toledo
ISBN: 1-5739-2965-4
Writers
African American Women Writers
Brenda Wilkinson
The author is herself a writer of books for young adults. In the introduction she reflects on her early years in the segregated South and the lack of African America characters in the literature she was reading. That changed in the 1960s as publishers began to seek out more materials about ethnic minorities. During Wilkinson's years of research and writing she became intrigued by the stories of black women writers and that led to this book which is a collection of biographies of significant black women authors. The work is divided into four parts with Phillis Wheatley and Sojourner Truth representing "The Early Years." The next section features writers who published during and immediately after the Civil War. The most familiar names may be Harriet Jacobs and Ida B. Wells-Barnett. Moving "Into the New Century" readers will be introduced to Zora Neal Hurston, and Ann Petry. For "Modern Times" well-known authors such as Maya Angelou, Nikki Giovanni, Alice Walker, and Toni Morrison are featured. Little insets explain terms such as "editor" or a genre such as science fiction. Black-and-white-photographs or illustrations accompany each biography. At the end of the book there is a listing of books recommended for young readers-all written by black women. A chronology, bibliography and index are included. An excellent choice for research and casual reading. Part of the "Black Stars" series. 2000, Wiley, Ages 10 up, $22.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-471-17580-3
Agatha Christie: Writer of Mystery
Carol Dommermuth-Costa
A fact-filled biography of a prolific author: Christie published 67 mysteries, 146 short stories and half a dozen novels under a pen name. It would have been helpful if the biographer had put the author's life into perspective by explaining more about the way English people lived. For instance, Christie and her husband left their toddler daughter with a relative and took an 11-month-long trip. American kids would be shocked by the notion of a parent leaving for nearly a year. Still, the book offers plenty of information to youths doing reports on A Famous Person, or who are mystery fans wanting to find out more about the grande dame of the English whodunnit. 1997, Lerner Publications, Ages 8 to 12, $23.93. Reviewer: Donna Freedman
ISBN: 0-8225-4954-9
The Annotated Anne of Green Gables
L.M. Montgomery
Edited by Wendy E. Barry, Margaret Anne Doody, Mary E. Doody Jones
A continuous best seller since it was written in 1908, Anne of Green Gables is the wonderful story of the optimism and irrepressible energy of youth. Anne is an orphan who mistakenly finds her way into the home of an elderly farmer, Matthew Cuthbert, and his sister, Marilla, on Prince Edward Island. Her joy is dashed when she realizes that they had been expecting a boy from the orphanage, and that she may be sent back. What follows is the irresistible story of how she wins them over, and the trials and tribulations of growing up with boundless energy and spirit in an environment where children are standardly tamed. This edition is loaded with extra goodies: a very detailed biography of L.M. Montgomery; annotations/footnotes which provide information about the geography of Prince Edward Island, religious references, popular culture and plants; appendices which include a history of Prince Edward Island, literary works and recitation pieces referred to in the story, background on period child care and orphan asylums, etc. To top it all off are reviews of the book when it was first published. This is a must-have for all of Anne's admirers.1997, Oxford University Press, Ages 8 to 16, $35.00. Reviewer: Kristin Harris
ISBN: 0-19-510428-5
Amy Tan: Author of the Joy Luck Club
Barbara Kramer
This interesting biography tells the life story of Amy Tan, the author of the best selling novel The Joy Luck Club. Much like the characters in that novel, Tan is the daughter of Chinese immigrants, and for many years dismissed her heritage. This book traces Tan's rediscovery of her Chinese heritage and her development into one of the most popular American writers today. 1996, Enslow Publishers, Ages 10 up, $17.95. Reviewer: Rebecca Joseph
ISBN: 0-89490-699-2
Invincible Louisa: the Story of the Author of Little Women
Cornelia Meigs
Little Women fans should enjoy this reprint of a Newbery Medal-winning biography of Louisa May Alcott. In this graceful, well-written account of Louisa's productive, hardworking life, the author does a good job of showing us how Louisa's family and economic problems helped to influence her most famous work, Little Women, and many of her other works for children and adults. Besides presenting the facts of her life, the author weaves in many evocative descriptions of Louisa's environment and feelings, thus creating a biography that seems more interesting and appealing than a more factual, unadorned work. An index and chronology also are included. 1995 (orig. 1933), Little Brown, Ages 11 up, $18.95 and $5.95. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 0-316-56590-3
ISBN: 0-316-56594-6
Best Books:
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Not Just for Children Any More, 2001 ; Children's Book Council; United States
J.K. Rowling
Cari Meister
J. K. Rowling is a biography from a series called "Children's Authors." Cari Meister has written several of them for ABDO Publishing Company. Close-up photographs of the authors are on the book covers. The series focuses on well-known and popular authors. The information is presented in short books (24 pages) and divided into chapters. There is an introduction of the author followed in a first chapter of the author's early life. Other chapters talk about how the author become a writer, what obstacles she faced and where she is today. Little known and interesting information is woven into the book. For example, J. K. Rowling, the popular author of the Harry Potter books, was not considered a good student in her early years. She went to college and worked as a teacher and secretary, but her real ambition was to become a writer. She married and had a daughter. She divorced, tried to work, but had to go on welfare in order to stay home with her daughter. She worked on the first Harry Potter book in a cafe while her daughter slept by her side. Today, J. K. Rowling, (her first name is Joanne) is a millionaire. She has written four Potter books with three more to go. Meister does a nice, neat job of presenting a worldwide-popular children's writer. The illustrations are color and black-and-white photographs. 2001, ABDO, $19.92. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Della A. Yannuzzi
ISBN: 1-5776-5482-X
Laura Ingalls Wilder: A Biography
William Anderson
This is a wonderfully researched account of the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder. It provides numerous details and background information that will help readers understand the stories that she has written. The photographs add a further dimension to this biography. A must, especially for those familiar with the Little House books. 1995, HarperTrophy, Ages 10 up, $5.95. Reviewer: Mary Rowen
ISBN: 0-06-446103-3
Laura Ingalls Wilder: Storyteller of the Prairie
Ginger Wadsworth
Fans of the Little House books, and those interested in US and family history, should appreciate this well-written, carefully researched biography of the popular children's author, Laura Ingalls Wilder. Twelve chapters present a good picture of Laura's life, from background information on her parents and her birth, through her childhood with its many moves, her marriage and close relationships with her husband and daughter Rose, and then to her development as a writer fairly late in life and her active, productive old age. The book also includes information on Rose Wilder Lane and her adopted grandson Roger MacBride, and how they contributed to and extended the Little House books to another generation. Many black and white photos and drawings (some from the Little House books), an index, bibliography, and a listing with addresses for eight of the Little Houses are also included. 1997, Lerner, Ages 11 up, $22.95. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 0-8225-4950-6
Lillian Hellman: Rebel Playwright
Ruth Turk
This is a competent introduction to the nonconformist author of The Little Foxes and An Unfinished Woman. Emphasis is placed on Hellman's New Orleans childhood, her relationship with mystery writer Dashiell Hammett, and her long love affair with left-wing politics-including Hellman's skirmishes with the House Un-American Activities Committee in the fifties. The biography should be useful for raising questions about alternate life styles and the role of intellectuals within American society. 1995, Lerner, Ages 12 up, $22.95. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr
ISBN: 0-8225-4921-2
Louisa May Alcott
Amy Ruth
This biography of Louisa May Alcott begins with a discouraging episode from her young life. A prominent publisher rejects her manuscript and tells her to "stick to teaching" because she "can't write." Fifteen years after this disappointment Alcott wrote Little Women. She had achieved success and her manuscripts were in demand. Much of the money she earned was used to support her extended family. This well-written book gives readers an overview of Alcott's unconventional childhood and of the people who were most influential in shaping her personality. Alcott's independent spirit shines, and readers learn how this spirit carries her through rough years, when the family struggled financially and when her sisters died. Photographs and sketches accompany the text. 1999, Lerner, Ages 9 up, $25.26. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati
ISBN: 0-8225-4938-7
Margaret, Frank, and Andy: Three Writers' Stories
Cynthia Rylant
This slim book contains brief, simply-told descriptions of the lives of three popular children's authors, Margaret Wise Brown, L. Frank Baum, and E. B. "Andy" White. The information Rylant offers will be useful for completing school assignments, but will be equally appreciated by even the youngest children who, when delighted by these authors' wonderful tales, will want to know something about the storytellers themselves. How did the Wizard's land come to be named "Oz?" Where did E. B. White get the idea for Wilbur and Charlotte? Find the answers in Rylant's modest, charming little book-only 48 pages, but a very nice introduction to biography as a literary genre. 1996, Harcourt, Ages 6 up, $15.00. Reviewer: Donna Brumby
ISBN: 0-15-201083-1
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 12th Edition, 1999 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Best Children's Books of the Year, 1996 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Lasting Connections, 1996 ; American Library Association; United States
Maya Angelou : America's Poetic Voice
Nancy Shuker
Maya Angelou can sometimes seem a figure of mythic proportions--perhaps that is why she is included in this "Giants of the Arts and Culture" series--but Nancy Shuker does a good job of making her seem accessible and real. Augmented by more than thirty black-and-white photos and many quotes, this text explores Angelou's experiences from childhood to current day. A great deal of attention is given to issues of race and class, art and poetry, but the main focus of this book is determination and survival. This is a thoughtful and compelling examination of one of America's most beloved individuals. It includes a chronology of significant events from Angelou's life in the context of American events, a glossary and a bibliography. 2001, Blackbirch, $21.95. Ages 9 to 12. Reviewer: Heidi Green
ISBN: 1-56711-506-3
Nellie Bly: Daredevil Reporter
Charles Fredeen
"The most talked about woman in America" is the fascinating subject of this unusual life story in the "Lerner Biography" series. Fredeen plunges immediately into Miss Bly's unique coverage of events in the late 1890's, and returns later to her birth and rise to fame. As a newspaper reporter (a highly unusual occupation for a woman in the nineteenth century), Nellie became known for humanizing the events of the day with her own lively and sympathetic voice. The accomplishment which established her fame, however, was her record-setting journey around the world in seventy-two days. Without the usual chaperone or steamer trunk filled with fashionable attire, twenty-five-year-old Nellie made the journey alone (except for a monkey she bought along the way!), and carried only one satchel slightly larger than a pocket book. This remarkable woman pioneered a new kind of journalism, which focused on the individual within the larger story, and Fredeen relates her colorful and controversial career in an entertaining manner that will captivate young readers. This book contains an index and numerous photographs. 1999, Lerner, Ages 10 up, $25.26. Reviewer: Betty Hicks
ISBN: 0-8225-4956-5
Nerves Out Loud
Edited by Susan Musgrave
On the back cover you'll read, "You're a teen and something huge is happening in your life." Seven female writers contributed stories about their experiences as teen-agers, including rape, shoplifting, lesbian experiences and other dysfunctional activities. This collection of memoirs may make interesting reading for teenagers and some adults. However, before parents and librarians place this book on the shelf for young teen-agers, they should decide whether it's suitable for the younger kids. 2001, Annick Press, $19.95 and $9.95. Ages 13 up. Reviewer: Jennie Jennings DeGenaro
ISBN: 1-55037-693-4
ISBN: 1-55037-692-6
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
The Norma Fleck Award for Canadian Children's Non-Fiction Honour Book 2002 Canada
On the Bus with Joanna Cole: A Creative Autobiography
Joanna Cole with Wendy Saul
For those kids who want to know more about the author of the "Magic School Bus" series, this short autobiography is just the ticket. It is an amusing ride, liberally illustrated with art from many of Cole's books. She describes how her series got started, how she collaborates with Bruce Degen, and even shows readers how she develops an idea into a book. A science writer with a sense of humor, Cole and this book are winners. 1996, Heinemann, Ages 8 up, $16.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-4350-8131-4
Best Books:
Capitol Choices, 1996 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, June 1996 ; Cahners; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Prairie Pasque Award, 1999 ; South Dakota
Rhode Island Children's Book Award, 1999 ; Rhode Island
Texas Bluebonnet Award, 1997-1998 ; Texas
Rumer Godden: A Storyteller's Life
Anne Chisholm
Godden is well known to two very separate audiences-literary adult readers and children, although several of her adult novels, like The Greengage Summer have crossed into the young adult market over the years. Her best remembered works were usually inspired by India, and Chisholm's very readable biography explores the influence that an Indian childhood, as a member of the ruling British class, had on Godden's life work. The unfolding picture of India before independence is a fascinating one, and Godden's difficult first marriage and the tensions rising between motherhood and her calling as a writer are well developed. Don't look to this study for great insights on Godden's children's output, other than to learn that she considered these works-and writing for children-secondary. Still, the portrait given of a shy, yet steely woman is hard to put down. 1998, Greenwillow, Ages 14 up, $24.00. Reviewer: Kathleen Karr
ISBN: 0-688-16944-9
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Updated 3/6/04
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