November 1, 2024
K-Gr 3-Young readers learn of Americans who faced adversity but were successful in their chosen vocations. John Lewis was heavily involved in the civil rights movement, eventually being elected to the United States Congress. Ellen Ochoa was the first Hispanic female astronaut. Jackie Robinson's athletic skills led him to be the first Black player in modern professional baseball. Though blind and deaf before her second birthday, Helen Keller graduated Radcliffe College and spent the rest of her life advocating for disabled people. Jim Thorpe was an Olympic athlete who dealt with racism, Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first Black woman to be appointed to the Supreme Court, Rosa Parks ignited peaceful protests that led to civil rights legislation, and Native American Will Rogers used his celebrity to support drought victims. Colorful illustrations complement the texts. Simple and factual, these titles provide sufficient introductions of these noteworthy people to the intended audience. All of these people are the subjects of many other books, and these titles are similar to previous works. VERDICT These titles are attractive and informative; selectors should base their purchasing decisions on how much their current collections need refreshing.
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