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Overlooked Women in Picture Book Biographies (page 2)

Cover art for THE DARING MISS QUIMBY
CHILDREN'S
Released: Sept. 1, 2009
THE DARING MISS QUIMBY
by Suzanne George Whitaker, illustrated by Catherine Stock
"An accessible introduction to Quimby and her enduring role in aviation history. (timeline of women in aviation; author's note; suggested websites; selected bibliography) (Picture book/biography. 5-8)"
A fearless female becomes an inspiring American aviation icon in this biography of Harriet Quimby's brief, daring life. Read full book review >
Cover art for MERMAID QUEEN
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2009
Kirkus Star MERMAID QUEEN: THE SPECTACULAR TRUE STORY OF ANNETTE KELLERMAN, WHO SWAM HER WAY TO FAME, FORTUNE, & SWIMSUIT HISTORY
by Shana Corey, illustrated by Edwin Fotheringham
"Fotheringham's bold, spiraling patterns resemble crashing water; both fiery and cool colors pay homage to this vibrant woman and her sport. (author's, source notes) (Picture book/biography. 5-9)"
Little has been written about Annette Kellerman, the founder of water ballet and modernizer of the female swimsuit; Corey's lively descriptions and powerful phrasing successfully fill this niche. Read full book review >
Cover art for PLANTING THE TREES OF KENYA
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 8, 2008
PLANTING THE TREES OF KENYA: THE STORY OF WANGARI MAATHAI
by Claire A. Nivola, illustrated by Claire A. Nivola
"This impressive effort will resonate with children. (author's note, source note) (Picture book/biography. 5-9)"
Laced with gracefully told anecdotes, this picture-book biography examines the work of Kenyan Nobel Peace Prize–winner Maathai, who returned from college abroad to find her country ecologically imperiled. Read full book review >
Cover art for PATIENCE WRIGHT
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2007
PATIENCE WRIGHT: AMERICA’S FIRST SCULPTOR AND REVOLUTIONARY SPY
by Pegi Deitz Shea, illustrated by Bethanne Andersen
"While it is too dense for younger children, middle-graders will no doubt be fascinated. (author note, timeline, bibliography) (Picture book/biography. 8-12)"
One of nine sisters and one brother born to a Quaker family, Patience grew up in New Jersey and discovered her talent for sculpting figures early on. Read full book review >
Cover art for HIROMI’S HANDS
CHILDREN'S
Released: March 1, 2007
Kirkus Star HIROMI’S HANDS
by Lynne Barasch, illustrated by Lynne Barasch
"A glossary and pronunciation guide, a portrait photo and a brief wrap-up close what will be for most young readers a fascinating family story. (Picture book/biography. 7-9)"
Barasch frames this profile of Hiromi Suzuki, a childhood friend of her daughter's who grew up to be an itamae-san, or professional sushi chef, as both an American story and a first-person tale of a young woman's success in a trade traditionally dominated by men. Read full book review >
Cover art for OF NUMBERS AND STARS
CHILDREN'S
Released: April 1, 2006
OF NUMBERS AND STARS: THE STORY OF HYPATIA
by D. Anne Love, illustrated by Pam Paparone
"Unfortunately, the author has felt it necessary to add dialogue and emotions she cannot possibly know, but the core biography is a worthy contribution to women's history. (author's note, more about math, resources) (Picture book/biography. 5-9)"
An attractive and engaging biographical sketch of a significant woman about whom tantalizingly little can be known. Read full book review >