As other reviewers have said, I will read anything written by Nic Stone. Her books raise important questions and don't provide easy answers, and her cAs other reviewers have said, I will read anything written by Nic Stone. Her books raise important questions and don't provide easy answers, and her characters are complex and relatable. If you haven't read the previous books in this series [Dear Martin and Dear Justyce], definitely check them out first, and of course, if you have read them, you won't want to miss this one since it features some of the characters in the previous books. The protagonist, Jared Christensen, a privileged college white boy who considers himself to be woke although that doesn't stop him from enjoying the advantages his skin color and family wealth afford him, decides to run for Junior Class Council President on a platform calling for equity and inclusion. He has two opponents--John Preston who is vocal in his disgust with representation and quotas and Dylan Coleman, a Black transfer student with a similar agenda to Jared's. Dylan's involvement in the election prompts much soul-searching on the part of Jared, who questions his own commitment to equity and the causes he says he supports even while feeling attracted to Dylan. As an outlet and way of being honest with himself, he writes letters to his friend Manny, who died two years ago. What makes Jared's story so special and worth reading is how his emotions and actions will feel familiar to many readers just like him whose hearts are in the right place but who don't always follow up their intentions with actions. Realizing this will make some of them/us feel quite uncomfortable and guilty, but the book encourages honest, healthy dialogue about his behavior and that of others while also examining the influence of family on the values of their offspring. It's also worth pondering how important winning is and what each of us might do if we had explosive, damaging material in our hands that could help us win an election. While some parts of the book didn't ring true and I wondered about that Constitutional Law class as well as how challenging it must have been for Stone to write about a white character, I also had to confront some of my biases and remind myself that white authors have been writing Black characters for quite some time. Don't hesitate to read this book and then be sure to discuss it with others in and even outside of your circle and comfort zone. ...more
WOW! There are hardly words to do justice to this intense, moving, highly original graphic novel, the follow-up to the previous My Favorite Thing Is MWOW! There are hardly words to do justice to this intense, moving, highly original graphic novel, the follow-up to the previous My Favorite Thing Is Monsters. Picking up where the earlier book left off, this fictional graphic diary written and illustrated by 10-year-old Karen Reyes will keep readers' attention throughout the entire book even though it's a long one. Still missing her mother and trying to make sense of the actions of her brother, Deeze, Karen is determined to figure out who killed her upstairs neighbor, Anka Silverberg, a Holocaust survivor, even while other important events swirl around her. Set in Chicago in 1968, the book takes readers and Karen to Grant Park for the Festival of Life where she sees police violence in action. She also considers her own sexual identity, begins a romantic relationship, and ponders her brother's complex nature, nurturing toward her but violent toward some others. By the time the final page of this resplendently illustrated book is reached, readers will be pretty sure about the identity of the real monsters among us. This book and volume one are the kinds of reading material that require readers to sit with them for a few minutes or hours after finishing them in order to allow some of what has been lived through vicariously to be digested. Others have called these two books masterpieces, and I wouldn't disagree. ...more
I really needed to read this biography [4.5 for me!] of the legendary civil rights activist because it seems more and more that our nation is mired inI really needed to read this biography [4.5 for me!] of the legendary civil rights activist because it seems more and more that our nation is mired in hopelessness, despair, and profit, and I wanted to bask in the story of someone who remained dedicated to his cause and continued to cling to the nonviolent way. My expectations were satisfied in this thorough, engaging book, arguably THE book to read about John Lewis. Relying on interviews with Lewis and more than 275 interviews with those who knew him, this well written book covers his formative years as well as his leadership in SNCC and his travels with the Freedom Riders as well as his time as a representative from Georgia in Congress. Biographer David Greenberg includes various tidbits about his daily routines, his food preferences, his attire, and his art collection, all intended to humanize Lewis, as well as lines from some of his speeches. While no one is perfect, Lewis remains as an example of moral leadership and someone who would surely be appalled at what is happening in our country right now. I finished the book filled with respect and in awe of the man even though I still have questions about some parts of his life's journey, including his involvement with the LGBTQIA+ and religious communities, and perhaps more about his childhood and school days. That notion of his about getting into good trouble continues to resonate with me and many others. For those of us who love history and biographies, this was quite a page-turner. ...more
Senior Noor Khan is less than thrilled when her mother uproots the family, moving them from Chicago to Bayberry, Illinois, after her father abandons tSenior Noor Khan is less than thrilled when her mother uproots the family, moving them from Chicago to Bayberry, Illinois, after her father abandons them. It's a quiet town, very white and conservative, and Noor plans to quietly sleepwalk through the rest of the year even while dealing with her feelings of loss, anger, and confusion over his betrayal. However, when her learns about the restrictive English curriculum and a new book challenge policy, she can't remain silent. Along with new friends Faiz and Juniper, who is queer, and with support from Ms. Clayton, the school librarian, she takes action and speaks out, even reading during outdoor lunch portions of some of the books that have been removed from the library shelves. She's not the first to realize that many of the books being purged are written by queer and BIPOC authors. Before she knows it, Noor is being villainized, by the principal, some classmates, including the best friends of Andrew, a boy that just might have stolen her heart, and members of the Liberty Moms and Dads. And they don't stop with words. The author inserts some of the familiar microaggressions that Muslims like Noor's family or anyone new or different has no doubt encountered, adding to the story's authenticity. There's so much to appreciate about this book--the town's name, a twist on the classic Mayberry RFD of Andy Griffith fame, the librarian's name, the explanation of what Critical Race Theory actually is, the firm reminder of what the First Amendment means and how book banning is actually ant-American as well as how some politicians manage to twist speaking up and speaking out or dissent as being problematic and those of a trouble-maker. But most impressive of all is that this is a YA title about teen activism with the adolescents leading the way when many of the adults around them fail them. Timely, eye-opening, and hopeful, Noor's story is one not to be missed. ...more
As can probably be proven from my bookshelves, I love biographies and memoirs, and as soon as I saw this one, I knew that I would simply have to read As can probably be proven from my bookshelves, I love biographies and memoirs, and as soon as I saw this one, I knew that I would simply have to read it. I am of the generation that remembers when journalists and broadcasters were respected and unbiased, and I can certainly recall watching Connie Chung in her various roles at CBS, including anchoring the nightly news, and being impressed with how polished she was. This book highlights some of the sparkling and disappointing moments during her long career, offering just enough details to intrigue readers and allowing her personality to come through. One of the notable aspects of the book in addition to how it gives readers glimpses into news reporters and what goes on behind the scenes is how grateful Chung is. Throughout the narrative, she constantly acknowledges those who proceeded her, paving the way for her to become the first Asian to anchor a United States news program. She shares details about her parents' move from China to the U.S., the racism and sexism she faced, and her struggles with fertility. Surprisingly, she exhibits a keen, self-deprecating type of humor, a humbleness, and keen insight into the broadcasting and political world that make her story unique and worth reading. While I wish she had delved more deeply into how she sees news and reporting changing over the past couple of decades, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this memoir. I gained a whole new appreciation for her husband, Maury Povich, as well. ...more
A friendly and gentle reminder about the importance of voting, this picture book focuses on Leo, a youngster whose father has recently obtained U.S. cA friendly and gentle reminder about the importance of voting, this picture book focuses on Leo, a youngster whose father has recently obtained U.S. citizenship and is now pondering who his choice for President in the upcoming election will be. While his father does his due diligence in preparing to cast his ballot, Leo also will be able to participate in a mock election at school. But his cynical cousin prompts Leo to wonder whether one vote really matters all that much in the larger scheme of things. Through helpful volunteers and neighbors, Leo and his father learn about voter registration, the importance of voting, and precinct polling places, and at school, the class's election is decided by--you guessed it--one vote. Child-friendly illustrations, created with cut paper, oil pastels, acrylics, and digital techniques, add flavor and visual appeal to what could be a dull topic, but combined with the lively, conversational text, end up being engaging and downright inspiring. Back matter includes additional information about voting, including four recent examples when an election was decided by one vote. Having written and given a speech on this very topic [One Vote DOES Count] for a 4-H Speaking Contest back when I was a senior many decades ago, I can add several other instances when important issues were decided by one vote. Timely and inspiring, the fact that Leo's father is a new voter, recently granted citizenship after passing a test, just makes this book all the more relatable. Note the red, white, and blue lettering colors and stars on the cover too, hinting at the notion that voting is patriotic. ...more
As a child of the 'Sixties growing up during the times of JFK, RFK, MLK, LBJ, and Richard Nixon, I've been an outsider to many of the events describedAs a child of the 'Sixties growing up during the times of JFK, RFK, MLK, LBJ, and Richard Nixon, I've been an outsider to many of the events described in this engaging account of various historical moments from the points of view of two political insiders--Doris Kearns Goodwin and her late husband Richard Goodwin. Drawing from memory, notes, diaries, archival material, and interviews with relevant individuals, Goodwin weaves together history, biography, and memoir as she and Dick spend the last years of his life sifting through boxes of memorabilia from that decade. The narrative includes conversations between the two of them while they are reminiscing and sorting out their complicated feelings about JFK and LBJ, for whom Dick wrote speeches while Doris served as a White House Fellow and later wrote LBJ's biography. It's clear that the 1960s were a turbulent time, but they also were a period filled with possibility and promise with various civil rights legislation being passed by Congress, successful space travel, and youth feeling as though they could make a difference and be heard. Because so much of what was good about that time period was overshadowed by violence at home and abroad in Vietnam, it's easy to see how Dick could have become disheartened. But as this book shows, his was an unfinished love story with politics, and as it turned out, both Dick and Doris emerge from their labors with a renewed appreciation of those times as well as hope for the future. Readers trying to make sense of present-day politics will gain insight by reading this book, clearly a labor of love from a thoughtful historian who manages to simplify complex processes and unravel some of the mysteries behind complex individuals. Clearly, in their heyday, this was one heck of a power couple. I enjoyed every word, laughed at times, cried at times, and felt terribly nostalgic for that decade. ...more
Before reading this detailed, thoroughly researched book, I had a little more knowledge of the current and historical background of Palestine, thanks Before reading this detailed, thoroughly researched book, I had a little more knowledge of the current and historical background of Palestine, thanks to The Shepherd's Granddaughter by Anne Laurel Carter (a Notable Book for a Global Society selection) and a doctoral student from Palestine who was in a couple of my courses. But this book added so much to what I thought I knew about conditions there and the ongoing conflict over land there. Given the recent events in the Middle East and student protests, this book couldn't be more timely or eye-opening. The author does exactly what the title promises, exploring one life-changing day in the life of a Palestinian father whose young son is killed in a bus crash in 2012 on Jaba Road on the outskirts of Jerusalem. (I had to look this event up online in order to know when the tragedy occurred since I don't recall the year being mentioned in the book.) The accident and its aftermath as the father, Abed Salama, searches for his son. But his concerns are heightened by the fact that he is Palestinian and on the wrong side of the wall that separates parts of Jerusalem. The author effectively describes his frustration with the red tape that threatens to drown him and others in a similar situation and the ache of losing his son, but he also points the finger of guilt at those he holds culpable, not just the truck driver, the bus driver, the inadequate road, the lack of emergency services, the wall itself, and the inadequate school system that prompted parents to send their children to West Bank schools that were poorly supervised. While much of the book focuses on this one day when everything changed for one man, the narrative also covers wider territory, including the various efforts to divide the territory and placate both sides. At times, it attempts to do too much, resulting in a dizzying transition from one person to the next and various time frames. Still, this book is undeniably important, I daresay essential, reading and may change some minds about Palestine and Israel. ...more
So talented a writer is Tim O'Brien, that it's almost impossible to measure up to his previous masterpieces, The Things They Carried or In the Lake ofSo talented a writer is Tim O'Brien, that it's almost impossible to measure up to his previous masterpieces, The Things They Carried or In the Lake of the Woods. While I appreciated the satirical aspects of this one, his recent book, which is set during the opening months of the COVID pandemic, there was too little of that to carry the rest of the story. The plot revolves around the robbery of a bank in Northern California. The robber, Boyd Halverson, is on a downward spiral and a self-destructive path. The theft of $81,000 and the kidnapping of the bank teller, Angie Bing, is part of his revenge of past and present demons as he has left his job as a JC Penney store manager and goes on the run. The characters, while mostly unlikeable, are well drawn, but several are without much of a moral compass, and I found it hard to believe that Angie would willingly stay with Boyd throughout the journey or be so unaware of Randy's dark side over the course of their relationship. If this is a commentary on the present state of disarray, disillusionment, and dishonesty in this country, it's a noble, well-intended effort, but it ultimately fails to illuminate the causes and possible solutions. Sadly, I wanted to like this much more than I did. Maybe if it had been organized differently or the various parts stitched together better, I would have been more impressed, but there were parts of the book that left me frustrated, tired, and even somewhat bored. That was a long, long road trip. ...more
While I still don't understand exactly how cryptocurrency works--something that's quite important in this book--and the main character, Crissy DowlingWhile I still don't understand exactly how cryptocurrency works--something that's quite important in this book--and the main character, Crissy Dowling, seems incredibly naive for someone who has lived and performed in Las Vegas for several years, I still enjoyed the book, which is filled with some of the least trustworthy men to ever grace the pages of a mystery. Readers are plunged into the performances of Crissy, who channels Princess Diana on stage, complete with images, words, clothing, and her own eating disorder. Like Diana, Crissy has demons of her own, which are revealed over the course of the book, something she avoids through her performances. Estranged from her sister, Betsy, who moves to Vegas with her new boyfriend and adopted daughter, who is a prodigy, Crissy seems to have the worst possible luck someone could have, and her sister just might rival her for naiveness as both women become pawns in a deadly game. Frankie Limback, Betsy's boyfriend, is about as inept and limp as his name might indicate, and really lets her down when the chips and the bodies start falling. The glimpses of insider Las Vegas were tantalizing but only served to remind me why this glitzy city carved out of the Nevada desert isn't my cup of tea. Still, the author has a way with words and employs unique turns of phrases throughout the narrative that were surprisingly pleasant to read. ...more
While many adults think they'd be the best choice for President of this country, there are also youngsters who aren't old enough to run for public offWhile many adults think they'd be the best choice for President of this country, there are also youngsters who aren't old enough to run for public office but have plenty of great ideas for what they'd do if they were President. This picture book, illustrated digitally but also with inked fingerprints, presents one child's campaign platform containing some rather absurd ideas but also some that will resonate strongly with readers. For example, he imagines having abundant amounts of cookies heaped on tables and dogs, bicycles, and friends for anyone who wants them. He also expresses concern for the environment and would get rid of the plastics in the ocean with plastic-gobbling water. He even plans to welcome with open arms anyone who wants to come to his country. The text and platform are a bit naive, but they are also so open-hearted and hopeful that it's hard to resist his appeal, especially during election times in our own states and country when so many candidates promise so much and deliver so little. Maybe potential candidates for office should read this picture book for a reminder of what really matters to voters, even when they are very young and not quite ready to vote. ...more
Set in Brooklyn in the early 1980s, this novel in verse features two likeable characters in JJ Pankowski, who loves punk, especially the Clash, and PiSet in Brooklyn in the early 1980s, this novel in verse features two likeable characters in JJ Pankowski, who loves punk, especially the Clash, and Pierre (Pie) Velez, a budding artist and tagger who wants to follow in the footsteps of Jean-Michel Basquiat. JJ has just moved back to Brooklyn to stay with his grandmother after his father, who immigrated from Poland, lost his job at JFK Airport. He tries to fly beneath the radar since school isn't his thing; in fact, he's so silent that his teachers report him as being absent. Pie, whose mother is from Puerto Rico, is smart, ambitious, and keenly aware of the different ways whites and those with black or brown skin are treated. He sees injustice all around him, at school, in the streets, and in his own country. Both middle-graders regard music and art respectively as ways to escape their harsh realities and express themselves. In JJ's case, his family is struggling economically, and his father is a racist. In Pie's case, his beloved mother is mentally ill, vacillating from periods of lucidity and times when she becomes quite confused and wanders the street. For some reason, Pie befriends JJ, who is being bullied in the cafeteria, and the two of them teach each other about their passions--art and music. An incident with police officers causes a rift between the boys since Pie is treated quite differently than JJ is, causing Pie to question their friendship since JJ doesn't speak up for him. Although the ending is a bit rushed and there weren't many examples of JJ's pervasive developmental disorder that would put him on the autism spectrum today, this book offers a great starting point for conversations about racism, class differences, and self-expression. Some readers will be disappointed that it doesn't have a particularly happy ending, but the authors' choice about how to conclude the story seems realistic to me. I loved the cultural references, including a nod to Robert Cormier's classic The Chocolate War, which JJ has read and considers as he contemplates whether and how he might dare to disturb the universe, along with others who are like-minded....more
This graphic memoir is a 3.5 for me. There are parts that I wish had been fleshed out a little bit more--for instance, the family's acquisition of a vThis graphic memoir is a 3.5 for me. There are parts that I wish had been fleshed out a little bit more--for instance, the family's acquisition of a video store after initially buying a bakery. What is here is rich and filled with text and artwork that will have readers' mouths watering. Starting when he was five and concluding with his current age, author/illustrator Thien Pham follows his family's immigration to the United States from Vietnam through their moves to various places, including a refugee camp. Parts of that journey will be familiar to anyone who has read other immigration stories. But other parts won't be as familiar. The opening pages are dark, and many of the panels have thick black borders, perfect for depicting challenging moments and hardships such as pirates attacking the boat the Phams are in or as Thien prepares for his first day of school. But others are filled with joy and appreciation of small moments of joy--discovering potato chips, for instance, or the generosity of others in the refugee camp. Perhaps most notably, though, unlike many other memoirs of this type, this one contains several references to food, even referring to Thien's first memory as he devoured watermelon and a rice ball during that watery journey. There are also panels showing an older Thien casually throwing away the lunch his mother has packed because he's embarrassed by how different it is from the other students' lunches. All this, only to realize as an adult just how delicious those foods are. This is a moving, heart-tugging story of how one boy found his way in a strange land, even realizing as an adult just how important being a citizen and casting a vote in his new home's elections are. Well worth a read, this accessible book offers new perspectives on immigration and will make a solid addition to a collection devoted to immigration or journeys of self-discovery. ...more
This is certainly not the first book for teens to cover the infamous "Talk" that many parents of Black boys (and sometimes girls) have with their offsThis is certainly not the first book for teens to cover the infamous "Talk" that many parents of Black boys (and sometimes girls) have with their offspring. But it's quite effective since it follows the author/cartoonist as a young boy hearing certain words from his mother to the moment he must decide how to approach the same topic with his own child. In between, readers have a front row seat as Darrin navigates life as a young Black male in LA and deals with the assumptions some of his teachers, neighbors, and law enforcement officers make about him because of the color of his skin. Although this is serious and important fodder--maybe even life-saving--the graphic novel also contains all sorts of humorous moments, often provided by Bell's outspoken mother and Bell himself. The Prologue with scenes of violence and a fierce dog, followed by the first chapter in which a young Bell doesn't understand the significance of the water gun his mother has purchased being green sets the tone for the rest of the book as readers realize that even the most innocuous toy can become life-threatening if someone in power deems it so or thinks it represents a threat. Watching Bell grow, mature, and become increasingly aware of social justice issues and the prejudices around him is eye-opening, appropriately disturbing, and ultimately hopeful as the narrative moves through his career as an editorial cartoonist while also touching on the pandemic and the BlackLivesMatter movement and the Donald Trump Presidency. Some of the images that help to tell this story will be seared in readers' brains amid hope that one day it won't be necessary for parents to have that "Talk" with their offspring. ...more
Although 970 pages is a lot for an autobiography [There are Presidents whose autobiographies or biographies are far shorter!], I actually enjoyed the Although 970 pages is a lot for an autobiography [There are Presidents whose autobiographies or biographies are far shorter!], I actually enjoyed the detail about singing, writing, acting, and directing that Barbra Streisand included in this book. What some might consider to be trivial or unnecessary distractions to the main event--the story of her life--only further served to amplify her particular journey and provided insight into her personality and motivation. It's clear that she's done it all and is enormously talented and that she epitomizes the notion of perfectionism. But it's just as clear that somehow she's managed to have a long-lasting career in different areas on her own merits and by doing things her way. There are parts of her story that really resonated with me as she describes how others reacted to her and how frustrating it can be to see men and women doing the same things and yet be treated differently. While there are parts of her story that could have used an editor's touch or asides that could have been omitted, to remove them might have taken away some of the charm and the voice of this fascinating woman whose voice and vision have spanned several decades. The word "icon" must surely have been coined with her in mind. I loved all the photos and brushes with other famous individuals that are included in the book, and her honesty as she explores her relationship with her mother and considers how having her father die when she was very young affected her throughout her adult life. The book only served to make me appreciate her even more. But oh, how heavy that volume is when resting on one of my arms!...more
This fascinating novel about art, passion, and relationships is a 3.5 for me. While I didn't always understand the motivations of the two main charactThis fascinating novel about art, passion, and relationships is a 3.5 for me. While I didn't always understand the motivations of the two main characters and wish they had taken different actions at various points, I found both of them interesting, complex, flawed, and stubborn. In some ways it's as though the author has taken the best and the worst of each of us and merged them in this book. The narration moves between Jean, who lives in her parents' home in a rundown neighborhood in the Allegheny Mountains, and her stepdaughter, Leah. One by one, Jean has watched as the other houses in the neighborhood have been abandoned and boarded up, but Jean remains in her home where she spends years creating metal sculptures from bits and scraps she's collected from flea markets and other sources. Once quite close to Jean, Leah has moved on with her life after her father and Jean split up, but she's felt confused by Jean's attempts to share her nascent artistic vision with her as well as disconcerted by some of her life choices. After Jean's death from a fall while working on her "manglements," as Jean calls them, Leah returns home to find those amazing works of art. The descriptions of Jean's creative process and inspiration are quite interesting as is her relationship with Elliott, the down-and-up young man who helps her during her later years and to whom she feels indebted because of a misunderstanding--or perhaps because of a true understanding. It's also quite interesting to ponder the events described in each installment through the different perspectives of Jean and Leah while considering what makes bonds strengthen or weaken. With references to the nation's political climate during the MAGA resurgence and a title that speaks well to the book's contents, this short book calls for introspection and self-examination, prompting some readers to look at their own relationships and how easy it is to drift apart while also misjudging others. I'll be thinking about this one for a while. ...more
There's so much to enjoy in this, the fifth title in the Max Meow series, set in Kittyopolis. First of all, there's Max, of course, and his best frienThere's so much to enjoy in this, the fifth title in the Max Meow series, set in Kittyopolis. First of all, there's Max, of course, and his best friend Mindy. Then, there are the sidesplitting puns, many relating to bees, which is appropriate since this book focuses on bees that have come under the control of an evil individual intent on sabotaging the mayoral election. Finally, the book's plot is interrupted smoothly without missing a beat with interesting facts about bees. Elementary and middle-grade readers will smile their way through the pages while also relating to the sibling rivalry that exists between Mindy and her brother Marty. Add this colorful, action-packed graphic novel to a collection featuring superheroes or unique animals. It's a quick read for those looking for something amusing but also informative. ...more
Colorful artwork and rhyming text in the style of the classic Dr. Seuss make this picture book a sure-bet for youngsters. For me, it's a 2.5 simply beColorful artwork and rhyming text in the style of the classic Dr. Seuss make this picture book a sure-bet for youngsters. For me, it's a 2.5 simply because I don't tend to like books that depart from the original ones or are written by someone other than the original creator. Nevertheless, this one stays close to the familiar characters as Horton hears a scary boo sound, not a who, as in the original. He and his friends decide to find out its origin and realize that some sounds that seem frightening or mysterious aren't anything to worry about in the end. The conclusion is rather anticlimactic, but the story itself might be a good choice for a spooky storytelling session or for Halloween. ...more
This picture book is a 2.5 for me. Its positive message and slightly different take on disabilities is refreshing enough, but the execution was lackinThis picture book is a 2.5 for me. Its positive message and slightly different take on disabilities is refreshing enough, but the execution was lacking, at least for me. I'd have preferred having the protagonist's disability named rather than being left vaguely stated as muscles not working well. Nevertheless, the book might prompt some thinking and conversations about how we treat someone with a disability. Being treated as different from other youngsters and not subject to the normal rules and behavioral expectations might have negative effects. In the story, Ruby is diagnosed with muscle issues that cause her to fall and appear to be clumsy. After her diagnosis, Ruby's parents deal with her by being quite lenient and not holding her accountable for her unacceptable behavior, even when she pushes the limits. After all, her two brothers are constantly being corrected and chastised so why shouldn't she? After throwing a fit and demanding to be treated just like them, Ruby gets her wish, and the stress at home eases. Her parents have to accept that she might have physical challenges, but those are just one part of her. She's just as rambunctious as she's ever been, and her disability won't stop her from being true to herself--and getting into a bit of trouble once in awhile. The illustrations show just how much of a hellion Ruby can be as well as vividly depicting her parents' attempts to say nothing and to treat her as someone emotionally fragile....more
This one is a 3.5 for me. For those who think women have always had the right to vote or that the United States was the first country to grant them suThis one is a 3.5 for me. For those who think women have always had the right to vote or that the United States was the first country to grant them suffrage, this is an eye-opening book. Tracing the women's suffrage movement across the globe, including the use of a timeline indicating when they won that right, the book also profiles several women involved in early efforts for women's rights, including some that I'd never heard of, such as Olympe de Gouges of France, Huda Sharawi of Egypt, and Bertha Lutz of Brazil. It's clear that these early activists risked a great deal, including their lives, in supporting change. The author also points out that not all activists chose the same methods to get their points across with some choosing peaceful means and others more radical, violent means. She also emphasizes that the women's movement wasn't as equal or accepting as some might want to believe; for example, Ida B. Wells was asked to march at the back of a group of protesters, something she refused to do. In addition to these profiles and slices of history, the book identifies women currently in power today and highlights the arguments that some individuals made against women's suffrage or women holding elected office. Finally, the book opens with a shocking scenario in which a teacher separates the boys from the girls in a classroom and then marginalizes the girls during a lesson. This example helps readers understand why women's rights matter. Accessible, informative, and essential for today's modern feminists, the book features colorful, cartoonlike artwork in its pages. Many of them cover an entire page or even a double-page spread. Clearly, this well-written piece offers a solid introduction to the topic and might help cynical readers see the importance of feminism. Add this title to a collection focused on suffrage or women's rights or strong women. ...more