Inspiring Illustrated Biographies for Women's History Month

The month of March serves as a time to honor the achievements and contributions made by women in the United States. Here are two inspiring biographies about amazing female athletes.  

Long-Armed Ludy and the First Women's Olympics by Jean L.S. Patrick; Illustrated by Adam Gustavson

Born in Marion, South Carolina in 1900, Lucile (Ludy) Godbold was one of  fifteen American athletes selected to compete in the first Women's Olympics in 1922.  Long-Armed Ludy is an interesting look at Olympic history and a gold metal athlete who made history.         .  

Picture Books About Women Serving in the United States Military

Women have been serving in the military since the inception of organized warfare, in both combat and non-combat roles. Over 200,000 women currently serve in the U.S. Armed Services. These picture books show what life is like for military families and mothers and daughters serving in the United States military. 

Missing Momma by Winsome Bingham; Illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell

This thoughtful picture book shows the real world-challenges of children in military families including when a parent is deployed far from home, lost time with family, and a mother's struggles with PTSD from a child’s perspective. The colorfully illustrated book also reveals the healing power of music and family. 

Author Winsome Bingham, a disabled army veteran, writes that Missing Momma is about a child who pays attention to her surroundings and the people in her life.   

Inspiring Illustrated Biographies for Women's History Month

The month of March serves as a time to honor the achievements and contributions made by women throughout the history of the United States. These biographies teach young readers about American women who are recognized for their unique contributions and groundbreaking achievements. 

The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne by Lesa Cline-Ransome; Illustrated by John Parra  

           

Young Ethel L. Payne had an ear for stories and courage to ask tough questions, earning her the distinction of being the first Black woman invited into the White House briefing room and the nickname, The First Lady of the Black Press. This inspiring picture book chronicles the joys and hardships of Payne’s early life and her professional achievements including reporting from across the globe and drawing attention to critical civil rights issues.

I’ve had a box seat on history and that’s a rare thing. 

Ethel L. Payne      

           

Our Favorite Seasonal Children's Books

Thrilled to be a first-time aunt, my sister gifted us a unique picture book when my son was young. 

Auntie Claus and the Key to Christmas by Elise Primavera

When things seem dark and dreary – if times turn sour and bitter – think like a Kringle! You’ll soon find your way to all that sparkles and glitters!

Glamorous Auntie Claus spills some intriguing Kringle family secrets to a skeptical nephew who tests his theory Santa’s BB and G (Bad-Boys-and-Girls) list and ignores warnings about the society of PRUNES (Parade Rainers United National Elite Society). 

Elise Primavera's Auntie Claus books are filled with humor and fun illustrations. 

Staff Picks: Realistic Teen Fiction

The Best Man by Richard Peck

Archer Magill navigates making new friends, thwarting school bullies, serving in wedding parties, and dealing with family emergencies in a story that chronicles a young man's event-filled transition from elementary to middle school. The Best Man is a relatable book that emphasizes positive male role models of various generations.  

Richard Peck was a Newbery Award winning author, former teacher, and the first children's book author to receive the National Humanities Medal.

Find more realistic teen fiction and great teen reads in all genres at forsythpl.org/teens or ask a staff member for book recommendations. You can also use this form for personalized reading suggestions. 

Alicia Cavitt

Information Specialist.