The Curse of the Mummy: Uncovering Tutankhamun's Tomb written by Candace Fleming and reviewed by Rebecca Lowe

Summary: The author follows the history of Lord Carnarvon and Howard Carter as they looked for, found, and excavated King Tut's tomb. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Some professional reviews place the book from grades 3 and up but length and textual complexity (vocab such as pervaded, lustrous, sanctuaries, embalmers, and necropolis are given without definitions) make this a better fit for upper middle grade and high school. Between chapters are inserts on dark colored paper that detail the different rumors of curses related to the tomb. These help break up the story and bring in the sensationalist drama that readers are often looking for in regards to this topic. Black and white photographs also break up the text every page or so. Fleming puts heavy emphasis on how Carter differed from other Egyptologists of the time because, despite his lack of formal education, he was meticulous in his documentation. This could easily become a class discussion about showing your work. Fleming also discusses the tensions between Great Britain and Egypt as Egypt fought to gain independence and to keep their artifacts in Egypt. This could open up deeper discussion and research on the topic, as well as open up discussions about similar historical and on-going debates related to the ownership of historical artifacts. Finally, Fleming briefly touches on the ethics of the mummy's unwrapping--that it meant permanently destroying the mummy and whether it was ethical to treat human remains in this manner.

Dinosaurs Roar: Lift-the-Flap and Discover written and illustrated by Steve Jenkins reviewed by Klaudia Janek

 

Summary: Chomp into Steve Jenkins’s lively board book: bright cut-paper illustrations, bold action verbs, lift-the-flaps, and simple nonfiction facts introduce toddlers to dinosaurs and their lives long ago in an engaging, sturdy format. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This book fits well in an elementary library program as a hands-on read-aloud for preschool and primary classes, supporting storytime, dinosaur-themed units, and early nonfiction skills; keep near picture-book displays and pair with related nonfiction titles.

Use this book as an inquiry starter for early PYP units on sharing the planet or how things change. Its vivid images and lift-the-flaps invite wonder and provocation: ask “What do we notice?” and “How do we find out more?” Use it during transdisciplinary read-alouds to model stakeholder voices (curiosity of young learners), and to spark formative questions for research lines (e.g., How do scientists learn about the past?). A dinosaur lover will enjoy this book because its bright, realistic cut-paper illustrations bring each species to life, the bold action words invite roaring and movement.  Fun times for all ages!

A Deathly Compendium of Poisonous Plants: Wicked Weeds and Sinister Seeds by Rebecca E. Hirsch, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "A Deathly Compendium of Poisonous Plants: Wicked Weeds and Sinister Seeds" by Rebecca Hirsch is an interesting exploration of toxic plants and their role in history, science, and crime. The book delves into how these plants evolved their dangerous properties to deter predators, only to become predators themselves. With chapters on 25 different plants, including Belladonna, Hemlock, and Opium, the book is filled with scientific details, historical anecdotes, and true crime stories. Beautiful illustrations accompany the text, making complex topics accessible to readers. Hirsch's writing is both humorous and informative, ensuring readers are entertained while learning about the natural world's most sinister flora. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I did not picture myself enjoying a non-fiction botany book as much as I did.  I read it in 2 evenings and it was really engaging. It's a great blend of science, history, and intrigue.  The author's writing style, combined with vivid illustrations, makes learning about complex scientific concepts fun. The true crime elements add an exciting twist, making the book feel like a real-life mystery. This book not only educates but also inspires a sense of wonder about the natural world, making it a perfect fit for inquisitive young minds. This book is a valuable addition to any school library, offering rich interdisciplinary content. I think it would also work for an art teacher because the plant illustrations are beautiful. There is an authors note reminding readers that this information is not there to learn how to poison people, but to understand and be aware of some of the harmful plants.  It did remind me of a Poison Garden I visited on some castle grounds in Ireland.  This would have been a perfect guidebook. The author listed a few gardens that are available in the US to visit to see some of the plants in person.  A great purchase for a middle or high school library.

Sarah Bernhardt: The Divine and Dazzling Life of the World’s First Superstar written by Catherine Reef, reviewed by Rebecca Lowe

Summary: Sarah Bernhardt was a French actress who was the world's first celebrity superstar. This account follows her life from birth to death, with black and white photographs included. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: While many professional reviews list the book as appropriate for 7th grade and up, educators should be aware of frank discussions and explanations of French courtesans. Additionally, the dense text sparsely broken by photographs makes this more appropriate for older readers. While the life of Sarah Bernhardt is fascinating and the reader is left wondering at her magnetism and mystique, the writing style does not lean into sensationalism but relies more on a plain factual account style. This, again, caters to older readers. Finally, readers may find themselves confused by the placement of some photographs in relation to the text. In one notable instance, the author describes on the lefthand page Bernhardt's famous sculpture housed in the National Museum of Women in Arts in Washington DC but the photograph does not appear on the righthand page--the reader instead sees a photo of Bernhardt wearing pants and must turn the page to see the photograph of the artwork. That aside, the reader walks away with a sense of Bernhardt's mystique and a desire to dig out old black and white films to try to see Bernhardt perform for themselves. 

Bernhardt was alive through a great deal of important European history events, such as the Franco-Prussian war and WWI. She travelled the globe extensively and rubbed shoulders with important historical figures such as Mary Todd Lincoln, George Sand, Chopin, Edison, and more. Educators could also easily use Bernhardt's life to discuss the evolution of theater from vaudeville, to the professional theaters, to silent film. Bernhardt was an expert at staying in the forefront of public attention, with stunts like sleeping in her own coffin or claiming that she saved Mary Todd Lincoln's life. This could lead to interesting discussions about propaganda and advertising. 

Recommended for high school collections with strong theater or film programs.

A Baby Like You written by Catherine Thimmesh, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: This board book is larger sized and delightfully engaging. The full page + color photographs of newborn babies are described along with the same with a human baby. First breath, transporting babies, eating habits, learning to play, walk, and communicate. The pages opposite the color photographs have two parts: one that is details about the animal baby and the act they are experiencing or learning from their parents while the other gives greater details in smaller font at the bottom half of the page. I really like this format as the top could be what is read for months before an older child may want more information. This book essentially grows with your baby and that would make it a lovely gift for new parents. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: As a teacher of young children I especially love the size. I read aloud to a class of about about nine 2.5 to 4 year old special education students. The size of this book makes it more approachable for my visually impaired students, the lovely photographs of all kinds of babies will most certainly engage my students, and the thick soft cover and the thicker pages will allow those of my students with the dexterity to turn the pages themselves to have that option. These are all very important considerations for me for this particular group of students!

Dinner with King Tut written by Sam Kean, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: Sam Kean's "Dinner with King Tut" takes readers on a fascinating journey through the world of experimental archaeology. By blending hands-on methods with historical fiction, Kean revives the sensory experiences of ancient civilizations. From the sounds of medieval cannons to the tang of Roman fish sauce, the book explores how researchers recreate past technologies, cuisines, and medicines. Each chapter focuses on a specific era, from early humans in Africa to post-conquest Mesoamerica, illustrating the dedication of archaeologists who strive to bring history to life. Kean skillfully interweaves fictional narratives with factual research, offering a vivid portrayal of ancient daily life.

Straight Talk for Librarians: This book is unique in that most of it is non-fiction and you learn a lot about ancient life.  But short chapters are fictionalized so that you can actually imagine people using/doing the things that archeologists have discovered. There are real-world experiments that the author puts himself too.  Some are funny, some are gross, which will probably make high school students enjoy reading this book.  I enjoyed reading this book (and I am not the first one to pick up non-fiction to relax with). The book's vivid descriptions and imaginative narratives make it a valuable resource for lessons on historical inquiry and cultural understanding. It could get students interested in the field of archeology.  I would make a book display by pulling other non-fiction books that go along with the time periods in Kean's book. By connecting students with the past in a tangible way, Kean's work encourages a deeper appreciation for the complexities of ancient life.  The cover illustration makes it attractive to high school readers, even though it's marketed for adult readers.  Sharing with history and science teachers could help promote circulation of this book.

This Is How You Know written by Kirsten W. Larson and illustrated by Cornelia Li, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "This Is How You Know: How Science Happens" by Kirsten W. Larson, with illustrations by Cornelia Li, is a beautifully illustrated picture book that celebrates the wonders of science and discovery. It encourages children to embrace curiosity, imagination, and perseverance. Through lyrical text and vibrant illustrations, the book guides young readers on a journey of exploration, emphasizing that science is a process of inquiry filled with unexpected discoveries and joyful learning. The diverse cast of characters and engaging visuals make science approachable, showing that mistakes are part of the learning journey and that curiosity leads to understanding the world around us. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This is a great book to inspire a love for science in students! The book can be a wonderful read-aloud choice, sparking discussions about scientific inquiry and encouraging students to ask questions and explore their natural curiosity. Librarians can create engaging displays featuring the book alongside related science resources, offering students additional opportunities to dive into STEM topics. The book’s emphasis on diverse characters and real-world applications provides a platform to discuss the importance of inclusivity in science. With its cute illustrations and thoughtful backmatter, it can also serve as a valuable resource for collaborative projects with teachers, integrating science into reading and literacy programs to enhance interdisciplinary learning. This is a great way to introduce the process of scientific inquiry. There is also an easy connection with visual arts and what the illustrator created, to what the author wrote about science. Talk about interdisciplinary! While this would be a great choice for any school library, it is particularly well suited for a IB PYP library. This would be a great addition to an exploration about Inquiry. Students familiar with words from the IB Learner Profile and Approaches to Learning will be able to make thoughtful connections. This book can also easily align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals in a few different ways.

The Mythmakers: The Remarkable Fellowship of C.S. Lewis & J.R.R. Tolkien written and illustrated by John Hendrix, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "The Mythmakers" is a graphic novel biography that explores the friendship and creative journey of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. This narrative, enriched with comic panels, follows their lives from childhood through their experiences in World War I, their meeting at Oxford, and the formation of their literary group, the Inklings. The story reveals how their friendship influenced their legendary works, such as "The Chronicles of Narnia" and "The Lord of the Rings," and how they redefined fantasy as a genre for adults. John Hendrix masterfully combines historical facts with fiction, providing insights into their personal and professional lives, while also touching on themes of mythology, faith, and creativity.

Straight Talk for Librarians: I really enjoyed this book and learned a lot about how the fantasy genre came to be!  It was interesting to have this view of how and why Tolkien and Lewis's friendship developed and how it influenced their writing.  Even after all these years, students are still checking books out by both authors. I think that literature teachers (and other readers) would love this book to explore the impact of Lewis and Tolkien on the fantasy genre. There is definitely an opportunity to explore the historical context of World War I and II and their influence on literature. This would complement a World Religions class and/or Philosophy. I think that within the library a book club could be conducted like the Inklings.  I think the color palette was muted to help convey the emotion of the story and it was fun to see the characters from both authors' stories within the pages.  I think a lot of sadness was conveyed during the wars and then as the friendship started to change.  The vocabulary is pretty high level and a good choice for high school students and even adult readers. I highly recommend this book for all kinds of libraries.

Finish the Fight: The Brave and Revolutionary Women Who Fought for the Right to Vote written by Veronica Chambers and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: In a two page spread there are images of women we may have learned about who had a hand in the women's suffrage movement including 8 women all appearing white in the sketches. The next spread is a two page spread with at least 40 others who are obviously white, black, Hispanic, and Native American with mostly unfamiliar names to me. I was hooked right then. This book in 13 chapters and a conclusion puts the focus on the ways that voting rights for women mixed often with rights for other groups: Black Americans, Native Americans, and Hispanic Americans as well as the reality of the lack of rights for women in general, especially if they were not married to a man. The writing is easy to read and intermixed with photos and illustrations that highlight the time period of the suffrage movement well. Veronica Chambers and the staff of the New York Times have made a very heated and contested topic approachable for the very young. The backmatter is spectacular, which makes sense as it was written by folks with newsroom expertise. The illustrations by Ellen Duda are interesting and I had to return to the pages throughout the book when reading the Illustrator's note about the flowers along the page edges connecting to specific women in the suffrage movement. I also listened to this book using the Hoopla app through my public library and found it wonderful to hear. I believe my ability to read the names of some of these famous women was lacking and I need to do better in saying the names of these remarkable women just as I say the names of my students. Names matter. These women matter now more than ever and I am glad to have learned about them. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I see this as a great book for middle school and high school libraries to support students who want to understand the epic struggle the suffrage movement was and to recognize the things it could not do yet. I was a student who often researched beyond the textbook and I know many of my current students do the same now. I want our libraries to offer them more than they learn in class when they seek it and to support the need to research and learn as much as can from the books they have access to at school. I am sharing this with a high school library in my district where it will supplement the collection well.

A Sporting Chance: How Ludwig Guttmann Created the Paralympic Games written by Lori Alexander, illustrated by Allan Drummond and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: This book is the story of a genius doctor with a passion for neurology. He was lucky enough to work under one of the best neurologists in Germany. Unfortunately, there are new laws coming from the Nazi Party that Jewish folks cannot work in government jobs. Dr. Guttmann finds a new job at an all Jewish hospital and leads their neurology department. Laws were made by the Nazi Party to single out those with physical disabilities as unworthy and send them to death camps. After Kristallnacht, Dr. Guttmann moves his family to England. At the hospital there when Ludwig begins treating soldiers, his awareness of how little improvement his soldier patients are having when not being active. He creates an archery tournament on the hospital grounds. He realizes that physical activity is not just good for the muscles it is good for the spirit. His tournament expands to other sports, some adapted for wheelchair users. It is now an international event and inspires many around the world. In his lifetime, Dr. Ludwig Guttmann changed the course of medical care for those with disabilities and changed the perspectives of many about accessibility to sporting facilities and the lack of adequate wheelchairs for sporting quadriplegics. This book has amazing back matter. Though there are photo illustrations (some that are very graphically focusing on the issues of being bedridden and immobile) most of the illustrations are drawn by Allan Drummond. Mr. Drummond is one of my favorite non-fiction author/illustrators for my elementary students. His picture books are in every library collection I have overseen. I admit to being stuck with the contrast in the drawings versus the photographic images from Dr. Guttmann's life. The Paralympic Games has given life and opportunities to so very many. I fear where we would be now had Dr. Guttmann not fought so hard for his dreams. 

This book is magnificent. It deserves readers of all ages. I hope I am wrong about the illustrations limiting those who will read it. I also listened to it using Hoopla through my public library and I could not stop driving around town as it was riveting to hear. Lori Alexander has put in so much research into a brilliant doctor and his dedication to his paralyzed patients despite so many hardships in the world in his lifetime. His reach continues even today. I look at my student's wheelchairs and cannot believe that not too long ago, the variations were not available nor even considered necessary. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Schools and public libraries need this book! Physical differences are in every community and recognizing how much has changed in a couple generations allows us to dream bigger for the future. Medical science is always changing and it has to have an impactful and committed advocate for that change to happen. Every one of us needs to know the history of medical science to accept and advocate for the current and future possibilities. This book is as much a book that is about science and commitment to improving the lives of folks with medical needs as it is a biography of an important doctor that I have never heard about, even in the field of education where I have students with physical medical challenges. Access is a universal need and this book captures that well. Ludwig's research is data based and that supports my STEAM activities that I do with students.

Scientists in the Field: Eclipse Chaser: Science in the Moon's Shadow written by Ilima Loomis and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: Amanda Cowan's illustrations will bring in the readers for this amazing book about eclipse scientists and how they accomplish the gathering of information to better understand eclipses. Ilima Loomis' 5 chapters filled with details about the planning and execution of eclipse studies over decades and chock full of absolutely breathtaking photo illustrations with captions and maps or sketches to break up the details of scientific study. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: The Scientist in the Field series is consistently so very good at engaging my students in what they could do in the field of their choice. There is so much diversity in this series and so many fields of science to discuss with eager young science lovers. I am very happy to add this one to my collection.

A True Wonder: The Comic Book Hero Who Changed Everything written by Kirsten W. Larson , illustrated by Katy Wu and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: This book feels like a comic with this artwork by Katy Wu alongside the research history of the character by Kirsten W. Larson. I was smitten from the start! I loved Wonder Woman, but as a child did not associate her affect on women's rights as well as how she changed the way people saw women. (Very helpful before the war as during the war women were needed to keep so much running.) This book will be loved by my students and allow for great conversations with their families about how Wonder Woman, a comic and TV character, affected so many. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: So many of my students love graphic novels and comics and manga. Few seem to know what precipitated the graphics they love so much. This book allows me to show them historical changes since comic books were so huge and some characters became TV stars, as well. I am so impressed with the backmatter in this book. I love opportunities to discuss back matter and author/illustrator notes!

Packs: Strength in Numbers written by Hannah Salyer and reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: This beautifully illustrated picture book has full double page spreads that are eye popping and so very appealing. The text explains how some animals are better together as packs provide strength and security for them. The pack names are specific to the animal group, as well. (My students love those kind of facts!) It also touches on how humans are better together, as well. Learning from these animals while delving into these magical illustrations I hope my students will get the strength in numbers message, especially now. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I love that Hannah Salyer added information about the dangers of losing animals in our world do to human choices of land, water, and lack of pollution management. Great back matter in this one. Always makes me happy to see that back matter! We have many teachers that do animal reports from K-5th grade and this one has lots of good information. Mostly it is about the language of pack by animal and their support of one another. Gorgeous illustrations allow my art teacher to join in the educational fun, too!

The Frog Book written and illustrated by Steve Jenkins and Robin Page, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: The Frog Book offers an engaging exploration of various frog species through vibrant illustrations and intriguing facts. It introduces readers to the unique characteristics, habitats, life cycles, and behaviors of frogs, including the alarming fact that many species are endangered. Organized into sub-topics like "What is a frog?" and "Finding a mate," the book invites curiosity and wonder. A table at the end provides additional information about the frogs discussed, making it a valuable resource for young learners. With its combination of art and science, this book captivates readers while educating them about the fascinating world of frogs. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: The Frog Book is a great book to fit into a variety of library programming. It is a good book for themed storytime sessions, focusing on environmental awareness and biodiversity. Interactive activities such as scavenger hunts can help students find specific information within the text, enhancing their research skills. Additionally, librarians can encourage students to create KWL charts to track their prior knowledge and new learnings about frogs. This book can also serve as a springboard for informational writing projects, allowing students to delve deeper into their favorite frog species and present their findings creatively. Overall, it’s an excellent book for fostering curiosity and learning about nature.

Everything Awesome About Space and Other Galactic Facts! written by Mike Lowery, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: If your students like facts about space, jokes about space, and learning in a very visual way this book is for them. Each brightly colored page with a comic book feel offers all of the above items. Teachers will still have the non-fiction book parts of Table of Contents and Fact Boxes to showcase, but the delivery in this book is geared toward the readers in a delightfully appealing way that is like none other in my collection. Lowery also includes drawing guides as one of his chapters. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This series is so visually appealing that many of my students want to read them all. (I have not bought them all yet, but I will!) From reading this series I have added some graphic novels by Mike Lowery to my library collection. I have added Everything Awesome about Sharks already and plan to add Everything Awesome about Dinosaurs in both of my elementary schools.

Tiger Time written by Kama Einhorn, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: Tiger Time is about an American rescue program for large cats in Colorado. Kama Einhorn continues her True Tales of Rescue series with one that is so heartfelt and fascinating as it connects to the problems for big cats around the world. Most are dwindling in numbers and that is due to the human race and how we choose to treat these magnificent beings. Well, Einhorn will take us from the rescue, to rehab, to recovery and finally to release in a more managed way than her other books. Most of these cats can no longer live wild, again. So, the Colorado rescue Hope and Haven finds a way to give them as close to natural habitat as they can with the help of community, rescuers, veterinarians, and educators they do everything possible to help the cats learn to be wild cats. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Some of my students struggle with non-fiction, but finding this series has helped them so much. They feel and look like a chapter book. There are wonderful photos throughout. The backmatter needed in non-fiction is all there including tips for understanding how humans can help wild animals without touching them. How to help them find safe places to live that are not likely to involve humans at all. Also, how to find a local rescue, if help is needed for a wild animal. Knowing about licenses and laws needed for rehabilitation of wild animals is important for all of us!

Raccoon Rescue written by Kama Einhorn, reviewed by Debra Gantz

Summary: Einhorn has stolen my heart with this one as raccoons are so very misunderstood and so often harmed with poisons and traps set by people who don't understand the needs of raccoons or don't care that they exist at all. First Kama tells about a northern California rescue and rehabilitation facility that focuses on returning rehabbed raccoons to the wild. (They also help other wild animals and try to release all of them back to the wild, if it is at all possible.) Then Einhorn takes us through the phases of Rescue, Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Release. So many wonderful details and adorable photos keep the reader engaged and learning throughout the book. These True Tales of Rescue are WONDERFUL! 

Straight Talk for Librarians: Some of my students struggle with non-fiction, but finding this series has helped them so much. They feel and look like a chapter book. There are wonderful photos throughout. The backmatter needed in non-fiction is all there including tips for understanding how humans can help wild animals without touching them. How to help them find safe places to live that are not likely to involve humans at all. Also, how to find a local rescue, if help is needed for a wild animal. Knowing about licenses and laws needed for rehabilitation of wild animals is important for all of us!

Animals by the Numbers: A Book of Infographics written by Steve Jenkins, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Summary: "Animals by the Numbers: A Book on Animal Infographics" by Steve Jenkins is an engaging illustrated nonfiction book that combines captivating visuals with fascinating zoological facts. The book explores numerous questions about animals, such as their species diversity, collective weight, and travel distances. Using his distinctive cut-paper illustrations and computer graphics, Jenkins presents an array of statistical data in an accessible format, making complex information easy to understand for older children. The book covers various aspects of animal life, including weight comparisons, speed, extinction rates, and migration distances, illustrating the significance of numbers in understanding biology and zoology. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: This is a great non-fiction book. This exposure encourages independent reading and enhances students' comfort with diverse texts. Additionally, librarians can collaborate with teachers to use the book as a reference for animal research projects. Students can select an animal to study and present their findings using data and infographics similar to those in Jenkins' book. This approach not only enriches their research skills but also incorporates math and science concepts through graphical representation. By providing students with engaging resources like this book, librarians can foster a deeper interest in animals and data interpretation while supporting interdisciplinary learning.

Captured: An American Prisoner of War in North Vietnam written by Alvin Townley, reviewed by Sara Zielinski

Summary: Captured tells the story of naval aviator Jeremiah Denton. He was shot down and captured in North Vietnam in 1965. The text shows what it was like for him as a prisoner of war. It shows his resilience of spirit as he was isolated and tortured. Denton helped develop a system of secret codes for the captured soldiers to be able to communicate. Captured utilizes images to help the reader visualize the people and places. Jeremiah Denton's story is powerful and will draw many readers in. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I really enjoyed this story. I think it covered an intense topic without simplifying it too much or making it too graphic. This is the kind of story that many budding history buffs will love. The fomatting of the text almost makes it feel like a diary. The edges are of the pages are greyed and the chapters have barbed wire details. I think this book can be used by students and parents to teach about war and how difficult things happen in life. This story has a positive message of resilience. I think this book could be used in English and History classes. The text has a bibliography, endnotes, photograph and map credits, and an index. This could be very useful when it comes to teaching different text features and their purpose. I have had several students read and enjoy this story.

Fly Girls: How Five Daring Women Defied All Odds and Made Aviation History written by Keith O'Brien, reviewed by Sara Zielinski

Summary: Fly Girls dives into the lives of five different women and their role in aviation. Florence Klingensmith, Ruth Elder, Amelia Earhart, Ruth Nichols, and Louise Thaden each fought for their right to fly. This book teaches the reader about how these women overcame obstacles and persevered. Between World War I and World War II, airplane racing became popular. Women were criticized for flying, but that didn't stop these Fly Girls. All they wanted was a chance to be up in the sky, racing against the men. Each woman has her own unique history and experience with flying. Fly Girls shows how each woman had an impact of flying and history as we know it. 

Straight Talk for Librarians: I enjoyed this book overall. I appreciated how it focused on different women and how they fought for their rights to be pilots. I think it was smart to include Amelia Earhart since she has the most name recognition. As a reader, I was glad to learn about four other women as well. It was nice to see how more than just Earhart fought to be taken seriously. O'Brien mades these women seem real with the pictures and descriptions. There is a glossary at the back of the book that helps makes the information accessible. I think this book can be used to learn about women in aviation. I think it depicts a particular period of time when women were starting to fight more and more against typical female roles. Fly Girls is empowering for young girls because it shows that they women pursued their passions and didn't let doubts prevent them from greatness. This book could have curriculum ties. It can mainly be used as a nonfiction text. The topic lends itself to history classes as well. I think this is a good book for a classroom library. I think the format of the chapters allow the reader to digest smaller bites.