New Picture Book Biographies, a Fabulous Library Pin, and More!

In 1929, when she was 19 years old, Bessie got on her motorcycle and traveled the country. She would flip a penny on a map to decide where she was going. She learned how to service her own motorcycle and faced discrimination and danger on the road. But despite the setbacks, she continued to ride and founded the Iron Horse Motorcycle Club to connect with other riders.

In this picture book biography, Thai creators Christina Soontornvat and Dow Phumiruk tell the inspiring story of Tammy Duckworth. Born in Thailand, Tammy grew up moving from place to place because of her dad’s job at the United Nations. But when her dad loses his job, they use the last of their savings to move to Hawaii. Through hard work and perseverance, she finished college and graduate school and enlisted in the army to serve her country. In Baghdad, her helicopter was hit, and her injuries were nearly fatal. After a long and painful recovery, Tammy wanted to continue serving her country and she eventually became the first Thai American woman elected to Congress.

I loved this story of Edith Head. As a young girl, she grew up in the small mining town of Searchlight, Nevada. She spent her days in the desert dressing up her toys, pets, wild animals, and even a cactus! When she grew up and moved to California for high school, Edith continued to make costumes, eventually landing jobs in Hollywood and dressing the most famous stars of her time.

In her own words, Ruby Bridges tells her story of what it was like to be the first African American student to integrate the school system in the south at the age of 6. I loved Nikkolas Smith’s stunning and moving illustrations in this new picture book that shares an incredible and important part of American history.

This vividly illustrated picture book tells the story of Jeanne Villepreux-Power, a dressmaker in Paris who found a deep connection with the ocean. When observing sea creatures, she realized that it would be so much better to bring a piece of the ocean back with her so she could study it more. She ended up building the world’s first aquarium, paving the way for scientists to study the ocean in a new way.