The Girl Who Thought in Pictures (Julia Finley Mosca)

Title:  The Girl Who Thought in Pictures:  The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin

Author:  Julia Finley Mosca

Illustrator:   Daniel Rieley

Target Ages:  5 and up

Genre:  Picture Book Biography

Publisher Summary: 

Meet Dr. Temple Grandin—one of the world’s quirkiest science heroes! 

When young Temple was diagnosed with autism, no one expected her to talk, let alone become one of the most powerful voices in modern science.  Yet the determined visual thinker did just that.  Her unique mind allowed her to connect with animals in a special way, helping her invent groundbreaking improvements for farms around the globe!

First Lines:

If you’ve ever felt different,

if you’ve ever been low,

if you don’t quite fit in,

there’s a name you should know. 

TEMPLE GRANDIN’S that name.

In her tale, you’ll find glory.

So, get ready, get set,

for this cowgirl’s TRUE story.

Memorable Moment:

So, here is the lesson:

Feeling odd or offbeat?

Being DIFFERENT might just

be what makes you so NEAT!

Don’t let doubt hold you back,

Not for one minute more.

STAND TALL, and like Temple,

MARCH RIGHT THROUGH THAT DOOR!

Evaluation:

Julia Finley Mosca's uplifting text perfectly brings Temple Grandin’s moving story to life for young readers.   

Temple was a leader in a STEM field in a time when few women were included.  Many ignored her ideas, but she was persistent.  As a result, she slowly changed minds.  Her influence is vital not just for science, but for the humane treatment of animals.

Parents, teachers, and students—especially those who do not act and think like mainstream kids do—will be inspired by Temple’s early years. Because she was autistic, she had extra challenges.  She dealt with sensory issues and delayed speech.  Interpersonal interactions were a difficult. Her mind processed information in a unique way.  Fortunately, her parents and teachers concluded she was “different, not less.” Her story encourages children to internalize that “different” is positive, not negative.

After repeated bullying, she moves to live on her aunt’s farm. Not only did Temple feel solace and acceptance there, her unique way of thinking allowed her to understand and to connect with the animals.  This experience and realization led her toward her professional path, illustrating that good outcomes can come from bad occurances.

The teachers in her life are often the source of inspiration. For instance, one of them told her,  “You’ll never fall short when you find what you’re good at, like science—you’ll soar!”  Her teachers’ encouragement and faith in her helped her to begin imagining solutions to problems on farms. 

Today, Temple teaches and speaks all over the world, illustrating that setbacks and, even, disabilities do not prevent people from doing great things.  Instead, it is her differences that make her uniquely created to help solve problems and to make the world a more humane place.

One of the personalized touches is a letter from Temple.  In it, she encourages children to find something they are good at it and to develop it.  In addition, she tells them to “keep learning, especially from your mistakes.”   

Fun factions and tidbits, a time line, additional background information, and bibliography are resources included for educators and parents.

Add The Girl Who Thought in Pictures:  The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin to your women in STEM biography library.  The text and illustrations are engaging.  The warm colors, animated expressions, and creative action are perfect for young readers.  

Also check out The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes by this author-illustrator duo. 

For other Amazing Scientists books, visit Innovation Press.

Activities and Extension Ideas from around the Internet for Lesson Plans:

Multiple Printing Resources from Innovation Press

Amazing Women in STEM Printable

Visualizing FREEBIE

Reading Skills and Strategies Activities (Multiple)

Meta Cognition Printable Freebie

Profile Portrait Craft Idea

Book Study Printables ($1.95)

Check out other excellent recommendations at Perfect Picture Book Friday.

Stella by Starlight (Sharon M. Draper)

Title:  Stella by Starlight

Author: Sharon M. Draper

Target Ages:  8-12

Genre:  Middle Grade Historical Fiction

Publisher Summary:

Stella lives in the segregated south—in Bumblebee, North Carolina, to be exact about it.  Some stores she can go into.  Some stores she can’t.  Some folks are right pleasant.  Others are a lot less.  To Stella, it sort of evens out, and heck, the Klan hasn’t bothered them for years.  But one late night, later than she should ever be up, much less wandering around outside, Stella and her little brother see something that they’re never supposed to see, something that is the first flicker of change to come, change not welcome by any stretch of the imagination.  As Stella’s community—her world—is upended, she decides to fight fire with fire, and learns that ashes don’t necessarily signify the end…

First Lines:

Nine robed figures dressed all in white.  Heads covered with softly pointed hoods.  Against the black of night, a single wooden cross blazed.  Reflections of peppery-red flames shimmered across the otherwise dark surface of Kilkenny Pond.

Two children, crouched behind the low-handing branches of a hulking oak tree on the other side of the pond, watched the flickers of scarlet in the distance in fearful silence.  Dressed only in nightshirts, Stella Mills and her broker Jojo shivered in the midnight October chill.

Evaluation: 

I am writing this review months after I finished the novel, so it is not fresh in my mind.  However, I want to share some of my thoughts and impressions of the book.  

Coming from my perspective as an English teacher, I especially enjoyed the protagonist's struggle with writing. It borders on cliché that so many protagonists are inspired or gifted writers.  Unfortunately, it gives young and old the impression that writing is a inborn gift—some have it, and some don’t.  Stella has good ideas.  Like most people, though, she has difficulty expressing them.  Nevertheless, she finds a quiet place to practice her writing.  Stella does not just wait for a school assignment.  Instead, she writes about what is going on in her life and town to help her improve her school writing.

Readers get a glimpse as she writes, struggles, and revises.  For instance, early in the narrative, she tries to write for a school assignment.  Nothing is coming to her.  Stella makes a decision, “If she [is] gonna really write with honesty she ought to start, like Mrs. Grayson said, with herself.”  It takes her five tries, but she finally succeeds.

Stella uses writing as a way to cope with difficulties.  Spoon Man for instance encourages her to “Trust the words.  Maybe that image will fade.”  She takes his advice and writes about that night she saw the KKK bonfire as well as her observations about racism, which is cathartic for her.

The writing struggle is valuable for middle grade readers to see.  They need to realize writing does not come naturally or easily for most people.  However with practice and determination, their skills can improve dramatically.

The novel depicts a strong sense of community and family.  For instance, when the Spoon Man arrives in town, everyone comes together for a potluck.  Later, when a family’s house is on fire, dozens of people rush to help put it out.  More importantly, neighbors give the family a place to stay and help them rebuild. 

There are some deeper, more serious issues as well.  The most prominent is the racism of the historical era.  As previously noted, Stella witnesses a Klan rally.  Later, she travels with her father to register to vote, where they are met with hostile resistance.  Afterwards, the Klan burns down a family’s home.  When her mother is bit by a poisonous snake, the town’s white doctor refuses to help her.  The evil actions that come out of racism are illustrate in a genuine way while being age-appropriate in detail.

Even though racism is an underlying issue from beginning to end, the narrative stays hopeful.  There are kind white people who do work together with the African American community.  Her teacher tells inspiring stories that instill strength and pride—even in racist and difficult times.  Stella (and others) empower themselves through education, self-discipline, and good character—which are the pillars of making personal and social change. 

The only aspect of the novel that I felt did not ring 100% authentic is the ending.  Stella ends up saving the daughter of the racist and cruel town doctor.   The positive aspect is the daughter is not racist like her father, which is hinted at in other parts of the novel as well. Nevertheless, it seemed too “neat” to have her drowning with Stella walking by right after Stella's mother is refused medical care by the girl's father.

Overall, I found the characterization and the storytelling engaging. I highly recommend Stella by Starlight for middle grade readers.

Ideas for Extension Activities at Home or Lesson Plans for Teachers:

• Writing:  Model for students or children the writing process.  Let them see you free writing and then going back to revise.  Then, encourage them to do the same.  Praise them for the improvements and effort more than the initial draft.
• History:  Include this novel in a study of 1930’s, segregation, and/or Jim Crow laws.
• Research and Analysis:  Pull in one or more non-fiction texts that describe one of the historical aspects depicted in the novel.  (Older students can do their own research.)  Compare and contrast the non-fiction with the fiction for authenticity. 
• Figurative Language:  Hyperbole and tall tales are used.  Discuss each one and their overall significance in the storytelling/culture.

Historical Connections:

Civil Rights

African American Voter Registration

Segregation

Klu Klux Klan
Presidential Election 1932

Always in the Middle

African American Tall Tales

John Henry

Julius Lester, author

Jerry Pinkney, illustrator

Birds, bears, panthers, and even a unicorn come out of the woods when John Henry is born.  Within moments of his arrival, John jumps out of his mother’s arms and grows taller than the roof!  The next morning he gets up and chops an acre of trees down.  As John ventures out west, he single-handedly crushes gigantic boulders and digs through a mountain!  There are many versions of this tale, but Lester’s stands out for its humorous personification, colorful hyperbole, and engaging storytelling.

Roy Makes a Car

Mary E. Lyons, author

Terry Widener, illustrator

Roy Tyle has a way with automobiles.  People say he “can grease an axle faster than you can say 'carburetor,' and he can clean spark plugs just by looking at them hard." Roy believes there is a fatal flaw in the factory cars—they can get into accidents.  So, he takes his talents to the next level—building his own car. After spending an hour in his garage, he comes out with one that is “accident proof.” In test after test, his car avoids cars and trucks by sliding over or under them.  He doesn’t stop there though…he builds a another car that goes so far as to impress God, himself!

Big Jabe

Jerdine Nolen, author

Kadir Nelson, illustrator

From the moment Big Jabe shows up as a small boy floating in a basket down the river, he uses his extraordinary abilities to help the slaves on the Plenty Plantation.  When the fish aren’t biting, he commands them to jump from the river and into the wagon.  When works needs to be done, he is able to single-handedly complete it—allowing the others some much-deserved rest.  Even the plants and animals change in remarkable ways when he is present.  When slaves begin to disappear without a trace, some wonder if Jabe is the one rescuing them.

Thunder Rose

Jerdine Nolen, author
Kadir Nelson, illustrator

On a summer night during a fierce thunderstorm, a lively baby is born.  Rather than cry out while taking her first breath of life, she sits up and takes hold of the lightning and thunder.  Then, she tells her parents she is partial to the name Rose, so they call her Thunder Rose.  Full of spunk, determination, and confidence, Thunder Rose accomplishes everything she sets out to do.  She amazes her parents by drinking her milk while holding up a cow, creating objects with scrap metal, staking a fence without assistance, and building a sky scraper—all before the age of ten! These thrilling feats are just the beginning of her story!

Peggony-Po: A Whale of a Tale

Andrea Davis Pinkney, author
Brian Pinkney, illustrator

Feisty as a kettle of just-caught fish, Peggony-Po is able to climb a look out mast and catch whales on the high seas—all before the age of 4!  There is just one whale that eludes even that most skilled sailor’s grasp—Cetus!  Peggony-Po is determined to catch that whale—known for wrecking havoc for sailors and, even, land folk.  The young boy ventures off in search of Cetus without even bothering to take a boat!  This high seas adventures, full of astonishing acts and vivid similes, celebrates the many brave African American sailors who worked side by side as equals with white sailors on whaling ships in a time of great inequality.

Five Fabulous Picture Books about African American Musical Artists

Mahalia Jackson:  Walking with Kings and Queens

Nina Nolan, author

John Holyfield, illustrator

Publisher Summary:  

People might say little Mahalia Jackson was born with nothing, but she had something all right.  A voice that was bigger than she was. 

Mahalia’s extraordinary journey eventually took her to the historical March on Washington, where she sang to thousands and inspired them to find their own voices. 

Why It Is Fabulous:

Mahalia stuck with what she loved—Gospel music—and kept true to her promises—to never sing in a nightclub—even though compromising one or both would have likely given her quicker and greater success.   Despite many set backs and obstacles, she kept on singing.  Her perseverance and integrity pay off with a record deal and amazing performance opportunities. 

Baby Flo:  Florence Mills Lights Up the Stage

Alan Schroeder, author

Cornelius Van Wright & Ying-Hwa Hu, illustrators

Publisher Summary:

Straight up:  Florence was a remarkable child. Pint-sized dynamo “Baby Florence” Mills was singing and dancing just as soon as she could talk and walk.  Everywhere Flo went, she strutted through the streets of Washington D.C. with a high-steppin’ cakewalk.  Baby Flo went on to become an international superstar during the Harlem Renaissance—but first she had to overcome a case of stage fright and discover that winning wasn’t everything. 

Why It Is Fabulous:

The story centers on Florence Mills’ (Baby Flo) childhood singing and dancing for audiences—big and small.  She worked diligently to learn new songs and dance moves, allowing her to earn her first professional gig at the age of 7! The Author Notes illuminate more about her fascinating life.  This lively story of remarkable young girl will dance its way into your heart. 

Before John Was a Jazz Giant:  A Song of John Coltrane

Carole Boston Weatherford, author

Sean Qualls, illustrator

Publisher Summary:

Young John Coltrane was all ears.  And there was a lot to hear growing up in the South during the 1930s: church songs, preachers praying, music on the radio, the bustling of the household.  John was surrounded by all kinds of vivid noises that shaped his own sound as a musician. 

Why It Is Fabulous:

Written in lyrical free verse, the different influences on a young John Coltrane are revealed.  Musical influences like his daddy on the ukulele are juxtaposed with other influences like grandpa’s Sunday sermons and birds warbling at sunrise.  This brief introduction to the music legend shows the importance of everyday experiences and observations on a person’s development.  The Author’s Notes discuss Coltrane’s commitment to his music and some of his career highlights.  Reading and music selection suggestions are also included.

Trombone Shorty

Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, author

Bryan Collier, illustrator

Publisher Summary:

Hailing from the Treme’ neighborhood of New Orleans, where music always floated in the air, Troy “Trombone Shorty Andrews didn’t always have the money to buy an instrument, but he did have a dream to play music.  This is the (autobiographical) story of how he made his dream take flight.

Why It Is Fabulous:

Trombone Shorty listened to all the sounds in his world and mixed them together to create his own “musical gumbo.” He began his musical journey when he found an old trombone that looked too broken down to make music.  Even though the instrument was initially too big for him, he practiced day and night to learn how to play.  His hard work eventually pays off.  Trombone Shorty reminds readers it is never too early to begin following your passion, and the only way to succeed is hard work.  

Muddy:  The Story of Blues Legend Muddy Waters

Michael Mahin, author

Evan Turk, illustrator

Publisher Summary:

Muddy Waters was never good at doing what he was told.  His tenacious streak carried him from the hardscrabble fields of Mississippi to the smoky juke joints of Chicago and finally to a recording studio where Muddy’s signature sound was captured and a landmark record was made.  Soon the world fell in love with the indomitable spirit of Muddy Waters, whose electric sound laid the groundwork for what would become rock and roll. 

Why It Is Fabulous:
The smooth jazz-inspired text tells an engaging story.  Muddy’s determination to find his voice and his struggle to play his own way is inspiring.  He overcomes personal and professional obstacles, but he never gives up hope that he will succeed. 

Five Inspiring African American Artists (Biography)

Radiant Child: The Story of Young Artist Jean-Michel Basquiat

Javaka Steptoe, author and illustrator

Publisher Summary: Jean-Michel Basquiat and his unique collage-style paintings rocketed to fame in the 1980’s as a cultural phenomenon unlike anything the art world had ever seen. But before that, he was a little boy who saw art everywhere: in poetry books and museums. His story introduces young readers to the powerful message that art doesn’t always have to be neat or clean—and definitely not inside the lines—to be beautiful. 

What’s to Love:  The artwork is stunning (worthy of the Caldecott it won).  The beautiful narrative focuses on Basquiat’s childhood and development as an artist.   Readers will find his grit and passion as inspiring as the works he created. 

The Cosmobiography of Sun Ra:  The Sound of Joy is Enlightening

Chris Raschka, author and illustrator

Publisher Summary: Jazz musician Sun Ra always said that he came from Saturn.  Being from another planet, he was naturally interested in everything earthly—especially music, because music is the one thing on earth most like the stories.  So he made music.  And he traveled with other musicians and singers—calling themselves the Sun Ra Arkestra, playing, singing, and dancing for people all over the planet.  Because music, he said, is what holds us all together.

What’s to Love:  Sun Ra stood for love and peace during a tumultuous era.  Using his talent and passion, he brought people around the world together in music and in dance. His music is a blend of so many different types that he, in essence, created his own one-of-a-kind style.  Like the artist that inspired the biography, the watercolor and ink illustrations are not easy to label, but they aptly capture the otherworldly feel of the artist and his music. 

Jazz Age Josephine

Jonah Winter, author

Marjorie Priceman, illustrator

Publisher Summary:  Josephine has all the moves, but she also has dark skin, and some think that means she should stay in the shadows—or only play the clown.  But that simply will not work for Miss Josephine.  Instead she dances her way out of poverty and into stardom. 

What’s to Love: The blues inspired lyrical text and the energetic illustrations depict the feisty personality and amazing talent of Miss Josephine.  The vivid colors and bold pen strokes bring her story of perseverance and strength to life.

Draw What You See:  The Life and Art of Benny Andrews

Kathleen Benson, author

Benny Andrews, illustrator

Publisher Summary:  Benny Andrews loved to draw.  And he dreamed of a better life—something beyond the brutal segregation, the backbreaking labor, and the limited opportunities of the farm.  Benny’s dreams took him far from the rural Georgia of his childhood.  He became one of the most important African-American artists of the twentieth century, and he opened doors for other artists of color.  He fought for civil rights, and to make the art world more inclusive.  His story is an inspiration for artists and dreamers everywhere.

What’s to Love:  Author Kathleen Benson craftily combines her text with Andrew’s raw paintings to illustrate the artist’s life and world.  His story of overcoming adversity to become a respected artist beautifully unfolds in this appealing picture book biography.  The most admirable part of his life is his commitment to give back to his community.  Known as the people’s artists, he spent much of his life inspiring people—young and old—in all walks of life to tell their stories through their art.  

Gordon Parks:  How the Photographer Captured Black and White America

Carole Boston Weatherford, author

Jamey Christoph, illustrator

Publisher Summary:  With lyric verse and atmospheric art, Gordon Parks tells the story of how, with a single photograph, a self-taught artist got America to take notice. 

What’s to Love:  Author Carole Boston Weatherford captures the heart of Parks’ work in her poignant, yet straightforward language.  Lines like “through Gordon’s lens, her struggle gained a voice” and “you don’t have to hear her story to know her prayer” elevate the story beyond a simple children’s book to an inspiring story of determination and compassion for all ages.  The striking illustrations further the story and theme, illustrating the vital role art can play in uncovering harsh truths and fighting injustice. 

The 2018 #ReadYourWorld Book Review Linkup!