You Are a Star, Ruth Bader Ginsburg

December 15, 2021
In this first volume of a new nonfiction series, journalist Robbins regales readers with tales of the notorious RBG, former associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. Conversational first-person narration, inset graphics, fact boxes, and appealing digital illustrations combine to paint a well-rounded picture of Ruth Bader Ginsburg from childhood to adulthood. Readers will be interested to learn about RBG's formative years growing up in Brooklyn, New York; her struggles with sexism; her supportive family; and how she stood up for women, immigrants, people of color, and same-sex couples seeking fair treatment under the law during her long, illustrious career. Bader Ginsburg's strong spirit, unrivaled work ethic, sense of humor, and dedication to equality and justice shine through in this telling. Details that youngsters have likely not considered--for example, the lack of female bathrooms in male-dominated spaces such as law schools and the Supreme Court--capture the time period and show the realities of the everyday sexism RGB faced. The closing spread extends a compelling invitation: "Won't you join us in making the world a better place?" Although the text can sometimes feel a bit cloying, overall the story bubbles with enthusiasm and interesting tidbits that will draw children in. A warm, informative, and entertaining biography of a pioneering scholar, lawyer, and judge. (author's note, notes, timeline, resources, glossary) (Picture book biography. 5-7)

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December 15, 2021
Grades 1-3 Can there be too many biographies of Ruth Bader Ginsburg? Robbins' contribution assures us the answer is no. Told in the first person from Ginsburg's perspective, the conversational text begins with her childhood in New York City. Treated differently when playing with boys and forced to write with her right hand, she experienced unfairness early. "What could a small, quiet, left-handed Jewish girl from Brooklyn do to stop it?" This question sets the theme as Robbins traces Ginsburg's strong female influences and the challenges she faced while rising through male-dominated professions in law and the U.S. judicial system. Always at the forefront of her endeavors, however, were equality and justice. Completing the biography are her strong dissents, her unconventional friendship with Justice Antonin Scalia, and her RBG stardom. Colorful and expressive illustrations depict these pivotal moments. Although this rendition doesn't break new ground, it offers another solid depiction of Ginsburg's accomplishments. Concluding back matter comprises an author's note, a time line, and "Be Like Ruth" and "RBG Style" tips.

COPYRIGHT(2021) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.