April 15, 2020
Grades 3-6 Each of these books from the First Names series (2 new titles) opens with a dramatic introductory episode, such as the kidnapping of 6-month-old Ada Lovelace or the shooting of 15-year-old Malala Yousafzai, then begins a chronological account of her life. The lively main text, informative sidebars, and many speech balloons within the illustrations offer insights into the individual's character, her actions, and the historical period in which she grew up. Appearing on nearly every page, including the time line and glossary, Ward's strong, expressive line drawings clarify events and emotions, while helping young readers envision a different time, place, and society. Malala Yousafzai tells of Yousafzai as child attending her father's school in Pakistan, a passionate young advocate for the education of girls, a 15-year-old who barely survived an assassination attempt, and a humanitarian speaking out for young people's rights worldwide. Even libraries well stocked with children's biographies of Ada Lovelace and Malala Yousafzai should make room for these. With inviting cover art, insightful texts, and appealing illustrations, they offer a winning combination of information and kid-appeal.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)