FAMOUS FIRSTS OF BLACK WOMEN
2nd Edition
By Martha Ward Plowden
Illustrated by Ronald Jones
“More than just a chronicle of events . . . a serviceable addition to any collection.”
—School Library Journal
“The portraits demonstrate competent research. A useful reference tool.”
—The Horn Book
“Because of Plowden’s effort, American history will be greatly enriched, and finally, black women begin to
take their rightful place as important figures in the development of this country.”
—VOYA
Covering issues of civil rights, sports, education, and the arts, Famous Firsts of Black Women: 2nd Edition is a detailed account of courageous and daring black women who have changed the course of American history. Featuring twenty women, it describes the triumphs of these heroines, together with the obstacles they faced. This collection of biographies describes their lives from as far back as the 1700s right up to the present day.
Throughout American history, the black woman has played an important role in challenging not only the barriers to women, but also those of race. This collection includes women such as Shirley Chisholm, first elected to the U.S. Congress in 1968, and Mary Bethune, the first African American woman to head a federal office. Also included are heroines of the sports world—Althea Gibson, the first woman to overcome the race barrier and win Wimbledon, and Wilma Rudolph, the first woman to win three gold medals in track events at a single Olympics.
Clearly shown is the courage and determination each woman exhibited in achieving her goals. This book will offer encouragement and insight to younger readers of all cultures while providing them with a greater understanding of the fight these women led.
About the author
Martha Ward Plowden is a respected librarian and middle-school media specialist. Along with holding a master’s degree in library service from Clark Atlanta University, she also possesses specialty degrees in library science and media from Georgia State University.
About the illustrator
Ronald Jones is art director of the Neighborhood Gallery in New Orleans. Through the gallery, he promotes the works of local black artists and their visual, creative, and performance arts. He holds a master’s degree in art education from the University of Minnesota.
FAMOUS FIRSTS OF BLACK WOMEN
2nd Edition
By Martha Ward Plowden
Illustrated by Ronald Jones
JUVENILE NONFICTION / People & Places / United States / African American
176 pp. 6 x 9 22 b/w illus. Biblio.
ISBN-13: 9781565541979 pb
Shopping cart
