The AAUW Education Committee consisting of members; Louise Bankey, Joanie Barrett, Joyce Brown, Gail Conrad, Deb DiGennaro, Joan Harris, Bonnie Hamic, Jean Hersland, Mary Ellen Pratt, Nancy Ritzert, Sandra Schocket and Susie Telljohann met March 21st at the home of Joanie Barrett, to review and select the books purchased through the AAUW “Remember the Ladies” fund for the Toledo Public School libraries that provides women’s biographies in the libraries.  This fund is supported by donations from the Women in History troupe members who designate monies from historical portrayals to this particular AAUW account and from generous AAUW members who support it financially. We always hope that this account is “remembered” by our members and anticipate receiving more donations into the fund to purchase books for the Toledo Public School libraries.  Unfortunately, the price of books has increased tremendously and any and all financial assistance is always greatly appreciated.

In partnership with the TPS Media Specialists, several books were recommended. The Education committee identified several key components considered as each book was reviewed for student interest level, reading level, illustrations, publication date, content, utilization, classification, and AAUW mission appropriateness. The committee looked at 8 suggested titles dealing with the topic of women in history.

The committee members recommended that these six books be purchased this year:

First,  Borrowed Names: Poems about Laura Ingalls Wilder, Madam CJ Walker, Marie Curie, and their Daughters. As a child, Laura Ingalls Wilder traveled across the prairie in a covered wagon.  Her daughter, Rose, thought those stories might make a good book, and the two created the beloved Little House series.  Sara Breedlove, the daughter of former slaves, wanted everything to be different for her own daughter, A’Lelia.  Together they built a million-dollar beauty empire for women of color.  Marie Cure became the first person in history to win two Nobel prizes in science.  Inspired by her mother, Irene, Marie too became a scientist and Nobel Prize winner.  This is the story of these extraordinary mothers and daughters for ages 12 and up.

Second, Here Comes the Girl Scouts! The Amazing All-True Story of Juliette Daisy Gordon Low and Her Great Adventure is the amazing story of the first Girl Scouts and their visionary founder.  Juliette Gordon Low–Daisy to her friends and family—was not like most girls of the Victorian era.  She loved the outdoors, and she yearned for adventure! Born into a family of pathfinders and pioneers, she too wanted to make a difference in the world—and nothing would stop her. This book is appropriate for ages 4 and up and for grades pre-school and up.

Third, Amelia Lost: The life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart, from the acclaimed author of The Great and Only Barnum, is the thrilling story of America’s most celebrated flyer, Amelia Earhart.  In alternating chapters, Fleming deftly moves readers back and forth between Amelia’s life (from childhood up until her last flight) and the history of flight to what Amelia liked to eat while flying (tomato juice)–this unique non-fiction title is tailor-made for middle graders. This book is great for age level 8 and up and grades 3 and up.

Fourth, Rachel Carson: The Pioneer of Environmentalism is a comprehensive and excellent resource for students ages 12 and up.

Fifth, Seeds of Change: Wangari’s Gift to the World. As a young girl in Kenya, Wangari was taught to respect nature. She grew up loving the land, hardworking, was allowed to go to school.  There her mind sprouted like a seed.  She excelled at science and went on to study in the United States.  After returning home, Wangari blazed a trail across Kenya, using her knowledge and compassion to promote the rights of the countrywomen and to help save the land, one tree at a time.  This is an empowering story of Wangari Maathai, the first African woman, and environmentalist, to win a Nobel Peace Prize.  This is an engaging narrative with vibrant images that paint a robust portrait of this inspiring champion of the land and of women’s rights. This book is perfect for ages 7 and up and grade level 2 and above.

The final book selected was Yes, She Can!: Women’s Sports Pioneers, this book tells inspiring stories of these pioneers in sports: Trude Ederle who swam the English Channel, Louise Stokes and Tidye Pickett who ran track in the Olympics, Julie Krone who became a jockey, and Danica Patrick who drives Indie cars.  Thanks to them, everyone knows now that girls can do anything they want.  Perfect for young athletes, ages 9-12,

If you wish to join the AAUW Education committee and assist in the selection of book titles for next year, please contact me at 419-867-1220, the time commitment is minimal, but the reward is great! Many thanks to those who comprised this fantastic committee this year!  

Joanie Barrett, RN, MA, PhD

AAUW Education Committee Chair