Lady Has the Floor, A

(Paperback)

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Written in the same vein as the recent best-selling titles I DISSENT and SHE PERSISTED, here is a nonfiction picture book biography oftrailblazerBelva Lockwood,the first woman lawyer to argue in front of the U.S. Supreme Court. Belva was a lawyer, activist and presidential candidate who devoted her life to overcoming obstacles and demanding equality for women. Activist Belva Lockwood never stopped asking herself the question Are women not worth the same as men She had big dreams and didn't let anyone stand in her way--not her father, her law school, or even the U.S. Supreme Court. She fought for equality for women in the classroom, in the courtroom, and in politics. In her quest for fairness and parity, Lockwood ran for President of the United States, becoming the first woman on the ballot. In this riveting nonfiction picture book biography, award-winning author Kate Hannigan and celebrated artist Alison Jay illuminate the life of Lockwood, a woman who was never afraid to take the floor and speak her mind.

Reviews

(An) informative and delightful biography Hannigans style is pithy, but packed with facts. Belva comes alive as a feisty activistJays signature crackled artwork has a historical look, but also a childlike appeal that will bring the audience close. An excellent example of picture-book biography. Booklist, starred review

This is an engaging introduction to a woman unknown to many, young and old, giving some insight into her adventurous personality. Her quotes are integrated into the illustrations, executed in oils with a crackle varnish, with a look reminiscent of 19th-century folk art. Soft blues and browns predominate in the nave paintings, lending to their antique appearance. An excellent, well-researched model of its genre, which will inspire children to do whatever they desire in life, no matter what immediate restrictions exist. Kirkus Reviews,starred review

Hannigan presents an invigorating account of the life of Belva LockwoodWorking in her distinctively crackled folk style, Jay depicts powerful moments of resistance and courage from Lockwoods life. Endnotes provide a timelinehighlighting significant events in the ongoing fight for womens rights. Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Young Belva Lockwood was afraid of nothing...and refused to be silenced. Students will...be amazed at the fearlessness of this unsung champion of equal pay, equal opportunities, and equal respect for all. Highly Recommended." School Library Connection, starred review

Hannigan thoroughly details Lockwoods many triumphs, beginning with her childhood and young adult years, and concluding with her unsuccessful, though impressive, run for president. Nearly each page offers a quote from Lockwoods speeches and writings and most resonate with todays political climateA time line provides dates and pertinent facts about the subject and the accomplishments of other women in law and politics. Lockwoods struggles against great odds in the name of freedom are well outlined in this work. A fine addition to nonfiction collections. School Library Journal

Belva Ann Bennett Lockwood managed to rack up a string of womens firsts by storming the gates during a period in which Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony could seem somewhat passive in comparison. Jay(s) folk-art style with elongated figures, (and) muted tones convey a sense of antiquity. The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

Author Bio

Chicago children's author Kate Hannigan writes fiction and nonfiction for young readers. A former newspaper journalist, she loves listening to people's stories and digging deep into research. Her newest title is the nonfiction graphic novel THE GREAT CHICAGO FIRE- RISING FROM THE ASHES. Kate's nonfiction picture book biography A LADY HAS THE FLOOR received a Society of Midland Authors honor, was named to the Chicago Public Library's "Best of the Best" list, a Rhode Island Book Award nominee, A Mighty Girl Best of 2018 selection, a Junior Library Guild Selection, and earned four starred reviews. Alison Jay is a graduate of the London College of Printing and is the acclaimed illustrator of many picture books, including THE CLOUD SPINNER, written by Michael Catchpool, and A GIFT FOR MAMA, by Linda Ravin Lodding. Alison's signature style is created using alkyd paint on thick cartridge paper, with a crackle varnish, giving an aged effect.