Johannes Brahms, musician
May 7, 1863-Apr. 3, 1897
Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)
Brahms, a German composer who made a living from music from the age of 15 on is featured in this collective biography. Interestingly, he had a great friendship with musician Clara Schumann.
A bio, catalog of works, pictures, and links about Brahms can be found on a site dedicated to him.
Eva Peron, politician
May 7, 1919-July 26, 1952
Lives of Extraordinary Women: Rulers, Rebels (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 2000)
The First Lady of Argentina was a powerful presence in the political arena in Latin America and the world.
Read about Peron’s legacy at the Official Evita Peron Website.
Peter Ilich Tchaikovsky, musician
May 7, 1840-Nov. 6, 1893
Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)
Composer of the Nutcracker Suite, this Russian musician also scored the 1812 Overture. Da-da-da-daaaa.
The PBS Great Performances site hosts a biography of Tchaikovsky.
Wednesday, May 07, 2008
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
May 6 Birthday: Willie Mays
Willie Mays, athlete
May 6, 1931-
Say Hey! A Song of Willie Mays by Peter Mandel, illustrated by Don Tate (Jump At The Sun, 2000)
This rhyming picture book about the home-run hero takes readers from his birth to the ballpark. Batter up!
Go to The National Baseball Hall of Fame for stats on Mays.
May 6, 1931-
Say Hey! A Song of Willie Mays by Peter Mandel, illustrated by Don Tate (Jump At The Sun, 2000)
This rhyming picture book about the home-run hero takes readers from his birth to the ballpark. Batter up!
Go to The National Baseball Hall of Fame for stats on Mays.
Monday, May 05, 2008
May 5 Birthday: Nellie Bly
Nellie Bly
May 5, 1864-Jan. 27, 1922
The Daring Nellie Bly: America’s Star Reporter by Bonnie Christensen (Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2003)
Serious female reporters were a rare breed in the late 1880s. Bly not only took up the call, but succeeded brilliantly.
An article called,Nellie Bly: The Best Reporter in America is posted on the CUNY web site.
May 5, 1864-Jan. 27, 1922
The Daring Nellie Bly: America’s Star Reporter by Bonnie Christensen (Knopf Books for Young Readers, 2003)
Serious female reporters were a rare breed in the late 1880s. Bly not only took up the call, but succeeded brilliantly.
An article called,Nellie Bly: The Best Reporter in America is posted on the CUNY web site.
Saturday, May 03, 2008
May 3 Birthdays: James Brown, Septima P. Clark and Golda Meir
James Brown, musician
May 3, 1933-Dec. 25, 2006
Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
"The Hardest Working Man in Show Business" picked cotton, shined shoes, boxed, and played baseball before making it big.
James Brown: Godfather of Soul offers information about the man, the message and the soul.
Septima P. Clark
May 3, 1898-Dec. 15, 1987
Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)
A teacher, Clark fought for equality in civil rights movement. Injustices done to her with regards to her lost job were repaid.
Read about Clark on the African American Registry
Golda Meir
May 3, 1898-Dec. 8, 1978
Lives of Extraordinary Women: Rulers, Rebels (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 2000)
One of the founders of the State of Israel as well as serving at its Prime Minister for five years, Meir made a remarkable contribution to Israel and the world.
The Jewish Virtual Library posts a bio of Meir on their site.
May 3, 1933-Dec. 25, 2006
Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
"The Hardest Working Man in Show Business" picked cotton, shined shoes, boxed, and played baseball before making it big.
James Brown: Godfather of Soul offers information about the man, the message and the soul.
Septima P. Clark
May 3, 1898-Dec. 15, 1987
Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)
A teacher, Clark fought for equality in civil rights movement. Injustices done to her with regards to her lost job were repaid.
Read about Clark on the African American Registry
Golda Meir
May 3, 1898-Dec. 8, 1978
Lives of Extraordinary Women: Rulers, Rebels (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 2000)
One of the founders of the State of Israel as well as serving at its Prime Minister for five years, Meir made a remarkable contribution to Israel and the world.
The Jewish Virtual Library posts a bio of Meir on their site.
Friday, May 02, 2008
May 2 Birthday: Elijah McCoy
Elijah McCoy, inventor
May 2, 1843(4?)-October 10, 1929
The Real McCoy: The Life of an African-American Inventor by Wendy Towle, illustrated by Wil Clay (Scholastic, paper, 1995)
An engineer, McCoy invented (among other things) an automatic lubricator for trains and heavy machinery. It was so much better than what was in common use that people insisted on “the real McCoy.”
A short bio on a web site hosted by Northern California Council of Black Professional Engineers highlights McCoy.
May 2, 1843(4?)-October 10, 1929
The Real McCoy: The Life of an African-American Inventor by Wendy Towle, illustrated by Wil Clay (Scholastic, paper, 1995)
An engineer, McCoy invented (among other things) an automatic lubricator for trains and heavy machinery. It was so much better than what was in common use that people insisted on “the real McCoy.”
A short bio on a web site hosted by Northern California Council of Black Professional Engineers highlights McCoy.
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Unknown Birthday: Sitting Bull
Sitting Bull, leader
c. 1831-Dec. 15, 1890
A Boy Called Slow by Joseph Bruchac, illustrated by Rocco Baviera (Putnam, 1998)
From "Slow" to "Sitting Bull," this moving account of the greatest Lakota Sioux warrior's 1830s childhood shows how he grew into his new name.
The PBS site on New Perspectives on the West offers a biography of Sitting Bull with a number of hot links.
c. 1831-Dec. 15, 1890
A Boy Called Slow by Joseph Bruchac, illustrated by Rocco Baviera (Putnam, 1998)
From "Slow" to "Sitting Bull," this moving account of the greatest Lakota Sioux warrior's 1830s childhood shows how he grew into his new name.
The PBS site on New Perspectives on the West offers a biography of Sitting Bull with a number of hot links.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
April 29 Birthday: Duke Ellington
Duke Ellington, musician
Apr. 29, 1899-May 24, 1974
Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and His Orchestra by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney (Jump At The Sun, 1998)
This Caldecott Honor Medal winner hits just the right notes. The musical collaboration between Ellington and his band members is divine.
Duke Ellington-The Official Web Site hosts a biography, photos, fast facts, quotes and more.
Apr. 29, 1899-May 24, 1974
Duke Ellington: The Piano Prince and His Orchestra by Andrea Davis Pinkney, illustrated by Brian Pinkney (Jump At The Sun, 1998)
This Caldecott Honor Medal winner hits just the right notes. The musical collaboration between Ellington and his band members is divine.
Duke Ellington-The Official Web Site hosts a biography, photos, fast facts, quotes and more.
Monday, April 28, 2008
April 28 Birthday: James Monroe
James Monroe, U. S. President
Apr. 28, 1758-July 4, 1831
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
One paragraph in this collective biography is devoted to our 8th president. The Monroe Doctrine was named for him. He was one of three presidents to die on July 4th.
The White House offers a profile of Monroe on their site.
Apr. 28, 1758-July 4, 1831
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
One paragraph in this collective biography is devoted to our 8th president. The Monroe Doctrine was named for him. He was one of three presidents to die on July 4th.
The White House offers a profile of Monroe on their site.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
April 27 Birthday: Ulysses S. Grant
Ulysses S. Grant, U.S. President
Apr. 27, 1822-July 23, 1885
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
A military man, Grant was the 18th president and one of few words.
Learn more about Grant at the PBS American Experience site about him.
Apr. 27, 1822-July 23, 1885
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
A military man, Grant was the 18th president and one of few words.
Learn more about Grant at the PBS American Experience site about him.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
April 26 Birthdays: John J. Audubon, Frederick Law Olmsted, I.M. Pei and William Shakespeare
John J. Audubon, artist and naturalist
Apr. 26, 1785-Jan. 27, 1851
The Boy Who Drew Birds: A Story of John James Audubon by Jacqueline Davies, illustrated by Melissa Sweet (Houghton Mifflin, 2004)
An astute observer of birds by 18, Audubon continued studying them and became “the greatest painter of birds of all time.”
The Audubon Society posts a biography of their namesake on their site.
Frederick Law Olmsted, architect
Apr. 26, 1822-Aug. 28, 1903
The Man Who Made Parks: The Story of Parkbuilder Frederick Law Olmsted by Frieda Wishinsky, illustrated by Song Nan Zhang (Tundra Books, 1999)
We have Olmsted to thank for New York City’s Central Park, the grounds at Niagara Falls and other top visitor spots. This is the story of his first love—the great outdoors.
The Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site "offers a variety of programs that interpret the legacy of Frederick Law Olmsted."
I.M. Pei, architect
Apr. 26, 1917-
How We are Smart by W. Nikola-Lisa, illustrated by Sean Qualls (Lee & Low Books, 2006)
With an eye for the modern, Pei, a Chinese architect, has designed the Louvre Pyramid, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Javits Convention Center, and the East Building of the National Gallery of Art as well as many other breath-taking structures.
View images of Pei’s work at GreatBuildings.com
William Shakespeare, writer
Apr. 26, 1564 (baptism)-Apr. 23, 1616
Bard of Avon: The Story of William Shakespeare by Diane Stanley (HarperCollins, 1992)
A fitting introduction to the man who wrote some of our best-loved plays. Truly, a picture book biography for all ages.
A guide to the scholarly resources on Shakespeare can be found at a Palomar Community College site called Mr. William Shakespeare and the Internet.
Apr. 26, 1785-Jan. 27, 1851
The Boy Who Drew Birds: A Story of John James Audubon by Jacqueline Davies, illustrated by Melissa Sweet (Houghton Mifflin, 2004)
An astute observer of birds by 18, Audubon continued studying them and became “the greatest painter of birds of all time.”
The Audubon Society posts a biography of their namesake on their site.
Frederick Law Olmsted, architect
Apr. 26, 1822-Aug. 28, 1903
The Man Who Made Parks: The Story of Parkbuilder Frederick Law Olmsted by Frieda Wishinsky, illustrated by Song Nan Zhang (Tundra Books, 1999)
We have Olmsted to thank for New York City’s Central Park, the grounds at Niagara Falls and other top visitor spots. This is the story of his first love—the great outdoors.
The Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site "offers a variety of programs that interpret the legacy of Frederick Law Olmsted."
I.M. Pei, architect
Apr. 26, 1917-
How We are Smart by W. Nikola-Lisa, illustrated by Sean Qualls (Lee & Low Books, 2006)
With an eye for the modern, Pei, a Chinese architect, has designed the Louvre Pyramid, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Javits Convention Center, and the East Building of the National Gallery of Art as well as many other breath-taking structures.
View images of Pei’s work at GreatBuildings.com
William Shakespeare, writer
Apr. 26, 1564 (baptism)-Apr. 23, 1616
Bard of Avon: The Story of William Shakespeare by Diane Stanley (HarperCollins, 1992)
A fitting introduction to the man who wrote some of our best-loved plays. Truly, a picture book biography for all ages.
A guide to the scholarly resources on Shakespeare can be found at a Palomar Community College site called Mr. William Shakespeare and the Internet.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
April 23 Birthdays: James Buchanan and Sergei Prokofiev
James Buchanan, U.S. President
Apr. 23, 1791-June 1, 1868
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
Number 15 was the only president who never married. He had numerous pets, including a pair of bald eagles.
The Internet Public Library offers facts about Buchanan’s personal life and public service.
Sergei Prokofiev, musician
April 23, 1891-March 5, 1953
Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)
The Russian composer of Peter and the Wolf, dreamed of composing from an early age.
“All Prokifiev. All the time,” is how The Prokofiev Page describes itself. Drop by for a biography, photographs, interviews and links.
Apr. 23, 1791-June 1, 1868
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
Number 15 was the only president who never married. He had numerous pets, including a pair of bald eagles.
The Internet Public Library offers facts about Buchanan’s personal life and public service.
Sergei Prokofiev, musician
April 23, 1891-March 5, 1953
Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)
The Russian composer of Peter and the Wolf, dreamed of composing from an early age.
“All Prokifiev. All the time,” is how The Prokofiev Page describes itself. Drop by for a biography, photographs, interviews and links.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
April 22 Birthday: Isabella I
Isabella I, political leader
Apr. 22, 1451-Nov. 26, 1504
Lives of Extraordinary Women: Rulers, Rebels (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 2000)
As Queen of Spain, Isabella I financed the travels of Christopher Columbus.
Learn more about Isabella of Castile at Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Apr. 22, 1451-Nov. 26, 1504
Lives of Extraordinary Women: Rulers, Rebels (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 2000)
As Queen of Spain, Isabella I financed the travels of Christopher Columbus.
Learn more about Isabella of Castile at Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Monday, April 21, 2008
April 21 Birthdays: John Muir and Charlotte Bronte
John Muir, preservationist
Apr. 21, 1838-Dec. 24, 1914
John Muir: America’s First Environmentalist by Kathryn Lasky, illustrated by Stan Fellows (Candlewick, 2006)
The life and accomplishments of Muir, an environmental pioneer, who among other things promoted the establishment of Yosemite as a park, are heralded in this book. Selections from his diary are woven throughout the story and add depth to the telling.
The Sierra Club maintains an exhibit to John Muir, founder of the organization.
Charlotte Bronte, writer
Apr. 21, 1816-Mar. 31, 1855
Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1994)
The author of Jane Eyre, was the eldest of the three Bronte sisters, all English writers.
A brief biography of Bronte can be found on the Victorian Web.org, a site about literature, history and culture in the age of Victoria.
Apr. 21, 1838-Dec. 24, 1914
John Muir: America’s First Environmentalist by Kathryn Lasky, illustrated by Stan Fellows (Candlewick, 2006)
The life and accomplishments of Muir, an environmental pioneer, who among other things promoted the establishment of Yosemite as a park, are heralded in this book. Selections from his diary are woven throughout the story and add depth to the telling.
The Sierra Club maintains an exhibit to John Muir, founder of the organization.
Charlotte Bronte, writer
Apr. 21, 1816-Mar. 31, 1855
Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1994)
The author of Jane Eyre, was the eldest of the three Bronte sisters, all English writers.
A brief biography of Bronte can be found on the Victorian Web.org, a site about literature, history and culture in the age of Victoria.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
April 20 Birthday: Tito Puente
Tito Puente, musician
Apr. 20, 1923-May 31, 2000
How We are Smart by W. Nikola-Lisa, illustrated by Sean Qualls (Lee & Low Books, 2006)
Known as “The Mambo King,” Puente played Latin jazz and mambo music.
Read more about the talented Puente on the Thomson/Gale site.
Apr. 20, 1923-May 31, 2000
How We are Smart by W. Nikola-Lisa, illustrated by Sean Qualls (Lee & Low Books, 2006)
Known as “The Mambo King,” Puente played Latin jazz and mambo music.
Read more about the talented Puente on the Thomson/Gale site.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Unknown Birthday: Murasaki Shikibu
Murasaki Shikibu, artist
c. 973-c. 1014 or 1025
Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt(Harcourt, 1994)
Novelist. Poet. Servant in royal court. Japan's Shikibu is best known as author of The Tale of Genji, one of the earliest published novels of all time.
Read parts of Murasaki Shikibu's diary online at Penn's digital library site.
c. 973-c. 1014 or 1025
Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt(Harcourt, 1994)
Novelist. Poet. Servant in royal court. Japan's Shikibu is best known as author of The Tale of Genji, one of the earliest published novels of all time.
Read parts of Murasaki Shikibu's diary online at Penn's digital library site.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
April 13 Birthday: Thomas Jefferson
Thomas Jefferson, U.S. President
Apr. 13, 1743-July 4, 1826
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
This author of the Declaration of Independence also was responsible for the Louisiana Purchase. Jefferson was president # 3.
Jefferson’s accomplishments are summarized in this profile of him.
Apr. 13, 1743-July 4, 1826
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
This author of the Declaration of Independence also was responsible for the Louisiana Purchase. Jefferson was president # 3.
Jefferson’s accomplishments are summarized in this profile of him.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
April 10 Birthday: Dolores Huerta
Dolores Huerta, activist
Apr. 10, 1930-
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)
Co-founder of the National Farm Workers Association with Ceasar Chavez and a leader in the historic grape boycott, Huerta continues to play a pivotal role in worker rights.
Read more about Huerta at the Dolores Huerta Foundation web site.
Apr. 10, 1930-
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)
Co-founder of the National Farm Workers Association with Ceasar Chavez and a leader in the historic grape boycott, Huerta continues to play a pivotal role in worker rights.
Read more about Huerta at the Dolores Huerta Foundation web site.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
April 9 Birthday: Carl Perkins
Carl Perkins, musician
Apr. 9, 1932-Jan. 19,1998
Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
The man who wrote Blue Suede Shoes was from rural Tennessee. A talented singer and songwriter, Perkins sure knew how to shake things up.
Perkins, a 1987 inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is featured on a page at RockHall.com.
Apr. 9, 1932-Jan. 19,1998
Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
The man who wrote Blue Suede Shoes was from rural Tennessee. A talented singer and songwriter, Perkins sure knew how to shake things up.
Perkins, a 1987 inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is featured on a page at RockHall.com.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
April 8 Birthdays: Sonja Henie and Trina S. Hyman
Sonja Henie, athlete
Apr. 8, 1912-Oct. 12, 1969
Lives of the Athletes: Thrills, Spills (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1997)
A three-time Olympic figure skating champion, Henie was the youngest world champion in history.
Click Olympic.org to read a profile of Henie: The First Figure Skating Celebrity.
Trina S. Hyman, artist
Apr. 8, 1939-Nov. 19, 2004
Trina Schart Hyman: A Self-Portrait by Trina Schart Hyman (Addison Wesley, 1981)
This book may be out of print, but it can be found on library shelves. Hyman, a Caldecott Medal winning illustrator, tells the story of her life and passion for children’s book illustration.
A Teacher Resource File on Hyman contains biographies and lesson plans.
Apr. 8, 1912-Oct. 12, 1969
Lives of the Athletes: Thrills, Spills (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1997)
A three-time Olympic figure skating champion, Henie was the youngest world champion in history.
Click Olympic.org to read a profile of Henie: The First Figure Skating Celebrity.
Trina S. Hyman, artist
Apr. 8, 1939-Nov. 19, 2004
Trina Schart Hyman: A Self-Portrait by Trina Schart Hyman (Addison Wesley, 1981)
This book may be out of print, but it can be found on library shelves. Hyman, a Caldecott Medal winning illustrator, tells the story of her life and passion for children’s book illustration.
A Teacher Resource File on Hyman contains biographies and lesson plans.
Monday, April 07, 2008
April 7 Birthday: Billie Holiday
Billie Holiday, musician
Apr. 7, 1915-July 17, 1959
The Blues Singers: Ten Who Rocked the World by Julius Lester, illustrated by Lisa Cohen (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, 2oo1)
Holiday moved to Harlem at age 14 when jazz was hot. Louis Armstrong, Bessie Smith and others were singing at that time. Billie joined in. Her trademark was a white gardenia in her hair.
Holiday is featured in Jazz, a film by Ken Burns.
Apr. 7, 1915-July 17, 1959
The Blues Singers: Ten Who Rocked the World by Julius Lester, illustrated by Lisa Cohen (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, 2oo1)
Holiday moved to Harlem at age 14 when jazz was hot. Louis Armstrong, Bessie Smith and others were singing at that time. Billie joined in. Her trademark was a white gardenia in her hair.
Holiday is featured in Jazz, a film by Ken Burns.
Saturday, April 05, 2008
April 5 Birthday: Booker T. Washington
Booker T. Washington, educator and political leader
Apr. 5, 1856-Nov. 14, 1915
More Than Anything Else by Marie Bradby, illustrated by Chris Soentpiet (Scholastic, 1995)
More than anything else, young Booker T. Washington wanted to learn how to read. Follow his journey in this story based on his childhood.
A biography of Washington, a famous African-American is posted at the Thomson/Gale web site.
Apr. 5, 1856-Nov. 14, 1915
More Than Anything Else by Marie Bradby, illustrated by Chris Soentpiet (Scholastic, 1995)
More than anything else, young Booker T. Washington wanted to learn how to read. Follow his journey in this story based on his childhood.
A biography of Washington, a famous African-American is posted at the Thomson/Gale web site.
Friday, April 04, 2008
April 4 Birthdays: Maya Angelou and Muddy Waters
Maya Angelou, writer
Apr. 4, 1928-
Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)
The author of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, is a producer, actor and director, too. She recited her poem On the Pulse of Morning at President Clinton's inauguration.
The Internet School Library Media Center offers links to biographies of Angelou, e-texts, lesson plans and bibliographies.
Muddy Waters, musician
Apr. 4, 1913-Apr. 30-1983
The Blues Singers: Ten Who Rocked the World by Julius Lester, illustrated by Lisa Cohen (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, 2oo1)
Mississippi born, Waters quit school at ten and worked in cotton fields. He moved to Chicago in 1943 and in 1948 made his first commercial record.
The Official Muddy “Mississippi” Waters site is the place to go for resources about this electrified blues man.
Apr. 4, 1928-
Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)
The author of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, is a producer, actor and director, too. She recited her poem On the Pulse of Morning at President Clinton's inauguration.
The Internet School Library Media Center offers links to biographies of Angelou, e-texts, lesson plans and bibliographies.
Muddy Waters, musician
Apr. 4, 1913-Apr. 30-1983
The Blues Singers: Ten Who Rocked the World by Julius Lester, illustrated by Lisa Cohen (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, 2oo1)
Mississippi born, Waters quit school at ten and worked in cotton fields. He moved to Chicago in 1943 and in 1948 made his first commercial record.
The Official Muddy “Mississippi” Waters site is the place to go for resources about this electrified blues man.
Thursday, April 03, 2008
April 3 Birthday: Jane Goodall
Jane Goodall, scientist (primatologist)
Apr. 3, 1934-
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)
Goodall’s research on chimpanzees is remarkable because of it's length (forty-five plus years) and because of her devotion to the animals and the environment.
Read Jane Goodall: An Extraordinary Life at the Jane Goodall Institute for Wildlife Research, Education and Conservation.
Apr. 3, 1934-
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)
Goodall’s research on chimpanzees is remarkable because of it's length (forty-five plus years) and because of her devotion to the animals and the environment.
Read Jane Goodall: An Extraordinary Life at the Jane Goodall Institute for Wildlife Research, Education and Conservation.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
April 2 Birthday: Hans Christian Andersen
Hans Christian Andersen, writer
Apr. 2, 1805-Aug. 4, 1875
Perfect Wizard: The Hans Christian Andersen by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Dennis Nolan (Dutton, 2005)
This is the story of Andersen, the “ugly duckling” who grew up to write incredible fairy tales.
Take a look at the Annotated Web-o-graphy of Hans Christian Andersen and chose a site to visit
Apr. 2, 1805-Aug. 4, 1875
Perfect Wizard: The Hans Christian Andersen by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Dennis Nolan (Dutton, 2005)
This is the story of Andersen, the “ugly duckling” who grew up to write incredible fairy tales.
Take a look at the Annotated Web-o-graphy of Hans Christian Andersen and chose a site to visit
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
April 1 Birthday: Wangari Maathai
Wangari Maathai, peace advocate
Apr. 1, 1940-
Paths to Peace: People Who Changed the World by Jane Breskin Zalben (Dutton, 2006)
A member of the Kikuyu ethnic group, Maathai has and is doing much to make the world a better place. Among other things she is interested in the green movement and women’s rights. She won the Nobel Peace Prize because she “stood up courageously against the former oppressive regime in Kenya.”
Read the press release from the Nobel Peace Prize for Maathai received in 2004.
Monday, March 31, 2008
March 31 Birthday: Cesar Chavez
Cesar Chavez, civil rights activist
Mar. 31, 1927-Apr. 23, 1993
Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morales (Harcourt, 2003)
A heartfelt account of Chavez’s childhood, his days as a field laborer and as the nonviolent organizer of the 1965 grape boycott.
America’s Library posts several great stories about Chavez for kids.
Mar. 31, 1927-Apr. 23, 1993
Harvesting Hope: The Story of Cesar Chavez by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Yuyi Morales (Harcourt, 2003)
A heartfelt account of Chavez’s childhood, his days as a field laborer and as the nonviolent organizer of the 1965 grape boycott.
America’s Library posts several great stories about Chavez for kids.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
March 30 Birthday: Vincent Van Gogh
Vincent Van Gogh, artist
Mar. 30, 1853-July 29, 1890
Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces, Messes (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1995)
Van Gogh was the artist who cut off his ear and drank a lot of coffee, although the two were not related. Even though he was extraordinarily productive, he never saw acclaim in his lifetime.
Hop over to the WebMuseum, Paris to read about Van Gogh and see images of his work.
Mar. 30, 1853-July 29, 1890
Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces, Messes (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1995)
Van Gogh was the artist who cut off his ear and drank a lot of coffee, although the two were not related. Even though he was extraordinarily productive, he never saw acclaim in his lifetime.
Hop over to the WebMuseum, Paris to read about Van Gogh and see images of his work.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
March 29 Birthday: John Tyler, Jr.
John Tyler, Jr., U.S. President
Mar. 29, 1790-Jan. 18, 1862
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
This collective biography devotes one paragraph to the tenth commander and chief. Interesting factoid: Tyler had more children than any other president.
Basic information about Tyler can be found on the Miller Center of Public Affairs University of Virginia site.
Mar. 29, 1790-Jan. 18, 1862
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
This collective biography devotes one paragraph to the tenth commander and chief. Interesting factoid: Tyler had more children than any other president.
Basic information about Tyler can be found on the Miller Center of Public Affairs University of Virginia site.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Unknown Birthday: Kate Shelley
Kate Shelley, teenage heroine
19th century
Kate Shelley: Bound for Legend by Robert D. San Souci (Dial, 1995)
A storm. A broken bridge. A train. Fifteen-year old Kate Shelley to the rescue. High drama in Iowa, July 6, 1881.
An anonymous report describing Kate Shelley's heroic actions is posted on a DesMoines River site.
The Kate Shelley Railroad Museum run by the Boone County Historical Society is open June through September.
19th century
Kate Shelley: Bound for Legend by Robert D. San Souci (Dial, 1995)
A storm. A broken bridge. A train. Fifteen-year old Kate Shelley to the rescue. High drama in Iowa, July 6, 1881.
An anonymous report describing Kate Shelley's heroic actions is posted on a DesMoines River site.
The Kate Shelley Railroad Museum run by the Boone County Historical Society is open June through September.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
March 25: Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin, musician
Mar. 25, 1942-
The Blues Singers: Ten Who Rocked the World by Julius Lester, illustrated by Lisa Cohen (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, 2001)
Surrounded by musical neighbors such as Smokey Robinson, Otis Williams and Dianna Ross, Aretha Franklin loved to sing, too. Can you spell R-e-s-p-e-c-t?
Read about Franklin at the Time 100 site.
Mar. 25, 1942-
The Blues Singers: Ten Who Rocked the World by Julius Lester, illustrated by Lisa Cohen (Jump at the Sun/Hyperion, 2001)
Surrounded by musical neighbors such as Smokey Robinson, Otis Williams and Dianna Ross, Aretha Franklin loved to sing, too. Can you spell R-e-s-p-e-c-t?
Read about Franklin at the Time 100 site.
Monday, March 24, 2008
March 24 Birthdays: John Harrison and Harry Houdini
John Harrison, inventor
Mar. 24, 1693-Mar. 24, 1776
The Man Who Made Time Travel by Kathryn Lasky, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes(Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2003)
Harrison succeeded in figuring out how to track longitude for ships at sea...after five tries and over thirty-five years. Thank you for your perseverance, Mr Harrison!
The National Maritime Museum dedicates a page to Harrison and the Longitude problem.
Harry Houdini, magician
Mar. 24, 1874-Oct. 31, 1926
Houdini: World’s Greatest Mystery Man and Escape King by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Eric Velasquez (Walker Books for Young Readers, 2005)
Houdini sawed people in half and wrapped himself in chains—all in the name of magic. This biography offers a look inside his life, his challenges and his performances.
Visit the PBS American Experience site about Houdini, The Man Behind the Myth for a timeline, gallery, teacher’s guide and special features.
Mar. 24, 1693-Mar. 24, 1776
The Man Who Made Time Travel by Kathryn Lasky, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes(Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2003)
Harrison succeeded in figuring out how to track longitude for ships at sea...after five tries and over thirty-five years. Thank you for your perseverance, Mr Harrison!
The National Maritime Museum dedicates a page to Harrison and the Longitude problem.
Harry Houdini, magician
Mar. 24, 1874-Oct. 31, 1926
Houdini: World’s Greatest Mystery Man and Escape King by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Eric Velasquez (Walker Books for Young Readers, 2005)
Houdini sawed people in half and wrapped himself in chains—all in the name of magic. This biography offers a look inside his life, his challenges and his performances.
Visit the PBS American Experience site about Houdini, The Man Behind the Myth for a timeline, gallery, teacher’s guide and special features.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Unknown Birthday: Shaka
Shaka, ruler
c. 1787-ca. Sept. 22, 1828
Shaka: King of the Zulus by Diane Stanley and Peter Vennema, illustrated by Diane Stanley (HarperTrophy, 1994)
A respected leader, this story of Shaka's childhood and rise to power in southern Africa is a story of perseverance.
Some information about the Zulu Tribe is available from the University of Iowa.
c. 1787-ca. Sept. 22, 1828
Shaka: King of the Zulus by Diane Stanley and Peter Vennema, illustrated by Diane Stanley (HarperTrophy, 1994)
A respected leader, this story of Shaka's childhood and rise to power in southern Africa is a story of perseverance.
Some information about the Zulu Tribe is available from the University of Iowa.
Friday, March 21, 2008
March 21 Birthdays: Johann Sebastian Bach and Ruth Law
Johann Sebastian Bach, musician
Mar. 21, 1685-July 28, 1750
Sebastian: A Book about Bach by Jeanette Winter (Silver Whistle, 1999)
Bach survived the sorrows of childhood and created magnificent music. And aren't we glad he did!
The J.S. Bach Home Page celebrates the life and work of Bach.
Ruth Law, aviator
Mar. 21, 1887-Dec. 1, 1970
Ruth Law Thrills a Nation by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin, 1995)
In 1916, Law flew nonstop from Chicago to New York and set the American record. This is the story of her great achievement.
See a photo of Law and read a short bio at the Hill Aerospace Museum.
Mar. 21, 1685-July 28, 1750
Sebastian: A Book about Bach by Jeanette Winter (Silver Whistle, 1999)
Bach survived the sorrows of childhood and created magnificent music. And aren't we glad he did!
The J.S. Bach Home Page celebrates the life and work of Bach.
Ruth Law, aviator
Mar. 21, 1887-Dec. 1, 1970
Ruth Law Thrills a Nation by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin, 1995)
In 1916, Law flew nonstop from Chicago to New York and set the American record. This is the story of her great achievement.
See a photo of Law and read a short bio at the Hill Aerospace Museum.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
March 19 Birthday: Charles M. Russell
Charles M. Russell
Mar. 19, 1864-1926
Cowboy Charlie: The Story of Charles M. Russell by Jeanette Winter (Harcourt Children’s, 1995)
When he grew up, Russell wanted to be a cowboy. He did that and more. After years on the frontier, he exchanged that life for one of an artist and brilliantly painted and sculpted the Old West.
According to their web site, the C.M. Russell Museum has the “most complete collection of Russell works and personal objects in the world.” Mosey on over soon.
Mar. 19, 1864-1926
Cowboy Charlie: The Story of Charles M. Russell by Jeanette Winter (Harcourt Children’s, 1995)
When he grew up, Russell wanted to be a cowboy. He did that and more. After years on the frontier, he exchanged that life for one of an artist and brilliantly painted and sculpted the Old West.
According to their web site, the C.M. Russell Museum has the “most complete collection of Russell works and personal objects in the world.” Mosey on over soon.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
March 18 Birthday: Grover Cleveland
Grover Cleveland, U.S. President
Mar. 18, 1837-June 24, 1908
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
In one paragraph, the legacy of the 22nd president is summed up. Cleveland was the only president to marry in the White House.
Cleveland facts are available on the IPL (Internet Public Library)site.
Mar. 18, 1837-June 24, 1908
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
In one paragraph, the legacy of the 22nd president is summed up. Cleveland was the only president to marry in the White House.
Cleveland facts are available on the IPL (Internet Public Library)site.
Monday, March 17, 2008
March 17 Birthday: St. Patrick
St. Patrick
AD 373-493
Mar. 17=St. Patrick’s Day
Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola (Holiday House, 1992)
Born in Britain, Patrick was kidnapped as a boy and spent time in Ireland as a slave. Follow the story of his life and sainthood as well as five legends about him in this book.
The University of College Cork is an online resource for Irish history, literature and politics.
AD 373-493
Mar. 17=St. Patrick’s Day
Patrick: Patron Saint of Ireland by Tomie dePaola (Holiday House, 1992)
Born in Britain, Patrick was kidnapped as a boy and spent time in Ireland as a slave. Follow the story of his life and sainthood as well as five legends about him in this book.
The University of College Cork is an online resource for Irish history, literature and politics.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
March 16 Birthday: Rosa Bonheur and James Madison
Rosa Bonheur, artist
Mar. 16, 1822-May 25, 1899
Rosa Bonheur by Robyn Montana Turner (Little Brown, reprint, 1993)
With pictures from her life and reproductions of her work illustrating the book, Bonheur’s life and the challenges she faced as a woman artist are explored.
A photo of Bonheur’s work, The Horse Fair, is shown on this page along with a short bio and suggestions for hands-on activities and discussions about the painting.
James Madison, U.S. President
Mar. 16, 1751-June 28, 1836
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
The "Father of the Constitution" and smallest of our presidents, Madison was number 4.
Learn more about Madison at The White House.gov.
Mar. 16, 1822-May 25, 1899
Rosa Bonheur by Robyn Montana Turner (Little Brown, reprint, 1993)
With pictures from her life and reproductions of her work illustrating the book, Bonheur’s life and the challenges she faced as a woman artist are explored.
A photo of Bonheur’s work, The Horse Fair, is shown on this page along with a short bio and suggestions for hands-on activities and discussions about the painting.
James Madison, U.S. President
Mar. 16, 1751-June 28, 1836
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
The "Father of the Constitution" and smallest of our presidents, Madison was number 4.
Learn more about Madison at The White House.gov.
Friday, March 14, 2008
March 14 Birthday: Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein, scientist
Mar. 14, 1879-Apr. 18, 1955
Odd Boy Out: Young Albert Einstein by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin, 2004)
Einstein was not the best student and yet...he grew up to win the Nobel Prize.
Some quotations, a poster of Albert Einstein and more can be found at the St. Andrews site.
Mar. 14, 1879-Apr. 18, 1955
Odd Boy Out: Young Albert Einstein by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin, 2004)
Einstein was not the best student and yet...he grew up to win the Nobel Prize.
Some quotations, a poster of Albert Einstein and more can be found at the St. Andrews site.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Unknown Birthday: Saladin
Saladin, ruler
1137 or 1138-1193
Saladin: Noble Prince of Islam by Diane Stanley (HarperCollins, 2002)
Even Saladin's enemies had kind things to say about him! This is a bio-history of the life and times of the "Muslim saint-king" with stunning illustrations.
The Egypt State Information Service site on Egypt is filled with facts on this country including a brief history of the Islamic Era when Saladin ruled.
1137 or 1138-1193
Saladin: Noble Prince of Islam by Diane Stanley (HarperCollins, 2002)
Even Saladin's enemies had kind things to say about him! This is a bio-history of the life and times of the "Muslim saint-king" with stunning illustrations.
The Egypt State Information Service site on Egypt is filled with facts on this country including a brief history of the Islamic Era when Saladin ruled.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Unknown Birthday: Sacagawea
Sacagawea, explorer
c. 1787-Dec. 12, 1812 or April 9, 1884
A Picture Book of Sacagawea by David A. Alder, illustrated by Dan Brown (Holiday House, 2001)
A translator and guide on the Lewis and Clark expedition, this Native American woman was an invaluable member of the team.
The PBS special Lewis & Clark: Inside the Corps offers more biographical information on Sacagawea.
c. 1787-Dec. 12, 1812 or April 9, 1884
A Picture Book of Sacagawea by David A. Alder, illustrated by Dan Brown (Holiday House, 2001)
A translator and guide on the Lewis and Clark expedition, this Native American woman was an invaluable member of the team.
The PBS special Lewis & Clark: Inside the Corps offers more biographical information on Sacagawea.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
Unknown Birthday: Giselle Potter
Giselle Potter, children's author and illustrator
20th century-
The Year I Didn't Go to School by Giselle Potter (Atheneum/Anne Schwartz Books, 2002)
What a year! Traveling around Italy with her family's theater troupe when she was seven, Potter gives a first-person account of this magical time.
Puppeters of America can link you up with a guild, festival or event in the US and Canada.
20th century-
The Year I Didn't Go to School by Giselle Potter (Atheneum/Anne Schwartz Books, 2002)
What a year! Traveling around Italy with her family's theater troupe when she was seven, Potter gives a first-person account of this magical time.
Puppeters of America can link you up with a guild, festival or event in the US and Canada.
Friday, March 07, 2008
March 7 Birthday: Maud Lewis
Maud Lewis, artist
Mar. 7, 1903-July 30, 1970
Capturing Joy: The Story of Maud Lewis by Jo Ellen Bogart, illustrated by Mark Lang (Tundra Books, 2002)
Lewis, a Canadian artist who had physical disabilities, painted amazing images in a primitive folk art style. Five-star inspirational.
Take the virtual tour through The Painted House of Maud Lewis to learn more about this gifted artist.
Mar. 7, 1903-July 30, 1970
Capturing Joy: The Story of Maud Lewis by Jo Ellen Bogart, illustrated by Mark Lang (Tundra Books, 2002)
Lewis, a Canadian artist who had physical disabilities, painted amazing images in a primitive folk art style. Five-star inspirational.
Take the virtual tour through The Painted House of Maud Lewis to learn more about this gifted artist.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
March 6 Birthday: Michelangelo
Michelangelo
Mar. 6, 1475-Feb. 18, 1564
Michelangelo by Diane Stanley (HarperTrophy reprint, 2003)
Michelangelo’s life and art, including the Pieta and the Sistine Chapel are at the forefront of this detailed picture book biography about him.
Click over to the WebMuseum, Paris for more info on Michelangelo.
Mar. 6, 1475-Feb. 18, 1564
Michelangelo by Diane Stanley (HarperTrophy reprint, 2003)
Michelangelo’s life and art, including the Pieta and the Sistine Chapel are at the forefront of this detailed picture book biography about him.
Click over to the WebMuseum, Paris for more info on Michelangelo.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
March 4 Birthday: Antonio Vivaldi
Antonio Vivaldi, musician
Mar. 4, 1678-July 28, 1741
I, Vivaldi by Janice and Tom Shefelman (Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2008)
Just published, this picture book transports readers to Vivaldi's Venice, where he lived and found success as a violinist and composer.
An informative bio and photo of Vivaldi is available at the Baroque Music site.
Mar. 4, 1678-July 28, 1741
I, Vivaldi by Janice and Tom Shefelman (Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 2008)
Just published, this picture book transports readers to Vivaldi's Venice, where he lived and found success as a violinist and composer.
An informative bio and photo of Vivaldi is available at the Baroque Music site.
Monday, March 03, 2008
March 3 Birthday: Alexander Graham Bell
Alexander Graham Bell, inventor
Mar. 3, 1847-Aug 2, 1922
Alexander Graham Bell by Leonard Everett Fisher (Atheneum, 1999)
Hello? The inventor of the telephone and other inventions is featured in this bio about his childhood and beyond.
The Franklin Institute Resources of Science Learning offers a short article about Bell’s Telephone and the history of telephones.
Mar. 3, 1847-Aug 2, 1922
Alexander Graham Bell by Leonard Everett Fisher (Atheneum, 1999)
Hello? The inventor of the telephone and other inventions is featured in this bio about his childhood and beyond.
The Franklin Institute Resources of Science Learning offers a short article about Bell’s Telephone and the history of telephones.
Sunday, March 02, 2008
March 2 Birthday: Dr. Seuss
Dr. Seuss, writer
Mar. 2, 1904-Sept. 24, 1991
The Boy on Fairfield Street by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher (Random House, 2004)
From a childhood spent dreaming and doodling to budding artist at 22, this biography of the famous children’s writer shows what made Seuss tick.
Dr. Seuss’ Seussville is maintained by his publisher, Random House and has a biography of Seuss as well as cool games for kids.
Mar. 2, 1904-Sept. 24, 1991
The Boy on Fairfield Street by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher (Random House, 2004)
From a childhood spent dreaming and doodling to budding artist at 22, this biography of the famous children’s writer shows what made Seuss tick.
Dr. Seuss’ Seussville is maintained by his publisher, Random House and has a biography of Seuss as well as cool games for kids.
Saturday, March 01, 2008
March 1 Birthday: Frederic Chopin
Frederic Chopin, musician
Mar. 1, 1810-Oct. 17, 1849
Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)
Chopin began playing the piano at four and performing at eight. This Polish composer is known as one of the "greatest pianists in history."
An online bio of Chopin is available here.
Mar. 1, 1810-Oct. 17, 1849
Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)
Chopin began playing the piano at four and performing at eight. This Polish composer is known as one of the "greatest pianists in history."
An online bio of Chopin is available here.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
February 27 Birthday: Marian Anderson
Marian Anderson, musician
Feb. 27, 1897-Apr. 8, 1993
When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson by Pam Munoz Ryan, illustrated by Brian Selznick (Scholastic, 2002)
When African-American contralto Marian Anderson was 57 years old, she sang with the Metropolitan Opera. This is the story of her journey, from childhood church singer to European sensation to opera star.
Marian Anderson: A Life in Song exhibit at the Penn Library not only contains information about Anderson’s tours, but includes video and audio excerpts from interviews and performances.
Feb. 27, 1897-Apr. 8, 1993
When Marian Sang: The True Recital of Marian Anderson by Pam Munoz Ryan, illustrated by Brian Selznick (Scholastic, 2002)
When African-American contralto Marian Anderson was 57 years old, she sang with the Metropolitan Opera. This is the story of her journey, from childhood church singer to European sensation to opera star.
Marian Anderson: A Life in Song exhibit at the Penn Library not only contains information about Anderson’s tours, but includes video and audio excerpts from interviews and performances.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Unknown Birthday: Elenore Plaisted
Elenore Plaisted, pioneer
c. 1880-c. 1935
My Prairie Year: Based on the Diary of Elenore Plaisted by Brett Harvey, illustrated by Deborah Ray Kogan (Holiday House, 1986)
From Maine to the Dakotas in 1889, nine-year-old Elenore, describes her family's life, blizzards, surprise packages from Maine, and wildflowers.
Curious about what happened to Elenore Plaisted? Elenore Plaisted Abbott studied with Howard Pyle and became a children's book illustrator. Visit the
Rose Valley Museum & Historical Society for details. You've got to love a woman who supposedly painted her house pink.
See samples of Elenore Plaisted Abbott's work at a Rutgers University exhibit.
c. 1880-c. 1935
My Prairie Year: Based on the Diary of Elenore Plaisted by Brett Harvey, illustrated by Deborah Ray Kogan (Holiday House, 1986)
From Maine to the Dakotas in 1889, nine-year-old Elenore, describes her family's life, blizzards, surprise packages from Maine, and wildflowers.
Curious about what happened to Elenore Plaisted? Elenore Plaisted Abbott studied with Howard Pyle and became a children's book illustrator. Visit the
Rose Valley Museum & Historical Society for details. You've got to love a woman who supposedly painted her house pink.
See samples of Elenore Plaisted Abbott's work at a Rutgers University exhibit.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Unknown BIrthday: Vijaya Latshimi Pandit
Vijaya Latshimi Pandit, diplomat
1900-1990
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy(Charlesbridge, 2005)
Meet Pandit, an Indian diplomat and first female president of the UN. In a few short paragraphs we learn about her great accomplishments. I love her quote: "The more we sweat in peace, the less we bleed in war."
Read up on the United Nations at their web site.
1900-1990
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy(Charlesbridge, 2005)
Meet Pandit, an Indian diplomat and first female president of the UN. In a few short paragraphs we learn about her great accomplishments. I love her quote: "The more we sweat in peace, the less we bleed in war."
Read up on the United Nations at their web site.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
February 23 Birthday: George Frideric Handel
George Frideric Handel, musician
Feb. 23, 1685-Apr. 14,1759
Handel, Who Knew What He Liked by M.T. Anderson, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes (Candlewick, 2001)
Here’s a humorous (and detailed) take on Handel’s life and music, including the a debunking of the myth that the tradition of standing during the Hallelujah Chorus began with the king.
Read an introduction to the Handel House, it’s history, restoration and about Handel’s London at the Handel House Museum.
Feb. 23, 1685-Apr. 14,1759
Handel, Who Knew What He Liked by M.T. Anderson, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes (Candlewick, 2001)
Here’s a humorous (and detailed) take on Handel’s life and music, including the a debunking of the myth that the tradition of standing during the Hallelujah Chorus began with the king.
Read an introduction to the Handel House, it’s history, restoration and about Handel’s London at the Handel House Museum.
Friday, February 22, 2008
February 22 Birthday: George Washington
George Washington, U.S. President
Feb. 22, 1732-Dec. 14, 1799
A Picture Book of George Washington by David A. Adler, illustrated by John Wallner and Alexandra Wallner
Washington and his times are featured in this simple biography about his life.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens offers a virtual mansion tour. Visit today.
Feb. 22, 1732-Dec. 14, 1799
A Picture Book of George Washington by David A. Adler, illustrated by John Wallner and Alexandra Wallner
Washington and his times are featured in this simple biography about his life.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens offers a virtual mansion tour. Visit today.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
February 20: Joshua Slocum
Joshua Slocum
Feb. 20, 1884-Nov. 14, 1909
Born in the Breezes: The Voyages of Joshua Slocum by Kathryn Lasky, illustrated by Walter Lyon Krudop (Orchard, 2001)
Sail the high seas with this story about Slocum’s life and his love of it.
The Joshua Slocum Society International website attempts to “maintain a complete record of all single-handed circumnavigators, to popularize the legendary first solo circumnavigator, Captain Joshua Slocum.”
Feb. 20, 1884-Nov. 14, 1909
Born in the Breezes: The Voyages of Joshua Slocum by Kathryn Lasky, illustrated by Walter Lyon Krudop (Orchard, 2001)
Sail the high seas with this story about Slocum’s life and his love of it.
The Joshua Slocum Society International website attempts to “maintain a complete record of all single-handed circumnavigators, to popularize the legendary first solo circumnavigator, Captain Joshua Slocum.”
Monday, February 18, 2008
February 18 Birthday: Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison, professor and writer
Feb. 18, 1931-
Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)
Morrison won the Pulitzer Prize for her novel Beloved in 1988 and the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993. Highlights of this extraordinary woman can be found in this collective biography.
Biographies, bibliographies, essays, interviews are posted on a site devoted to Morrison.
Feb. 18, 1931-
Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)
Morrison won the Pulitzer Prize for her novel Beloved in 1988 and the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1993. Highlights of this extraordinary woman can be found in this collective biography.
Biographies, bibliographies, essays, interviews are posted on a site devoted to Morrison.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
February 17 Birthday: Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan, athlete
Feb. 17, 1963-
Jump! From the Life of Michael Jordan by Floyd Cooper (Philomel, 2004)
Meet African-American basketball player Air Jordan as a child and young adult in this picture book biography about him. Hoops, anyone?
NBA.com offers a player profile of Jordan.Check it out.
Feb. 17, 1963-
Jump! From the Life of Michael Jordan by Floyd Cooper (Philomel, 2004)
Meet African-American basketball player Air Jordan as a child and young adult in this picture book biography about him. Hoops, anyone?
NBA.com offers a player profile of Jordan.Check it out.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
February 14 Birthdays: Margaret Knight, Anna Howard Shaw and Katherine Stinson Otero
Margaret Knight, inventor
Feb. 14, 1838-Oct. 12, 1914
Marvelous Mattie: How Margaret E. Knight Became an Inventor by Emily Arnold McCully (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2006)
Inventive as a child, Knight grew up to create the first paper bag machine. When her idea was stolen, she went to court and won. The first woman to receive a U.S. patent triumphed.
View at photo of Knight’s machine at the Smithsonian Institution
Anna Howard Shaw, women’s rights advocate
Feb. 14, 1847-July 2, 1919
A Voice From the Wilderness: The Story of Anna Howard Shaw by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
Based on her autobiography, this story of Shaw traces her life from childhood to adulthood. A teacher, then a doctor, Shaw became active in the women’s suffrage movement.
A biography and photo of Shaw are available at MichiganEpic.org
Katherine Stinson Otero, aviator
Feb. 14, 1891-July 8, 1977
Katherine Stinson Otero, High Flyer by Neila Skinner Petrick, illustrated by Daggi Wallace (Pelican, 2006)
High flyer, indeed. Stinson was the fourth woman in the U.S. to earn a pilot’s license and performed throughout the world. But when she was denied permission to fly for the armed services in WWI, she raised money for the effort by flying in exhibitions.
The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission posts a bio of Stinson on their site.
Feb. 14, 1838-Oct. 12, 1914
Marvelous Mattie: How Margaret E. Knight Became an Inventor by Emily Arnold McCully (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 2006)
Inventive as a child, Knight grew up to create the first paper bag machine. When her idea was stolen, she went to court and won. The first woman to receive a U.S. patent triumphed.
View at photo of Knight’s machine at the Smithsonian Institution
Anna Howard Shaw, women’s rights advocate
Feb. 14, 1847-July 2, 1919
A Voice From the Wilderness: The Story of Anna Howard Shaw by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
Based on her autobiography, this story of Shaw traces her life from childhood to adulthood. A teacher, then a doctor, Shaw became active in the women’s suffrage movement.
A biography and photo of Shaw are available at MichiganEpic.org
Katherine Stinson Otero, aviator
Feb. 14, 1891-July 8, 1977
Katherine Stinson Otero, High Flyer by Neila Skinner Petrick, illustrated by Daggi Wallace (Pelican, 2006)
High flyer, indeed. Stinson was the fourth woman in the U.S. to earn a pilot’s license and performed throughout the world. But when she was denied permission to fly for the armed services in WWI, she raised money for the effort by flying in exhibitions.
The U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission posts a bio of Stinson on their site.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
February 13 Birthday: Grant Wood
Grant Wood, artist
Feb. 13, 1891-Feb. 12, 1942
Artist in Overalls: The Life of Grant Wood by John Duggleby (Chronicle, 1996)
A picture book biography about the man who grew up to paint American Gothic showcases his love of the Heartland and determination to paint his own way.
Going Back to Iowa: The World of Grant Wood looks at Woods’ world and work.
Feb. 13, 1891-Feb. 12, 1942
Artist in Overalls: The Life of Grant Wood by John Duggleby (Chronicle, 1996)
A picture book biography about the man who grew up to paint American Gothic showcases his love of the Heartland and determination to paint his own way.
Going Back to Iowa: The World of Grant Wood looks at Woods’ world and work.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
February 12 Birthdays: Abraham Lincoln and Charles Darwin
Abraham Lincoln, U.S President
Feb. 12, 1809-Apr. 15, 1865
Young Abe Lincoln: The Frontier Days 1809-1837 by Cheryl Harness (National Geographic Children’s Books, 1998)
Lincoln was a man of great determination and compassion. This book about his early years shows the roots of those qualities.
Go to the White House for more details about Lincoln’s life.
Charles Darwin, naturalist
Feb. 12, 1809-Apr. 19, 1882
The Tree of Life: Charles Darwin by Peter Sis (Walker, 2003)
Darwin’s life and ideas are detailed through the text and illustrations. Notes and diary entries from Darwin’s work as well as maps and timelines illuminate the text.
Read what orchidologists have to say about Darwin, his work with orchids and its impact on scientific knowledge.
Feb. 12, 1809-Apr. 15, 1865
Young Abe Lincoln: The Frontier Days 1809-1837 by Cheryl Harness (National Geographic Children’s Books, 1998)
Lincoln was a man of great determination and compassion. This book about his early years shows the roots of those qualities.
Go to the White House for more details about Lincoln’s life.
Charles Darwin, naturalist
Feb. 12, 1809-Apr. 19, 1882
The Tree of Life: Charles Darwin by Peter Sis (Walker, 2003)
Darwin’s life and ideas are detailed through the text and illustrations. Notes and diary entries from Darwin’s work as well as maps and timelines illuminate the text.
Read what orchidologists have to say about Darwin, his work with orchids and its impact on scientific knowledge.
Monday, February 11, 2008
February 11 Birthday: Thomas Edison
Thomas Edison, inventor
Feb. 11, 1847-Oct. 18, 1931
A Picture Book of Thomas Alva Edison by David A. Adler, illustrated by John C. Wallner and Alexandra Wallner (Holiday House, 1996)
In this biography of a man who was always thinking ahead, readers will learn about Edison's inventions as well as his life.
At a site hosted by Rutgers, you'll find The Edison Papers, a collection of over five million pages of documents. Search Edison’s bio, patents, inventions and other related materials.
Feb. 11, 1847-Oct. 18, 1931
A Picture Book of Thomas Alva Edison by David A. Adler, illustrated by John C. Wallner and Alexandra Wallner (Holiday House, 1996)
In this biography of a man who was always thinking ahead, readers will learn about Edison's inventions as well as his life.
At a site hosted by Rutgers, you'll find The Edison Papers, a collection of over five million pages of documents. Search Edison’s bio, patents, inventions and other related materials.
Saturday, February 09, 2008
February 9 Birthdays: W.A. Bentley and William Henry Harrison
W. A. Bentley, photographer
Feb. 9, 1865-1931
Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs, illustrated by Mary Azarian (Houghton Mifflin, 1998)
As a boy, snowflakes captured William Bentley’s attention. But it was a microscope with a camera that led to his life’s work: photographing snowflakes. This Caldecott Medal Winner is cool!
The Official page of Snowflake Bentley.com has articles by Bentley, snowflake links, current Jericho weather conditions, and more.
William Henry Harrison, U.S. President
Feb. 9, 1773-Apr. 4, 1841
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
Harrison, Number 9, served the shortest term—one month.
The POTUS (Presidents of the United States) section of the IPL (The Internet Public Library) gives an overview of Harrison’s life with plenty of links to take you beyond the basic facts.
Feb. 9, 1865-1931
Snowflake Bentley by Jacqueline Briggs, illustrated by Mary Azarian (Houghton Mifflin, 1998)
As a boy, snowflakes captured William Bentley’s attention. But it was a microscope with a camera that led to his life’s work: photographing snowflakes. This Caldecott Medal Winner is cool!
The Official page of Snowflake Bentley.com has articles by Bentley, snowflake links, current Jericho weather conditions, and more.
William Henry Harrison, U.S. President
Feb. 9, 1773-Apr. 4, 1841
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
Harrison, Number 9, served the shortest term—one month.
The POTUS (Presidents of the United States) section of the IPL (The Internet Public Library) gives an overview of Harrison’s life with plenty of links to take you beyond the basic facts.
Friday, February 08, 2008
February 8 Birthdays: Waterhouse Hawkins and Alice Walker
Waterhouse Hawkins, artist
Feb. 8, 1807-1889
The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins: An Illuminating History of Mr. Waterhouse Hawkins, Artist and Lecturer by Barbara Kerley, illustrated by Brian Selznick (Scholastic, 2001)
This is the story of a man with a vision and talent. Hawkins was passionate about dinos and it led him to build life-size models of them.
At the Linda Hall Library of Science, Engineering & Technology, see drawings of Hawkins’ for the Crystal Palace Restorations in 1854.
Alice Walker, writer
Feb. 8, 1944-
Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)
Born to sharecroppers in Georgia, Alice Walker worked hard in school. She was an active participant in the civil rights movement and is an accomplished poet and novelist. The Color Purple is her most well-known work.
Links to information about Walker can be found at a Cuny.edu site.
Feb. 8, 1807-1889
The Dinosaurs of Waterhouse Hawkins: An Illuminating History of Mr. Waterhouse Hawkins, Artist and Lecturer by Barbara Kerley, illustrated by Brian Selznick (Scholastic, 2001)
This is the story of a man with a vision and talent. Hawkins was passionate about dinos and it led him to build life-size models of them.
At the Linda Hall Library of Science, Engineering & Technology, see drawings of Hawkins’ for the Crystal Palace Restorations in 1854.
Alice Walker, writer
Feb. 8, 1944-
Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)
Born to sharecroppers in Georgia, Alice Walker worked hard in school. She was an active participant in the civil rights movement and is an accomplished poet and novelist. The Color Purple is her most well-known work.
Links to information about Walker can be found at a Cuny.edu site.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
February 7 Birthdays: Charles Dickens and Laura Ingalls Wilder
Charles Dickens
Feb. 7, 1812-June 9, 1870
Charles Dickens: The Man Who Had Great Expectations by Diane Stanley (HarperCollins, 1993)
Fans of A Christmas Carol will be especially interested in this biography of Dickens, who rose above his troubled childhood but never forgot it.
The New York Public Library hosts an online seminar by Kenneth Benson called Charles Dickens: The Life of the Author in six sessions.
Laura Ingalls Wilder, author
Feb. 7, 1867-Feb. 10, 1957
Laura Ingalls Wilder by Alexandra Wallner (Holiday House, 1997)
The story of the pioneer girl turned author is featured in this simple biography about the creator of the Little House books.
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum contains Wilder’s history, museum information and a link just for kids.
Feb. 7, 1812-June 9, 1870
Charles Dickens: The Man Who Had Great Expectations by Diane Stanley (HarperCollins, 1993)
Fans of A Christmas Carol will be especially interested in this biography of Dickens, who rose above his troubled childhood but never forgot it.
The New York Public Library hosts an online seminar by Kenneth Benson called Charles Dickens: The Life of the Author in six sessions.
Laura Ingalls Wilder, author
Feb. 7, 1867-Feb. 10, 1957
Laura Ingalls Wilder by Alexandra Wallner (Holiday House, 1997)
The story of the pioneer girl turned author is featured in this simple biography about the creator of the Little House books.
The Laura Ingalls Wilder Historic Home and Museum contains Wilder’s history, museum information and a link just for kids.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
February 6 Birthdays: Ronald Regan and Babe Ruth
Ronald Regan, U.S. President
February 6, 1911-June 5, 2004
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
A movie actor turned president, Regan loved to ride horses and tell a good story. He was the 40th president of the United States.
Read a bio of Regan on the White House site.
Home Run: The Story of Babe Ruth by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Mike Wimmer (Voyager Books, 2003)
The story of Ruth as well as his home run record-breaking in 1927 is illustrated with realistic paintings and images of baseball cards with career stats.
BabeRuth.com is a source for biography, stats, achievements, quotes, photos and awards about Babe Ruth.
February 6, 1911-June 5, 2004
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
A movie actor turned president, Regan loved to ride horses and tell a good story. He was the 40th president of the United States.
Read a bio of Regan on the White House site.
Home Run: The Story of Babe Ruth by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Mike Wimmer (Voyager Books, 2003)
The story of Ruth as well as his home run record-breaking in 1927 is illustrated with realistic paintings and images of baseball cards with career stats.
BabeRuth.com is a source for biography, stats, achievements, quotes, photos and awards about Babe Ruth.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
February 5 Birthday: Hank Aaron
Hank Aaron. athlete
Feb. 5, 1934-
Hank Aaron: Brave in Every Way by Peter Golenbock, illustrated by Paul Lee (Gulliver Books, 2001)
African-American baseball great Hank Aaron followed his dream and in spite of the racial tensions in the 1960s and hate mail directed to him, he kept on and broke the home run record of Babe Ruth.
Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982, Aaron is featured on their site.
Feb. 5, 1934-
Hank Aaron: Brave in Every Way by Peter Golenbock, illustrated by Paul Lee (Gulliver Books, 2001)
African-American baseball great Hank Aaron followed his dream and in spite of the racial tensions in the 1960s and hate mail directed to him, he kept on and broke the home run record of Babe Ruth.
Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1982, Aaron is featured on their site.
Monday, February 04, 2008
February 4 Birthdays: Charles Lindbergh, Rosa Parks and Alexis Soyer
Charles Lindbergh, aviator
Feb. 4, 1902-Aug. 26, 1974
Flight by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Mike Wimmer (Putnam Juvenile paperback, 1997)
This is one of my all-time favorite picture book biographies. It is the dramatic account of Lindbergh’s solitary flight across the Atlantic in 1927 with picture-perfect artwork.
Information about the flight, flight timeline, Spirit of St. Louis, photos, documents, articles, and biographies can be found at CharlesLindbergh.com.
Rosa Parks, civil rights advocate
Feb. 4, 1913-Oct. 24, 2005
Rosa by Nikki Giovanni, illustrated by Bryan Collier (Holt, 2005)
The story of the seamstress and African-American civil rights leader who refused to give up her sit on the bus is told in this compelling picture book biography of a true heroine.
The Rosa & Raymond Parks Institute for Self Development offers a biography and timeline of Mrs. Parks.
Alexis Soyer, chef
Feb. 4, 1810-Aug. 5, 1858
The Adventurous Chef: Alexis Soyer by Anne Arnold (FSG, 2002)
French chef Soyer organized a soup kitchen during the Irish potato famine and worked with Florence Nightingale during the Crimean War.
To read more about Soyer, visit the Victorianweb.org site.
Feb. 4, 1902-Aug. 26, 1974
Flight by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Mike Wimmer (Putnam Juvenile paperback, 1997)
This is one of my all-time favorite picture book biographies. It is the dramatic account of Lindbergh’s solitary flight across the Atlantic in 1927 with picture-perfect artwork.
Information about the flight, flight timeline, Spirit of St. Louis, photos, documents, articles, and biographies can be found at CharlesLindbergh.com.
Rosa Parks, civil rights advocate
Feb. 4, 1913-Oct. 24, 2005
Rosa by Nikki Giovanni, illustrated by Bryan Collier (Holt, 2005)
The story of the seamstress and African-American civil rights leader who refused to give up her sit on the bus is told in this compelling picture book biography of a true heroine.
The Rosa & Raymond Parks Institute for Self Development offers a biography and timeline of Mrs. Parks.
Alexis Soyer, chef
Feb. 4, 1810-Aug. 5, 1858
The Adventurous Chef: Alexis Soyer by Anne Arnold (FSG, 2002)
French chef Soyer organized a soup kitchen during the Irish potato famine and worked with Florence Nightingale during the Crimean War.
To read more about Soyer, visit the Victorianweb.org site.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
February 2 Birthday: John P. Parker
John P. Parker, abolitionist, inventor
Feb. 2, 1827-Jan. 30, 1900
Freedom River by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Bryan Collier (Jump At the Sun, 2000)
This Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book recounts the story of ex-slave John P. Parker, and his efforts to assist others in gaining freedom through the Underground Railroad.
The Autobiography of John Parker, an Online Archival Collection at Duke University gives visitors information about Parker and links to Underground Railroad sites.
Feb. 2, 1827-Jan. 30, 1900
Freedom River by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Bryan Collier (Jump At the Sun, 2000)
This Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor Book recounts the story of ex-slave John P. Parker, and his efforts to assist others in gaining freedom through the Underground Railroad.
The Autobiography of John Parker, an Online Archival Collection at Duke University gives visitors information about Parker and links to Underground Railroad sites.
Friday, February 01, 2008
February 1 Birthdays: Langston Hughes and Don Everly
Langston Hughes, poet
Feb. 1, 1902-May 22, 1967
Langston's Train Ride by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Leonard Jenkins (Orchard, 2004)
When Hughes was eighteen, he took a train from Ohio to Mexico. During his journey he wrote one of his most famous poems, The Negro Speaks of Rivers. This is the story of that ride and creation of that poem.
PoetryFoundation.org hosts several of Hughes’ poems.
Don Everly, musician
Feb. 1, 1937-
Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
In a page of text devoted to The Everly Brothers, readers learn Phil and his brother Don started out singing country but crossed over to rock and roll. Wake Up Little Susie was one of their biggest hits.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, a timeline and short bio of The Everly Brothers is posted at RockHall.com.
Feb. 1, 1902-May 22, 1967
Langston's Train Ride by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Leonard Jenkins (Orchard, 2004)
When Hughes was eighteen, he took a train from Ohio to Mexico. During his journey he wrote one of his most famous poems, The Negro Speaks of Rivers. This is the story of that ride and creation of that poem.
PoetryFoundation.org hosts several of Hughes’ poems.
Don Everly, musician
Feb. 1, 1937-
Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
In a page of text devoted to The Everly Brothers, readers learn Phil and his brother Don started out singing country but crossed over to rock and roll. Wake Up Little Susie was one of their biggest hits.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, a timeline and short bio of The Everly Brothers is posted at RockHall.com.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
January 30 Birthday: Franklin Delano Roosevelt
Franklin Delano Roosevelt, U. S. President
Jan. 30, 1882-Apr. 12, 1945
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
This president had "fireside chats" broadcast over the radio, a collection of miniature pigs and a vibrant wife, Eleanor. FDR was number 32.
Visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum today.
Jan. 30, 1882-Apr. 12, 1945
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
This president had "fireside chats" broadcast over the radio, a collection of miniature pigs and a vibrant wife, Eleanor. FDR was number 32.
Visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum today.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
January 29 Birthdays: William McKinley and Oprah Winfrey
William McKinley, U.S. President
Jan. 29, 1843-Sept. 14, 1901
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
Number 25 banned the color yellow in the White House. A one paragraph bio of this president highlights his life and career.
Read more about McKinley at The White House site.
Oprah Winfrey, talk show host
Jan. 29, 1954-
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)
T.V. talk show host, book lover, actress, philanthropist and more, Ms. O, an African-American, is dedicated to making the world a better place.
One of the richest people in the world, Winfrey recently opened a Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa. Read an article about the school here.
Jan. 29, 1843-Sept. 14, 1901
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
Number 25 banned the color yellow in the White House. A one paragraph bio of this president highlights his life and career.
Read more about McKinley at The White House site.
Oprah Winfrey, talk show host
Jan. 29, 1954-
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)
T.V. talk show host, book lover, actress, philanthropist and more, Ms. O, an African-American, is dedicated to making the world a better place.
One of the richest people in the world, Winfrey recently opened a Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa. Read an article about the school here.
Monday, January 28, 2008
January 28 Birthday: Jackson Pollock
Jackson Pollock, artist
Jan. 28, 1912-Aug. 11, 1956
Action Jackson by Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan, illustrated by Robert Andrew Parker (Frances Lincoln Publishers, 2005)
Splatter painting anyone? This is a riveting look at Lavender Mist, one of abstract expressionist Jackson Pollock’s most famous paintings and how he came to paint it.
Browse the collection of Pollock’s work at The Museum of Modern Art at MoMa.org.
Jan. 28, 1912-Aug. 11, 1956
Action Jackson by Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan, illustrated by Robert Andrew Parker (Frances Lincoln Publishers, 2005)
Splatter painting anyone? This is a riveting look at Lavender Mist, one of abstract expressionist Jackson Pollock’s most famous paintings and how he came to paint it.
Browse the collection of Pollock’s work at The Museum of Modern Art at MoMa.org.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
January 27 Birthday: Wolfgang Mozart
Wolfgang Mozart, musician
Jan. 27, 1756-Dec. 5, 1791
Mozart Tonight by Julie Downing (Aladdin, paper, 1994)
Told in first person, Mozart’s life is center stage in this story of his struggles and creativity.
The Mozart Project offers a biography, compositions, selected essays, bibliography and links to all things Mozart.
Jan. 27, 1756-Dec. 5, 1791
Mozart Tonight by Julie Downing (Aladdin, paper, 1994)
Told in first person, Mozart’s life is center stage in this story of his struggles and creativity.
The Mozart Project offers a biography, compositions, selected essays, bibliography and links to all things Mozart.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
January 26 Birthday: Bessie Coleman
Bessie Coleman, aviator
Jan. 26, 1892-Apr. 30, 1926
Talkin' About Bessie: The Story of Aviator Elizabeth Coleman by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by E. B. Lewis (Orchard, 2002)
The first African-American woman airplane pilot’s story is told in approximately two-dozen fictionalized poems a.k.a. eulogies about her life.
PBS features a bio and photo of Coleman on their Fly Girls page.
Jan. 26, 1892-Apr. 30, 1926
Talkin' About Bessie: The Story of Aviator Elizabeth Coleman by Nikki Grimes, illustrated by E. B. Lewis (Orchard, 2002)
The first African-American woman airplane pilot’s story is told in approximately two-dozen fictionalized poems a.k.a. eulogies about her life.
PBS features a bio and photo of Coleman on their Fly Girls page.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
January 24 Birthday: Maria Tallchief
Maria Tallchief, ballerina
Jan. 24, 1925-
Tallchief: America’s Prima Ballerina by Maria Tallchief, with Rosemary Wells, illustrated by Gary Kelley (Viking Juvenile, 1999)
Native American ballerina Maria Tallchief tells the story of her own childhood up to her move to New York at seventeen in pursuit of a dance career.
A few images of Tallchief can be seen at The Ballerina Gallery.
Jan. 24, 1925-
Tallchief: America’s Prima Ballerina by Maria Tallchief, with Rosemary Wells, illustrated by Gary Kelley (Viking Juvenile, 1999)
Native American ballerina Maria Tallchief tells the story of her own childhood up to her move to New York at seventeen in pursuit of a dance career.
A few images of Tallchief can be seen at The Ballerina Gallery.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Unknown Birthday: Nzingha
Nzingha, ruler
1683-Dec. 17, 1663
Lives of Extraordinary Women: Rulers, Rebels (and What the Neighbors Thought) by KathleenKrull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 2000)
This take-charge warrior queen effectively resisted slave traders in West Africa (present-day Angola), appointed women and influenced politics forty years and beyond.
Biographical info on Nzingha is available.
Also visit the Official Web Site of the Republic of Angola.
1683-Dec. 17, 1663
Lives of Extraordinary Women: Rulers, Rebels (and What the Neighbors Thought) by KathleenKrull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 2000)
This take-charge warrior queen effectively resisted slave traders in West Africa (present-day Angola), appointed women and influenced politics forty years and beyond.
Biographical info on Nzingha is available.
Also visit the Official Web Site of the Republic of Angola.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Unknown Birthday: Blanche Leathers
Blanche Leathers, steamboat captain
c. 1860-?
Steamboat! The Story of Captain Blanche Leathers by Judith Heide Gilliland, illustrated by Holly Meade (DK, 2000)
Blanche Leathers didn't listen when as a child she was told, "Girls don't grow up to be steamboatmen." America's first woman steamboat captain proudly sailed the Mississippi River for years.
View a photo of a steamboat Captain Blanche Leathers commanded, on this link to the Tennessee Genealogy & History site.
c. 1860-?
Steamboat! The Story of Captain Blanche Leathers by Judith Heide Gilliland, illustrated by Holly Meade (DK, 2000)
Blanche Leathers didn't listen when as a child she was told, "Girls don't grow up to be steamboatmen." America's first woman steamboat captain proudly sailed the Mississippi River for years.
View a photo of a steamboat Captain Blanche Leathers commanded, on this link to the Tennessee Genealogy & History site.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
January 19 Birthdays: Paul Cezanne and Phil Everly
Paul Cezanne, artist
Jan. 19, 1839-Oct. 22, 1906
Paul Cezanne: A Painter's Journey by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by works from the National Gallery of Art (Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2006)
French artist Cezanne and his work are featured in this introduction to this talented Post-Impressionist painter.
The National Gallery of Art exhibit, Cezanne in Provence, offers a chronology, images and background. Visit today!
Phil Everly, musician
Jan. 19, 1939-
Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
In a page of text devoted to The Everly Brothers, readers learn Phil and his brother Don started out singing country but crossed over to rock and roll. Wake Up Little Susie was one of their biggest hits.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, a timeline and short bio of The Everly Brothers is posted at RockHall.com.
Jan. 19, 1839-Oct. 22, 1906
Paul Cezanne: A Painter's Journey by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by works from the National Gallery of Art (Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2006)
French artist Cezanne and his work are featured in this introduction to this talented Post-Impressionist painter.
The National Gallery of Art exhibit, Cezanne in Provence, offers a chronology, images and background. Visit today!
Phil Everly, musician
Jan. 19, 1939-
Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
In a page of text devoted to The Everly Brothers, readers learn Phil and his brother Don started out singing country but crossed over to rock and roll. Wake Up Little Susie was one of their biggest hits.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, a timeline and short bio of The Everly Brothers is posted at RockHall.com.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
January 17 Birthdays: Muhammad Ali, Ben Franklin and Mack Sennett
Muhammad Ali, athlete
Jan. 17, 1942-
I Shook Up the World: The Incredible Life of Muhammad Ali by Maryum Ali, illustrated by Patrick Johnson (Beyond Words Publishing, 2004)
Three-time winner of the World Heavyweight boxing championship, an Olympic gold medal and numerous other awards, Ali was born Cassius Clay, Jr. in Louisville, Kentucky. One of his most famous quotes is “Float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.”
The Official Site of the U.S. Olympic Team highlights the many accomplishments of Ali, an African-American super athlete.
Ben Franklin, founding father
Jan. 17, 1706-Apr. 17, 1706
The Life of Ben Franklin: An American Original by Yona Zeldis McDongough, illustrated by Malcah Zeldis (Holt, 2006)
Author, politician, and inventor were just a few of Franklin’s occupations. The story of his life and achievements are detailed in this biography.
Time Magazine’s Online Edition has a Special Report on Franklin, titled “Citizen Ben’s Great Virtues.”
Mack Sennett, film pioneer
Jan. 17, 1880-Nov. 5, 1960
Mack Made Movies by Don Brown (Roaring Brook Press, 2003)
“In 1900, twenty-year-old Mack Sennett was a horse’s rear end.” Who can resist an opening line like that? Read more about the silent moviemaker of the slapstick Keystone Kops and Charlie Chaplin.
A mini-biography and a listing of Sennett's is available on a movie database site.
Jan. 17, 1942-
I Shook Up the World: The Incredible Life of Muhammad Ali by Maryum Ali, illustrated by Patrick Johnson (Beyond Words Publishing, 2004)
Three-time winner of the World Heavyweight boxing championship, an Olympic gold medal and numerous other awards, Ali was born Cassius Clay, Jr. in Louisville, Kentucky. One of his most famous quotes is “Float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.”
The Official Site of the U.S. Olympic Team highlights the many accomplishments of Ali, an African-American super athlete.
Ben Franklin, founding father
Jan. 17, 1706-Apr. 17, 1706
The Life of Ben Franklin: An American Original by Yona Zeldis McDongough, illustrated by Malcah Zeldis (Holt, 2006)
Author, politician, and inventor were just a few of Franklin’s occupations. The story of his life and achievements are detailed in this biography.
Time Magazine’s Online Edition has a Special Report on Franklin, titled “Citizen Ben’s Great Virtues.”
Mack Sennett, film pioneer
Jan. 17, 1880-Nov. 5, 1960
Mack Made Movies by Don Brown (Roaring Brook Press, 2003)
“In 1900, twenty-year-old Mack Sennett was a horse’s rear end.” Who can resist an opening line like that? Read more about the silent moviemaker of the slapstick Keystone Kops and Charlie Chaplin.
A mini-biography and a listing of Sennett's is available on a movie database site.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
January 16 Birthday: Dian Fossey
Dian Fossey, ethologist
Jan. 16, 1932-Dec. 26, 1985
Light Shining Through the Mist: A Photobiography of Dian Fossey by Tom L. Matthews (National Geographic Children’s Books, 1998)
The Fossey name is synonymous with gorillas. Fossey studied them in their native habitat in the mountains of Rwanda and in the Congo. Photos add to this fascinating introduction of Fossey and her work.
Learn more about Fossey’s work, mountain gorillas, conservation and research at The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International site.
Jan. 16, 1932-Dec. 26, 1985
Light Shining Through the Mist: A Photobiography of Dian Fossey by Tom L. Matthews (National Geographic Children’s Books, 1998)
The Fossey name is synonymous with gorillas. Fossey studied them in their native habitat in the mountains of Rwanda and in the Congo. Photos add to this fascinating introduction of Fossey and her work.
Learn more about Fossey’s work, mountain gorillas, conservation and research at The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International site.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
January 15 Birthday: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., civil rights advocate
Jan. 15, 1929-Apr. 4, 1968
Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Bryan Collier (Jump at the Sun, 2001)
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s words live on. His most famous speech, “I Have a Dream,” stirs hearts today. The youngest man to win the Nobel Peace Prize, Dr. King, Jr., a gifted African-American political leader, minister and peacemaker is honored by a U.S. Federal holiday on his birthday.
Check out The Seattle Times for a photo gallery, timeline, quotes, and a biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a great American hero.
Jan. 15, 1929-Apr. 4, 1968
Martin's Big Words: The Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Bryan Collier (Jump at the Sun, 2001)
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s words live on. His most famous speech, “I Have a Dream,” stirs hearts today. The youngest man to win the Nobel Peace Prize, Dr. King, Jr., a gifted African-American political leader, minister and peacemaker is honored by a U.S. Federal holiday on his birthday.
Check out The Seattle Times for a photo gallery, timeline, quotes, and a biography of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a great American hero.
Friday, January 11, 2008
January 12 Birthdays: Ira Hayes and Jack London
Ira Hayes, WWII hero
Jan. 12, 1923-Jan. 24, 1955
Quiet Hero: The Ira Hayes Story by S.D. Nelson (Charlesbridge, 2006)
Ira Hayes served in the United States Marine Corps during WWII. A photographer captured a picture of Hayes and five of his buddies raising an American flag on Iwo Jima. That photo made him and the others instantly famous. This is the story of his childhood on an Indian reservation, his time in the military and the effects of war on his life.
For a photo of the U.S.M.C. War Memorial and a brief history of it, visit the National Park Service site.
Jack London, author
Jan. 12, 1876- Nov. 22,1916
Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1994)
London went to seek fame in the California gold rush and found it by writing about it. His most famous work: The Call of the Wild.
A bio, FAQs, photos, images, writings, resources for students and teachers can be accessed at The Jack London Online Collection hosted by Sonoma State University.
Jan. 12, 1923-Jan. 24, 1955
Quiet Hero: The Ira Hayes Story by S.D. Nelson (Charlesbridge, 2006)
Ira Hayes served in the United States Marine Corps during WWII. A photographer captured a picture of Hayes and five of his buddies raising an American flag on Iwo Jima. That photo made him and the others instantly famous. This is the story of his childhood on an Indian reservation, his time in the military and the effects of war on his life.
For a photo of the U.S.M.C. War Memorial and a brief history of it, visit the National Park Service site.
Jack London, author
Jan. 12, 1876- Nov. 22,1916
Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1994)
London went to seek fame in the California gold rush and found it by writing about it. His most famous work: The Call of the Wild.
A bio, FAQs, photos, images, writings, resources for students and teachers can be accessed at The Jack London Online Collection hosted by Sonoma State University.
Unknown Birthday: Hypatia
Hypatia, mathematician & philosopher
370-415
Of Numbers and Stars: The Story of Hypatia by D. Anne Love, illustrated by Pam Paparone (Holiday House, 2006)
Hypatia found her passion in numbers and ideas. This "symbol of a learned women" in fourth century Alexandria inspires.
Read what Socrates wrote about Hypatia, plus a few other facts posted on the University of Chicago web site.
370-415
Of Numbers and Stars: The Story of Hypatia by D. Anne Love, illustrated by Pam Paparone (Holiday House, 2006)
Hypatia found her passion in numbers and ideas. This "symbol of a learned women" in fourth century Alexandria inspires.
Read what Socrates wrote about Hypatia, plus a few other facts posted on the University of Chicago web site.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
January 9 Birthday: Richard Nixon
Richard Nixon, U.S. PresidentJan. 9, 1913-Apr. 22, 1994
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
Nicknamed "Tricky Dick,” Nixon was the 37th president, the first to visit all 50 states, and the only one to have resigned from office.
Learn more about Nixon at the Nixon Presidential Materials Center hosted by the National Archives and Records Administration.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
January 8 Birthday: Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley, musicianJan. 8, 1935- Aug. 16, 1977
Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)
Rock on! The King lives on. Born in Tupelo, Mississippi, Elvis moved to Memphis as a teen and began recording after high school. Blue Suede Shoes, Hound Dog and Love Me Tender were just a few of his hits.
Have you been to Graceland? Learn about tours to Elvis’ home and other Elvis news at Elvis.com.
Monday, January 07, 2008
January 7 Birthdays: Millard Fillmore, Zora N. Hurston and Sadako Sasaki
Millard Fillmore, U.S. PresidentJan. 7, 1800-March 8, 1874
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
Krull's one paragraph description of President Number 13 notes that he had no bad habits!
Fillmore’s White House biography is available on the Whitehouse.gov site.
Zora N. Hurston, author
Jan. 7, 1891-Jan. 28, 1060
Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by
Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)
Z is for Zora in this tribute to famous women. An African-American writer during the Harlem Renaissance, Hurston was also a folklorist and anthropologist.
The Zora Neale Hurston Digital Archive at the University of Central Florida offers information about Hurston’s life and times, writings, and criticism.
Sadako Sasaki, peacemaker
Jan. 7, 1943-Oct. 25, 1955
Sadako by Eleanor Coerr, illustrated by Ed Young (interview)(Putnam, 1993)
This is an adaptation of Eleanor Coerr’s classic novel, Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes. In this story, Sadako Sasaki, a young Japanese girl stricken with “atom bomb disease” holds fast to the legend that if a person who is ill folds a thousand origami paper cranes, the wish to be well again will be granted. Though Sadako fell shy of her goal, her friends and classmates rallied behind her cause and saw that she was buried with one thousand cranes. Three years after her death, a statue of this great peacemaker was erected in Hiroshima Peace Park.
From the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum homepage, click the Kids Peace Station button to read The Sadako Story, Sadado and the Atomic Bombing. Letters to Sadako, Peace Studies Presentation Room, the Question Box and Kids Links.
Friday, January 04, 2008
January 4 Birthday: Louis Braille
Louis Braille, inventorJan. 4, 1809-Jan. 6, 1854
Louis Braille by Dennis B. Fradin, illustrated by Rob Sauber (Silver Burdett, 1997)
Louis Braille, a French boy who lost his sight as a young boy, invented a reading system for the blind when he was only 15.
Learn Braille's alphabet and number system at the American Foundation for the Blind site.
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
January 1 Birthdays: Hank Greenberg, Amelia Stewart Knight, W. W. Law, Paul Revere, Betsy Ross and Chiune Sugihara
Hank Greenberg, athleteJan. 1, 1911-Sept. 4, 1986
Hammerin' Hank: The Life of Hank Greenberg by Yona Zeldis McDonough, illustrated by Malcah Zeldis (Walker Books for Young Readers, 2006)
First baseman and outfielder, Greenberg was a American Hall of Famer with an incredible slugging percentage. Born to Orthodox parents, who were not thrilled by his choice of profession, he became the first Jewish baseball star. His heritage was sometimes a source of ridicule on and off the field but as this book shows, it informed the choices he made.
The National Baseball Hall of Fame site offers highlights of Greenberg’s career.
Amelia Stewart Knight, pioneer
Jan. 1, 1817/8-unknown
Way West: Journal of a Pioneer Woman by Amelia Stewart Knight, illustrated by Michael McCurdy (Simon & Schuster Children’s, 1993)
Knight’s journey from Iowa to Oregon in 1853 was far from ordinary. In this adaptation of her journals, readers will get a glimpse into this pioneer woman’s life on the long, long trail.
The Diary of Mrs. Amelia Stewart Knight's successful journey is posted online at a site devoted to The Oregon Trail.
W.W. Law, civil rights leader
Jan. 1, 1923-July 29, 2002
Delivering Justice: W. W. Law and the Fight for Civil Rights by Jim Haskins, illustrated by Benny Andrews (Candlewick, 2005)
Westley Wallace Law made a difference. Born in Georgia, amidst poverty and segregation, this African American, who grew up to be a mail carrier, joined the NAACP as a young man, helped blacks register to vote and was instrumental in leading the Great Savannah Boycott.
This Far by Faith, a PBS program, describes W. W. Law’s life of dedication and service.
Paul Revere, patriot
Jan. 1, 1735-May 10, 1818
Paul Revere’s Ride by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, illustrated by Ted Rand (Puffin edition, 1996)
Granted, this is not a traditional picture book biography, but this famous poem does tell the story of Revere’s famous midnight ride on April 18, 1775. A silversmith by trade, Revere played a most significant role in the American Revolution. “Listen, my children, and you shall hear, Of the midnight ride of Paul Revere…”
Read the real story of Revere’s ride, a virtual midnight ride, Revere’s own words, Longfellow’s poem and more at The Paul Revere House site.
Betsy Ross, businesswoman and seamstress
Jan. 1, 1752-Jan. 30, 1836
Betsy Ross by Alexandra Wallner (Holiday House, 1994)
In this book, Ross’ childhood, family life, and business life are showcased along with her legendary flag-making effort.
Tour Betsy Ross’ house, view American flags, read about the history of the flag and other fascinating facts at The Betsy Ross Homepage.
Chiune Sugihara, diplomat
Jan. 1, 1900-July 31, 1986
Passage to Freedom: The Sugihara Story by Ken Mochizuki, illustrated by Dom Lee (Lee & Low,
Sugihara, known as the “Japanese Schindler” was a diplomat serving in Lithuania during WW II when he saved thousands of Jews. This powerful narrative is written from the point of view of Sugihara’s son Hiroki.
The Jewish Virtual Library tells the compelling story of Chiune and Yukiko Sugihara’s eternal good deeds.
Monday, December 31, 2007
December 31 Birthday: Henri Matisse
Henri Matisse, artistDec. 31, 1869-Nov. 3, 1954
A Bird or 2: A Story About Henri Matisse by Bijou Le Tord (Eerdmans Books for Young Readers, 1999)
This tribute to the French artist, known as the father of modern art, focuses on Matisse's later years, when he lived in Nice and was inspired by its extraordinary light.
View the collection of Matisse art at the Museum of Modern Art.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
December 29 Birthday: Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson, U.S. PresidentDec. 29, 1808-July 31, 1875
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
A tailor by profession, this was our only president who could quilt. He was number 17.
You can read Johnson's State of the Union Address on the Project Gutenberg site.
Friday, December 28, 2007
December 28 Birthday: Woodrow Wilson
Woodrow Wilson, U.S. PresidentDec. 28, 1856-Feb. 3, 1924
Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)
Our most educated president spent more money on books than clothes. His number? 28.
Read the official White House biography of President Wilson at Whitehouse.gov.
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
December 25 Birthdays: Jesus and Anwar el-Sadat
JesusDec. 25-
Jesus by Brian Wildsmith (Eerdmans, 2000)
Beginning with the birth of Jesus, Wildsmith highlights the rest of Jesus' life, death on the cross, resurrection and ascension. Merry Christmas!
The King James version of the Bible is available online at Verse Link.
Anwar el-Sadat, politician
Dec. 25, 1918-Oct. 6, 1981
Paths to Peace: People Who Changed the World by Jane Breskin Zalben (Dutton, 2006)
Anwar el-Sadat, a former president of Egypt is featured in this book dedicated to sixteen celebrated individuals.
Read more about this Nobel Prize for Peace recipient (an award he shared with Israel's prime minister Mehachem Begin) at the Britannica's guide to the Nobel Prizes.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
December 23 Birthday: Sarah Breedlove Walker
Sarah Breedlove Walker, philanthropistDec. 23, 1867-May 25, 1919
Vision of Beauty: The Story of Sarah Breedlove Walker by Kathryn Lasky, illustrated by Nneka Bennett (Candlewick, 2000)
Born to former slaves, Sarah Breedlove Walker triumphed over numerous adversities to become the owner and operator of a hair products business, which became one of the largest companies in America by 1912. Her generosity was legendary as she shared her wealth with others.
The Official Website of Madam C. J. Walker a.k.a Sarah Breedlove Walker offers a bio and more.
Saturday, December 22, 2007
December 22 Birthday: Claudia "Lady Bird" Johnson
Claudia "Lady Bird" Johnson, environmentalist and former First LadyDec. 22, 1912-July 11, 2007
Miss Lady Bird's Wildflowers: How a First Lady Changed America by Kathi Appelt, illustrated by Joy Fisher Hein (HarperCollins, 2005)
One person can make our world a more beautiful place. Here's proof. Thank you, Lady Bird.
Visit The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, Texas.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Unknown Birthday: Esther
Esther, leaderEsther's Story by Diane Wolkstein, illustrated by Juan Wijngaard (HarperTrophy, 1998)
Esther saved the day. Literally. In this biblical account, written in the form of a diary, Esther tells the story of her life and how as Queen Esther she saved her people from Haman, who wished to destroy the Jewish people.
Queen Esther: The Merit of Things Hidden from the Women in Judaism
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Unknown Birthday: Eratosthenes
Eratosthenes, mathematician and librarianc. 276 BC-194 BC
The Librarian Who Measured the Earth by Kathryn Lasky, illustrated by Kevin Hawkes (Little Brown, 1994)
Sun and shadows. Those were the keys to the Eratosthenes' discovery of how to measure the Earth's circumference. A fascinating look at ancient times and at how geometry can make sense of our world.
Learn how Eratosthenes figured it out at the Cornell website.
Wednesday, August 01, 2007
August 1 Birthday: Anneographies
Anneographies, blog
Aug. 1, 2006-
Today is Anneographies first birthday!
This past year I've featured over 250 picture book biographies, birthday by birthday on this blog.
Now my plan is to revisit the previous posts as well as add new titles. By early 2008 my Web site will be redesigned and the information from this blog will be transferred.
Happy reading!
Anne
Aug. 1, 2006-
Today is Anneographies first birthday!
This past year I've featured over 250 picture book biographies, birthday by birthday on this blog.
Now my plan is to revisit the previous posts as well as add new titles. By early 2008 my Web site will be redesigned and the information from this blog will be transferred.
Happy reading!
Anne
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)