August 18 Birthdays: Roberto Clemente and Meriwether Lewis

Roberto Clemente, athlete
Aug. 18, 1934-Dec. 31, 1972

Roberto Clemente: Pride of the Pittsburgh Pirates by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Raul Colon (Atheneum/Anne Schwartz Books, 2005)

Inspirational. From Clemente's childhood of poverty to World Series triumph, and then tragic death, Clemente lives on as a role model on and off the field.

Continue reading about Clemente at his Official Web site or find out more about him at the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

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Meriwether Lewis, explorer
Aug. 18, 1774-Oct. 11, 1809

A Picture Book Biography of Lewis and Clark by David A. Adler, illustrated by Ronald Himler (Holiday House, 2003)

The spirit of adventure is captured in this book about Lewis and Clark's most celebrated journey-the expedition of the West.

Visit Discovering Lewis & Clark, an online "hyperhistory in progress" and retrace the steps of these explorers and more

See also: Aug. 1, William Clark.

August 17 Birthdays: Davy Crockett and Jorge Posada

Davy Crockett, "King of the Wild Frontier"
Aug. 17, 1786-Mar. 6, 1836

A Picture Book of Davy Crockett by David A. Adler, illustrated by John Wallner (Holiday House, 1996)

Remember the Alamo. The life and times of Davy Crockett, real-hero and folk hero, are brought to life in this picture book biography of an American icon.

Visit The Alamo.

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Jorge Posada, athlete
Aug. 17, 1971-

Play Ball! by Jorge Posada with Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Raul Colon (Simon& Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, 2006)

Dreams can come true. New York Yankees catcher Jorge Posada's perseverance and hard work are captured in this story based on his childhood in Puerto Rico. Way cool--this book is also available in Spanish.

To learn more about Jorge Posada's stats, visit Baseball-Reference.

August 16 Birthdays: George Littlechild and Joseph "Joe" Switzer

George Littlechild, artist and author
Aug. 16, 1958-

This Land is My Land by George Littlechild (Children's Book Press, 1993)

Part autobiography, part history, Littlechild matches his words with his bold, colorful art in this book about his life and the lives of other Native American peoples. Littlechild is a member of the Plains Cree Nation.

Resources about George Littlechild can be found in the Native American Authors Project page.

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Joseph "Joe" Switzer, inventor
Aug. 16, 1915-c.1973/4

The Day-Glo Brothers by Chris Barton, illustrated by Tony Persiani (Charlesbridge, 2008)

Not yet published, but in the queue, this bio about the brothers who invented eye-popping colors is sure to be a hit.

Take a look at these pseudo "Day-Glo" flowers and worms.

August 13 Birthday: Annie Oakley

Annie Oakley, sharpshooter
Aug. 13, 1860-Nov. 3, 1926

Bull's-Eye: A Photobiography of Annie Oakley by Sue Macy (National Geographic Children's Books,2001)

This book hits the target with its engaging text, period photos and drawings.

The online version of the PBS documentary of Annie Oakley on American Experience offers a program transcript, timeline, values, posters from the Wild West Show and other fascinating facts.

August 12 Birthday: Katharine Lee Bates

Katharine Lee Bates, author of words to America the Beautiful
Aug. 12, 1859-Mar. 28, 1929

Purple Mountain Majesties: The Story of Katharine Lee Bates and "America the Beautiful" by Barbara Younger, illustrated by Stacey Schuett (Turtleback Books, 2002)

Where do ideas come from? In this case, from majestic scenery. Inspired by view from Pikes Peak, Katharine Lee Bates began to write a poem that would become a national treasure.

View images from Pikes Peak Cam Top Peak Pics in Colorado Springs, Colorado for a sense of Bates' wonder.

August 10 Birthday: Herbert Hoover

Herbert Hoover, U. S. President
Aug. 10, 1874-Oct. 20, 1964

Lives of Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

One brief paragraph in this collective biography is devoted to Herbert Hoover, millionaire and 31st president of the United States.

Check out the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum to learn more about Hoover and his legacy.

August 8 Birthday: Esther Morris

Esther Morris, pioneer
Aug. 8, 1814-Apr. 2, 1902

When Esther Morris Headed West: Women, Wyoming, and the Right to Vote by Connie Nordhielm Wooldridge, illustrated by Jacqueline Rogers (Holiday House, 2001)

Go, Esther! What one woman (and others) did to make the West a more equitable place to live.

Online information about Esther Morris can be viewed at the WOW Museum-Women of the West Museum.

August 7 Birthday: Ralph Bunche

Ralph Bunche, peacemaker
Aug. 7, 1904-Dec. 9, 1971

Paths to Peace: People Who Changed the World by Jane Breskin Zalben (Dutton, 2006)

Sixteen profiles of world peacemakers include a double-page spread of American diplomat Bunche. Stunning collages accompany each biography. Bunche was the first person of color to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace.

To learn more about Dr. Ralph Bunche, visit the PBS site Ralph Bunche: An American Odyssey.

August 6 Birthday: Andy Warhol

Andy Warhol, artist
Aug. 6, 1928- Feb. 22, 1987

Uncle Andy's: A Faabbbulous Visit with Andy Warhol by James Warhola (Putnam, 2003)

Campbell's soup. Paintings of Elvis and Marilyn Monroe. Andy Warhol's nephew gives readers an insider's view of his uncle's pop art.

The Andy Warhol Museum in Warhol's hometown of Pittsburgh has a stellar collection of his work. Of note: Warhol's "fifteen minutes of fame" quote lives on.

August 5 Birthday: Neil Armstrong

Neil Armstrong, American astronaut
Aug. 5, 1930-

One Giant Leap: The Story of Neil Armstrong by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin, 1998)

An ordinary boy. An extraordinary adult. Imagine. Walking on the moon. Armstrong's childhood sets the stage for his historic lunar landing in this introduction to an American hero.

The Armstrong Air and Space Museum chronicles Ohio's contributions to space flight.Or click on over to NASA's Kid Page.

August 4 Birthdays: Louis Armstrong and Maurice "Rocket" Richard

Louis Armstrong, musician
Aug. 4, 1901-July 6, 1971

If I Only Had a Horn: Young Louis Armstrong by Roxane Orgill, illustrated by Leonard Jenkins (Houghton Mifflin, 1997)

A jazzy story about achieving dreams. Illuminating artwork makes this book about "Satchmo" sing.

The Official Site of the Louis Armstrong House & Archives is well worth a visit.

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Maurice Richard, athlete
Aug. 4, 1921-May 27, 2000

Lives of the Athletes: Thrills, Spills (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1997)

In just a few pages of this collective biography, Krull crams tons of data, descriptions and anecdotes about Canadian professional ice hockey player Maurice "Rocket" Richard's life. Lively illustrations add humor and zip.

CBS Archives offer radio and TV clips of this famous NHL player.

August 3 Birthday: Alexander Posey

Alexander Posey, poet, journalist
Aug.3, 1873-May 27, 1908

How We Are Smart by W. Nikola-Lisa, illustrated by Sean Qualls (Lee & Low Books, 2006)

There are lots of ways of being smart. This collection of twelve talented people includes a portrait, short profile and a poem about Alexander Posey.

An 1933 article from Oklahoma's Historical Society, Chronicles of Oklahoma provides additional insight into Posey's life.

August 1 Birthdays: Abbie Burgess, William Clark and Francis Scott Key

Abbie Burgess, lighthouse keeper
Aug. 1, 1839-June 16, 1892

Abbie Against the Storm: The True Story of a Young Heroine and a Lighthouse by Marcia K. Vaughan, illustrated by Bill Farnsworth (Beyond Words Publishing, 1999)

Abbie saved the day. And the day after that. And the day after that. This book is a dramatic fictionalized account of the four weeks that seventeen year old Abbie Burgess spent caring for a Maine lighthouse and her family. “Not once in all that time did the lights fail. Not one ship floundered. Not one life was lost.” Amazing.

A special thanks to Bob Trapani, Executive Director, American Lighthouse Foundation for supplying Abbie Burgess Grant’s birthdate.

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William Clark, explorer
Aug. 1, 1770-Sept. 1, 1838

A Picture Book Biography of Lewis and Clark by David A. Adler, illustrated by Ronald Himler (Holiday House, 2003)

The spirit of adventure is captured in this book about Lewis and Clark’s most celebrated journey—the expedition of the West.

Join in online and Go West Across America with Lewis & Clark! at the National Geographic website.

Visit Discovering Lewis & Clark , an online “hyperhistory in progress” and retrace the steps of these explorers and more.

Meriwether Lewis’ birthday is August 18.

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Francis Scott Key, wrote words to U.S. national anthem
Aug. 1, 1779-Jan. 11, 1843

Francis Scott Key and “The Star Spangled Banner” by Lynea Bowdish, illustrated by Harry Burman (Mondo, 2002)

This book, the story behind the story of the writing of “The Star Spangled Banner,” illustrated with impressionistic paintings simply and vividly accounts Key’s inspiration.

Visit the Smithsonian’s Star-Spangled Banner National Museum of American History site to learn more.

July 31 Birthdays: John Ericsson and Flo Hyman

John Ericsson, inventor
July 31, 1803-March 8, 1889

Thank You Very Much, Captain Ericsson by Connie Nordhielm Wooldridge, illustrated by Andrew Glass (Holiday House, 2004)

Ericsson’s inventions centered on the sea. Read about his life and passion for ships in this biography.

Invent.org offers a Hall of Fame Inventor Profile of Ericsson.

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Flo Hyman, athlete
July 31, 1954-January 24, 1986

Lives of the Athletes: Thrill, Spills (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1997)

Hyman was an African-American volleyball player and Olympic medalist who also played professional ball in Japan.

The African American National Biography, hosted by Harvard.edu offers a biography of Hyman online.

July 30 Birthdays: Emily Bronte and Patricia Schroeder

Emily Bronte, writer
July 30, 1818-December 19,1848

Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1994)

An English writer with two famous sisters who also wrote, Bronte authored Wuthering Heights.

Emily Bronte: An Overview is offered on The Victoria Web: Literature, History & Culture in the age of Victoria.

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Patricia Schroeder, politician
July 30, 1940-

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)

Schroeder was a member of the House of Representatives for 24 years and is known for many “firsts.” She is currently the President of the Association of American Publishers.

Kids in the House, a U.S. government site educates visitors about Congress and how laws are made.

July 28 Birthdays: Beatrix Potter and Marcel Duchamp

Beatrix Potter, artist
July 28, 1866-December 22, 1943

Beatrix by Alexander Wallner (Holiday House, 1995)

Beloved English author and illustrator, Potter’s life is captured on the page in this tribute to her.

The Beatrix Potter Society was “founded in 1980 by a group of people professionally involved in the curatorship of Beatrix Potter material.” Click here and read about Some Places to Visit (with links) to Potter materials and memories.

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Marcel Duchamp, artist
July 28, 1887-October 2, 1968

Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces, Messes (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1995)

A French-American modern artist, Duchamp had dust two inches thick in his NY apt—on purpose.

Visit MoMA.org (The Museum of Modern Art) and peruse images of Duchamp’s work from their collection.

July 24 Birthdays: Amelia Earhart and Simon Bolivar

Amelia Earhart, aviator
July 24, 1897-July 2, 1937 (missing)

Sky Pioneer: A Photobiography of Amelia Earhart by Corinne Szabo (National Geographic Children’s Books, reprint, 2007)

What happened to Earhart and her plane? Though the answer remains a mystery, this book takes readers on a journey of what is known about her.

Tour the Official Site of Amelia Earhart to learn more about her life, achievements and disappearance.

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Simon Bolivar, political leader
July 24, 1783-December 17, 1830

A Picture Book of Simon Bolivar by David A. Adler, illustrated by Robert Casilla (Holiday House, 1992)

Bolivar had an impressive resume: President of Greater Colombia, President of Bolivia, President of Peru, and President of Venezuela. Read about his life and politics in this simple biography.

An article about Bolivar’s involvement in Haiti is available on TheLouvertureProject.org site.

July 18 Birthdays: Molly Brown and Nelson Mandela

Molly Brown, activist and philanthropist
July 18, 1867-October 26, 1932

The Heroine of the Titanic by Joan W. Blos, illustrated by Tennessee Dixon (HarperCollins, 1991)

A survivor of the Titanic, Brown was responsible for saving many lives during the disaster as well as spearheading a fund to raise money for surviving passengers who needed assistance after the tragedy.

Denver’s Historic Molly Brown House has a website devoted to “accurately portray the story of Margaret Tobin Brown.” There are lots of great things to explore in the Just for Kids section.

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Nelson Mandela, political leader
July 18, 1918-

Mandela: From the Life of the South African Statesman by Floyd Cooper (Philomel, 1996)

Mandela, an anti-apartheid activist, became the first President of South Africa elected by blacks and whites.

You’ll find information about Mandela and his work at the Nelson Mandela Foundation site.

July 16 Birthday: Ida B. Wells-Barnett

Ida B. Wells-Barnett, educator and journalist
July 16, 1862-Mar. 25, 1931

Women of Hope: African Americans Who Made a Difference by Joyce Hansen (Scholastic, 1998)

Born in Civil War times, Wells-Barnett was first a teacher. Then she was a part owner of a newspaper where she exposed the injustices of segregation in print.

Thomson Gale Co.is in the educational publishing business and posts a biography of Wells-Barnett on their website.

July 15 Birthday: Rembrandt Van Rijn

Rembrandt Van Rijn, artist
July 15, 1606-October 4, 1669

Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces, Messes (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1995)

Rembrandt was a Dutch painter. The Night Watch is his most famous painting.

Check out the biography of Rembrandt at the WebMuseum, Paris.

July 14 Birthdays: Gerald Ford and Woody Guthrie

Gerald Ford, U. S. President
July 14, 1913-December 26, 2006

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

Number 38 loved orange chocolate cake. A former football star and congressman, Ford had a dog named Liberty when he was in the White House.

The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum has biographical and primary source materials on Ford.

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Woody Guthrie, musician
July 14, 1912-October 3, 1967

Woody Guthrie: Poet of the People by Bonnie Christensen (Knopf, 2001)

This is a celebration of folk singer Guthrie’s life—through the good times and the bad.

The Official Woody Guthrie Website contains lyrics, photos, a biography and more.

July 12 Birthdays: Henry Thoreau and Kristi Yamaguchi

Henry Thoreau, writer
July 12, 1817-May 6, 1862

Walking with Henry: Based on the Life and Works of Henry David Thoreau by Thomas Locker (Fulcrum, 2002)

Based on Thoreau’s writing, this is a fictionalized account of a trek with the man who loved nature and believed in simple living.

Read Henry David Thoreau: Who He Was & Why He Matters at Thoreau.eserver.org.

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Kristi Yamaguchi, athlete
July 12, 1971-

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)

K is for Kristi Yamaguchi, Olympic figure skater and champion of others.

Kristi Yamaguchi’s Always Dream Foundation has a bio and photos of the skating star

July 11 Birthdays: John Q. Adams, James Stevenson and E.B. White

John Q. Adams, U.S. President
July 11, 1767-February 23, 1848

Young John Quincy by Cheryl Harness (Bradbury Press, 1994)

This is a look at the early life of a future U.S. president. Adams was the son of President John Adams and his wife Abigail Adams.

Drop by the White House and read about John. Q. Adams.

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James Stevenson, writer and illustrator
July 11, 19??-

When I Was Nine by James Stevenson (Greenwillow, 1986)

Stevenson writes and illustrates a slice-of-life story about his memorable summer in the 1930s. A charmer.

HarperCollinsChildrens.com highlights Stevenson’s titles.

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E. B. White, writer
July 11, 1899-October 1, 1985

Lives of the Writers: Comedies, Tragedies (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1994)

Some writer! White’s day job was as a writer for The New Yorker, but children will know him from his classic, Charlotte’s Web.

Meet the Author E.B. White at the Eduplace.com site by Houghton Mifflin Reading.

July 8 Birthday: Kathe Kollwitz

Kathe Kollwitz, artist
July 8, 1867-April 22, 1945

Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces, Messes (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1995)

Kollwitz, a German sculptress was interested in social justice and publicly opposed the Nazis.

The Kathe-Kollwitz-Museum in Berlin is open online everyday. Look at the exhibition and artist’s work.

July 7 Birthdays: Marc Chagall and Satchel Paige

Marc Chagall, artist
July 7, 1887-March 28, 1985

Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces, Messes (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1995)

Chagall, a Russian painter, studied in Paris, was arrested during a Nazi raid, and later released because of American intervention. He worked everyday up until his death at 97.

Go to the Guggenheim Museum for a short bio of Chagall and collection selections.

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Satchel Paige, athlete
July 7, 1906 (?)-June 8, 1982

Satchel Paige by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James E. Ransome (Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing, 2000)

Major league pitching great, Satchel Paige first played (and set records) in the Negro Leagues. When the major league integrated, he was the first African-American pitcher in the American League.

Paige: The Official Web Site hosts a biography, photos, quotes and stats.

July 6 Birthdays: Bill Haley, Frida Kahlo and Dalai Lama

Bill Haley, musician
July 6, 1925-February 9, 1981

Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)

Bill Haley and the Comets started singing C&W music but switched to rock and roll. Their song Rock Around the Clock was a huge hit and some say started the rock ‘n’ roll craze.

RockHall.com posts a bio of 1987 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Haley.

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Frida Kahlo, artist
July 6, 1907-July 13, 1954

Frida by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Ana Juan (Arthur A. Levine Books, 2002)

Kahlo, a Mexican painter, often used herself as the subject of her work. She was married to muralist Diego Rivera.

The Tate Gallery in London posts an exhibit and information about Kahlo on its site.

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Dalai Lama, religious leader
July 6, 1935-

The Dalai Lama: Foreword by His Holiness The Dalai Lama by Demi (Holt, 1998)

This biography tells the story of 14th Dalai Lama, a Tibetan Buddhist spiritual leader and his teachings.

The Official Website of The Office of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama has news, FAQs, photos, teachings, and a biography.

July 5 Birthday: Chuck Close

Chuck Close, artist
July 5, 1940-

Chuck Close Up Close by Jan Greenberg and Sandra Jordan (DK Children, reprint, 2000)

What cool art. What an inspiration. Close is known for his large photorealist paintings. A spinal problem in 1988 rendered Close a quadriplegic and with adaptations, he continues to paint.

The life, the process, the collaboration and learning resources on Close are only a click away. Visit Chuckclose.coe.uh.edu today.

July 4 Birthdays: Calvin Coolidge and Stephen Foster

Calvin Coolidge, U.S. President
July 4, 1872-January 5, 1933

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

President # 30 served two terms. In a brief paragraph, Krull highlights Coolidge's eccentricities.

To view a portrait of Coolidge and facts about his life, visit The Internet Public Library POTUS site.

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Stephen Foster, musician
July 4, 1826-January 13, 1864

Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)

Foster, the writer of My Old Kentucky Home, Oh, Susanna and Beautiful Dreamer is remembered in this collective biography.

Listen to samples of Foster’s talent, download pages of sheet music and cast your vote for your favorite Foster song at the PBS American Experience site about him.

July 2 Birthday: Thurgood Marshall

Thurgood Marshall, judge
July 2, 1908-January 24, 1993

A Picture Book Biography of Thurgood Marshall by David A. Adler, illustrated by Robert Casilla (Holiday House, 1997)

This is the bio of the first African-American Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall with an emphasis on his childhood.

Read more about Marshall on this ThinkQuest project site.

July 1 Birthday: Louis Bleriot and Princess Diana

Louis Bleriot, aviator
July 1, 1872-August 2, 1936

The Glorious Flight: Across the Channel with Louis Bleriot July 25, 1909 by Alice and Martin Provensen (Viking Juvenile, 1983)

This Caldecott Medal Winner takes readers on the glorious journey of the man who flew across the English Channel first.

A photo and information about Bleriot, are on the U.S. Centennial of Flight Commission site.

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Princess Diana a.k.a. Lady Diana Frances Spencer, advocate
July 1, 1961-August 31, 1997

Paths to Peace: People Who Changed the World by Jane Breskin Zalben (Dutton, 2006)

Dedicated to others, Princess Diana walked the walk.

Photos and features about Princess Diana are posted on The Royal Family page on the Official Web Site of the British Monarchy.

June 30 Birthday: Lena Horne

Lena Horne, musician
June 30, 1917-

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)

Horne, best known for her hit song, Stormy Weather, sang and acted in several Hollywood musicals beginning in 1938.

PBS Online News Hour celebrated Horne’s 80th birthday. Read all about it here.

June 27 Birthdays: Helen Keller

Helen Keller, writer and activist
June 27, 1880-June 1, 1968

A Picture Book of Helen Keller by David A. Adler, illustrated by John Wallner and Alexandra Wallner (Holiday House, 1990)

While the childhood of Keller, who was born with visual and hearing impairments is the focus of this biography, her accomplishments as an adult are also highlighted.

From the American Foundation for the Blind, The Helen Keller Kids Museum Online offers a biography of Keller.

June 26 Birthday: Babe Didrikson Zaharias

Babe Didrikson Zaharias, athlete
June 26, 1911 (or 1914)-September 27, 1956

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)

Born in Texas, Zaharias was an accomplished golfer, basketball player and track and field star who won two gold medals and one silver in the 1932 Summer Olympics.

Sports Illustrated for Women.CNN features a bio of Didrikson Zaharias on their site.

June 25 Birthday: Eric Carle

Eric Carle, artist and writer
June 25, 1929-

Flora and Tiger: 19 Very Short Stories from My Life by Eric Carle (Philomel, 1997)

Peek into the life of renowned children’s author and illustrator Eric Carle via the stories he tells about his childhood and present day life.

Take a field trip to The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art in Amherst, MA and explore the exhibits and resources.

June 23 Birthday: Wilma Rudolph

Wilma Rudolph, athlete
June 23, 1940-November 12, 1994

Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s Fastest Woman by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by David Diaz (Harcourt, 1996)

A sickly child, Rudolph grew up to be the first woman to win three, count ‘em, three Olympic gold medals. What an inspiration!

The National Women’s Hall of Fame posts a short bio of Rudolph and her many athletic honors.

June 22 Birthday: Pete Maravich

Pete Maravich, athlete
June 22, 1947-January 5, 1988

Lives of the Athletes: Thrills, Spills (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1997)

Maravich, a college basketball great at LSU, was a Basketball Hall of Famer in 1987.

Click over to the NBA Encyclopedia for a bio of Maravich a.k.a. “Pistol Pete.”

Unknown Birthday: Chen Xiefen

Chen Xiefen, journalist
1883-1923

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)

Chinese women's rights advocate Xiefen, founder at age 16 of the "Women's Journal," also established a girl's school in her homeland.

From the Minnesota State University at Mankato e-museum, read about the times in which Xiefen lived during the Qing Dynasty.

June 19 Birthdays: Lou Gehrig and Aung San Suu Kyi

Lou Gehrig, athlete
June 19, 1903-June 2, 1941

Lou Gehrig: The Luckiest Man by David A. Adler, illustrated by Terry Widener (Gulliver Books, 1997)

A three-hankie story, Gehrig, the baseball great who suffered from ALS always looked on the bright side of life.

A biography, photos and more can be found at the Lou Gehrig Official Web Site.

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Aung San Suu Kyi, political activist
June 19, 1945-

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)

Nonviolent Burmese activist Aung San Suu Kyi won the Nobel Peace Prize and used the money to promote health and education in Burma.

A timeline of Aung San Suu Kyi’s life is available on the Nobelprize.com site.

Unknown Birthday: Billy Wong

Billy Wong, bullfighter
20th century

El Chino by Allen Say (Houghton Mifflin, 1990)

Arizona-born Billy Wong remembered what his father told him-"In America, you can be anything you want to be." Enchanted by bullfighting, Wong became the first Chinese-American matador.

Read an interview with author/illustrator Allen Say at the Eduplace web site.

June 17 Birthday: Igor Stravinsky

Igor Stravinsky, musician
June 17, 1882-April 6, 1971

Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)

A Russian-American composer, Stravinsky wrote The Rite of Spring. He is known as one of the only composers to realize overnight success.

For more about Stravinsky, read the article on The TIME 100 site.

June 14 Birthday: Harriet Beecher Stowe

Harriet Beecher Stowe, abolitionist
June 14, 1811-July 1, 1896

A Picture Book Biography of Harriet Beecher Stowe by David A. Adler, illustrated by Colin Bootman (Holiday House, paper, 2004)

From Stowe’s childhood impressions of slavery to her book, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, this woman of integrity fought for justice for African-Americans.

A Celebration of Women at the Penn Digital Library features biographical and bibliographic information on Stowe.

June 13 Birthday: Red Granger

Red Grange, athlete
June 13, 1903-January 28, 1991

Lives of the Athletes: Thrills, Spills (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1997)

Grange, a college football player-turned-professional was the first to make $100,000 a year. And yes, he had red hair.

A bio and stats of Grange can be found at the Official Site of the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

June 12 Birthdays: George H. W. Bush, Anne Frank and Helen Lester

George H. W. Bush, U.S. President
June 12, 1924-

Lives of the Presidents: Fame, Shame (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1998)

Bush banned broccoli from the White House. Number 41, was a former director of the CIA and the father of five, one whom would become Number 43.

The George Bush Presidential Library on the campus of Texas A&M is the source for Bush info.

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Anne Frank, writer
June 12, 1929-February/March, 1945

A Picture Book Biography of Anne Frank by David A. Adler, illustrated by Karen Ritz (Holiday House, 1994)

The world knows Anne Frank because of the diary she kept while the Nazis reigned. This book describes Frank’s life before, during and after she and her family went into hiding.

Read the story of Frank, visit the museum, try the activities and catch the latest news of the Anne Frank House.

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Helen Lester, writer
June 12, 19??-

Author: A True Story by Helen Lester (Houghton Mifflin, paper, 2002)

A lively account of how Lester, an acclaimed picture book author found her passion.

Lester’s website offers an interview with her, a photo album and a look at her books.

June 9 Birthday: Peter the Great

Peter the Great, political leader
June 9, 1672-February 8, 1725

Peter the Great by Diane Stanley (HarperCollins, 1999)

A Tsar from the age of ten, Peter the Great worked to bring Russia into the modern world.

A brief bio of Peter the Great can be found at the St. Petersburg Times.

Unknown Birthday: Phillis Wheatley

Phillis Wheatley, poet
c. 1753/54-Dec. 5, 1784

A Voice of Her Own: A Story of Phillis Wheatley, Slave Poet by Kathryn Lasky, illustrated by Paul Lee (Candlewick, 2005)

The first published African-American woman poet is remembered in this story about her life. Sold into slavery and purchased by the Wheatley family of Boston, Massachusetts, she learned to read and write. Wheatley's first poem was published when she was 13. Stirring.


Wheatley's bio is posted on the University of Delaware site that has a volume of Wheatley poems in their collection. Another short bio of Wheatley appears on a PBS page.

June 2 Birthday: Johnny Weissmuller

Johnny Weissmuller, athlete
June 2, 1904-January 20, 1984

Lives of the Athletes: Thrills, Spills (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1997)

An Olympian in swimming, Weissmuller also made his mark as Tarzan in the movies. His motto—"Le's go."

See at photo of Weissmuller aboard the S.S. President Roosevelt, July 1928 (coming or going) to the Olympic Games.

Unknown Birthday: Harriet Tubman

Harriet Tubman, abolitionist
1820 or 1822-Mar. 1 or 10, 1913

Wanted Dead or Alive: The True Story of Harriet Tubman by
Ann McGovern, illustrated by R.M. Powers (Scholastic, 1991)

Harriet Tubman is an American hero. As an escaped slave, she led 300 other slaves to freedom in the Underground Railroad. High drama.

An incredible site by the National Geographic takes you on a journey through the Underground Railroad.

America's Library site offers a short bio on
Tubman with links about her life and work.

May 31 Birthday: Walt Whitman

Walt Whitman, writer
May 31, 1819-March 26, 1892

Walt Whitman: Words for America by Barbara Kerley, illustrated by Brian Selznick (Scholastic, 2004)

A poet and more, Whitman’s life is explored in this tribute to an American icon.

Poets.org offers a bio and photo of Whitman on their site as well as external links.

May 29 Birthdays: Patrick Henry, John F. Kennedy and Tenzing Norgay

Patrick Henry, politician
May 29, 1736-June 6, 1799

A Picture Book of Patrick Henry by David A. Adler, illustrated by John C. Wallner and Alexandra Wallner (Holiday House, 2001)

Henry, the first and sixth governor of Virginia made the “Give me liberty or give me death” speech.

Listen to Henry’s speech (scroll down the page) as interpreted by Richard Schuman and read about Henry’s life at History.org.

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John F. Kennedy, U.S. President
May 29, 1917-November 22, 1963

A Picture Book Biography of John F. Kennedy by David A. Adler, illustrated by Robert F. Casilla (Holiday House, 1992)

The 35th President of the United States was a huge advocate for the space program, created the Peace Corps and sought to end racial discrimination.

Go to The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum to read Kennedy’s White House Diary and take a virtual tour.

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Tenzing Norgay, explorer
May 29, 1914-May 9, 1986

Tigers of the Snows: Tenzing Norgay: The Boy Whose Dream Was Everest by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Ed Young (Atheneum, 2006)

A Nepalese climber, Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary were the first men on the summit of Mount Everest.

A profile of Norgay is posted on the Scholastic Teachers web site.

May 27 Birthdays: Amelia Bloomer, Rachel Carson and Isadora Duncan

Amelia Bloomer, women’s rights advocate
May 27, 1818-December 30, 1894

You Forgot Your Skirt, Amelia Bloomer by Shana Corey, illustrated by Chesley McLaren (Scholastic, 2000)

Active in the women’s rights movement, Bloomer’s name became synonymous with a new fashion piece of the time.

The National Parks Service hosts a bio and photo of Bloomer on their site.

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Rachel Carson, biologist
May 27, 1907-April 14, 1964

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)

Back in the day, Carson’s book Silent Spring, published in 1962, had a huge impact on the environmental movement…and still does.

RachelCarson.org is a “website devoted to the life and legacy of Rachel Carson.

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Isadora Duncan, dancer
May 27, 1877-September 14, 1927

Isadora Dances by Rachel Isadora (Puffin, 2000)

Modern dancer Isadora Duncan’s life takes the stage in this picture book biography about her.

Learn more about Duncan at the Isadora Duncan Dance Foundation.

May 26 Birthdays: Miles Davis and Dorthea Lange

Miles Davis, musician
May 26, 1926-September 28, 1991

Lookin’ for Bird in the City by Robert Burleigh, illustrated Marek Los (Silver Whistle, 2001)

In this jazzy fictionalized account, Davis meets his idol, Charlie Parker.

An official site by the Davis estate offers the latest news, releases, and bio.

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Dorothea Lange, artist
May 26, 1895-October 11, 1965

Dorothea Lange by Robyn Montana Turner (Little Brown, 1994)

A photographer during the Depression, Lange’s work put a face on what life was like for so many Americans.

From the Library of Congress, comes a bio of Lange and images of her work.

May 25 Birthday: Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ralph Waldo Emerson
May 25, 1803-April 27, 1882

Paths to Peace: People Who Changed the World by Jane Breskin Zalben (Dutton, 2006)

Buddies with Nathaniel Hawthorne and Henry David Thoreau, Emerson had a great influence on the Transcendentalist movement.

An Emerson bio and samples of his work are featured on Thomas Hampson’s I Hear America Singing page at PBS.org.

May 24 Birthdays: Ynes Mexia and Victoria, Queen

Ynes Mexia, botanist
May 24, 1870-July 12, 1938

How We are Smart by W. Nikola-Lisa, illustrated by Sean Qualls (Lee & Low Books, 2006)

Mexia discovered a new passion when she was 51. Botany. And thanks to her, more than 500 species of plants were discovered.

A biographical sketch of Mexia is available on the California Academy of Sciences site.

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Victoria, Queen
May 24, 1819-January 22, 1901

Lives of Extraordinary Women: Rulers, Rebels (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 2000)

Queen of England for 64 years and the mother of nine children, the Victorian Age was named after this monarch.

Read more about Queen Victoria on the History of the Monarchy page, hosted by the Household Division of the British Monarchy.

May 23 Birthday: Margaret Wise Brown

Margaret Wise Brown, writer
May 23, 1910-November 13, 1952

The Days Before Now by Margaret Wise Brown, Joan W. Blos editor, illustrated by Thomas B. Allen (Simon and Schuster, 1994)

From the writing of Brown, creator of the children’s classic, Goodnight Moon, comes this autobiography of her life.

On a website devoted to Brown, read her story and view photos of her life.

May 22 Birthday: Mary Cassatt

Mary Cassatt, artist
May 22, 1844-June 14, 1926

Mary Cassatt by Robyn Montana Turner (Little, Brown reissue, 1994)

Paintings of mothers and children were what Cassatt was most known for. This biography, with images of her work, tells the story of her life in America and France.

Spend time at the WebMuseum, Paris. Read a biography of Cassatt and look at some of her work.

May 21 Birthday: Mary Anning

Mary Anning, paleontologist
May 21, 1799-Mar. 9, 1847

Rare Treasure: Mary Anning and Her Remarkable Discoveries by Don Brown (Houghton Mifflin, 2003)

Anning discovered the bones of an ichthyosaur as a child and from then on fossils dominated her life.

For more information, read about Anning on the UC Berkeley Museum of Paleontology site.

May 19 Birthdays: Bob Switzer and Malcolm X

Bob Switzer, inventor
May 19, 1914-Aug. 20, 1997

The Day-Glo Brothers by Chris Barton, illustrated by Tony Persiani (Charlesbridge, 2008)

Not yet published, but in the queue, this bio about the brothers who invented eye-popping colors is sure to be a hit.

Day-Glo worms? View “A Primer on Marine Flatworms for K-12 Students” at the University of New Hampshire site and you’ll be a believer.

The other half of this duo, Joe Switzer was born on August 16, 1915.

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Malcolm X
May 19, 1925-Feb. 21, 1965

Malcolm X: A Fire Burning Brightly by Walter Dean Myers, illustrated by Leonard Jenkins (HarperCollins, 2000)

Malcolm X did not have an easy childhood and was assassinated at the age of 40. In an account of his life, readers will gain insights into this controversial and influential leader.

The Offical Web Site of Malcolm X contains a biography, chronology, achievements, photos, and fast facts about the civil right activist.

May 17 Birthdays: Erik Satie and Splash, the dog

Erik Satie, musician
May 17, 1866-July 1, 1925

Strange Mr. Satie by M.T. Anderson, illustrated by Petra Mathers (Viking, 2003)

The eccentric French composer’s life and music is examined in this picture book biography about him.

Pictures and paintings of Satie can be seen on a site dedicated to him and his work.

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Splash, dog of Senator Edward Kennedy
May 17, 1997-

My Senator and Me: A Dog’s Eye View of Washington D.C. by Edward Kennedy, illustrated by David Small (Scholastic, 2006)

Told from the dog’s point of view, Splash takes readers through a day in the life of Senator Edward Kennedy.

Read a behind-the-scenes interview with Cheryl Klein, the editor of this book on the Scholastic web site.

May 13 Birthdays: Joe Louis, Ritchie Valens, Arthur Sullivan and Stevie Wonder

Joe Louis, athlete
May 13, 1914-Apr. 12, 1981

Joe Louis: America’s Fighter by David A. Adler, illustrated by Terry Widener (Gulliver, 2005)

After seeing boxers at a gym, Louis found his calling. He was known as the "Brown Bomber."

Read more about Louis at his Official Site.

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Arthur Sullivan, musician
May 13, 1842-November 22, 1900

Lives of the Musicians: Good Times, Bad Times (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1993)

Half of the popular Gilbert & Sullivan duo, Sullivan was an English composer who first worked with Gilbert in 1871.

Visit the Gilbert and Sullivan Archive at Boise State today.

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Ritchie Valens, musician
May 13, 1941-February 3, 1959

Shake, Rattle & Roll: The Founders of Rock & Roll by Holly George-Warren, illustrated by Laura Levine (Houghton Mifflin, 2001)

Valens was the California music sensation and singer of Donna and La Bamba. He was the first Mexican-American rock and roll star. Unfortunately he died in a small plane crash along with Buddy Holly and The Big Bopper.

Go to the Ritchie Valens Official Web Site for information on his life, his music and his family.

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Stevie Wonder, musician
May 13, 1950-

Little Stevie Wonder by Quincy Troupe, illustrated by Lisa Cohen (Houghton Mifflin, 2005)

Written in free verse, this picture book about singing great Stevie Wonder will make readers cheer. The gifted African-American artist who is visually impaired is an inspiration to all.

Dissertations, theses and papers published about Wonder, songs, tours/appearances and awards are posted on the Stevie Wonder World of Wonder site hosted in the UK.

May 12 Birthday: Florence Nightingale

Florence Nightingale, nurse
May 12, 1820-Aug. 13, 1910

A Picture Book of Florence Nightingale by David A. Adler, illustrated by John Wallner and Alexandra Wallner (Holiday House, 1997)

Nurse extraordinaire, Nightingale changed her profession for the better and served with compassionate care.

Read a bio of Nightingale at the The Florence Nightingale Museum in the UK.

May 11 Birthdays: Salvador Dali and Harriet Quimby

Salvador Dali, artist
May 11, 1904-Jan. 23, 1989

Lives of the Artists: Masterpieces and Messes (and What the Neighbors Thought) by Kathleen Krull, illustrated by Kathryn Hewitt (Harcourt, 1995)

A Spanish painter known for his surrealist style is spotlighted in this collective biography.

The Salvador Dali Museum hosts a site with images from the collection.

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Harriet Quimby, pilot
May 11, 1875-July 1, 1912

Brave Harriet: The First Woman to Fly the English Channel by Marissa Moss, illustrated by C.F. Payne (Silver Whistle, 2001)

Quimby’s incredible accomplishment was overwhelmed by the press coverage of the sinking of the Titanic. Nonetheless, she made history.

Visit the Harriet Quimby Home Page for photos and more.

May 10 Birthdays: Quah Ah and Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin

Quah Ah aka Tonita Pena, artist
May 10, 1893-Sept. 9, 1949

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)

A Pueblo painter, Pena’s lively work inspired other women to stretch their artistic bounds.

See a photo of Pena at the Purdue site.

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Cecilia Payne-Gaposchkin, astronomer
May 10, 1900-Dec. 7, 1979

Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World by Cynthia Chin-Lee, illustrated by Megan Halsey and Sean Addy (Charlesbridge, 2005)

“Stellar Atmospheres, A Contribution to the Observational Study of High Temperature in the Reversing Layers of Stars” anyone? That was the title of Payne-Gaposchkin’s dissertation, who excelled at Harvard as a student and a professor.

On a site about Notable American Unitarians, read more about Payne-Gaposchkin.

May 7 Birthdays: Johannes Brahms, Eva Peron and Peter Ilich Tchaikovsky

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.

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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.

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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.

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 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 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.

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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

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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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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."

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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

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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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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

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.