The Story of Jane Goodall by Susan B.Katz

Growing up, when I was bored I would delve into my father's National Geographic collection. He built a long shelf in the basement with the magazines ordered by year and month. I was fascinated by the stories of Jane Goodall and her chimpanzees that used tools. I remember when she married her photographer and I remember their son, Grub.

Now, young people of today can learn about Goodall's life and contributions through The Story of Jane Goodall by Susan B. Katz.

Children will relate to Jane the animal-loving child and be inspired by her courageous choice to be the first to observe chimpanzees in the wild.

Timelines, a glossary, maps, and quiz and challenges aid the learning process.

For sixty years, Goodall has studied and protect the chimps and is now an activist to protect their vanishing habitat. 

I loved to read biographies as a child, especially of women who impacted the world. Katz has also written books in this series on Frida Kahlo and Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

I was given a free book through Callisto Publishing in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.

The Story of Jane Goodall: A Biography Book for New Readers
by Susan B. Katz
Rockridge Press
May 19, 2020
$6.99 paperback
ISBN: 9781646118731

The Story of Frida Kahlo by Susan B. Katz

Born with a birth defect, a polio victim as a child, her body smashed in a tragic accident, Frida Kahlo's indomitable spirit overcame everything that life had thrown at her. The eclipsed wife of a larger-than-life artist, those who knew them both believed she was the better artist. 

Katz took on a big job in writing a children's book about a woman who contended with society, love, and the art world to reap world recognition in her brief 47 years. 

Katz's Frida is vulnerable yet strong and young readers will find her life romantically tragic and inspirational. 

The story of Frida's final exhibition is especially moving. A bed was brought into the exhibition hall so she could attend the opening days before her death.

detail of illustration from The Story of Frida Kahlo by Susan B. Katz

The book focuses on the use of art as therapy, self-expression, and connecting to the female experience, showing how creativity can give us strength and a voice.

Katz includes teaching aids including a glossary, timelines, content questions, and discussion starters.

Ana Sanfelippo's colorful illustrations enrich the volume, bringing Frida's life alive to young readers.

The Story of Frida Kahlo: A Biography for New Readers
by Susan B. Katz
Rockridge Press
$6.99 paperback
ISBN-10: 1646111605
ISBN-13: 978-1646111602
Grades 1-3

Susan B. Katz is a teacher, educational consultant, and author. She has also written The Story of Ruth Bader Ginsberg.