She Did It!

She Did It! tells the true story of Ellen Peck, a resourceful woman in 1830s New York who launched her own business venture. After learning of a market opportunity in her small town of Hudson, Peck makes plans to fill an economic gap. The book follows Peck's journey as she works to overcome the social constraints and practical challenges of being a female entrepreneur in the early 19th century. Her determination drives her forward despite skepticism from townspeople and the limitations placed on women in business during that era. Through detailed research and period illustrations, the book recreates daily life in a Hudson River town while spotlighting an unsung pioneer of women's economic independence. Peck's story illuminates a time when American women had few legal rights and little access to financial opportunities. The narrative demonstrates themes of perseverance, innovation, and the power of individual initiative to create social change. It stands as both a celebration of entrepreneurial spirit and a window into women's evolving roles in American commerce.

Readers appreciate how the book introduces young children to the history of women's right to work through the true story of Kate Carmack. Parents note it helps start conversations about discrimination and determination. Teachers report using it successfully with elementary students to discuss women's rights history. Reviewers highlight the detailed watercolor illustrations and clear, straightforward storytelling approach. Several mention it works well for ages 6-10. Some readers felt the narrative was too simplified and wanted more historical context included. A few noted the ending felt abrupt. Review Scores: Goodreads: 4.2/5 (56 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (12 ratings) Common reader comment: "Good introduction to women's rights for younger students but may need supplemental discussion to fill in historical gaps." - Goodreads reviewer Librarians and educators frequently recommend it for Women's History Month reading lists and classroom discussions about gender equality.

Miss Moore Thought Otherwise by Jan Pinborough This biography chronicles how librarian Anne Carroll Moore created the first children's reading rooms in libraries and transformed children's access to books.

The Tree Lady by H. Joseph Hopkins The true story follows Katherine Olivia Sessions who transformed San Diego from a desert town to a green city by planting thousands of trees.

Nothing Stopped Sophie by Cheryl Bardoe This biography reveals how Sophie Germain overcame gender barriers in the 1800s to become a mathematician who solved problems that male scholars could not.

Margaret and the Moon by Dean Robbins This book tells how Margaret Hamilton wrote code for NASA and helped land astronauts on the moon.

Who Says Women Can't Be Doctors? by Tanya Lee Stone The story follows Elizabeth Blackwell's path to becoming the first woman doctor in America despite widespread opposition.

🌟 The book tells the story of Emily Warren Roebling, who became the first woman field engineer and essentially took over as Chief Engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge's construction when her husband fell ill. 🌟 Author Emily Arnold McCully has illustrated over 100 children's books and won the Caldecott Medal in 1993 for her book "Mirette on the High Wire." 🌟 The Brooklyn Bridge took 14 years to complete (1869-1883), and Emily Warren Roebling spent 11 of those years managing its construction. 🌟 Despite having no formal engineering training, Emily Warren Roebling studied higher mathematics, bridge construction, and material strength calculations to ensure she could properly oversee the project. 🌟 When the Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1883, Emily Warren Roebling was the first person to cross it. She rode in a carriage carrying a rooster, which was considered a symbol of victory.