Shirley Chisholm was familiar only in name for me. What a pleasure it was to read the life story of this remarkable lady who blazed new paths and understandings to those less fortunate. Her bold way of speaking led to many friends and enemies as she eventually became the first African-American women to be elected to Congress in 1968. She stood tall in her position for seven terms.
This engaging biography takes readers through 19 chapters as it explores her beginnings and ends at the effect she still has in the present (including words from Vice President Kamala Harris who proclaimed before the inauguration: “Shirley Chisholm created a path for me and so many others.”).
A map of Brooklyn precedes the chapters and pinpoints locations that impacted Chisholm’s personal and professional life. Six pages of photographs are also included as a subsection in Chapter 15, which allow a better understanding after learning about her life.
The narrative flows and is well-researched. SPEAK UP, SPEAK OUT—THE EXTRAORDINARY LIFE OF “FIGHTING SHIRLEY CHISHOLM” would be best suited for grades 6 and up. A great addition to any school or home library.
To see all of the books Tanya Bolden has penned over the years visit Tanya Bolden Books.
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Nice overview of this book. Thanks, Greg.
I love biographies and enjoyed your review. I grew up with Shirley Chisolm, but didn’t realize all that she accomplished. Perfect for Black History Month! Thanks for sharing!