[LM_NET] BOOK: EL/MS: Margaret Chase Smith: A Woman for President by Lynn Plourde

[Toni Buzzeo <tonibuzzeo@TONIBUZZEO.COM>]

Margaret Chase Smith: A Woman for President by 
Lynn Plourde; illustrated by David McPhail 
(Charlesbridge, 2008).  ISBN: 978-1-58089-234-6

Politics has come upon a new day in this election 
year, with a Democratic presidential nomination 
race between an African American and a well-known 
woman, both running strong and inspiring 
campaigns and causing new members of the 
electorate to get actively involved in supporting 
these ground-breaking candidates.  What a perfect 
year to introduce Margaret Chase Smith--the 
Senator from Maine and first female presidential 
candidate for a major party--to young 
readers!  As the presidential race heats up this 
fall, you’ll want to share this fine biography 
with both teachers and students.  The book is 
impeccably organized, with an enormous amount of 
information packed into its 32 pages without 
compromising its open and appealing feel.  The 
biographical text for children appears on the 
left page with a portrait style illustration by 
McPhail accompanying it.  Each page of text ends 
with a perfect summation of Chase’s role, in her 
family, in her profession, in her country.  For 
example, “What a candidate she was­a truly 
historic one.” The text reads smoothly from start 
to finish and is loaded with important details 
about Smith’s life and work.  As an added 
feature, Plourde also includes a series of a 
dozen timelines, from dates and facts 
highlighting women in U.S. politics to an 
extensive timeline of Smith’s life (perfect for 
young researchers!).  The book closes with a four 
page in-depth biography of Smith written for 
adults and older readers, making it a book that 
extends to middle schools.  Highly recommended. 
Look for the downloadable mock election guide on 
the publisher Web site as well. [Grades 3-7] ~ Toni Buzzeo, MA, MLIS


Toni Buzzeo, MA, MLIS <mailto:tonibuzzeo@tonibuzzeo.com>
Maine Library Media Specialist of the Year Emerita
Buxton, ME 04093
http://www.tonibuzzeo.com
R is for Research, illustrated by Nicole Wong (Upstart 2008) BRAND NEW! 

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