Because I Was a Girl by Melissa DeLaCruz - OPTIONAL

De La Cruz, Melissa Because I Was a Girl, 241 pages. Henry Holt and Company, 2017. $19.00.

Language: R (5 swears, 1 “f”); Mature Content: PG-13 (sex abuse off-page, sexual harassment); Violence: PG

This non-fiction book is a compilation of stories from women (and girls) who have made great strides in the fight for equality for women.  It is organized by decade, starting in the 1920s and ending with the 2010s.  Each section starts with facts and events related to women’s rights from that era.  This page is followed by short memoirs from women who grew up in that decade and experienced moments of difficulty, pain, empowerment, or triumph because they were “girls.”  It starts with labor rights activist, Dolores Huerta, and ends with young people like Quvenzhane Wallis and the editor’s own daughter.  The stories are poignant and powerful.  Only a couple of writers discuss topics that might be too mature for some middle grade readers. The six swear words are all in a fiercely written piece by Libba Bray.

I was impressed with the structure of this book.  The stories were compelling and hints at the slow changes in women’s rights can be found in many stories throughout the collection, culminating in a celebration of how far we, as women, have come (though we still have far to go).  Even though most of the women had experienced tough times and adversity, a clear message throughout was that women are strong, resilient, and capable and will never stop fighting to be seen as equals.  I loved the passion these women felt for their work and their families. Girls of all ages (12+) would benefit greatly from reading this book from cover to cover.  Mothers would be doing a great service to their children (both boys & girls) by sharing this book with them.  It is important for all young people to appreciate and understand the blessings and challenges of “being a girl” in our society.

HS, MS - OPTIONAL. Stacee S. Reading Teacher