What do you think?
Rate this book
Shirley Chisholm is a Verb!
A timely picture book biography about Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman in Congress, who sought the Democratic nomination to be the president of the United States.
Shirley Chisholm famously said, "If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair." This dynamic biography illuminates how Chisholm was a doer, an active and vocal participant in our nation's democracy, and a force to be reckoned with. Now young readers will learn about her early years, her time in Congress, her presidential bid and how her actions left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire, uplift, and instruct.
Shirley Chisholm famously said, "If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair." This dynamic biography illuminates how Chisholm was a doer, an active and vocal participant in our nation's democracy, and a force to be reckoned with. Now young readers will learn about her early years, her time in Congress, her presidential bid and how her actions left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire, uplift, and instruct.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published July 28, 2020
6 people are currently reading
575 people want to read
About the author
Veronica Chambers
65 books277 followersVeronica Chambers is a prolific author, best known for her critically acclaimed memoir, Mama’s Girl, which has been course adopted by hundreds of high schools and colleges throughout the country. The New Yorker called Mama’s Girl “a troubling testament to grit and mother love… one of the finest and most evenhanded in the genre in recent years.” Born in Panama and raised in Brooklyn, Ms. Chambers' work often reflects her Afro-Latina heritage.
Her most recent non-fiction book was Kickboxing Geishas: How Japanese Women are Changing their Nation. Her other non-fiction books include The Joy of Doing Things Badly: A Girl’s Guide to Love, Life, and Foolish Bravery. She has also written more than a dozen books for children, most recently Celia Cruz, Queen of Salsa and the body confidence Y/A novel, Plus. Her teen series, Amigas, is a collaboration between Chambers, producer Jane Startz, and Jennifer Lopez.
Veronica spent two seasons as an executive story editor for CW’s hit series Girlfriends, and earned a BET Comedy Award for her script work on that series. She has also written and developed projects for Fox and the N.
Veronica has contributed to several anthologies, including the best-selling Bitch in the House, edited by Cathi Hanuaer, and Mommy Wars, edited by Leslie Morgan Steiner.
A graduate of Simon’s Rock College at Bard, she and her husband have endowed three scholarships at the college in the fields of music and literature. She has been the recipient of several awards including the Hodder fellowship for emerging novelists at Princeton University and a National Endowment for the Arts fiction award. She speaks, reads and writes Spanish, but she is truly fluent in Spanglish. She lives with her husband and daughter in Hoboken, New Jersey.
Her most recent non-fiction book was Kickboxing Geishas: How Japanese Women are Changing their Nation. Her other non-fiction books include The Joy of Doing Things Badly: A Girl’s Guide to Love, Life, and Foolish Bravery. She has also written more than a dozen books for children, most recently Celia Cruz, Queen of Salsa and the body confidence Y/A novel, Plus. Her teen series, Amigas, is a collaboration between Chambers, producer Jane Startz, and Jennifer Lopez.
Veronica spent two seasons as an executive story editor for CW’s hit series Girlfriends, and earned a BET Comedy Award for her script work on that series. She has also written and developed projects for Fox and the N.
Veronica has contributed to several anthologies, including the best-selling Bitch in the House, edited by Cathi Hanuaer, and Mommy Wars, edited by Leslie Morgan Steiner.
A graduate of Simon’s Rock College at Bard, she and her husband have endowed three scholarships at the college in the fields of music and literature. She has been the recipient of several awards including the Hodder fellowship for emerging novelists at Princeton University and a National Endowment for the Arts fiction award. She speaks, reads and writes Spanish, but she is truly fluent in Spanglish. She lives with her husband and daughter in Hoboken, New Jersey.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
February 12, 2021
This is a picture book biography on Shirley Chisholm written by Veronica Chambers and illustrated by Rachelle Baker.
Shirley Chisholm was the first African-American woman elected to the U. S. Congress. In college she sought a degree in education. On completion she worked as a nursery school teacher while earning a master's degree. She later was a nursery school director and then an early childhood education consultant for New York city.
Chisholm wanted go do more for the people of New York and decided to run for state office. Later she launched and won a seat in the U. S. House of Representatives. Later she became the first African-American and first women to make serious run for President.
For children ages 4-8.
Black History Month Read
Shirley Chisholm was the first African-American woman elected to the U. S. Congress. In college she sought a degree in education. On completion she worked as a nursery school teacher while earning a master's degree. She later was a nursery school director and then an early childhood education consultant for New York city.
Chisholm wanted go do more for the people of New York and decided to run for state office. Later she launched and won a seat in the U. S. House of Representatives. Later she became the first African-American and first women to make serious run for President.
For children ages 4-8.
Black History Month Read
September 6, 2020
"If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair."
Fighting Shirley Chisholm, Unbought and Unbossed, was the first Black woman ever elected to Congress and the first woman to run for president. The fantastic biography, emphasizes all the ways Shirley Chisholm lived her life by doing.
"Service to others is the rent you pay for your room on earth."
Fighting Shirley Chisholm, Unbought and Unbossed, was the first Black woman ever elected to Congress and the first woman to run for president. The fantastic biography, emphasizes all the ways Shirley Chisholm lived her life by doing.
"Service to others is the rent you pay for your room on earth."
Read
September 4, 2024One of the best picturebook biographies I've ever read - and I've read a lot of 'em!
October 29, 2020
'Shirley Chisolm is a Verb' does a wonderful job of telling Chisholm's story while emphasizing verbs and vocabulary words. I didn't know about Shirley Chisholm (I'm Canadian!) and I loved learning about her inspiring time in Congress. It is a timely book for right now as well, and can help to begin discussions with children about racism and about why voting matters—the book even provides words like 'campaign' and 'represent' to help begin that talk.
August 14, 2020
I'm not going to lie, I didn't know who Shirley Chisholm was before today. But boy, I think I would liked to have met her. She seems like a character and a half.
January 16, 2021
Before Senator Kamala Harris said, "Mr. Vice President, I'm speaking," during the vice presidential debates. Before Senator Elizabeth Warren persisted in reading a letter by Coretta Scott King during Jeff Sessions' confirmation for Attorney General. Before Rep. Maxine Waters said, "Reclaiming my time," during a Financial Services Committee Hearing.
Before all of these, Shirley Chisholm said, "If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring in a folding chair." Shirley Chisholm went from her birth in New York City to teaching nursery school in New York to helping organize the Head Start program to being elected the first Black woman to Congress. And her "firsts" didn't end there. In 1972, Shirley Chisholm became the first Black person and the first women to make a serious bid for the US Presidency.
During her time in Congress, Rep. Shirley Chisholm served her constituents in New York and led the way on many firsts that benefited the country.
Shirley Chisholm is a Verb is an inspiring picture book biography of this important leader. Author Veronica Chamber's narrative and language are strong but also simple enough to make Chisholm's story accessible and interesting to younger readers. Rachelle Baker's strongly drawn illustrations bring interest and color to each page. An especially appealing element is the use use of bold, colorful type for particular verbs on each page: organize, improve, create, challenge. The words and images convey the strength and substance of Rep. Shirley Chisholm.
Rep. Shirley Chisholm continues to inspire people today, from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, elected to Congress in 2018, who said, "From suffragettes to Shirley Chisholm, I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the mothers of the movement," to André 3000 (André Benjamin) whose lyrics read, "You're the prism/Shirley Chisholm/the first.
Once again, as I have said over and over, picture book biographies tell the stories of inspirational, important, accomplished individuals who have been obscured, minimized, or neglected due to their gender, race, or a combination of the two. These books are valuable resources for teaching children the complete history of the United States.
Before all of these, Shirley Chisholm said, "If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring in a folding chair." Shirley Chisholm went from her birth in New York City to teaching nursery school in New York to helping organize the Head Start program to being elected the first Black woman to Congress. And her "firsts" didn't end there. In 1972, Shirley Chisholm became the first Black person and the first women to make a serious bid for the US Presidency.
During her time in Congress, Rep. Shirley Chisholm served her constituents in New York and led the way on many firsts that benefited the country.
Shirley Chisholm is a Verb is an inspiring picture book biography of this important leader. Author Veronica Chamber's narrative and language are strong but also simple enough to make Chisholm's story accessible and interesting to younger readers. Rachelle Baker's strongly drawn illustrations bring interest and color to each page. An especially appealing element is the use use of bold, colorful type for particular verbs on each page: organize, improve, create, challenge. The words and images convey the strength and substance of Rep. Shirley Chisholm.
Rep. Shirley Chisholm continues to inspire people today, from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, elected to Congress in 2018, who said, "From suffragettes to Shirley Chisholm, I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the mothers of the movement," to André 3000 (André Benjamin) whose lyrics read, "You're the prism/Shirley Chisholm/the first.
Once again, as I have said over and over, picture book biographies tell the stories of inspirational, important, accomplished individuals who have been obscured, minimized, or neglected due to their gender, race, or a combination of the two. These books are valuable resources for teaching children the complete history of the United States.
March 8, 2022
Quite a bit of this one was new information to me. I knew Chisholm served in Congress, and was not only the first Black person, but the first woman to make a serious bid for the office of president. I did not know, however, that she helped establish the Congressional Black Caucus, and both Head Start, and WIC.
This book offers a good, brief overview of her entire life, from childhood to old age. The book also mentions some of the many women who were inspired by Chisholm's hard, groundbreaking work.
This book offers a good, brief overview of her entire life, from childhood to old age. The book also mentions some of the many women who were inspired by Chisholm's hard, groundbreaking work.
April 6, 2022
Readers will embrace this picture book that celebrates the remarkable life of Shirley Chisolm. Shirley was the first Black woman elected to Congress and her first assignment was the House Agriculture Committee. She helped to start the WIC program which provides assistance to Women, Infants and Children and also helped to create the national school lunch program. She was also the first Black person and the first woman to make a serious attempt at becoming a candidate for president of the United States. This title is on the 2023 Bluestem list. It is available on Overdrive as an e-book.
Reviewed by: Liz Glazer, Youth and School Services, Vernon Area Public Library
Reviewed by: Liz Glazer, Youth and School Services, Vernon Area Public Library
March 17, 2021
Maybe a 4.5, but rounded up because Chisholm was my father's favorite politician, and I found it inspirational.
"She knew she could only fail if she didn't try."
Young biography of the first Black woman to be elected to Congress and the first black person and woman to run for President.
Her first committee was the House Agricultural Committee. She wondered how she could accomplish anything for her constituents in NYC. A friend suggested that she use it to feed the hungry. Shirley created WIC and a national school lunch program.
She also helped to create the Congressional Black Caucus.
She "realized that just because she didn't win, it didn't mean that she lost."
Author Note tells of Chisholm's importance in her life and ends with "I hope this book inspires you to raise your voice, take charge, and make waves in support of causes and leaders you believe in."
"She knew she could only fail if she didn't try."
Young biography of the first Black woman to be elected to Congress and the first black person and woman to run for President.
Her first committee was the House Agricultural Committee. She wondered how she could accomplish anything for her constituents in NYC. A friend suggested that she use it to feed the hungry. Shirley created WIC and a national school lunch program.
She also helped to create the Congressional Black Caucus.
She "realized that just because she didn't win, it didn't mean that she lost."
Author Note tells of Chisholm's importance in her life and ends with "I hope this book inspires you to raise your voice, take charge, and make waves in support of causes and leaders you believe in."
January 13, 2021
So much information about Shirley Chisholm packed into this picture book biography. The title and the idea of a verb/action is powerful.
November 13, 2020
LEARN
NEGOTIATE
LISTEN
STAND
INVITE
DEBATE
REPRESENT
INSPIRE
All of these verbs are actions that "move the world forward," right? In this picture book bio, Veronica Chambers and Rachelle Baker makes a strong case that Shirley Chisholm LIVED HER VERBS, that she was a doer. Throughout the text, particular verbs are printed in bright blue bold caps. These words invite conversation with the young students who we read this aloud to or the small groups of students who read this book together.
READ ALOUD this book to k-3 students or provide to small groups of 3rd-5th grade for the pure joy of learning about this amazing woman. Then revisit sections of the book and those verbs! Questions we might pose -
"How did Shirley Chisholm move the world forward by SPEAKING? By REPRESENTING? By LOVING?"
"What are the verbs you live?"
Baker's illustrations "DO" so much in this book. They are worthy of slowing down to look at and think about how they support AND extend the text. For example, there is a two-page spread that describes how Chisholm stood up to "the men on Capitol Hill who cared more about power and money." The illustration is of a group of hands pointing or held up as "stop" all in a much lighter skin tone than the illustration of Chisholm who is on the facing page holding up her index finger and clearly "challenging" the others. Students might ponder why Baker made the choices she did and the meaning the illustrations add to Chambers' text.
For middle grade students, this book may launch research into other politicians. Chambers mentions "in 2018, a record-breaking 131 women were elected to Congress." Who are these women? What have they done? And which verbs would we use to describe their work? Or who are our local policticians? Etc.
So much potential for learning and thinking and JOY.
I'd PAIR THIS TEXT with another book about Chisholm "She Was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm by Russell-Brown & Velasquez (2020). Students might read the second text asking, "What can I add to my learning?" There's just enough difference to deepen students' understanding of how amazing Chisholm was and the legacy she's left behind.
NEGOTIATE
LISTEN
STAND
INVITE
DEBATE
REPRESENT
INSPIRE
All of these verbs are actions that "move the world forward," right? In this picture book bio, Veronica Chambers and Rachelle Baker makes a strong case that Shirley Chisholm LIVED HER VERBS, that she was a doer. Throughout the text, particular verbs are printed in bright blue bold caps. These words invite conversation with the young students who we read this aloud to or the small groups of students who read this book together.
READ ALOUD this book to k-3 students or provide to small groups of 3rd-5th grade for the pure joy of learning about this amazing woman. Then revisit sections of the book and those verbs! Questions we might pose -
"How did Shirley Chisholm move the world forward by SPEAKING? By REPRESENTING? By LOVING?"
"What are the verbs you live?"
Baker's illustrations "DO" so much in this book. They are worthy of slowing down to look at and think about how they support AND extend the text. For example, there is a two-page spread that describes how Chisholm stood up to "the men on Capitol Hill who cared more about power and money." The illustration is of a group of hands pointing or held up as "stop" all in a much lighter skin tone than the illustration of Chisholm who is on the facing page holding up her index finger and clearly "challenging" the others. Students might ponder why Baker made the choices she did and the meaning the illustrations add to Chambers' text.
For middle grade students, this book may launch research into other politicians. Chambers mentions "in 2018, a record-breaking 131 women were elected to Congress." Who are these women? What have they done? And which verbs would we use to describe their work? Or who are our local policticians? Etc.
So much potential for learning and thinking and JOY.
I'd PAIR THIS TEXT with another book about Chisholm "She Was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm by Russell-Brown & Velasquez (2020). Students might read the second text asking, "What can I add to my learning?" There's just enough difference to deepen students' understanding of how amazing Chisholm was and the legacy she's left behind.
December 3, 2020
I knew about Shirley Chisholm as a young voter, during that perilous and yet exciting time during the fight for voting rights. However, Veronica Chambers has shared so much more that I didn't know and perhaps many others do not as well. Shirley Chisholm was action-challenged, from working hard in school, first became a teacher of pre-schoolers. Yet, in her work there, she ended up being one of the organizers of Head Start! One quote stood out to me: "Service to others is the rent you pay for your room on earth." She desired to help even more people!
From her extraordinary run to represent the people of Brooklyn, she showed she was "Unbought and Unbossed" (her campaign slogan). She won and became the first Black woman ever elected to Congress. Whew! And that was not all. During that time as a representative, she campaigned to be the Presidential nominee and eventually for her constituents, she helped create the national school lunch program and WIC, helping women, infants, and children in need of food. More things happened as Chisholm CONNECTED, IMPROVED, RESISTED, AND CHALLENGED in order to make things better, for those she represented back in Brooklyn and for those all over the country. She served seven consecutive terms! Rachelle Baker's digital illustrations mostly focus on Shirley and portraits with others in her history and then later at the end, those women who have followed her path, like Geraldine Ferraro and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
The final pages show a beautiful head portrait of Shirley with the left-hand page full of verbs, Shirley's actions!
There is a final letter from the author at the back offering added information.
From her extraordinary run to represent the people of Brooklyn, she showed she was "Unbought and Unbossed" (her campaign slogan). She won and became the first Black woman ever elected to Congress. Whew! And that was not all. During that time as a representative, she campaigned to be the Presidential nominee and eventually for her constituents, she helped create the national school lunch program and WIC, helping women, infants, and children in need of food. More things happened as Chisholm CONNECTED, IMPROVED, RESISTED, AND CHALLENGED in order to make things better, for those she represented back in Brooklyn and for those all over the country. She served seven consecutive terms! Rachelle Baker's digital illustrations mostly focus on Shirley and portraits with others in her history and then later at the end, those women who have followed her path, like Geraldine Ferraro and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.
The final pages show a beautiful head portrait of Shirley with the left-hand page full of verbs, Shirley's actions!
There is a final letter from the author at the back offering added information.
November 30, 2020
Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman in Congress and she also sought the Democratic nomination for president. She had conviction and spoke with bold determination. Young readers will learn about her role in programs like Head Start (which helps 3 and 4 year olds get ready for Kindergarten), WIC (which assists Women, Infants, and Children in need of food), and the national school lunch program. There are soooo many great and empowering quotes from Chisholm, like:
If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.
However, this book isn’t just about Chisholm. It’s a call to figure out what your verb is — what will you speak boldly about? What road will you pave for others to travel on? The artwork in this book was created digitally with Procreate on an iPad Pro, and with the help of countless cups of Earl Grey tea and biscoff cookies.
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.
However, this book isn’t just about Chisholm. It’s a call to figure out what your verb is — what will you speak boldly about? What road will you pave for others to travel on? The artwork in this book was created digitally with Procreate on an iPad Pro, and with the help of countless cups of Earl Grey tea and biscoff cookies.
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
August 28, 2020
Wow. This book was super sophisticated and well done. I learned more about Chisholm from this book than I have from others, but it didn't feel like an info dump--everything was so carefully worded and precise. I LOVED the way she bolded/highlighted verbs throughout, really emphasizing Chisholm's actions and impact, and it tied so nicely with the title/theme. It feels really important at the end too when Chambers includes present-day female trailblazers, showing how important it is to stand up/speak out against injustice. This was really special.
January 23, 2021
Truly a biography written for kids, this book about Shirley Chisholm is spectacular!
Short and strong sentences.
Vivid verbs.
Large illustrations.
Quotes.
Shirley started the Head Start program.
She helped create WIC and the national school lunch program.
Congresswoman.
First serious female presidential candidate and first Black presidential candidate.
In 2015, Ms. Chisholm posthumously was awarded the Medal of Freedom.
Short and strong sentences.
Vivid verbs.
Large illustrations.
Quotes.
Shirley started the Head Start program.
She helped create WIC and the national school lunch program.
Congresswoman.
First serious female presidential candidate and first Black presidential candidate.
In 2015, Ms. Chisholm posthumously was awarded the Medal of Freedom.
March 25, 2021
Wow! This book is set up around the concept of verbs, making any teacher ecstatic at hitting
English Grammar and Women’s History and Black History and American Politics/History all at once! I’ve seen one other book set up like this with words popping off the page but can’t recall it at the moment. This book is just so exciting and exuberant in its approach! It is about her life but focuses on many of the effects she had to her legislative efforts. She is a role model for AOC and many others. Highly recommended through junior high and even higher as an introductory text on Chisholm!
English Grammar and Women’s History and Black History and American Politics/History all at once! I’ve seen one other book set up like this with words popping off the page but can’t recall it at the moment. This book is just so exciting and exuberant in its approach! It is about her life but focuses on many of the effects she had to her legislative efforts. She is a role model for AOC and many others. Highly recommended through junior high and even higher as an introductory text on Chisholm!
November 1, 2020
"If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair."
"Service to others is the rent you pay for your room on earth."
The long-lasting impact of Chisholm's life and work is brought to life in this biography. School lunches? Thank you, Shirley Chisholm. And...much, much more. Highly recommend!
"Service to others is the rent you pay for your room on earth."
The long-lasting impact of Chisholm's life and work is brought to life in this biography. School lunches? Thank you, Shirley Chisholm. And...much, much more. Highly recommend!
April 24, 2021
What I really liked about this book was the highlighted verbs throughout. What a great way to teach language/grammar/etc. while highlighting famous women of history. An inspiring book for young readers and older readers alike.
September 22, 2021
An absolute must have for any primary classroom. I loved this biography style presentation of Shirley Chisolm’s life. Great for classroom lessons and discussions for Black History and Women’s History months.
December 30, 2020
Amazing picture book biography outlining the force of action that was Shirley Chisholm, who moved the world forward to make life better for everyone.
“Verbs are words that move the world forward.”
“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room on earth.”
“Verbs are words that move the world forward.”
“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room on earth.”
January 1, 2021
Can a person be a verb? Shirley Chisholm is! Innovator, feminist, pioneer. Awesome and informative.
November 28, 2022
Shirley Chisholm is a Verb! is an exceptional memoir that highlights the life of Shirley Chisholm, the first black woman in congress. This Jane Addams Children's Book Award 2020 finalist describes this powerful woman through the use of different verbs to highlight how active she was in being a change agent. The use of verbs highlights how much she accomplished in her life, despite many obstacles that stood in her way. The book ends showing how her accomplishments paved the way for other future leaders, such as Barack Obama, AOC, and Hillary Clinton. This is an exceptional picture book to use with older students. It would be especially meaningful to build a text set, using other picture books that provide additional information about her life, as well as more traditional non-fiction texts and videos. I especially appreciated the note from the author at the end of the book, as it provided other pieces of information that resonated with me as a reader. It is an excellent teaching opportunity, as features like notes from the author are often overlooked.
August 2, 2020
Every page has a verb in a large, bold, colored font. Can't wait to invite my students to identify THEIR verbs.
What a lifetime of service Chisholm had. I didn't know that she was a teacher, involved with WIC, Head Start, school lunch program...wow.
What a lifetime of service Chisholm had. I didn't know that she was a teacher, involved with WIC, Head Start, school lunch program...wow.
July 9, 2020
An inspiring introduction to Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress who sought the Democratic nomination to be the president of the United States in 1972.
December 27, 2020
Inspiring and accessible picture book biography.
November 8, 2022
Copy provided by Young Adult Books Central
For readers who are too young for Bolden's Speak Up, Speak Out! The Extraordinary Life of "Fighting Shirley Chisholm (2022) or as an excellent classroom read aloud, Chambers and Baker's Shirley Chisholm is a Verb introduces Chisholm and her career in politics through lively illustrations and innovative prose.
Moving forward from the thought that "Verbs are words that move the world forward", we see Chisholm's childhood in Barbados, her move to New York City, and her path through college and her early career. She started in education, working in early Head Start programs, and using every opportunity to better the world around her for others. She ran for a seat on the New York State assembly and won that, then continued on to serve as a congresswoman and eventually run for president. This was not an easy course to follow, since both women and Blacks faced a lot of opposition, but she was dedicated to changing the world and never gave up.
Good Points
The use of boldfaced verbs, and pages revolving around how Chisholm "campaigned", "represented" and "created" gives an interesting focus and rhythm to the information presented. This drives the story forward in a compelling way that a standard text might not. This has a lot of information for a read aloud, but the format of the prose keeps the story from seeming lengthy.
Baker's illustrations are bold and bright, and capture some well known photographs of Chisholm. Some of her 1960s and 1970s polyster suits are captured with bright colors; there were so many astonishing outfits that I wish a few more bright colors had been used in the clothing. I love that she didn't default to the black and navy ensembles that so many current women politicians wear!
Chisholm's legacy is well addressed, with information about Ferraro, Obama, Clinton, and the host of new female representatives that have been elected in recent races. The personal note from Chambers, with her recollections of seeing posters for Chisholm as a child, end the book on a personal note.
There are a growing number of picture book biographies, like Bryant's Fall Down Seven Times, Stand Up Eight: Patsy Takemoto Mink and the Fight for Title IX, Levy's I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark, and Sotomayor's Turning Pages: My Life Story, that cover pioneering women in the political arena. These make me hopeful that soon there will be so many women in office that it will no longer be noteworthy. Young readers of all cultural backgrounds will soon be able to picture themselves in the highest offices in the land.
For readers who are too young for Bolden's Speak Up, Speak Out! The Extraordinary Life of "Fighting Shirley Chisholm (2022) or as an excellent classroom read aloud, Chambers and Baker's Shirley Chisholm is a Verb introduces Chisholm and her career in politics through lively illustrations and innovative prose.
Moving forward from the thought that "Verbs are words that move the world forward", we see Chisholm's childhood in Barbados, her move to New York City, and her path through college and her early career. She started in education, working in early Head Start programs, and using every opportunity to better the world around her for others. She ran for a seat on the New York State assembly and won that, then continued on to serve as a congresswoman and eventually run for president. This was not an easy course to follow, since both women and Blacks faced a lot of opposition, but she was dedicated to changing the world and never gave up.
Good Points
The use of boldfaced verbs, and pages revolving around how Chisholm "campaigned", "represented" and "created" gives an interesting focus and rhythm to the information presented. This drives the story forward in a compelling way that a standard text might not. This has a lot of information for a read aloud, but the format of the prose keeps the story from seeming lengthy.
Baker's illustrations are bold and bright, and capture some well known photographs of Chisholm. Some of her 1960s and 1970s polyster suits are captured with bright colors; there were so many astonishing outfits that I wish a few more bright colors had been used in the clothing. I love that she didn't default to the black and navy ensembles that so many current women politicians wear!
Chisholm's legacy is well addressed, with information about Ferraro, Obama, Clinton, and the host of new female representatives that have been elected in recent races. The personal note from Chambers, with her recollections of seeing posters for Chisholm as a child, end the book on a personal note.
There are a growing number of picture book biographies, like Bryant's Fall Down Seven Times, Stand Up Eight: Patsy Takemoto Mink and the Fight for Title IX, Levy's I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark, and Sotomayor's Turning Pages: My Life Story, that cover pioneering women in the political arena. These make me hopeful that soon there will be so many women in office that it will no longer be noteworthy. Young readers of all cultural backgrounds will soon be able to picture themselves in the highest offices in the land.
December 29, 2020
The second picture book biography that I have read this year about Shirley Chisholm, the first woman to make a serious bid for President of the U.S.
This biography focuses on verbs that were the key to Chisholm's success in life. Words like connect, dreamed, graduated, improve, honor, listen, and represent.
Chambers offers highlights from Chisholm's public life, from her birth in New York through her retirement from Congress. It focuses on the actions and successes in her life, with sensibilities and humor that will appeal to kids. To make it easier for kids, she includes an explanation of difficult terms within the text (instead of adding a glossary to the back). By focusing on verbs throughout, Chambers writes with a feeling of talking at or preaching to the reader, rather than sharing with them or bringing them along for the ride. An author's note in back offers words of inspiration and relevance of Chisholm to Chambers, with a photo of Chisholm speaking to a group of students on the steps of the Capitol.
Rachelle Baker's illustrations were created digitally. They are bright and colorful, though have a flat feeling on the page. There is limited use of shadow to make images move forward and pop off the page.
This would be a fine addition to a unit on women's studies, politics, and Black history. In larger libraries, there is plenty of room for two PB bios about Chisholm. However, if you are limited on space or funding, I would prioritize She Was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm by Katheryn Russell-Brown and Eric Velasquez (Lee & Low, c2020) as the first choice, with this one a second.
Recommended for grades 2-5.
This biography focuses on verbs that were the key to Chisholm's success in life. Words like connect, dreamed, graduated, improve, honor, listen, and represent.
Chambers offers highlights from Chisholm's public life, from her birth in New York through her retirement from Congress. It focuses on the actions and successes in her life, with sensibilities and humor that will appeal to kids. To make it easier for kids, she includes an explanation of difficult terms within the text (instead of adding a glossary to the back). By focusing on verbs throughout, Chambers writes with a feeling of talking at or preaching to the reader, rather than sharing with them or bringing them along for the ride. An author's note in back offers words of inspiration and relevance of Chisholm to Chambers, with a photo of Chisholm speaking to a group of students on the steps of the Capitol.
Rachelle Baker's illustrations were created digitally. They are bright and colorful, though have a flat feeling on the page. There is limited use of shadow to make images move forward and pop off the page.
This would be a fine addition to a unit on women's studies, politics, and Black history. In larger libraries, there is plenty of room for two PB bios about Chisholm. However, if you are limited on space or funding, I would prioritize She Was the First!: The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm by Katheryn Russell-Brown and Eric Velasquez (Lee & Low, c2020) as the first choice, with this one a second.
Recommended for grades 2-5.
December 27, 2020
Much to my chagrin, I had no prior knowledge of Shirley Chisholm. Our introduction came from Ijeoma Oluo’s illuminating exposé Mediocre, and I was enthralled. As an educator and bibliophile, I decided to do some literary archeology and find out if there were any children's books I could share with my second graders.
To my delight, I discovered Veronica Chambers’ Shirley Chisholm Is a Verb and fell in love with this self proclaimed “black woman who dared to be herself.” Not only is this gorgeously illustrated picture book an authentic tool for teaching verbs and adjectives; it also provides a biography of a strong female leader who embodied them: “Black. Beautiful. Brave. Brainy. Bright. Believable.” I was inspired by her mantras, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room on earth.” and “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” “Just because she didn’t win, it didn’t mean she lost...Some races are relays. We only need to run as far and as fast as we can.”
This woman compelled me to ask, What verbs will I choose to define my life? And her story (herstory) will “inspire readers of all ages to “raise your voice, take charge, and make waves in support of the causes and leaders you believe in”--starting with you! I can’t wait to share Veronica Chambers’ Shirley Chisholm Is a Verb with my students to inspire their New Year’s Resolutions and goals for life!
To my delight, I discovered Veronica Chambers’ Shirley Chisholm Is a Verb and fell in love with this self proclaimed “black woman who dared to be herself.” Not only is this gorgeously illustrated picture book an authentic tool for teaching verbs and adjectives; it also provides a biography of a strong female leader who embodied them: “Black. Beautiful. Brave. Brainy. Bright. Believable.” I was inspired by her mantras, “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room on earth.” and “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” “Just because she didn’t win, it didn’t mean she lost...Some races are relays. We only need to run as far and as fast as we can.”
This woman compelled me to ask, What verbs will I choose to define my life? And her story (herstory) will “inspire readers of all ages to “raise your voice, take charge, and make waves in support of the causes and leaders you believe in”--starting with you! I can’t wait to share Veronica Chambers’ Shirley Chisholm Is a Verb with my students to inspire their New Year’s Resolutions and goals for life!
March 2, 2022
This book taught me a lot! It finds the sweet spot where it is simple enough for little ones’ limited attention spans, but packed with inspiration and facts. Plus, as a nice bonus, it teaches kids about verbs! 😆
I liked how the author took the space to offer examples of how Chisholm’s impact continues on to today, e.g. getting mentioned by A.O.C. as an inspiration. This helps kids to feel that not only is this information still relevant and important, but it also is a good reminder that it’s not only about what a person does, but about who they inspire and lift up with them too.
I also appreciated the author’s note. In addition to providing insight on what Shirley Chisholm meant to Chambers personally as a kid growing up in Brooklyn, she also mentioned a few of the rap lyrics Chisholm is name-dropped in, and offers encouragement and resources for people who may also want to get involved in politics. Again—it’s not just about what you do, it’s also about who you lift up and inspire!
Loved this!
I liked how the author took the space to offer examples of how Chisholm’s impact continues on to today, e.g. getting mentioned by A.O.C. as an inspiration. This helps kids to feel that not only is this information still relevant and important, but it also is a good reminder that it’s not only about what a person does, but about who they inspire and lift up with them too.
I also appreciated the author’s note. In addition to providing insight on what Shirley Chisholm meant to Chambers personally as a kid growing up in Brooklyn, she also mentioned a few of the rap lyrics Chisholm is name-dropped in, and offers encouragement and resources for people who may also want to get involved in politics. Again—it’s not just about what you do, it’s also about who you lift up and inspire!
Loved this!
October 15, 2021
As a whole, this book is successful as a powerful picture book biography that will engage most readers. The digital illustrations have a retro feel to them, but this still won’t help the reader place this historical figure in time. Very few specific dates are used in the text; although this gives Shirley’s story a timeless feel, it detracts from this informational book. At the very least, a timeline should have been included at the end. The cartoon illustrations are realistic and include many close-ups of Chisholm’s face, which depict her as strong and powerful. The theme of verbs, taken from the title, carries throughout the text, which reinforces that Chisholm was a “doer” and features many strong verbs in blue capital letters. Overall, this inspiring biography introduces today’s children to a figure that they may know little about; recommended for grades 3-5, especially for biography projects.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews