PICTURE BOOK REVIEW: Jessie, Queen of the Road by Lindsay Ward
BOOK SUMMARY
In the early twentieth century, a teenage Jessie races the streets of New York City—the only female motorcycle around. After being called unladylike too many times, she leaves and becomes the first female motorcycle to traverse America. But a few years later, when she tries to enlist during World War I, she’s turned down because she’s a woman. So she sets her own course, meeting other female motorcycles, working as a stunt rider, and eventually becoming a courier during World War II. Over the decades and after many achievements—and a few color changes—one thing is clear to Jessie: there’s always a new adventure just around the bend.
Inspired by seven women who rode motorcycles and achieved notable distinctions in an era when they faced numerous barriers, this story is a reminder of the possibilities that await us and what we can accomplish, even against the odds.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR
Twitter: @lindsaymward
Instagram: lindsaymward
REVIEW
The author introduces young readers to the early years of women riding motorcycles through a young motorcycle named Jessie. Based on the experiences of seven women who helped pave the way for female motorcyclists early in the 20th century. Jessie refuses to accept the rejection she faces when she tries to join the male motorcycles in New York, instead she sets off cross-country traveling from New York to San Francisco. Despite accidents and breakdowns she makes it to San Francisco before attempting to join the arm as a dispatch rider. After she's rejected by the military she joins a performing group showing off her stunt riding skills. A devastating accident slows her down, but doesn't stop her. Eventually she joins the military during WWII as a courier. When the war ends, she sets off to find more adventures, following her motto, "Fast and strong, I won't be slowed! In rain or shine ... I'll forge my road." Not only is Jessie a cheerful, friendly looking motorcycle but she's also a representative of all the women who faced discrimination while pursuing their passion for the road. Jessie's adorable looking and her facial expressions are delightful. The ink and colored pencils illustrations combined with cut paper make for enjoyable reading. The addition of 'photographs' helps document Jessie's journeys. Ward's use of a symbol to help give young readers a glimpse into the past makes for an inspiring as well as fun read. The back matter includes an author's note about the women who inspired the story, a timeline, and a few extra sources to check out.
SAMPLE ILLUSTRATIONS
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