NONFICTION

Dorothy the Brave

by Meghan P Browne (text) & illus. by Brooke Smart
Viking. Mar. 2022. 40p. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9780593116999.
COPY ISBN
Gr 2-4–A child during the Great Depression, and a young woman when Pearl Harbor was attacked, Dorothy Lucas wanted to aid the war effort like her older brothers, so she joined the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP). Dorothy and the other “fly girls” towed targets for (male) gunnery pilots. Young readers may be confused by some details (why did Dorothy need to leave home before high school?) and need context for others (women “riveted like Rosie” and “nursed like Kate”). The ending is somewhat abrupt, though an author’s note provides more information. The gouache, watercolor, and colored pencil illustrations are reminiscent of Maira Kalman’s style. Back matter includes an author’s note, photos, and recommended reading.
VERDICT Women’s contributions during wartime are not a new subject, but this is a worthwhile addition.
Reviewed by Jenny Arch , Mar 01, 2022

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