Stories for Kids Who Dare To Be Different: True Tales of Amazing People Who Stood Up and Stood Out

Gr 3-5–This intriguing collection of nonfiction stories illuminates often-overlooked pioneers. Brooks, who previously introduced readers to historically unsung heroes in Stories for Boys Who Dare to Be Different, returns with new tales that span centuries, countries, ages, and genders. Listed in alphabetical order by name, each figure or group includes a detailed biography and full-page illustration by frequent collaborator Wintor. Although there are a few familiar faces, like astronaut Sally Ride and the Wright Brothers, the pages are packed with people that may be new to many readers such as Jessica Cox, a pilot born without arms, or Biddy Mason, a former enslaved woman who became the first black female landowner in Los Angeles. Brooks’s collection invites readers to engage with people of many different ethnicities and cultures. A potential springboard for class research projects, the book’s focus on lesser-known figures encourages readers to learn more. Brooks doesn’t shy away from challenging topics; instead, age-appropriate information is carefully explained. Wintor’s colorful illustrations capture the spirit of each figure, as well as the eyes of readers.