  | Bessie the motorcycle queen Author: Smith, Charles R. | |
| Price: $23.28 | ||
Summary:
In 1929, 18-year-old Bessie Stringfield hopped on her motorcycle and headed out on an adventure, an unusual choice for a young Black woman at the time. Paying her way by winning motorcycle races, she criss-crossed the country through small towns, big cities, and wide open spaces. Bessie Stringfield was a figure who will inspire all children to pursue their dreams.
| Illustrator: | Kristensen, Charlot |
| Accelerated Reader Information: Interest Level: LG Reading Level: 4.80 Points: .5 Quiz: 517665 |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (07/15/22)
Booklist (08/01/22)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 08/01/2022 A fast-flying starter biography, this tale of motorcycle queen Bessie Stringfield is ideal for fans of cars, travel, racing, and Black history. Bessie’s story is told in a well-paced rhythm that engages readers of all ages, who might be drawn in by the motorcycle on the cover but will quickly learn about the racism of the twentieth century, as they are confronted with Bessie facing segregation laws and even Klan members just off page. Focusing on her travel rides, this biography provides a strong introduction that may leave readers wanting to learn more about her later life and military service. The bright, animated illustration style propels the eye as readers follow Bessie across the country, but the standout illustrations are the ones that capture the realities of Bessie’s everyday life—a street full of signs reading “colored restrooms” and “white laundry.” Add this book to biography collections and look for ways to put it in the hands of readers interested in motorcycles as well as those seeking to learn about the Jim Crow era through a new lens. - Copyright 2022 Booklist.
