Lady Bird Johnson, That's Who!

January 1, 2021
According to Lady Bird Johnson, "Where flowers bloom, so does hope." Born into a wealthy, White family, Claudia Alta Taylor was shy and loved nature, which likely accounted for her nickname: Lady Bird, bestowed by the children of her Black nanny. Vivid, colorful, if stiffly posed illustrations and accessible text with well-chosen anecdotes (her future husband, Lyndon Baines Johnson, proposed to her on their first date) are accompanied by summarizing questions tied to the refrain "Lady Bird Johnson, that's who!" The text describes how she struggled with shyness yet ran a company and managed the family finances, supported her husband's political campaigns, and eventually became first lady of the United States. The relative limitations she faced are briefly mentioned: Women in the mid-20th century didn't typically own businesses, and most first ladies didn't work to support legislation. Overall, she is portrayed as a conservationist who tried to bring people together through her highway-beautification campaigns during a time when the American people were divided about the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement. While her attempts can be seen as either visionary or superficial depending on the beholder, and other environmental advocates may have achieved more, children interested in the environment and climate change will easily see how her actions played a role in the history of environmentalism. (This book was reviewed digitally with 11-by-17-inch double-page spreads viewed at 78.6% of actual size.) A portrait of a first lady who hoped to make America beautiful. (notes, bibliography, acknowledgements) (Picture book/biography. 5-8)

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February 1, 2021

K-Gr 3-Former First Lady Claudia Alta "Lady Bird" Johnson (1912-2007), like her namesake the ladybug, spent her childhood among flowers, nature, and the wilderness surrounding her Texas country home. Johnson was a quiet and shy child who preferred picking wildflower bouquets over speaking in front of audiences; however, her confidence and influence grew as she reached adulthood and became First Lady. Maurer's picture book biography follows a similar narrative format as her previous works about Samuel Morse and John Deere. The chronological text follows Lady Bird's noteworthy accomplishments through her childhood, her marriage to President Lyndon B. Johnson, and her political endeavors such as drawing the nation's attention to pollution, preservation, and conservation. Though the early life of Johnson is detailed, Maurer races through the Kennedy administration and historic events of the 1960s. Overall, this title is a fitting introduction that will support further research about Johnson's life and contributions. Back matter includes additional facts, resources, and a bibliography of works for young and adult readers. Hsu's light, airy illustrations utilize thematic wildflowers to vividly frame key moments and people. VERDICT Recommended for elementary biography collections looking for titles centered on female influencers and environmental champions.-Jamie Jensen, Wayne Cox Elem. Sch., Roanoke, TX

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