Living the Confidence Code

December 15, 2020
An impressive group of girls lead with hope and confidence. Building on the premise of empowering girls, this title showcases 30 true stories from the U.S. and all over the world of young people who are striving toward their goals. The title opens with a foreword by Olympic gold medal winner Laurie Hernandez; an introduction that defines confidence and explains why it matters; and a glossary of terms used in the book. The varied format, which includes Q&A's and photos, adds appeal as readers learn about each girl's story. The featured girls are diverse in ethnicity, national origin, ability, socio-economic status, and religious beliefs as well as in their accomplishments. One example is Autumn Peltier, a member of the Eagle Clan Anishinaabekwe and Wikwemikong First Nation in Ontario. She is a water activist, protesting the pollution of the Great Lakes. Yekaba Abimbola of Ethiopia advocated for herself and sought community support after discovering at age 12 that she was betrothed to a 20-year-old. Passionate about her education, she persuaded her father to cancel the engagement and support her dreams. Handling many subjects, from gender inequality in Nepal to disability access in sports, the stories offer efficient synopses of each girl's journey. Each also emphasizes that success is not linear and that failure is a normal part of the process. The last chapter is blank, inviting readers to write their own stories. A high-interest, empowering read. (sources & references, photo credits) (Nonfiction. 8-12)

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January 1, 2021

Gr 5-7-This title profiles 30 girls who built confidence while overcoming obstacles and pursuing their dreams. The foreword is written by gold medal-winning gymnast Laurie Hernandez. A quick introduction defines confidence and explains how to be more confident. The beginning of the text contains a glossary of "confidence building blocks" and "confidence quicksand," terms which are used throughout the book. The stories highlight a diverse group of girls from all over the world, including Bali, the United States, and Afghanistan. Topics discussed include advocating against child marriage, cleaning up the oceans, and creating a space for girls in sports. Narratives, graphic novel strips, and interviews are used to tell the stories, which follow a general format of sharing their inspiration, a failure, and finally success. Photos and illustrations are featured throughout. Back matter features resources for each chapter, with websites and information about organizations supporting each girl's cause. A final chapter offers space for the reader to write their own story. VERDICT These inspiring stories spotlight compelling role models for young girls. A great companion to the authors' The Confidence Code for Girls.-V. Lynn Christiansen, Wiley International Studies Magnet Elem. Sch., Raleigh, NC

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