Construction People

December 23, 2019
Using a framework based on boxing match rounds, Rosenstock describes the pitched battle between two complicated historical figures. Alice Paul, a fierce advocate for the passage of the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote, faces the conservatism of President Woodrow Wilson, who blocked the amendment for years (it was ratified in 1920). Rosenstock’s fidelity to the boxing metaphor (“So he ducks. He dodges,” “Alice spins and catches Woodrow off guard”) creates a rigid framework that sometimes distracts, and Paul and Wilson’s personal motivations remain opaque—supplemental materials help somewhat and note Paul’s compromised legacy due to her support of discriminatory practices against black suffragists. Stylized, colorful illustrations by Green are accented with bold black lines and incorporate boxing motifs. Ages 7–10.

February 1, 2020

Gr 2-5-Rosenstock explains the history of women's suffrage and the eventual ratification of the 19th amendment in the form of a boxing match between activist Alice Paul and President Woodrow Wilson. The diligence and coordination of Paul and her supporters and their battle to win public support, especially in light of World War I, are portrayed in an enticing and accessible manner. The narrative framework works well to depict the struggles the suffragettes faced. It took nearly five years to convince President Wilson to support women's voting rights. The full-color illustrations, rendered in muted tones, are reminiscent of vintage boxing posters and add to the boxing match aesthetic. The text provides substantial information in an approachable manner for young readers. An author's note, a time line, and a plentiful bibliography present more details for those interested in delving deeper or conducting additional research. VERDICT This title, especially with the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the 19th amendment approaching, is likely to be a favorite for children interested in history and activism, as well as educators. A suggested purchase for all collections.-Ellen Conlin, Naperville Public Library, IL

Copyright 2020 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2020
It's Alice Paul versus Woodrow Wilson! Utilizing the language and structure of a boxing match, this fast-paced selection covers Alice Paul's activism, ongoing support of women's suffrage, and continuing advocacy for passage of the 19th Amendment during Woodrow Wilson's two presidential terms. Illustrations based on Jazz Age lithographs and boxing posters combine nicely with suspenseful, articulate text that includes some of Paul's ancillary accomplishments (she led both the first pickets of the White House, for example, and a successful hunger strike while incarcerated) along the way to success. Wilson's befuddlement and confusion at her strength and dedication to the cause are covered here, too, as are the negative responses of men who resisted Paul's actions and beliefs. Ultimately, the focus is on positive change: the ratification of the amendment, Wilson's developing viewpoint, and America's growing acceptance of women's rights. While the text presents her dedication and accomplishments with verve and excitement, the endnotes provide a timeline, bibliography, and additional historical context in which the white woman's support of her organization's discrimination against African American women is explored, presenting a picture of a flawed yet accomplished heroine. A lively, inspiring depiction of an indomitable fighter for women's rights. (Picture book/biography. 6-10)

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January 1, 2020
Grades 1-4 This accessible storybook uses the metaphor of a prizefight to explain the battle between suffragist Alice Paul and President Woodrow Wilson over votes for women. "In this corner, standing five feet six inches . . ." begins the text, and from there, the action seesaws back and forth, with some rounds going to Wilson, others awarded to Paul. (She organizes parades; he ignores her. Women picket the White House; he has them arrested.) The action culminates with the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment and Paul declared the winner. The illustrations invoke period photographs, and while most portray actual historical events, some creatively show the protagonists squaring off in a boxing ring. Appended material fills out the story, helped by a time line, bibliography, and chapter notes, though only brief mention is made of the racist attitudes of many white women in the suffrage movement. It might require a bit of explanation to clarify what actually did take place, but overall this is an engaging way of making history fun and relevant.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2020, American Library Association.)