Tag Archives: United States Supreme Court

Elem. – Ketanji Brown Jackson: A Justice for All

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Charles, Tami. Ketanji Brown Jackson: A Justice for All. Illustrated by Jemma Skidmore. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, 2023. 978-1-6659-3526-5. $18.99. Grades K-3. Unpaged.

In 2022, Ketanji Onyika Brown Jackson became the first Black woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. In this picture book biography, the author has outlined Jackson’s life from childhood to law school to her appointment to the Supreme Court. She faced obstacles along the way, including a guidance counselor who discouraged her from applying to Ivy League schools. However, she persevered as her ancestors did before her, and she eventually succeeded. There are several direct quotes incorporated throughout the story, and important figures who paved the way for Ketanji are acknowledged. End matter includes an author’s note, important dates, brief biographies of other important figures mentioned in the story, brief descriptions of relevant court cases, and a bibliography. Colorful, eloquent illustrations done in gouache and wax pencil perfectly complement this inspirational biography.

THOUGHTS: The historic significance of Ketanji’s appointment alone gives this title merit as a consideration for purchase. The book is also perfect for elementary libraries looking to diversify their biography section.

347.73 Law, Procedure and Courts
Biography

Elem. – All Rise: The Story of Ketanji Brown Jackson

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Weatherford, Carole Boston. All Rise: The Story of Ketanji Brown Jackson. Illustrated by Ashley Evans. Crown Books for Young Readers.  978-0-593-65016-5. 36 p. $18.99. Grades K-3. 

“Whatever she did, wherever she was, Ketanji Brown Jackson rose to the top.” Grounded in the refrain “she rose,” this title outlines Ketanji Brown Jackson’s journey from school girl to the first Black woman to serve as an associate justice in the U.S. Supreme Court. She learned the value of education from her parents, who always encouraged her to work hard and believe in herself. She rose to student government leadership positions in her middle school and high school, and she gained confidence as a public speaker by participating in the debate club. After graduating with honors from Harvard and continuing on to Harvard Law School, Ketanji eventually rose to her goal of becoming a federal judge. In 2022, President Biden nominated her to serve on the Supreme Court. Carole Boston Weatherford’s lyrical text is punctuated by Ashley Evans’ vibrant full-spread digital illustrations. Backmatter includes “A Letter to My Granddaughter and All of Our Daughters” by Carole Boston Weatherford and a timeline. 

THOUGHTS: This book is a nod to Maya Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise,” and Angelou, as well as other Black women including Constance Baker Motley, Shirley Chisholm, and Mae Jemison are referenced as well. This will be a valuable and timely addition to all elementary collections. 

347.73 Civil Procedure & Courts
Biography

Elem. – Ruth Objects: The Life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg

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Rappaport, Doreen. Ruth Objects: The Life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Disney-Hyperion, 2020. 978-1-484-74717-9. Unpaged. $18.99. Grades 2-4.

This illustrated biography of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the late Supreme Court Justice, highlights her life and achievements. It details her childhood, her college years, her marriage and family, and her career as a lawyer (and later, a judge). The story is interspersed with some of Ruth’s very own quotations, making the narrative a little more personal. A timeline, bibliography, and additional resources are included in the back of the book. A solid portrait of an influential figure, this biography will inspire girls and boys alike to strive for the things they believe in, even if society tells them these things are unattainable.

THOUGHTS: This is an excellent introduction to the famous Supreme Court justice and a solid addition to any elementary biography collection. It would also make an outstanding starting point for a discussion about women’s rights and/or gender equality. Even older students could learn something from this title; have them read about Ruth’s achievements, then write a dissenting opinion of their own about a court decision with which they disagree. Its potential to both inspire and educate makes this title a worthy addition to most collections.

Picture Book          Julie Ritter, PSLA Member