Thimmesh (Think of Everything
) offers brief, colorful profiles of politically influential women throughout American history, plus those of four female leaders from other countries. Beginning with several First Ladies and women's rights activists, the author proceeds to congresswomen and presidential cabinet members. Along the way, she spotlights individuals responsible for some impressive "firsts": Eleanor Roosevelt, the first U.S. delegate to the United Nations; Jeannette Rankin, the first woman to be elected to the House of Representatives in 1917; Sandra Day O'Connor, the first female Supreme Court justice; and Condoleezza Rice, the first woman to hold the position of national security advisor. Thimmesh's introductory words about Rice exemplify the narrative's informal, breezy style, brimming with quirky anecdotes: "She is Teflon tough. Supergirl strong. But even the best of the best have weaknesses—and hers happens to be shoes: flats, pumps, spikes." The author effectively incorporates the women's own voices with quotes (set off in blue type). Pages presenting pictures of and dialogue among contemporary kids amount to superfluous filler. First-time book illustrator Jones contributes spare, colored pencil portraits featuring a subdued palette, which occasionally bear little resemblance to the subjects. A notable exception is a remarkable double-page rendition of the White House, an intricate mosaic composed of photos of children's faces. A lively introduction to women's political achievements. Ages 10-up. (Aug.)
