Elizabeth Warren’s Big, Bold Plans

This picture book credibly depicts the life and pursuits of Elizabeth Warren, former presidential candidate and “the first woman senator for Massachusetts.” In a series of densely paragraphed pages, Thompson gives readers a glimpse into Warren’s educational background, love for law and education, and responsibilities as a parent and politician. Bold, hand-lettered-style typography punctuates certain statements for impact: “Laws should help people.” Chapman’s detailed watercolors and digital architecture stand out, and one portrait particularly succeeds in stylizing Warren as she becomes a senator. Unfortunately, America is cast through a dominant white lens—statements like “Elizabeth realized the rules had changed: Working hard wasn’t always enough anymore” may well cause rancor among marginalized folks, for whom “working hard” was never enough from the start—but fans of Warren and inspirational female figures may find the rest of the message sufficiently redemptive. Back matter includes a timeline, selected bibliography, and an author’s note. Ages 4–8. (May)