TALKIN’ ABOUT BESSIE: THE STORY OF AVIATOR ELIZABETH COLEMAN by Nikki Grimes. Illustrations by E.B. Lewis

1.    BIBLIOGRAPHY
Grimes, Nikki. 2002. TALKIN' ABOUT BESSIE, THE STORY OF AVIATOR ELIZABETH COLEMAN. Ill. by E. B. Lewis. Scholastic Books. ISBN: 0439573422

2.    PLOT SUMMARY
Elizabeth Coleman is credited for being the first African American female to hold a pilot's license  Her story, from poverty to pilot is told through voices that were part of her life. From her estranged father to her pilot instructor, each play a part in Bessie’s desire to dream big.

3.  CRITICAL ANALYSIS
The saying, you can’t judge a book by its cover, has never been more true than with this book. The cover is beautifully illustrated, but for me it lacked some appeal to make me want to open it up. Once I did, I found a delightful story about Elizabeth Coleman’s life told by people who were attending her memorial service. Each person’s influence in Bessie’s life tells their part, in their own voice and free verse, with each having a page dedicated to their contribution in her life. This story is a wonderful example of overcoming obstacles and never giving up on your dreams. Making the connection that Bessie was part of my own state’s history was the connection I needed to keep reading.

The illustrations by E.B. Lewis depict a small portrait of the person telling their part of the story accompanied by a full-page watercolor illustration to reinforce what is being told. The illustrations fit the story beautifully as subtle contributions that do not over power the story.

4.    REVIEW EXCERPTS
2003 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award
2003 Coretta Scott King Author Honor Book

“Relating the story of the African-American aviator noted for being the first woman of her race to become a licensed pilot, Grimes's text is accompanied by "painterly illustrations" that "deepen" the story.”
-- Ellen Feldman, New York Times

“Lewis' paintings, subdued in tone and color, reflect the spirit of the verse through telling details and sensitive, impressionistic portrayals. “
-- Carolyn Phelan, Booklist,

“Well conceived, well-executed, [and] handsomely illustrated.”
-- Harriett Fargnoli, School Library Journal

5.    CONNECTIONS
A wonderful book to use during Black History and Women’s History months.

http://www.infoplease.com/spot/womenshistory1.html

http://www.biography.com/blackhistory/

A good starter to use when having students write about hero’s.