“Fight for the things you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you. “ RBG

Ruth Bader Ginsburg grew up in Brooklyn, New York. From the earlier years in her life, she hated being treated differently, especially different than boys. Because she was often mistreated, she began to hate discrimination too and wanted to do something to stop it.

Even though most women stayed at home, Ruth knew women could do amazing things. Always reading stories depicting brave women warriors, pilots, and detectives, Ruth wanted to step into the ring too! With the example, love, and encouragement of her mother, Ruth learned to aim high and care for others. She worked very hard to read many books and participate in school activities and academics. She felt then that she was preparing to do something great!

While conducting a school project, Ruth became interested about the constitution and she felt she could contribute to making it even better. She attended law school where she fell in love with Marty Ginsburg.

Back then, law schools did not accept many women, and even banned them from the library-that didn’t settle well with Ruth. Even though she graduated with high honors, nobody would hire her! But she soon became an expert lawyer and leading law professor. Fighting discrimination was next on her list.

As she balanced work, studies, and home life…she successfully had a winning career as a lawyer. She ultimately became a true champion of women’s rights. In 1980 she became a judge and then was chosen as one of nine judges for the Supreme Court. He mantra was equality and justice for all…she was very vocal in speaking up for immigrants, people of color, same sex couples, and women entering military school. And with every important court hearing, was always dressed in her beautiful rhinestone collar. Everybody loved her, including those on the Supreme Court with opposing views, as Ruth was always polite and respectful.

She left behind a legacy not only for her family and our country, but the world as a whole. A legacy that encompasses persistence, grit, taking a stand, using your voice, kindness, compassion, justice, open-mindedness, and courage!

I want to begin this book review with saying that this is truly one of my favorite books. I have always enjoyed reading about Ruth Ginsburg and her becoming such an influential woman of force within our country. I love everything about this book, including its formatting and playful, soft illustrations. It’s informative and yet creative, inspiring and captivating. With every page I want to learn more. Dean Robbins perfectly captures this dynamite woman and retells her life story in a way that is engaging and appropriate for kids as young as the primary grades through upper elementary grades. His book can be used as an effective mentor text in teaching students how to write a biography with pizzaz and fun, infused with important and meaningful information. Invite Dean Robbin’s wonderful creations into your home and classroom libraries. He has a long list of interesting and informative reads for children!

Learn more bout his work, click his website HERE.