Good Books for Bad Children: The Genius of Ursula Nordstrom by Beth Kephart, Chloe Bristol
Published by Random House Children's Books on September 19, 2023
ISBN: 0593379578
Genres: Biography/Autobiography
Format: Picture Book Nonfiction
Goodreads

We have Ursula Nordstrom to thank for countless children’s classics and we get to learn more about her in this fun and brightly illustrated biography. After working her way up through various editorial positions, Nordstrom became Harper’s first female vice president. It’s easy to see how she excelled at her job; she was warm. energetic, and keenly in tune with what kids want to read.

Those familiar with mid-twentieth century classic children’s literature will enjoy recognizing the books featured in the illustrations. Those unfamiliar will still admire Nordstrom’s contribution as an editor. There is a repetition of the message that Nordstrom “never forgot what it was like to be a child” which is admirable but not necessarily something that will speak to a young reader, especially if they have not read the books that are referenced. The  book will most likely appeal more to adult readers than it will to kids, but it’s  very good and I would add it to a collection anyway.

Reviewed by Sarah Maciejewski, Patten Free Library, Bath