VIP: Dr. Mae Jemison: Brave Rocketeer by Heather Alexander
Published by HarperCollins on January 5, 2021
ISBN: 006297808X
Pages: 128
Genres: Biography/Autobiography, Non-Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Nonfiction
Goodreads

This is a very well done young middle grade biography of the first Black woman in space, Dr. Mae Jemison. It starts with Mae’s humble childhood and takes the reader through her medical education, her trip to space, and her work after retiring from NASA. The writing is simple and easy to follow, at times reading a bit younger than the intended audience. There are also details included that may be obvious to a reader third grade and older (a definition of gravity, for example). Throughout, there are illustrations reminiscent of some graphic novels that will appeal to readers and keep them engaged. The book is also dotted with quizzes and fun lists of facts that young readers will enjoy. This is a wonderful new biography series. Recommended for readers 2nd grade and up.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME