Part of a series of early chapter book biographies from the publisher, the book is geared towards newly independent readers and thus fairly simple and straightforward, but covers the highlights of Murray’s life well, with bold illustrations enhancing the narrative.
The book begins with Pauli’s childhood in segregated North Carolina, followed by a move to New York for a college degree in English literature and the start of a teaching career. We also learn that “Pauli never felt quite like a girl” but sometimes “felt like a boy or felt in-between.” (A call-out box notes that Pauli mostly used she/her pronouns, but sometimes he/him; today, “they and them would be another option.” Historians “don’t always agree” on what to use. (This book mostly avoids using any pronouns for Pauli, barring one use of “they,” which feels respectful)
We see Pauli using writing to try and create change; getting arrested challenging segregation on a city bus; and starting a correspondence with Eleanor Roosevelt, discussing civil rights and feminism. Pauli struggled (but eventually succeeded) in getting a legal education, after being rejected from one school for being Black and from another for being (as the school saw it) a woman. Pauli kept writing; co-founded the National Organization for Women, and had an impact on causes including segregation, civil rights, and marriage equality. Pauli also fell in love with a woman named Irene Barlow, and they were together until Irene passed away. Later, Pauli became (as others saw her) the first Black woman Episcopal priest.
Although a simplified version of Murray’s achievements, the book effectively conveys Murray’s belief in the power of words to create change, and Murray’s impact on civil rights.
Backmatter includes a timeline, glossary, discussion questions, and suggested activity (writing a letter to the president or another leader about making the country a better place).
