Rating: 4 Stars
Fearless Mary by Tami Charles (illustrated by Claire Almon) is a nonfiction early reader about Mary Fields the first African American Woman to drive a stage coach. It is an incredible story about a larger than life figure that helped pave the way for others of color and women in general.
The story tells how Mary Fields, a former slave, hitched horses faster than any man to be awarded the job of stage coach driver. It also gives us a glimpse of what it was like to be a stage coach driver. The daily challenges Mary would have faced and the pride she took in doing her job.
The whole book was thoughtful done. While it is nonfiction mixed with fiction, the story is presented in such a way that all young readers will enjoy. The illustrations are well done and suit the story nicely. I think most young readers will connect with Mary in some way. We need more role models like her today.
I recommend this book to young readers (6 to 10) who are interested in the history of the American West and African American history. The book is appropriate for readers as young as 6; yet, because of the subject matter some older readers may also enjoy. I think it will especially appeal to girls because the story has such a positive message about women and women of color and Mary is such a strong female character that young girls will identify with.
I received a free copy at BEA from the author in exchange for my honest review.