cover image Gloria’s Voice: The Story of Gloria Steinem—Feminist, Activist, Leader

Gloria’s Voice: The Story of Gloria Steinem—Feminist, Activist, Leader

Aura Lewis. Sterling, $16.95 (40p) ISBN 978-1-4549-2666-5

Debut author-illustrator Lewis focuses on Gloria Steinem’s early life and career. Even in childhood, Steinem understood the limitations imposed upon women: “as a wife and mother, Gloria’s mama had to stay home and take care of the family. That’s what women are expected to do.” Reporting on the women’s liberation movement helps Steinem to find her calling; founding Ms. magazine gives voice to millions: “The magazines fly off the newsstands! People want to hear what women have to say.” Lewis’s watercolor and mixed-media art features glowing rose and tangerine shades, with compositions and fonts that call to mind 1960s-era graphic design. On one surreal spread, Steinem stands triumphantly on the keys of her typewriter, hands on her hips, red hair flowing. Endnotes hint at Steinem’s many more accomplishments. It’s a subtle ode to an iconic figure of quiet “strength and enormous influence.” Ages 4–up. (Mar.)