The Dream and the Hope: The Historic Rise of Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Nation’s Highest Court

Rozsa and Thomas (Walk Toward the Rising Sun) document the rise of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson (b. 1970), the first Black woman to be confirmed to the U.S. Supreme Court, in this comprehensive biography. Digestible prose celebrates the figure’s historic achievement as both “the dream and the hope of the slave” and a step toward a more representative U.S. government, while straightforwardly titled chapters (“Family History,” “Growing Up,” “Nomination,” “Confirmation”) chronicle Jackson’s journey from young, motivated student in Miami to first-year Supreme Court justice. Throughout, the authors highlight the subject’s parents fostering her love of learning and influencing her work ethic, and her mentors’ support as she navigates adversity and challenges stemming from systemic racism. Skillfully interwoven history helps readers connect pivotal social movements, such as the work of civil rights trailblazers, with Jackson’s personal experiences. Back matter includes Jackson’s keys for a successful life, snapshots of her “superheroines,” and an afterword detailing the justice’s response to the current political landscape. Ages 8–12. Agent: (for Rozsa) Todd Shuster, Aevitas Creative Management. (Jan.)