Review - Josephine: My First Josephine Baker

Josephine: My First Josephine Baker (My First Little People, BIG DREAMS)
by Mª Isabel Sánchez Vegara
illustrated by Isabel Sorlet
Date: 2019
Publisher: Frances Lincoln Children's Books
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book non-fiction
Pages: 24
Format: e-book
Source: NetGalley

Meet Josephine Baker, the world-famous entertainer, activist, and French Resistance agent in this true story of her life! This board book version of Josephine Baker —from the beloved Little People, BIG DREAMS series—follows the incredible life of Josephine Baker, from growing up in St. Louis, Missouri, during segregation to defying expectations and performing on the stage in Paris, where audiences fell in love with her.

Josephine Baker was born for the stage. But growing up in segregated St. Louis, she didn't have the same opportunities as white entertainers. So, she moved to Paris where audiences fell in love with her. Josephine worked as a dancer, an actor, and even a spy. She then spent the rest of her life spreading the word that people of all colors can live together in harmony. Babies and toddlers will love to snuggle as you read to them the engaging story of this talented entertainer and activist, and will also enjoy exploring the stylish and quirky illustrations of this sturdy board book on their own.

(synopsis from Goodreads)

Surprisingly enough, given my history with the rest of this series (and, in particular, the board books), I actually kind of like this one. The stylized illustrations and simple text work well together to create a condensed biography of Josephine Baker, a trailblazer and all-around interesting person.

This is perfectly adequate for the age group, but older children who pick this up might find themselves wanting more. I'd be interested to read the full version at some point and see how it compares to this.

Thank you to NetGalley and Frances Lincoln Children's Books for providing a digital ARC.

Premise: 3/5
Meter: n/a
Writing: 3/5
Illustrations: 3/5
Originality: 3/5

Enjoyment: 3/5

Overall: 3 out of 5