Mama in Congress: Rashida Tlaib's Journey to Washington
by Rashida Tlaib (Author) Olivia Aserr (Illustrator)
An inspiring picture book that tells the story of Rashida Tlaib, one of the first Muslim women elected to Congress, and her family. Perfect for readers of books that celebrate trailblazing women and social activists as well as those looking for an introduction to civic engagement and how government works.
"Hey Adam, is the president Mom's boss now?"
When Yousif Tlaib asks about his mom's new job in Congress, his older brother, Adam, fills him in--with some help from Rashida Tlaib herself. As he tells his mom's story, Adam reveals information about how elections and our government work, what it means to break barriers, what motivates their mama to work for justice for all, and how love and family have guided them through this historic time in our country.
From growing up in Detroit--the eldest of fourteen siblings and the first in her immigrant family to graduate from high school--through her journey into community activism and then local politics, to eventually becoming one of the first Muslim Congresswomen and an influential national figure, Rashida Tlaib's inspiring story shows kids that they, too, can do great things and make a difference.
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Kirkus
School Library Journal
Gr 1-4—Adam Tlaib tells the story of his mother Rashida's lifelong mission to help make people's lives better—as an activist, a lawyer, and an elected official (first in the Michigan House of Representatives, then in the U.S. House of Representatives). Her Palestinian heritage and Muslim religion are important parts of her identity; when Adam suggests it might be safer to hide, she replies that it's "important to be our authentic selves." The language is as kid-friendly as possible for the topic, and there's a helpful glossary, as well as a description of the three branches of government, using a tree analogy. The illustrations are lively and varied, showing the Tlaib family, the campaign trail, and the great round hall of the U.S. Capitol building filled with warm golden light (and a portrait of Shirley Chisholm). First-person narration from a kid's point of view makes the story relatable, and Rashida Tlaib's successes are inspiring. VERDICT A valuable addition to picture book biography collections.—Jenny Arch
Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.JNF007120 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Biography & Autobiography | Women
JNF043000 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Social Science | Politics & Government
JNF007070 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Biography & Autobiography | Political
JNF038130 - Juvenile Nonfiction | People & Places | United States - Middle Eastern & Arab American
