My first books, biographies, are among my favorites. In researching such fascinating figures as the iconic Albert Einstein or the relatively unknown Philo Farnsworth, I saw that “Truth [really can be] stranger than fiction.” 

Sisters Against Slavery: A Story about Sarah and Angelina Grimke Carolrhoda, 1999

Raised on a plantation in Charleston, South Carolina, these brave sisters became staunch abolitionists and fighters for women’s rights. 

Martha Washington: First Lady Enslow, 1998

Joining her husband during his winter encampments during the Revolutionary War, Martha Washington did a great deal to encourage the cold and ragged soldiers. 

TV’s Forgotten Hero: The Story of Philo Farnsworth Carolrhoda, 1996

A Science and Films Best Children’s Science Book. 

While plowing a field of beets in Idaho when he was fourteen, Philo Farnsworth had the inspiration that led to his invention of electronic television.

Ordinary Genius: The Story of Albert Einstein Carolrhoda, 1995

Finalist, Sequoyah Children’s Book Award

An NSTA/CBC Outstanding Science Trade Book for Children, 1996.

A PLA/ALL Top Title for New Adult Readers for 1996.

Expelled from high school, Albert Einstein went on to change the way we view the universe and to become the most famous scientist in the world.

Peace and Bread: The Story of Jane Addams Carolrhoda, 1993

A Hungry Minds Review Children’s Book of Distinction for 1993.

A PLA/ALL Top Title for New Adult Readers for 1993 and 1994. 

Jane Addams brought friendship and important services to many Chicago immigrants with her establishment of Hull House right in the midst of their community.

I Speak for the Women: A Story about Lucy Stone Carolrhoda, 1992

Bucking convention, Lucy Stone became one of the first woman speakers for an anti-slavery society. Severely criticized for her courage, she was forced to defend women’s right to speak in public, ultimately crusading for female suffrage.

The Workers’ Detective: A Story about Dr. Alice Hamilton Carolrhoda, 1992

An NSTA/CBC Outstanding Science Trade Book for Children.

Working as a social worker in Chicago, Alice set out to investigate the debilitating ailments of lead factory workers and ended by pioneering a new branch of medicine – industrial medicine. 

Rooftop Astronomer: A Story about Maria Mitchell Carolrhoda, 1990

A Science Books and Films Best Children’s Science Book

The first woman astronomer in the United States did a great deal to expand women’s boundaries and to encourage women to pursue scientific careers.