Chelsea Clinton has been in the spotlight for her entire life. The world has watched her grow up, pursue advanced degrees and start a career and a family. Raised by one of the world’s most influential women, her new children’s picture book about inspirational American women honors female pioneers who paved the way.
On shelves next month, the title of the book, She Persisted, has many meanings. It is a clear reference to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell’s defense after the Senate silenced Elizabeth Warren earlier this year.
She Persisted will tell the stories of 13 women who stood tall in the face of adversity and opposition. Women featured include Harriet Tubman, Maria Tallchief, Ruby Bridges, Sally Ride, Oprah Winfrey. These women overcame personal and societal obstacles to achieve their dreams. They are influential and powerful role models for children and feminists in the making who are ready to take on the world.
Clinton announced the book in a tweet, saying: “Persistence has changed the course of history. I’m so excited to share stories of girls & women who didn’t take no for answer on May 30th!” Alexandra Boiger will illustrate the book.
The phrase, “she persisted,” has become a rallying cry for women worldwide. Specifically, women who have faced opposition for pursuing their rights and dreams, but who still managed to keep going.
Clinton said that she wrote the book for everyone who has ever felt unimportant or less than:
The 13 women in She Persisted all overcame adversity to help shape our country. Sometimes through speaking out, sometimes by staying seated, sometimes by captivating an audience. With this book, I want to send a message to young readers around the country, and the world, that persistence is power.
The fight for the rights of women and girls continues around the world. This book highlights extraordinary women in American history and how they persevered in politics, in the media world, in school and even in space.
The book is targeted toward children ages 4 to 8, and Entertainment Weekly reported there will be a cameo in the book by another important female figure. I wonder who that could be? She Persisted hits shelves on May 30.
-Sage Daugherty
Junior Girl
Girl Museum Inc.