This picture book biography of Jane Addams—referred to as “Saint Jane” during her lifetime—recounts her decades of remarkable social justice work and promotion of peace throughout the world. Even as a child, Jane had great empathy for people in need. Years later, while touring England, she was inspired by a London settlement house where people living in poverty could go to learn new skills. Jane returned home and opened Hull House in Chicago, where she welcomed and offered assistance to anyone who needed it, especially immigrants and the poor. Jane’s peace work continued throughout her lifetime: during World War I, she formed the Women’s Peace Party and led the International Congress of Women. After the war, she provided care for ill and injured children around the world—work that some considered traitorous. In the eyes of the FBI, for a time “Saint Jane” became “the Most Dangerous Woman in America.” But the tenacious woman continued on, and in 1931 she was recognized for her work with the Nobel Peace Prize. Along with her many accomplishments, this book brings Jane’s kindness, generosity, and sense of conviction to the forefront of her story. (Ages 6-10)

An inspiring picture book biography of Jane Addams—the groundbreaking social activist who went from the FBI’s “Most Dangerous Woman in America” to Nobel Peace Prize winner.

“Hand to readers looking to make a difference in the world.” —School Library Journal

From the time she was a child, Jane Addams’s heart ached for others—for those who were sad, hungry, and hopeless. When she grew up, Jane created Hull House, a settlement house in Chicago where she worked eighteen hours a day, providing whatever her immigrant neighbors needed: English lessons, childcare, steady work—as well as friendship, dignity, and hope.

Then World War I broke out. Jane had helped people from different countries live in peace at Hull House, but what could she do to stop a war?

This energetic, inspiring picture book biography focuses on the peace work that helped Jane Addams go from FBI’s “Most Dangerous Woman in America” to the first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. Suzanne Slade’s powerful text, written in free verse, is brought to life with Alice Ratterree’s stunning, period-perfect illustrations.

Awards:

Best Children’s Books of the Year (Starred) ―Bank Street College of Education
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People ―National Council for the Social Studies/Children’s Book Council
CCBC Choices (Biography and Autobiography) ―Cooperative Children’s Book Center

Also by Suzanne Slade:
Countdown
Mars Is