Meet My Grandmother: She's a Supreme Court Justice (Grandmothers at)

This title in the Grandmothers at Work series introduces Sandra Day O'Connor as both a justice and a beloved grandmother. Written from the vantage point of O'Connor's granddaughter, Courtney, the first-person narrative is friendly and enthusiastic. It simply explains a justice's diverse duties and offers some personal information about O'Connor's history and interests. Many color photos, with explanatory text, show O'Connor and Courtney at Washington landmarks, including Constitution Hall, in O'Connor's Supreme Court offices, and participating in exercise classes and eating lunch together. The book's approach humanizes and personalizes, illustrating that professionals, no matter how distinguished and intimidating their positions, are people too. The last page offers basic information about becoming a Supreme Court Justice. Upbeat and affectionate, this photo-essay celebrates a loving relationship while providing an accessible, if generalized, introduction to a venerable career. Shelle Rosenfeld

Grade 3-5-A photo-essay written from a child's perspective. Courtney O'Connor, granddaughter of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor, spends a day walking in her grandmother's shoes. The job of a Supreme Court Justice is explained in understandable terms and Justice O'Connor is portrayed as a "regular" person and a grandmother who loves her family. In addition, the pair visit some museums and historical sites as well as shop and eat ice cream. The layout is eye-catching with pastel backgrounds that enhance the well-chosen photographs. The last page, "If You Want to Be a Supreme Court Justice...," encourages children to work and study hard, and to "be yourself," stay healthy, and obey the law. A competently done book in a promising new series.
Stephani Hutchinson, Pioneer Elementary School, Sunnyside, WA
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