Amanda Gorman: Poet and Activist

K-Gr 1–An early reader biography about renowned poet Amanda Gorman. In her early life, reading and writing came easily to Gorman. However, she had struggles with speaking: “She often had trouble saying certain words.” Poetry and perseverance helped her improve. After she was named the first ever National Youth Poet Laureate, she continued to work hard and eventually received the opportunity to share her poetry at a national scale during Biden’s presidential inauguration. Beyond being a well regarded poet, Gorman is also an activist who started a program to help young people learn to write. While some of the specific details of her accolades and life events are simplified for readers, young people will still gain a rich understanding of Gorman’s life. Realistic illustrations also help breathe to life the highlights of Gorman’s journey thus far.