Hillary Rodham Clinton: Some Girls Are Born To Lead

K-Gr 3—This visually appealing production traces Hillary Rodham Clinton's growth from a bright 1950s schoolgirl to a two-time presidential hopeful. From the start, narrator Lesa Lockford emphasizes that Clinton was no ordinary girl. Her bright clothing and blond ponytail stand out against a sea of suit-wearing, sepia-toned 1950s men. Through her college years, she continued to shatter stereotypes as she studied hard, volunteered for women and children's special interest groups, and was accepted into law school. After marrying Bill Clinton and becoming first lady of Arkansas, and later of the United States, she continued her political involvement, campaigning for affordable health care for everyone and speaking out for women's rights worldwide. The biggest strength of this version of Michelle Markel's picture book is that it doesn't just outline Clinton's personal achievements; it explains their relevance in conjunction with important historical events, such as Martin Luther King Jr.'s speeches, the civil rights movement, the September 11 attacks, and the 2008 presidential election. Additionally, actual audio files of Clinton's speeches are heard, presenting listeners the chance to hear her charismatic oration firsthand. LeUyen Pham's vibrant watercolor illustrations are dotted with period details, and viewers will enjoy picking out famous faces at the opening and closing of the production. Upbeat instrumental music creates a cheerful backdrop for Lockford's expressive narration. A bonus extra offers a detailed time line of significant events in Clinton's life and in the 20th and 21st centuries.