Maggie Jean

by Peggy Kulczewski

Title IX. It’s not something most people think about, but, as Maggie Jean goes to show, it was one of the most important laws of its time. To demonstrate the importance of this piece of antidiscrimination legislation, author Peggy Kulczewski takes her readers back to a time before Title IX went into effect. The book follows Maggie Jean, a bright, optimistic girl who just wants to play the same sports as the boys. Time and time again, she faces discrimination and resistance from authorities that don’t understand her. Even the simple act of wanting to take science classes marks her as a “complainer” by the school. Despite her troubles, Maggie Jean isn’t going to give up! In addition to Maggie Jean’s amazing journey, the book also provides a section on historical context and the real-life events that inspired the story. Maggie Jean is an important read for anyone facing frustrations about current discrimination. The United States hasn’t fully eradicated sexism and other bigotry, but it has come a long, long way. Maggie Jean will inspire the next generation to take a stand against discrimination and pursue their passions with courage and conviction.

108 pages, Paperback

Published August 31, 2016

Reviews

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read "Maggie Jean" in two days. I took time to absorb the information. Like looking at a beautiful painting, you must take time to appreciate the colors and brush strokes. The story of Maggie Jean makes you stop and think about the brush strokes. The author Peggy Kulczewski has cleverly woven American history with history of Women's opportunities in sports and professionalism. At the same time there is this adorable little girl, I visualize her with freckles and braided pig tails, as she moves through the histories of the eras she desires more that what people expected of girls and women.
Her experiences are based on the life of the times. Truly inspirational! I recommend this story for
classrooms third grade and up, as well all adults. Good job Peggy.

[April Suter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amazing how fast or how you look at it..slow..times changed in 16 years. I grew up near the author and GAA was gone by the time I was in high school, my only fight was being a girl in FFA. I identify with many events in this book. It puts perspective in my life. As a girl I am expected to have it all and do it all. I am to continue the traditions of the girly girl of style, cooking, sewing, crafts, homemaking and being the perfect hostess; in addition to being the modern woman with a dedicated career, attentive friend, devoted wife and nurturing mom, and yes be a full time daughter. And do this being active in an organization important to yourself, attend and help at your church, keep educated in technology and world events, and maintain a healthy body in the image society protrays as a must.
So this is a great short books for young, high school and adults to enjoy and create thoughtful discussions.