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Dangerous Jane: ?The Life and Times of Jane Addams, Crusader for Peace
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.
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?
Suzanne Slade's powerful free verse and Alice Ratterree's stunning, period-perfect illustrations bring a remarkable woman to life.
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?
Suzanne Slade's powerful free verse and Alice Ratterree's stunning, period-perfect illustrations bring a remarkable woman to life.
40 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2017
3 people are currently reading
481 people want to read
About the author
Suzanne Slade
163 books131 followersSibert honoree author of more than 150 books for chlldren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
September 21, 2017
All I knew of Jane Addams was her work at Hull House. I didn't know about all the work she did to promote peace, which lead to being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. What a remarkable woman! She was single-minded in her desire to help the poor and the immigrants, which allowed her to ignore all those who disagreed with her and disliked what she was doing. That takes a lot of courage. I can't believe that the FBI thought she was dangerous! Slade has written an inspiring biography here, with beautiful, soft illustrations that mirror Jane's personality. I was happy to see a couple of photos at the end of the real Jane Addams, plus a timeline and a list of further reading. Nicely done and highly recommended. I must read more about this woman.
July 5, 2017
This inspiring picture book biography of Addams focuses on her work as a pacifist that would lead to her being the first American woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
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September 16, 2017Solid biography of big-hearted Jane Addams, who was the first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
April 16, 2017
When I was a child, in elementary school, we were taught what I could only call the "clean" version of history. We learned about wars, and heroes, and presidents and stuff, but didn't learn about the bad stuff. We didn't learn about the Hoovervilles, or the veterans march, or the buffalo soldiers.
And I was an avid reader. I real all the 921 (biographies) that our school library had. I especially loved the lives of the famous when they were kids, and I know I read one about Jane Addams, and her founding of Hull House, but I don't remember learning about how she formed a women's peace party and raged against the First World War.
So, imagine my surprise, when this picture book laid it all out, in simple words, and pictures, just what an amazing job Jane Addams did with her life, how she worked with other women to try and stop the war, and to talk to leaders, and for that she was called a traitor. And that she was the first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
Very good book about women who made a difference in America and the world. Highly recommend this for libraries for all those young children who enjoy learning about famous women.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review
And I was an avid reader. I real all the 921 (biographies) that our school library had. I especially loved the lives of the famous when they were kids, and I know I read one about Jane Addams, and her founding of Hull House, but I don't remember learning about how she formed a women's peace party and raged against the First World War.
So, imagine my surprise, when this picture book laid it all out, in simple words, and pictures, just what an amazing job Jane Addams did with her life, how she worked with other women to try and stop the war, and to talk to leaders, and for that she was called a traitor. And that she was the first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
Very good book about women who made a difference in America and the world. Highly recommend this for libraries for all those young children who enjoy learning about famous women.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review
September 10, 2017
'Dangerous Jane' by Suzanne Slade with illustrations by Alice Ratterree is a picture book telling of the life of Jane Addams. I was somewhat familiar with this historical figure and I found the book to be a good introduction of her life for young readers.
In spite of losing her mother at a young age, and having a medical affliction, Jane Addams had a heart to help people. When she was able to, she founded Hull House in Chicago and helped the poor and immigrants. When World War I broke out, she was committed to peace, even talking to leaders of opposing countries. Her actions got her labelled as "dangerous," but she was also the first woman to earn the Nobel Prize.
It's an inspiring story of how one woman saw a world in need and tried to do something about it. A lot of people talk, but Jane Addams acted. That's a good lesson for young readers who want to change the world. The text and illustrations tell this story in a very accessible way, and the book ends with an article telling more about Jane Addams and giving a timeline and a few real life photos.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Peachtree Publishing, Myrick Marketing & Media LLC, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
In spite of losing her mother at a young age, and having a medical affliction, Jane Addams had a heart to help people. When she was able to, she founded Hull House in Chicago and helped the poor and immigrants. When World War I broke out, she was committed to peace, even talking to leaders of opposing countries. Her actions got her labelled as "dangerous," but she was also the first woman to earn the Nobel Prize.
It's an inspiring story of how one woman saw a world in need and tried to do something about it. A lot of people talk, but Jane Addams acted. That's a good lesson for young readers who want to change the world. The text and illustrations tell this story in a very accessible way, and the book ends with an article telling more about Jane Addams and giving a timeline and a few real life photos.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Peachtree Publishing, Myrick Marketing & Media LLC, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
October 29, 2017
I received this book from @kidlitexchange to read and give an honest review. All opinions are my own. Thank you @luaandbeanread for sharing. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟Dangerous Jane by Suzanne Slade gives you a warm, fuzzy feeling inside when you finish this amazing story to explain Jane Addams' dreams of helping others and for world peace. A woman from history who stood for what she believed in regardless of what others thought. An amazing way to reach younger readers and teach history. Review also posted on Instagram @jasonnstacie, Library Thing, and my blog at readsbystacie.com.
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December 17, 2017I understand that it was in part her efforts for peace that attracted the negative attention of the U.S. federal government, but I was really uninterested in that part of the story (the peace efforts, not the part where the feds labeled her "dangerous"). I think in part because it felt generic -- we are told that the International Congress of Women passed 20 resolutions for peace, but we don't learn any details of any of them -- and because there's no indication that it helped stop WWI (and we know that wasn't the last global conflict) so it feels a bit like "what was the point?" -- but honestly probably mostly because I have a knee-jerk aversion to women-as-women working toward peace because there's so much baggage around essentialist ideas of women as inherently more peaceful, nurturing, less violent, etc.
Also, although the story talks about Hull House as something that Jane put together and ran herself (soliciting donations from wealthy women, but otherwise it seems to be all her), the note at the end mentions that she founded it with her college friend Ellen Gates Starr," and I wondered if they were lesbians, and lo Wikipedia supports me.
Early on, the book says, "The years passed quickly--time for Jane to leave home, get married, and start a family. That's what women were supposed to do. But Jane had plans of her own--college, and a career helping others." So yes, the book makes space for girls who don't wanna get married and start a family to see themselves reflected, but I was disappointed that it didn't include mention of the valuable partnerships that offered her so much support. Whatever one thinks about the nature of her relationships with Ellen and Mary, they were important relationships and I think it's important to show kids that doing great things doesn't have to mean doing them alone. Wikipedia says, "Her relationships offered her the time and energy to pursue her social work while being supported emotionally and romantically," and Jane literally did refer to her relationship with her second partner, Mary Rozet Smith, as a marriage.
Also, although the story talks about Hull House as something that Jane put together and ran herself (soliciting donations from wealthy women, but otherwise it seems to be all her), the note at the end mentions that she founded it with her college friend Ellen Gates Starr," and I wondered if they were lesbians, and lo Wikipedia supports me.
Early on, the book says, "The years passed quickly--time for Jane to leave home, get married, and start a family. That's what women were supposed to do. But Jane had plans of her own--college, and a career helping others." So yes, the book makes space for girls who don't wanna get married and start a family to see themselves reflected, but I was disappointed that it didn't include mention of the valuable partnerships that offered her so much support. Whatever one thinks about the nature of her relationships with Ellen and Mary, they were important relationships and I think it's important to show kids that doing great things doesn't have to mean doing them alone. Wikipedia says, "Her relationships offered her the time and energy to pursue her social work while being supported emotionally and romantically," and Jane literally did refer to her relationship with her second partner, Mary Rozet Smith, as a marriage.
November 24, 2017
The title Dangerous Jane is alluring, but it’s also ironic because the life mission of Jane Addams was to protect and serve whoever needed protection and support. Dangerous Jane tells the life story of Jane Addams with a focus on how she was inspired to serve others as a child, and moves on to how she established a settlement house in Chicago and an international women’s movement, both dedicated to helping those who need it without regard for nationality or any other consideration. After World War I, Jane Addams was considered a traitor and labeled “The Most Dangerous Woman in America” by some who thought she should be more selective about who she provided with assistance. She eventually became the first woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
Author Suzanne Slade’s text cover these milestones in the life of Jane Addams in finely crafted sentences. Slade’s economy with words provide her sentences with punch but never cross over into melodrama. I especially admire how the final phrase or image on each page is particularly thought-provoking. Because of Slade's attention to the sound of her sentences, Dangerous Jane is one of the rare picture books that will work as a read-aloud.
The illustrations by Alice Ratterree enhance Suzanne Slade’s narrative with historically accurate and interesting backdrops. The faces are expressive and realistic, and all of this is rendered in colors that are not quite sepia but still create a nostalgic effect.
Young readers exposed to Dangerous Jane will learn about empathy, compassion, service, World War I, the role of women in the early Twentieth Century, and much more. In this time when some in our society want to build walls, I’m glad that “Dangerous” Jane Addams can still inspire the better parts of human nature.
Author Suzanne Slade’s text cover these milestones in the life of Jane Addams in finely crafted sentences. Slade’s economy with words provide her sentences with punch but never cross over into melodrama. I especially admire how the final phrase or image on each page is particularly thought-provoking. Because of Slade's attention to the sound of her sentences, Dangerous Jane is one of the rare picture books that will work as a read-aloud.
The illustrations by Alice Ratterree enhance Suzanne Slade’s narrative with historically accurate and interesting backdrops. The faces are expressive and realistic, and all of this is rendered in colors that are not quite sepia but still create a nostalgic effect.
Young readers exposed to Dangerous Jane will learn about empathy, compassion, service, World War I, the role of women in the early Twentieth Century, and much more. In this time when some in our society want to build walls, I’m glad that “Dangerous” Jane Addams can still inspire the better parts of human nature.
October 22, 2017
Dangerous Jane is a lovely, lyrical tribute to Jane Addams, the first American woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize. This non-fiction picture book tells the tale of Ms. Addams' tireless efforts to bring people together through peace, and her creation of Hull House in Chicago. The story addresses war and poverty with a light touch that young children can understand. The illustrations by Alice Ratterree highlight Jane in green clothing throughout the story, allowing her energy to pop out against the neutral colors of the world around her in disarray. With sparse but lively sentences, author Suzanne Slade paints a beautiful portrait of Ms. Addams' selfless drive to help those in need, even though some found her idea of bringing differing cultures together to be dangerous. Filled with back matter and a timeline of Ms. Addams life, this book serves as both an accessible history lesson and an inspirational story that the work of one individual can positively impact so many others.
October 10, 2017
Although I finished this picture book biography wanting to know more--as I almost always do when I read those--I was impressed with the decision to focus on her work as a pacifist and involvement in the peace movement. Many young readers may be familiar with her work at Hull House in Chicago, which is work that is notable in and of itself, but they are not likely to know about her deep interest in peaceful resolutions of conflict and how she formed the Women's Peace Party, and then traveled across Europe to share the International Congress of Women's resolutions for peace with world leaders. Naturally, Jane and many others were troubled by WWI and the many deaths that occur during a global conflict of this size, and she spent time visiting hospitalized children and providing food for families in need, no matter what side of the conflict they had been on. For her efforts, she was demonized and even labeled "dangerous" by the FBI. (Ah, if being compassionate and doing good for others makes one dangerous, shouldn't we all wish for more individuals like Jane Addams?) Apparently, Jane ignored the criticism and kept on doing what she believed in. This inspiring story about a brave and inspiring individual who followed her heart no matter what others might have said is accompanied by a timeline, photos of its subject, and more information about Jane Addams. There is also a selected biography list for more reading.The watercolor illustrations are respectful and depict the world of Jane Addams effectively. Jane is depicted as often wearing green, and her facial expressions show exactly what she is feeling and thinking over the course of the book. For anyone who has lost faith in the world's positive elements or no longer believes that one person can make a difference or have little power against the establishment, here is balm for those wounds.
May 22, 2017
Women who step outside prescribed norms are often judged harshly in their lifetimes, and so Jane Adams was deemed "the most dangerous woman in America" yet went on to be the first American woman to the Nobel Peace Prize. Suzanne Slade, the author of the picture book, Dangerous Jane, tells the biography of Jane Adams through gorgeous illustrations, original photographs, newspaper snippets, and a timeline. When Jane was a child she saw poverty and vowed to help others, and children of any age will be inspired by her story.
March 4, 2020
Featuring one of my favorite modern illustrators, this biography of Jane Addams is well-thought out and beautifully executed. Just the sort of picture book which would have spurred my elementary self to learn about a subject I might otherwise have avoided. Dangerous Jane follows the subject from cradle to grave with engaging prose. The author's common sense approach will elicit from young readers a natural sympathy for their fellow humans. A terrific companion in the classroom and a charming introduction to this important historical figure.
June 10, 2017
The story of the first female Nobel Prize winner is sure to inspire young girls of this generation.
July 10, 2017
The world needs more "dangerous" people like Jane Addams who will work to change the world.
August 7, 2017
Clear and concise, with good endnotes. The writing does not give a sense of Addams writing or speaking, and lacks any direct quotes.
October 1, 2021
This review was originally written for The Baby Bookworm. Visit us for new picture books reviews daily!
Hello, friends! Our book today is Dangerous Jane: The Life and Times of Jane Addams, Crusader for Peace, written by Suzanne Slade and illustrated by Alice Ratterree.
As a child, Jane had her fair share of sadness and pain; after losing her mother at age 2, she contracted spinal tuberculosis at age 4, leaving her with a twisted spine. Isolated from other children, she sought solace in books and her father’s love, and it was on a business trip with him that she first noted the dire conditions of the poor communities near her home. Resolving to dedicate her adulthood to helping those in need, Jane travelled the world, studying the conditions of those in poverty and the systems created to assist them. Returning home to Chicago, she and Ellen Starr founded Hull House, a settlement house that assisted the poor with education, childcare, and work. From there, Jane would turn her efforts to international peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts – efforts that led her to be seen as a controversial figure, winning a Nobel Peace Prize AND being declared the “most dangerous woman in America” by the FBI. Yet all that mattered to Jane was helping others, and she served the people of the world the rest of her life, advocating human rights and world peace.
An intriguing figure like Addams deserves attention from young readers, and this picture biography makes a great start. Covering Addams’s life in broad strokes, readers are given solid insight into her motivations and a portion of her activism, as well as the impact it had on her life. However, it’s what the biography doesn’t talk about that disappoints; Addams’ work in early feminism and woman’s suffrage is not mentioned, nor is the fact that she was a queer woman (her first partner, Starr, is referred to in the backmatter as her “college friend”). The artwork is detailed, and the illustrator distinguishes Addams from the sepias with a signature green. The length is best for older elementary and middle-grade readers; while JJ enjoyed the art, the story began to drag for her. Overall, this is a nice spotlight of a worthy subject – I only wish it had been a little more bright. Otherwise, Baby Bookworm approved.
(Note: A copy of this book was provided to The Baby Bookworm by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.)
Be sure to check out The Baby Bookworm for more reviews!
December 11, 2017
Slade, Suzanne Dangerous Jane. PICTURE BOOK. Peachtree, 2017. $18.
Jane Addams was from a well to do family and was able to choose a path of education. When she saw injustice and poverty in the world, it inspired her to create change. She first started the Hull house, a large building where the low income immigrant families could go to for education, food, and a place to stay. She also promoted the rights of the women and African Americans. She was beloved. When World War I broke out, she organized for peace. She led the International Congress of Women, who actively spoke out for peace. She cared and fed those effected by the war, with no thought to victor and loser. That’s when the FBI announced her to be the most Dangerous Women in America. But she stuck to her passion of helping those less fortunate and a few years later was the first woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Extra large pages are filled with illustrations of Jane always wearing green, standing out from a crowd.
This book is a stellar edition to any library. It’s told in picture book format and could easily be shared with K-6th graders. Teachers will appreciate the history, the lessons of perseverance, the promotion of peace, and helping others regardless of status. Students will love to see how a sad little girl was able to change her life and the world. Readers will love to see the photographs of her in the end of the book and there is a longer biography and timeline included as well. The artwork is lovely but the antique wash over the pages gives it a dated and unappealing look and feel, making it very much less likely to be picked by students on their own, which is incredibly unfortunate.
El (K-3), EL –ESSENTIAL. Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017...
Jane Addams was from a well to do family and was able to choose a path of education. When she saw injustice and poverty in the world, it inspired her to create change. She first started the Hull house, a large building where the low income immigrant families could go to for education, food, and a place to stay. She also promoted the rights of the women and African Americans. She was beloved. When World War I broke out, she organized for peace. She led the International Congress of Women, who actively spoke out for peace. She cared and fed those effected by the war, with no thought to victor and loser. That’s when the FBI announced her to be the most Dangerous Women in America. But she stuck to her passion of helping those less fortunate and a few years later was the first woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. Extra large pages are filled with illustrations of Jane always wearing green, standing out from a crowd.
This book is a stellar edition to any library. It’s told in picture book format and could easily be shared with K-6th graders. Teachers will appreciate the history, the lessons of perseverance, the promotion of peace, and helping others regardless of status. Students will love to see how a sad little girl was able to change her life and the world. Readers will love to see the photographs of her in the end of the book and there is a longer biography and timeline included as well. The artwork is lovely but the antique wash over the pages gives it a dated and unappealing look and feel, making it very much less likely to be picked by students on their own, which is incredibly unfortunate.
El (K-3), EL –ESSENTIAL. Stephanie Elementary School Librarian & Author
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2017...
July 8, 2017
This powerful biography of Jane Addams describes her life story from suffering the debilitating disease of spinal tuberculosis, and losing her mother when she was only two, to the empowering support of her father who read with her constantly. Together, when she was very young, they rode a buggy through the impoverished side of Chicago, exposing Jane to the suffering of the poor. This striking vision remained with her forever, and shaped her life goal of helping underprivileged people with disadvantaged lives, to have the necessities of life and an education to empower them. A brilliant scholar after finishing college, and seeing many parts of the world, Jane began her career of helping others. She renovated an old building in Chicago and named it Hull House. This famous settlement house which she sponsored through donations from wealthy women around the world, was a home for anyone in need of anything, from English lessons to steady work. But, most importantly she offered, "friendship, dignity, hope." Before she passed away after many many accomplishments, she became the first American woman to earn the Nobel Peace Prize. Sprinkled with lovely realistic watercolors illustrations throughout, this is a biography young students will enjoy reading. Hopefully readers will be inspired by Jane Addams, a woman who suffered great physical hardships yet worked tirelessly her entire life to make our world a better peaceful place for everyone around the world.
March 10, 2021
I was given an arc by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
1. Picture book arcs are really cool. I shared this format with my students when we were learning about writing reviews. They thought it was really neat how it worked and we learned about bindings and things. Very cool lesson.
2. When I started reading two picture books a day about... 3 years ago now?... I don't know what I expected, exactly. I was just looking to improve my knowledge of kid lit because I was becoming the k-12 librarian and my background was young adult/ high school. What I've found has been a lot of great books, a surprising number of incredibly mediocre books, some awful books.... but also a genre I didn't know existed that is undeniably my favorite-- the picture book biography.
This is a lovely picture book biography. Living in Illinois, I had heard of Hull House... but knew next to nothing about the origin or purpose. Or the woman who started it. This book helps give me great background knowledge. The illustrations are lovely.
As an adult reading these books, I always know there's more to the story. And I try to teach my students that, too. So I always want to learn more about the people who are featured. I appreciate great author's notes (this one has one) that can help clue me in to what I need to look for.
1. Picture book arcs are really cool. I shared this format with my students when we were learning about writing reviews. They thought it was really neat how it worked and we learned about bindings and things. Very cool lesson.
2. When I started reading two picture books a day about... 3 years ago now?... I don't know what I expected, exactly. I was just looking to improve my knowledge of kid lit because I was becoming the k-12 librarian and my background was young adult/ high school. What I've found has been a lot of great books, a surprising number of incredibly mediocre books, some awful books.... but also a genre I didn't know existed that is undeniably my favorite-- the picture book biography.
This is a lovely picture book biography. Living in Illinois, I had heard of Hull House... but knew next to nothing about the origin or purpose. Or the woman who started it. This book helps give me great background knowledge. The illustrations are lovely.
As an adult reading these books, I always know there's more to the story. And I try to teach my students that, too. So I always want to learn more about the people who are featured. I appreciate great author's notes (this one has one) that can help clue me in to what I need to look for.
September 22, 2020
Dangerous Jane is a beautifully illustrated story of a women born into a life of affluence. As a child, she had personal tragedies that molded her personality but didn't break her. Her mother died when Jane was two years old and a few years later Jane had what they thought might be tuberculosis which left her body deformed. She felt she was ugly and unwanted.
But then she saw the need - exceptional need - of the poor and poverty stricken people in her city. She became a person of real compassion and in adulthood turned that compassion into good works.
Later in her adult life, she traveled in Europe on behalf of the suffering people there. These people were also those with whom the United States battled during WWI. This drew opposition toward Jane.
She lived into old age continuing her good works on behalf of the poor.
This is an exceptional children's book about an exceptional woman. A must for school and public libraries.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
But then she saw the need - exceptional need - of the poor and poverty stricken people in her city. She became a person of real compassion and in adulthood turned that compassion into good works.
Later in her adult life, she traveled in Europe on behalf of the suffering people there. These people were also those with whom the United States battled during WWI. This drew opposition toward Jane.
She lived into old age continuing her good works on behalf of the poor.
This is an exceptional children's book about an exceptional woman. A must for school and public libraries.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.
February 11, 2018
A picture book biography of Jane Addams who started Hull House in Chicago to help the poor better their situation, inspired women and national leaders to settle disagreements peacefully during WWI, and then worked to help the poor and hurting after the dust of WWI settled, and became the first American woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
I've definitely heard of Hull House before, but I didn't know the story of the woman behind it. Jane Addams is truly an inspirational model of someone who worked hard for social justice around the world. This picture book does a good job portraying the highlights of her work and life in a way kids can grasp. Hopefully many of them will be inspired to follow her example, to help the poor and hurting in the world in tangible ways that help them maintain their own dignity and make a lasting difference. A great addition to the picture book biography selection.
I've definitely heard of Hull House before, but I didn't know the story of the woman behind it. Jane Addams is truly an inspirational model of someone who worked hard for social justice around the world. This picture book does a good job portraying the highlights of her work and life in a way kids can grasp. Hopefully many of them will be inspired to follow her example, to help the poor and hurting in the world in tangible ways that help them maintain their own dignity and make a lasting difference. A great addition to the picture book biography selection.
January 17, 2019
Born with disabilities, losing her mother at age two, Jane clearly was also born with money. Upon discovering the needs of people, especially children, she persisted in her dreams of helping people and opened Hull House. Not only did that happen but she was a founder of the International Congress for Women that pursued peace during World War I, then became "Dangerous Jane" because she also aided those in need in Europe after the war. Nevertheless, the world awarded her commitment with the Nobel Peace Prize! More information is added at the end with a timeline. The illustrator shows the passage of years, the ups and downs with interesting and beautiful choices of setting that include the characters' supporters, naysayers and experiences.
July 29, 2022
Dangerous Jane by Suzanne Slade
Illustrated by Alice Ratterree
Published by PeachTree on October 3, 2017
This is a biographical book about the first woman to receive a Nobel peace prize, Jane Adams. I loved reading this book as I have never heard her story before. It’s extremely inspiring the amount of people she helped and her tenacity as a woman in a time when women didn’t have very many rights. I think this is a great book to introduce to kids when discussing American history and historical feminism. I would like to have more background info on her and possibly photos of her at the end or something.
Illustrated by Alice Ratterree
Published by PeachTree on October 3, 2017
This is a biographical book about the first woman to receive a Nobel peace prize, Jane Adams. I loved reading this book as I have never heard her story before. It’s extremely inspiring the amount of people she helped and her tenacity as a woman in a time when women didn’t have very many rights. I think this is a great book to introduce to kids when discussing American history and historical feminism. I would like to have more background info on her and possibly photos of her at the end or something.
January 30, 2018
I am a big fan of the increasing number of well-written picture book biographies about women. I can't resist them. This is one that I'm delighted to add to my collection. Jane Addams grew up in a fairly well-to-do family and despite losing her mother at a young age, she grew into a lovely and caring young lady. Her kind heart lead her down a difficult road, one she spent most of her adult life walking down. Helping others became her mantra. At first she ran Hull House, a settlement house from which she worked to help immigrants find a better life for themselves. When World War I broke out though she expanded her efforts into encouraging women to seek peace. After the war, she reached out to the suffering through out Europe, including former enemies. Unfortunately, this lead to opposition from those who thought her efforts should have been focused only on Americans. These efforts lead to nasty rumors and attacks with even the FBI labeling her "the most Dangerous Woman in America". But Jane never let this stop her and it lead to her being the first American women to win the Nobel Peace Prize. This book provides a glimpse into the heart of a woman who was determined to help those less fortunate than herself, despite the sometimes high cost of doing so. Ratterree's soft illustrations match the tone of the book perfectly, creating a beautiful look at a admirable woman.
December 31, 2018
When you are a women, and your life is dedicated to fighting inequality and fostering peace, you are bound to be labelled "dangerous". Such was the case for Jane Addams. Whether she was advocating for the immigrant community in Chicago , campaigning for peace during World War l, or advocating for starving children in Germany after the war, she was considered to be dangerous, but in reality she was intelligent and brave. Her unfaltering humanitarian efforts were recognized in 1931 with her being the first American woman to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
August 1, 2023
Jane Addams was an incredible woman who helped so many people throughout her life and fought for peace during World War 1. She dealt with so much during her life but still kept making the world a better place. This book is amazing and I really think that more people should know about her story. Something cool that I learned from this book was that the FBI actually named her ‘The Most Dangerous Woman in America.’ The illustrations are so beautiful, too! Follow @bronteandwilder on Instagram for more fun book recommendations!
September 25, 2017
This is an awesome book to coincide with The House that Jane Built by Tanya Lee Stone. Jane Addams is inspiring and selfless... what a hero!
I did feel like the page where it shows Jane getting older really focuses on some major weight gain... all my students saw was her belly getting bigger, which I don't think was the point of those pages, though I could be wrong?
Otherwise, awesome story.
I did feel like the page where it shows Jane getting older really focuses on some major weight gain... all my students saw was her belly getting bigger, which I don't think was the point of those pages, though I could be wrong?
Otherwise, awesome story.
January 18, 2019
It took a while to find this book but it was worth the effort. Dangerous Jane is about Jane Addams and her life's work with the poor. She was the first woman to receive the Nobel Prize for Peace. This is a good way to introduce children to one of Illinois' famous women in history. The back pages after the story give a little more detail about her life as well as a history timeline of her life. Well worth the read!
July 28, 2020
With muted watercolor illustrations, Dangerous Jane offers a biography of Jane Addams that teaches children of Addams childhood and her main accomplishments including her European travels, her bringing the idea of a settlement house to Chicago where she opened Hull House, to her speaking up for peace and winning the Nobel Peace Prize. This short biography will acquaint children with a great woman.
May 7, 2017
Solid biography of Jane Addams for children ages 4-8. Because the difficult topics of war and poverty are handled in a way appropriate for very young children, older readers may find Dangerous Jane a bit babyish; they will find the historical note in the back of the book more suited to their level. Other research aids are a timeline of Addams's life and a brief bibliography.
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