Book cover of The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read

Book description

Imagine learning to read at the age of 116! Discover the true story of Mary Walker, the nation's oldest student who did just that, in this picture book from a Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator and a rising star author.

In 1848, Mary Walker was born into slavery. At age 15, she…

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Why read it?

1 author picked The Oldest Student as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Mary Walker didn’t learn to read when she was a child. She was a slave until she was fifteen years old and continued to work all her life.

At age 116, she did something she had always wanted to do. Something she didn’t give up on. Mary Walker learned to read. As a former first-grade teacher who taught many children to read, as well as loving to read myself, this story brings tears to my eyes. What a determined woman!

From Debbie's list on women who wouldn’t give up.

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Pedal Pusher by Mary Boone,

In 1894, Annie Cohen Kopchovsky set out to ride her bicycle. Not to the market. Not around the block. Not across town. Annie was going to ride her bike all the way around the world—because two men bet no woman could do it. Ha!

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