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Children's Fiction United States

Dr. Jo

How Sara Josephine Baker Saved the Lives of America's Children

by (author) Monica Kulling

illustrated by Julianna Swaney

Publisher
Tundra
Initial publish date
Oct 2018
Category
United States, Girls & Women, Diseases, Illnesses & Injuries
  • Hardback

    ISBN
    9781101917893
    Publish Date
    Oct 2018
    List Price
    $21.99

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Where to buy it

Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels

  • Age: 5 to 8
  • Grade: k to 3

Description

This thoughtful and beautifully illustrated picture book shares the story of a trailblazer who has inspired generations of girls to change the world.

Sara Josephine Baker was a strong girl who loved adventure. Growing up in New York in the late 1800s was not easy. When she lost her brother and father to typhoid fever, she became determined to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor. In Jo's day, medical schools were closed to women, but times were changing, and Jo was at the forefront.

When she graduated in 1898, Dr. Jo still faced prejudice against women in her field. Not many people were willing to be seen by a female doctor, and Dr. Jo's waiting room remained mostly empty. She accepted a job in public health and was sent to Hell's Kitchen, one of New York's poorest neighborhoods where many immigrants lived. There, she was able to treat the most vulnerable patients: babies and children. She realized that the best treatment was to help babies get a stronger start in life. Babies need fresh air, clean and safe environments, and proper food. Dr. Jo's successes, fueled by her determination, compassion and ingenuity, made her famous across the nation for saving the lives of 90,000 inner city infants and children.

About the authors

Monica Kulling is the author of over forty books for children, including the popular Great Idea series, stories of inventors. The third book in the series, In the Bag! Margaret Knight Wraps It Up, was nominated for the 2012 Governor General’s Award for illustration and chosen as the 2012 Simon Wiesenthal Honor Book. In addition, Monica’s work has been nominated for numerous Silver Birch Express and Golden Oak awards. Her recent picture books include Lumpito and the Painter from Spain and Mister Dash and the Cupcake Calamity. Monica Kulling lives in Toronto, Canada. Visit her at www.monicakulling.com.

Monica Kulling's profile page

JULIANNA SWANEY grew up birdwatching with her dad, and birds have always had an important place in her life. She has illustrated numerous books for children and spends her time at her home in Oregon painting, gardening and daydreaming.

Julianna Swaney's profile page

Editorial Reviews

One of Nonfiction Detective’s Best Nonfiction Books of 2018
One of CCBC’S Best Books for Kids & Teens (Spring 2019)
PRAISE FOR Dr. Jo:

“[A] valuable addition to the selection of children’s books featuring women in history.” --Canadian Children’s Book News
“This beautifully illustrated account of Dr. S. Josephine Baker's work in New York City is an excellent introduction to an inspiring woman whose public health reforms in New York City saved the lives of 90 000 children and formed the basis for public health programs across the United States.” -- CM Magazine

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