Claudia Said S!

*STARRED REVIEW* Claudia Sheinbaum’s rise from scientist to Mexico’s president is chronicled using the metamorphosis of monarch butterflies as metaphor. The end papers overflowing with monarchs bracket the story of her childhood as part of a Jewish family in Mexico. Her political activism began in college, where “Claudia studied year after year. . .Then one day, her own chrysalis cracked open, and Dr. Claudia Sheinbaum emerged, an expert on the environment.” Sheinbaum used her science background to help the environment in Mexico City. Appointed to various local and international committees, she worked to improve the lives of people in Mexico. Sheinbaum moved into politics as mayor of Mexico City, and then president of Mexico: “She was the first woman, the first Jewish person, and the first scientist to lead the country. A metamorphosis indeed.” Although the book mentions Sheinbaum’s family, its primary focus is on her achievements as a scientist and politician. The illustrations are mostly vibrant spreads. Monarch butterflies appear throughout. The back matter provides a glossary of Spanish words, information on Judaism in Mexico, the Nobel prize, women’s rights in Mexico, a map of the country, and a photo of Sheinbaum herself. VERDICT A wonderfully detailed yet succinct biography focusing on Sheinbaum’s impact on the world, this is a great first purchase. —School Library Journal

The first woman, first Jewish person, and first scientist to become president of Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum gets her due in this biographical picture book about believing in yourself, in your dreams, and in a better world for all. The arrival of mariposas (butterflies) in Mexico City heralded Hanukkah in Claudia’s youth; as she got older, their dwindling numbers signaled a crisis she sought to avert. From Nobel Peace Prize winner to mayor to president, this book tracks a remarkable woman’s remarkable life. —Foreword Reviews

This biography of Claudia Sheinbaum, the president of Mexico and the first woman and Jewish person to hold the office, shows that leaders can be forward-thinking and collaborative. As a child, Sheinbaum was raised in an observant Jewish household, learned to love science and nature, and learned about monarch butterflies. Her journey is framed by the metaphor of a butterfly’s metamorphosis, with a tiny monarch accompanying her on every page of the lush, evocative illustrations. In college, Sheinbaum became an activist, speaking out about the need for free education for all. She had a successful career as a scientist, always concerned about using her platform to improve society. When she was invited to collaborate on important research, her answer was "Sí!" When faced with difficult questions about ideas for reducing pollution or improving public transport, her answer was "Sí!" The book puts forth traits of curiosity, persistence, collaboration, and ingenuity as admirable, especially when used for the benefit of many. Gorgeous illustrations complement the warm tone of the narrative. —Booklist