Title: All the Way to the Top
Author: Annette Bay Pimentel
Illustrator: Nabi H. Ali
Reviewed by: Michaelene M.
Jennifer Keelan uses a wheelchair. As she rolls her way to school on the first day, she realizes that it’s hard to navigate in a world that’s not accessible or user friendly, from the curbs on the sidewalks to the stairs leading up to her new school. When she and her family find out about a group of adult activists nearby, Jennifer joins in the fight advocating for the rights of people with disabilities.
This picture book offers readers a look into Jennifer’s personal journey into activism as well as the events of the Capitol Crawl on March 12, 1990. Though others discouraged Jennifer’s participation, she joined the protest at the age of eight-years-old, crawling up the steps of the Capitol Building in Washington D.C.
An additional glossary and timeline at the back gives more background into activism, the disability rights movement, and the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
An inspiring and intimate biography, this picture book offers a great place for young readers and their parents to begin conversations about accessibility. Jennifer’s story shows us all that there is no age limit on making a difference.
All the Way to the Top is available as a physical book in the library. Call us at 580-234-6313 to reserve.
