Bessie the motorcycle queen

A fast-flying starter biography, this tale of motorcycle queen Bessie Stringfield is ideal for fans of cars, travel, racing, and Black history. Bessie's story is told in a well-paced rhythm that engages readers of all ages, who might be drawn in by the motorcycle on the cover but will quickly learn about the racism of the twentieth century, as they are confronted with Bessie facing segregation laws and even Klan members just off page. Focusing on her travel rides, this biography provides a strong introduction that may leave readers wanting to learn more about her later life and military service. The bright, animated illustration style propels the eye as readers follow Bessie across the country, but the standout illustrations are the ones that capture the realities of Bessie's everyday life--a street full of signs reading "colored restrooms" and "white laundry." Add this book to biography collections and look for ways to put it in the hands of readers interested in motorcycles as well as those seeking to learn about the Jim Crow era through a new lens.

Smith kicks off this onomatopoeic picture book biography of "Motorcycle Queen" Bessie Stringfield (1911--1993) with a dazzling series of motorcycle stunts, and a white-presenting crowd asking questions about the Black stuntwoman's background: "Bessie told her story again and again." Having taught herself to ride a motorcycle at the age of 16, Stringfield leaves Boston behind at 19. With a map for direction and a flipped penny as her guide, she travels Jim Crow--era America, relying "on word of mouth/ for where to get gas,/ where to sleep for the night," racing her motorcycle to earn money, and outriding racist people who would do her harm ("wearing white sheets/ here they come/ here they come"). In mythologizing prose, Smith compiles the uncertain details of Stringfield's life story into a digestible tale of a Black woman who lived on her own terms. Kristensen's lively unlined illustrations emphasize bright landscapes and images of the figure on her bike. Back matter includes an author's note. Ages 6--8. (Sept.)

She's one cool rider. Biographical information and poetry combine in this biker-book bonanza about Bessie Stringfield, a Black motorcycle aficionado who crisscrossed the United States in the late 1920s and early 1930s. When traveling, Bessie relied on fate--specifically a penny and a map--to determine where she'd head next; during her travels she performed in circuses and in races. The story does not shy away from the racism Bessie encountered in her travels; when she couldn't find anywhere that would let her spend the night, she slept alone on her bike. As Smith notes, biographical information on Stringfield is scant, as little has been written about her, but the author's note and the brief bibliography will help curious readers learn more, including her love of telling a good yarn. The text rides a fairly smooth road: "Bessie slung her jacket / over her back, / reached under her chin / and undid her strap, / slid off her helmet / with style and grace, / then stunned the crowd / with her hidden brown face." But the real leaders of the pack are the illustrations, which incorporate color in exciting ways while providing Bessie a classic vibe for her adventures. Unexpected pops of purple, pink, and teal create a strong visual interest that will help draw readers into Bessie's story. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A great tale about one bad biker. (Picture-book biography. 8-10) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.