My Name is Not Isabella [Library Binding]

Jennifer Fosberry (Author), Illustrated by Mike LItwin (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 9, 2008 | Age Level: 4 and up | Grade Level: P and up

From breakfast to bedtime, a young girl imagines being different women who made history, and ends the day empowered to be herself.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Kindergarten-Grade 2—"Good morning, Isabella," says a mother to her daughter. "My name is not Isabella!" says the child. She is Sally, the "greatest, toughest astronaut who ever was!" At breakfast she becomes Annie the sharpshooter, and then Rosa on the bus ride to school. When she gets home that afternoon, she is Marie, the scientist; then Elizabeth, the doctor; Mommy, the greatest mother; and, finally, Isabella again. She falls asleep thinking about who she will become tomorrow. Throughout the day, the mother good-humoredly encourages her daughter's flights of imagination. The repetitive text, while somewhat contrived, serves to drive home the message that girls can do and be anything they want. The inclusion of motherhood in the list of worthwhile occupations is refreshing. The colorful mixed-media artwork reinforces the fanciful, upbeat tone of the book. An appendix gives more information on the lives and careers of all the women alluded to, and a list of works consulted presents opportunities for further research. Use this story to ignite young readers' interest in women's history.—Rachael Vilmar, Eastern Shore Regional Library, Salisbury, MD
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About the Author

Jennifer Fosberry is a science geek turned childrens book writer. She was born and raised in the Adirondacks. Jennifer has a bachelors degree in Physics from SUNY Geneseo and a masters degree from SUNY Binghamton. Until recently, she worked as a project manager in Silicon Valley in the high-tech electronics field. She currently divides her time between the San Francisco Bay Area and Costa Rica with her husband and three children.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 4 and up
  
• Library Binding: 32 pages
• Publisher: Monkey Barrel Press (September 9, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0980200075
• ISBN-13: 978-0980200072
• Product Dimensions: 11.3 x 8.6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,365,932 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Jennifer Fosberry is a science geek turned children' book writer. After working in the high tech industry in Silicon Valley and running away to Costa Rica for a few years, she returned to the San Francisco Bay area to read, write, and try to get out of housework. She lives with her husband and three children and finally got a puppy.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect Little Gem of a Children's Book, July 18, 2008

By 

Amy R. Oclassen (San Francisco Bay Area) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: My Name is Not Isabella (Library Binding)

"My Name is Not Isabella" is a lovely little dialogue between a mother and daughter, wherein the daughter imagines herself as many different historical figures. It is almost in verse form, with a repetitive structure that will make it a favorite during many bedtime rituals - and the bonus section at the end with biographical information on all of the women referenced (including mom - SUCH a sweet touch) boosts the educational content and is a catalyst for further discussions with older children. The illustrations are dynamic, with many subtle touches that enhance the message. Not just for girls, the message is a wonderful one for all children about having the confidence to be all you can imagine. It's my daughter's new favorite!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Style AND Substance, October 4, 2008

By 

L. Harry (Costa Rica) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: My Name is Not Isabella (Library Binding)

A great concept for a children's book, empowering, educational, beautifully illustrated. Gives young children an introduction into the lives of brilliant, influential women who changed the course of history. Crafted so young readers can take away inspiration and older readers can take away a mini-history lesson. Not many other kids' books work on this many levels.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars new family favorite!, October 4, 2008

By 

go_doggo (Costa Rica) - See all my reviews

This review is from: My Name is Not Isabella (Library Binding)

I know this book happens to be aimed at a younger audience, but my 12 year old daughter absolutely loves this book!

The story really lets kids (especially young girls) know that they can be anything when they grow up. The creative and visually appealing illustrations add to the inspiration of the entire book.

I enjoyed seeing the character in the story "become" real heroines. This book gives children a sense for good female role models instead of the current trend of celebrities as people to look up to in life.

I think this book will appeal to all young girls and should be considered a perfect gift for any occasion.