Barbara Jordan

Booklist

More thorough and well-written than previous biographies of the late congresswoman, this absorbing title respects the privacy that Jordan maintained in her lifetime, and focuses primarily on her remarkable career in public life. An introductory chapter addresses the climate of segregation into which Jordan was born.

Illustrated with selected photos of Jordan and period political events, the following chapters trace her rise through elected office to become the first black woman from the South ever elected to the U.S. Congress, followed by her abrupt retirement from public office.

Mendelsohn retells career highlights, such as Jordan's famous speech at the 1976 Democratic National convention, with an appealing mix of precision and awe. Source notes and further resources conclude. A fine biography . . . .

Children's Literature

An engrossing portrait of this talented politician, who overcame race and gender barriers to achieve prominence in the Democratic Party, is painted in the chapters of this book. The excellent text will draw readers in; details of Jordan's life flow together with the history of the times. Readers learn about Texas history and what life was like for black families throughout the century and, in particular, the mid-century period of Jordan's coming of age. Jordan was truly a marvel. As a youth, she distinguished herself as an outstanding debater. After law school, Jordan decided that she would make her mark in the world of politics. She earned respect from powerful, white male colleagues in the Texas Senate—no small feat. And she was able to do the same in the U.S. House of Representatives. President Lyndon Johnson became an admirer and friend. This book, a tribute to an extraordinary woman, should be widely read. 2000, Twenty-First Century Books/The Millbrook Press, $23.90. Ages 12 up. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati

VOYA

Barbara Jordan was the first black woman from the South to be elected to the United States Congress. Author Mendelsohn describes Jordan's life as a child in Houston, Texas, follows her admission to law school, and examines her six years as a Texas state senator beginning in 1966. After winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, Jordan gained national attention with her impassioned speech during the congressional impeachment hearings for Richard Nixon. Mendelsohn describes Jordan's speech at the 1976 Democratic National Convention, managing to draw subtle parallels to the political turmoil of the 2000 presidential election. Carefully researched, the book offers insight into Jordan's closely guarded private life, her struggles with multiple sclerosis, her decision to leave political life to become a professor at the University of Texas, and finally her death in 1996. More than a biography of Jordan, however, the book also provides an interesting look at the history of black Americans in Texas. A contributor to the Microsoft Encarta Africana, Mendelsohn has taught African American studies at several universities. With many photographs, extensive source notes, a list of pertinent Web sites, and quotes about the respected politician from such notables as Bill Clinton and former Texas Governor Ann Richards, this book is a wonderful resource for high school students. Index. Photos. Biblio. Source Notes. VOYA CODES: 4Q 3P S (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Will appeal with pushing; Senior High, defined as grades 10 to 12). 2000, Twenty-First Century, 192p, . Ages 16 to 18. Reviewer: Elizabeth Prior SOURCE: VOYA, June 2001 (Vol. 24, No. 2)