Odd Jobs: Seven New and Offbeat Picture Book Biographies

There are truly so many reasons to read picture book biographies. If you have kids in your life, you can read them along with a child to show them how people all over the world lead incredibly interesting lives. You might read a book about someone who shares traits with a kid, whether it’s an ethnic background, a disability, or simply an interest. These books can give a kid a glimpse into a possible future. They can also foster curiosity. Books about people who have made some kind of mark on the world through sustained interest and effort model what follow-through looks like. These books are perfect for adults hoping to enjoy books with young readers, and not merely tolerate them. While these are quick introductions, many will include a bibliography or other back matter. If you find someone especially fascinating, you may be able to find a biography for adults. We can all use inspiration, and these books provide. I’ve collected a few picture book biographies, focusing on more offbeat pursuits than you often see in biographies. You probably don’t need my help finding picture book biographies of famous activists, athletes, and artists. I’ll bet you’ve heard of very few of these peopl...