Bessie the Motorcycle Queen

By Charles R. Smith Jr., Charlot Kristensen (Illustrator)

A daring ride through America challenges a young woman against the odds.

4.1/5 Goodreads · 210 ratings

40 pages· 1,396 words· Est. 11 min read-aloud

$18.99Save 5%

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Bookroo's summary

In 1929, Bessie Stringfield, a young Black woman, embarks on a daring motorcycle adventure across America. Racing through towns and cities, she faces the harsh realities of Jim Crow, making quick escapes when necessary. As a trailblazer in women's racing, Bessie's journey is one of courage and determination, inspiring future generations to chase their dreams despite societal barriers. Will her spirit and resilience overcome the challenges of her time?

From the publisher

Hop on the bike with Bessie Stringfield, the motorcycle queen of Miami, in this powerful picture book from Coretta Scott King medalist Charles R. Smith, Jr. and debut picture book illustrator Charlot Kristensen.The folks they lined up to meet the Motorcycle Queen, seated sidesaddle on her motorbike machine.In 1929, 18-year-old Bessie Stringfield hopped on her motorcycle and headed out on an adventure, an unusual choice for a young Black woman at the time. Paying her way by winning motorcycle races, she criss-crossed the country through small towns, big cities, and wide open spaces.But not everyone was happy to see Bessie’s brown face peeking out from underneath her helmet. And more than once, Bessie found herself making some quick exits on the back of her bike to escape Jim Crow. A trailblazer in the world of women’s racing and motorcycling, Bessie Stringfield was a figure who will inspire all children to pursue their dreams.From the first line, award-winning author Charles R. Smith Jr.’s poetry evokes emotion, excitement, fear, and wonder in equal measures. Charlot Kristensen portrays Bessie and the American landscape with vivid imagery that is sure to capture the attention of young readers.A much-needed story about a Black woman who paved the way for future generations, for fans of The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander and Kadir Nelson and My Papi Has a Motorcycle by Isabel Quintero and Zeke Pena.

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