Meet Vinnie Ream, the spunky teen who defied tradition, expectations, and critics to sculpt the statue of President Abraham Lincoln that stands in the Capitol rotunda today.
A girl-power picture book for art- and history-loving kids ages 7-10.
Vinnie Ream, the teenage Wonder Girl from the West, works magic with clay. Though most people in Washington, DC, don’t approve of a young woman artist, Vinnie and her supporters convince President Abraham Lincoln to give her the chance of a lifetime. Shaping the clay, studying the man, she sculpts a bust that captures not only his face, but also his quiet strength.
After tragedy strikes and the US government decides to honor the slain president with a large statue, Vinnie launches a campaign to win the commission. Can she become the first woman—and the youngest artist ever—to have a sculpture in the US Capitol?
Award-winning author Beth Anderson brings spirited Vinnie Ream to life, with help from illustrator Jenn Ely’s textured, playful illustrations. Together, they carve out the story of an artist who defied the odds and proved that dreams can come true when you roll up your sleeves, get your hands dirty, and give it your all.
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REVIEWS AND HONORS
“A beautifully written look at early women in the arts! Featuring an engaging narrative and vivid illustrations, this book will have readers rooting for Vinnie from start to finish. Historical photographs bring her actual sculptures to life, while the author’s note, post-sculpting biography, and artistic advice round out an inspiring read. Complete with a detailed bibliography citing primary and secondary sources, this work is a librarian’s dream. Without a doubt, Sculpting President Lincoln: Vinnie Ream Carves Out Her Future is a must have!” ~ featured review from Karrie Chajkowski, Library Media Specialist
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Available for pre-order online and at bookstores everywhere!
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Publisher page: Calkins Creek/Astra Books for Young Readers
March 9, 2027 | ISBN 9781662680335 | Hardcover $19.99
