PPL Reads Women's History Biographies: Beverly Cleary

March is Women's History Month. Though we read and value contributions from women year-round, March is a special month to pay attention to the stories women tell, stories of being diminished, ignored, or discounted but also stories of resilience, strength, inspiration, and hope. This is a month to reflect on how many women have faced extra barriers in their rise to the top of their fields by virtue of their sex.

It's important to recognize that the intersection--or meeting--of different diversities changes how women's stories are met. A woman's race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender identity, and physical or mental ability (among other identities) may change how people perceive their stories and accomplishments. As we move through the month and into the rest of the year, we must not simply pay attention to the history of any one type of woman, but celebrate the history of all kinds of women.

Today's historical figure is Beverly Cleary. Still a beloved author today, Beverly didn't always start out loving books and writing. Mary of Portland Public Library is reading Just Like Beverly: A Biography of Beverly Cleary, written by Vicki Conrad and illustrated by David Hohn, published by Little Bigfoot.