“When I was young, I liked to talk. A lot! (I still do!)” Sharice Davids, a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation, describes her journey to becoming a U.S. congresswoman representing Kansas in this picture-book autobiography in which the engaging first-person narrative makes her gift for connecting with others apparent. Davids notes that she learned early on that “the best way to learn about people is to listen to them.” She’s gotten lifelong inspiration from her mom, a single parent serving in the military, whom she describes as “focused and fierce … confident and kind.” Her mom taught her to be a hard worker whether on a job or pursuing something she loves, like martial arts, at which Davids competed before turning her attention to law school. Appealing digital illustrations by Ojibwe artist Joshua Pawis-Steckley provide a perfect backdrop for this dynamic account. Back matter includes a note from the author and illustrator, and an essay about Ho-Chunk culture and history by a former Ho-Chunk nation president. (Ages 6-9)

This acclaimed picture book autobiography tells the triumphant story of Sharice Davids, one of the first Native American women elected to Congress, and the first LGBTQ congressperson to represent Kansas.

When Sharice Davids was young, she never thought she’d be in Congress. And she never thought she’d be one of the first Native American women in Congress. During her campaign, she heard from a lot of doubters. They said she couldn’t win because of how she looked, who she loved, and where she came from.

But everyone’s path looks different and everyone’s path has obstacles. And this is the remarkable story of Sharice Davids’ path to Congress.

Beautifully illustrated by Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley, an Ojibwe Woodland artist, this powerful autobiographical picture book teaches readers to use their big voice and that everyone deserves to be seen—and heard!

The back matter includes information about the Ho-Chunk written by former Ho-Chunk President Jon Greendeer, an artist note, and an inspiring letter to children from Sharice Davids.

"Rich, vivid illustrations by Ojibwe Woodland artist Pawis-Steckley are delivered in a graphic style that honors Indigenous people. The bold artwork adds impact to the compelling text." (Kirkus starred review)

"The prose is reminiscent of an inspirational speech (“Everyone’s path looks different”), with a message of service that includes fun biographical facts, such as her love of Bruce Lee. Pawis-Steckley (who is Ojibwe Woodland) contributes boldly lined and colored digital illustrations, inflected with Native symbols and bold colors. A hopeful and accessible picture book profile." (Publishers Weekly)

"Affecting picture-book autobiography." (The Horn Book)

Acclaim includes:

• A Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year 2022 - Outstanding Merit in biography and memoir
• On Here Wee Read's 2021 Ultimate List of Diverse Children's Books
• 2022 ALSC Notable Children’s Books in the middle readers category
• 2022 Booklist from Rise: A Feminist Book Project—Early Readers Nonfiction
• Nominee for 2022 Reading the West book award
• Selected as CCBC Choices 2022—biography, autobiography and memoir