A Life of Service: The Story of Senator Tammy Duckworth
Age 5+
Picture Books
Thai American creators portray the inspirational and barrier-breaking life of Senator Tammy Duckworth in a picture-book tribute to an extraordinary woman.
Given Tammy Duckworth’s personal heroism as an Army veteran, her stunning recovery from injuries sustained in the line of duty, and her subsequent career as an influential US senator, it’s easy to see why Joe Biden earmarked her as a possible running mate during his Democratic presidential campaign. Senator Duckworth has logged a long list of firsts during her tenure as the first Thai American member of Congress, including being the first woman with a disability to serve in the House and Senate. But it is her tireless determination to keep going against staggering odds that will rivet readers of all ages. Christina Soontornvat’s narrative biography of this groundbreaking military veteran and rising political star will inspire readers to dream and achieve. Evoking Senator Duckworth’s spirited nature with sensitivity and joy, this dramatic account of a life lived in the service of others includes a time line and suggestions for further reading.
Creators
Christina Soontornvat grew up in a small Texas town, where she spent many childhood days behind the counter of her parents’ Thai restaurant with her nose in a book. She is the author of many books for young readers, including three Newbery Honor Books: A Wish in the Dark, also a Jane Addams Children’s Book Award winner; The Last Mapmaker, also a Walter Dean Myers Award Honor Book; and All Thirteen: The Incredible Cave Rescue of the Thai Boys’ Soccer Team, also a Robert F. Sibert Honor Book and a YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults finalist. Her picture books include A Life of Service: The Story of Senator Tammy Duckworth and The Blunders: A Counting Catastrophe! Christina Soontornvat lives in Tennessee.
Dow Phumiruk is an award-winning illustrator of several picture books, including Counting on Katherine by Helaine Becker and Maya Lin by Jeanne Walker Harvey. Originally from Thailand, Dow Phumiruk lives in Colorado.
Reviews
Soontornvat’s prose is succinct yet clear and excels when she relates personal anecdotes. . . . Details of her 2004 helicopter accident and her painful recovery are also well handled. . . . . An excellent addition to the biography shelf and women’s history units.
Booklist
A Thai American creative team collaborates on this biography of Senator Tammy Duckworth, which emphasizes the duality of military service and public service. . . . Soontornvat’s prose and Phumiruk’s scenes of war, rehabilitation, and public service balance bravery with personal sacrifice. Back matter includes a timeline.
Publishers Weekly
Powerful details about Duckworth’s childhood and her experiences in the National Guard impart a sense of the senator’s resilient spirit; the book concludes on a hope-filled call to action of more work to be done. . . worthwhile and empowering.
School Library Journal
A comprehensive look at an extraordinary life and continuing legacy.
Kirkus Reviews
[Christina Soontornvat] knows how to write a gripping tale. . . one of the more exciting bios I’ve seen in a long time.
A Fuse #8 Production
