The Harvey Milk Story

By Kari Krakow, David Gardner
Paperback: $11.95

A hopeful and inspiring biography of the historic gay activist Harvey Milk, who gave people the courage to be proud of who they are.

Description

On a rainy day in January, on the steps of San Francisco’s City Hall, Harvey Milk was sworn into office, the first openly gay elected official in the United States of America. Harvey Milk had made history.

From his childhood on Long Island, through college, his service with the Navy, and years as a schoolteacher, Harvey Milk was always popular, intelligent, and energetic. But he was also hiding a secret: He was gay. He eventually moved to San Francisco, where there was a strong LGBTQ community and he could be free to be himself. As he talked to people in his neighborhood, he realized many people who were usually ignored by the government deserved better protection: gay, lesbian, and transgender people, people of color, people with disabilities, and more. He decided to run for public office, and eventually won election to the city’s Board of Supervisors. Though his career as a public servant was sadly and suddenly cut short, his pride as an openly gay man and his passion for equality has inspired countless people to continue his work. Harvey’s legacy is everywhere today, especially in the hundreds of openly gay elected officials in every level of government.

One of the first picture book biographies for children about a gay leader, this is a perfect introduction to one of the most important figures in the fight for LGBTQ civil rights. Backmatter includes further details about the struggles faced by different groups mentioned in the story, other sources readers can turn to for more information about Harvey, and more books about LGBTQ+ history.

About the Creators

Kari Krakow

Kari Krakow grew up in East Aurora, New York and now lives in Ithaca, New York with her family. A teacher for forty years, she believes biographies help children learn that individuality can be a source of strength. She hopes The Harvey Milk Story will inspires children to be themselves and make the world a better place.

David Gardner

David C. Gardner grew up loving picture books, puppets, and cartoons, and now has three decades of experience as a professional illustrator. He's been the illustrator of many books for children including The Harvey Milk Story, Sarah Gives Thanks, and Write On, Irving Berling! He also worked on movies like Beauty and the Beast as an artist at Walt Disney Animation Studios. He studied filmmaking at Northwestern University and illustration at the American Academy of Art. He now lives in Sarasota, Florida and teaches at Ringling College of Art & Design. You can visit him at www.flyingdogstudio.com.

Reviews

  • "Krakow debuts with a first of its kind: a picture-book biography of an important gay-rights figure. . . Capturing just the right tone for its audience, this is a significant contribution to the genre and a fitting tribute to an ordinary guy turned extraordinary."

    - Kirkus Reviews
  • "Krakow's succinct text portrays Milk as a caring individual who worked to ensure the rights of all people who lived in the San Francisco community he represented as supervisor . . . Illustrated with cartoon-style drawings, the book is accompanied by excellent author notes and sources for further information."

    - Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)
  • "Readers learn about the politician's passion for equal rights for all people. . . This book is needed in both public and school libraries. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED."Jamie Campbell Naidoo, PhD, Rainbow Family Connections: Selecting and Using Children's Books with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Content

    - Jamie Campbell Naidoo, PhD, Rainbow Family Connections: Selecting and Using Children’s Books with Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Content

Paperback

  • ISBN 9781643796000
  • Publication Date Jun 21, 2022
  • Trim Size 10 × 8 in
  • Weight 0.4375 lbs
  • Page Count 32
  • Interests

  • Audience Children
  • BISAC Category 1 JNF / Biography & Autobiography / LGBT
  • BISAC Category 2 JNF / History / United States / 20th Century
  • BISAC Category 3 JNF / Biography & Autobiography / Social Activists
  • Themes Biography / Memoir, Courage, Discrimination, Dreams & Aspirations, History & Civics, Identity / Self Esteem / Confidence, Informational / Expository Nonfiction, Jewish, Leadership, LGBTQIA+, Nonfiction, Overcoming Obstacles, Persistence / Grit, Pride
  • Reading Levels

  • Age Range Ages 6 - 8
  • Grade Range Grades 1 - 3
  • Guided Reading W
  • ATOS Book Level 6.1
  • DRA 60
  • Interest Level Grades 1 - 6
  • Reading Level Grades 5 - 6
  • Bebop Reading Fluent
  • This Book is Included in These Collections:

    • 7
      English Guided Reading Level W
      Collection of 7 books: $83.65

      Shining Star

      The true story of Chinese American film star Anna May Wong, whose trail-blazing career in Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s broke new ground for future generations of Asian American actors.

      Going Back Home

      More than half a century after her family moved North to find a better life, artist Michele Wood returned to the South to see and experience the land where her ancestors lived, struggled, and thrived.

      In the Time of the Drums

      Mentu, an enslaved child, learns about the culture of his people from his grandmother, Twi in this Gullah folk tale of an insurrection at Teakettle Creek.

      The Story of Car Engineer Soichiro Honda

      The "Story" chapter-book line debuts with this compelling biography of Soichiro Honda, the innovative motorcycle and car manufacturer and Japanese business pioneer.

      The Story of All-Star Athlete Jim Thorpe

      This entry in the innovative "Story" line of chapter-book biographies focuses on Jim Thorpe, an exceptional athlete with natural talent and the first Native American to win an Olympic gold medal for the United States.

      Sacred Mountain

      A photo-essay exploring the cultural, geological, and ecological history of Mount Everest, focusing on the indigenous Sherpa and their spiritual connection to the mountain, record-setting climbing expeditions, and the effects of tourism on the environment.

      The Harvey Milk Story

      A hopeful and inspiring biography of the historic gay activist Harvey Milk, who gave people the courage to be proud of who they are.

      1355 in stock

    • 17
      LGBTQ+ Collection
      Collection of 17 books: $282.15

      What We Believe

      This powerful activity book will engage hands, hearts, and minds as it introduces children to the guiding principles of the Black Lives Matter movement.

      Jaya and Rasa: A Love Story

      Jaya's a rich kid. Rasa's motherless and broke. Opposite sides of the tracks. Romeo and Juliet, on fair Oahu.

      That Summer Night on Frenchmen Street

      Set in magical New Orleans, two teens from vastly different worlds discover that sharing their strengths, including the love of their friends and family, may just be the path to finding wholeness within themselves.

      Gabi, A Girl in Pieces

      In this groundbreaking William C. Morris Award winner for a YA debut, Gabi's life is a mess--her family, her friends, her attempts at a love life--but writing helps, especially since it turns out she's pretty good at poetry.

      Boys of the Beast

      Three cousins. Four days. One car. This smart and fearless road-trip novel is perfect for fans of David Levithan, Benjamin Alire Saenz, or Meg Medina.

      The Harvey Milk Story

      A hopeful and inspiring biography of the historic gay activist Harvey Milk, who gave people the courage to be proud of who they are.

      Diverse Energies

      A collection of dystopian short stories featuring diverse main characters and by authors of color.

      When Aidan Became a Brother

      This sweet and groundbreaking picture book, winner of the 2020 Stonewall Book Award, celebrates the changes in a transgender boy's life, from his initial coming-out to becoming a big brother.

      Miosotis Flores Never Forgets

      Perfect for fans of Meg Medina and Barbara O'Connor, this heartfelt novel about family, pets, and other things we hold close is one that you'll never forget.

      Call Me Tree / Llámame árbol

      An imaginary bilingual English/Spanish tale of self-discovery told by a child who grows, learns about the natural world, embraces others, and is free to become who they are meant to be--a child as unique as a tree.

      Cat Girl's Day Off

      In this hilarious YA homage to Ferris Bueller's Chicago, Natalie must use her Talent of talking to cats to solve a high-profile celebrity kidnapping.

      Sparkle Boy

      Young Casey loves sparkly things, just like his older sister, who does not approve until an encounter with teasing bullies helps her learn to accept and respect Casey for who he is.

      How We Can Live

      The first children's book to feature material from the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation, this beautiful picture book will engage hearts and minds as it introduces children to the guiding principles of the Black Lives Matter movement.

      I'll Build You a Bookcase

      In this charming picture book, children and their caregivers work together to build home libraries and discover the magic and wonder of reading books.

      Antonio's Card / La tarjeta de Antonio

      Bilingual English/Spanish. A tender story about a boy struggling to express his love for his mother and her partner in a nontraditional family.

      I Can Be... Me!

      A joyful picture book centering nonbinary young people and celebrating children's freedom to express themselves through play from beloved creators Lesléa Newman and Maya Gonzalez.

      The Talent Show (Confetti Kids #11)

      In this book in the popular Confetti Kids series, Henry is nervous about sharing his dance moves at the school talent show.

      1186 in stock

    • 201
      Fluent English
      Collection of 201 books: $2,434.85

      Baseball Saved Us: 25th Anniversary Edition

      Twenty-five years ago, Baseball Saved Us changed the picture-book landscape with its honest story of a Japanese American boy in an internment camp during World War II. This anniversary edition will introduce new readers to this modern-day classic.

      Caravan

      Through the story of ten-year-old Jura's first caravan trip with his father, Lawrence McKay, Jr. describes the adventures one boy experiences on the journey to young adulthood.

      Catching the Moon

      The spirited story of Marcenia Lyle, the African American girl who grew up to become "Toni Stone," the first woman to play for an all-male professional baseball team.

      Celebrate! Connections Among Cultures

      A photographic exploration comparing celebrations in seven indigenous world cultures and the United States, highlighting common rituals such as body decoration, music, and dance.

      Coming to America

      A photo-essay of a Muslim family from Egypt; their experiences living in America; and the sacrifices they make to have a better life.

      Confetti

      The renowned poet Pat Mora celebrates the culture and landscape of the Southwest through the eyes of a Mexican American girl.

      Cool Melons- Turn to Frogs!

      For hundreds of years, school children in Japan have been introduced to poetry through the work of Issa.

      Crazy Horse's Vision

      The true story of the great Sioux warrior who, as a young boy, defies tradition and seeks a vision on his own in hopes of saving his people.

      Dear Mrs. Parks

      On a December day in 1955, Rosa Parks changed the course of history when she was arrested for refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger on a Montgomery, Alabama bus.

      Destiny's Gift

      Destiny loves words, and her favorite place in the world is Mrs. Wade's bookstore, where words abound.

      Dia's Story Cloth

      A Hmong American tells of her people's search for freedom.

      Estela's Swap

      A Mexican American girl learns to value the act of giving when she attends her first swap meet.

      Everglades Forever

      A photo-essay about the Florida Everglades, its unique ecosystem, and the efforts currently underway to restore this "Wetland of International Importance," told within the framework of a class study project and visit to the Everglades.

      Frederick Douglass

      The story of the African American abolitionist who, in one dramatic incident, discovered the meaning of freedom.

      First Come the Zebra

      The story of two young Kenyan boys, one Maasai and one Kikuyu, who find a way to overcome their traditional rivalries and become friends.

      George Crum and the Saratoga Chip

      An account of the life and career of George Crum, a biracial chef who is credited with the invention of the potato chip at a Saratoga Springs, New York, restaurant in 1853. Based on historical records.

      Gettin' Through Thursday

      A young African American boy experiences the love and support of his family as they try to make ends meet each week.

      Goldfish and Chrysanthemums

      A Chinese American girl helps preserve her grandmother's childhood memories of China by creating a special garden for her in America.

      Heroes

      A Japanese American boy learns about heroism from his father and uncle who served in the U.S. Army.

      Home At Last

      A sympathetic tale of a mother-daughter bond and overcoming adversity, brought to life by the vivid illustrations of Felipe Davalos.

      How We Are Smart

      Musician Tito Puente. Ballerina Maria Tallchief. Explorer Matthew Henson. Congresswoman Patsy Mink. These are some of the people profiled in this book. They are well known for different reasons, but they also have something in common. They were all smart!

      Howard Thurman's Great Hope

      Born in segregated Daytona, Florida, in 1899, Howard Thurman grew up dreaming of a better life--a life where his mother and grandmother would not have to cook and clean for other people; a life where he could become a college man, honoring his late father's wishes and his own dreams.

      I and I Bob Marley

      A biography in verse of reggae legend Bob Marley, exploring the influences that shaped his life and music on his journey from rural Jamaican childhood to international superstardom.

      In Daddy's Arms I Am Tall

      In this intergenerational collection of poetry by new and established African American writers, fatherhood is celebrated with honor, humor, and grace.

      Joe Louis, My Champion

      During the mid-1930s, an African American boy who yearns to be a boxer learns the value of determination, perseverance, and his own natural abilities from the example of his hero, world champion prizefighter Joe Louis.

      John Lewis in the Lead

      A biography of John Lewis, one of the "Big Six" civil rights leaders of the 1960s, focusing on his involvement in Freedom Rides, the March on Washington, and the march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge from Selma to Montgomery, Alabama.

      Jim Thorpe's Bright Path

      A biography of the legendary Native American Jim Thorpe (1888--1953), voted the Greatest Football Player and Greatest Athlete of the Half-Century by two AP polls, focusing on his early childhood and how school and sports shaped his future.

      Joshua's Masai Mask

      A magical Masai mask takes an African American boy on a series of adventures, and he discovers the joy of being himself.

      Juneteenth Jamboree

      A young girl, who has just moved to her parents' hometown, realizes that she has come home after the African American emancipation celebration of Juneteenth.

      Keepers

      Kenyon loves his grandmother's stories almost as much as he loves baseball.

      Knockin' On Wood

      An inspirational biography of Clayton "Peg Leg" Bates (1907--1998), an African American man who overcame the hardship of losing a leg at age 12 and went on to become a world-renowned tap dancer.

      Louis Sockalexis

      A biography of Louis Sockalexis, Penobscot Indian and the first Native American to play professional baseball, focusing on his formative years and culminating in an historic game at New York's Polo Grounds in 1897.

      Love to Langston

      This inspiring biography on Langston Hughes celebrates his life through poetry.

      Love to Mamá

      Thirteen Latino poets celebrate their bonds with their mothers and grandmothers.

      Mama's Window

      After his mother dies, "Sugar" Martin is sent to live with his gruff uncle Free, a loner who makes his living fishing in a swamp in the Mississippi Delta in the early 1900s.

      Night Golf

      Set in the South of the late 1950s, an African American boy who longs to play golf is banned from the game because of the color of his skin.

      Only the Mountains Do Not Move

      A photographic essay about contemporary Maasai--the changes in lifestyle, land, and farming practices they face and how they are adapting to those changes.

      Passage to Freedom

      The true story of Chiune Sugihara, the "Japanese Schindler," who, with his family's encouragement, saved thousands of Jews in Lithuania during World War II.

      Paul Robeson

      An updated and redesigned edition of an award-winning biography of Paul Robeson, who overcame racial discrimination to become an international entertainer and civil rights activist. Includes a new introduction and afterword by the author, focusing on Robeson's legacy.

      Quiet Hero

      A biography of Ira Hayes, a Pima Indian who was one of the six soldiers to raise the United States flag on Iwo Jima during World War II, an event immortalized by Joe Rosenthal's Pulitzer Prize-winning photograph.

      Rattlesnake Mesa

      A true account of a spirited Native American girl's experiences growing up on a reservation and attending Phoenix Indian School in the 1920s, written in an engaging, unconventional style and accompanied by 38 dramatic photographs.

      Ray Charles

      A beautiful new edition of the award-winning biography of world-famous musician Ray Charles.

      Rent Party Jazz

      An African American boy living in New Orleans in the 1930s raises money to pay the rent with the help of a popular jazz musician.

      Richard Wright and the Library Card

      This is the true story of the renowned African American author Richard Wright and his determination to borrow books from the public library that turned him away because of his color.

      Sam and the Lucky Money

      During Chinese New Year, a young boy encounters a homeless person and discovers that no gift is too small when it comes from the heart.

      Seven Miles to Freedom

      The true story of Robert Smalls, a slave steamboat wheelman who commandeered a Confederate ship during the Civil War and escaped with his family and crew to freedom.

      Sixteen Years in Sixteen Seconds

      The inspirational true story of Sammy Lee, a Korean American who overcame discrimination to realize both his father's desire that he become a doctor and his own dream of becoming an Olympic champion diver.

      Sky Dancers

      John Cloud's father is a steelworker building skyscrapers in New York City, far away from their home upstate on the Mohawk Reservation.

      Surfer of the Century

      The true story of Hawaiian Duke Kahanamoku, six-time Olympic swimming champion and legendary surfer who popularized surfing around the world.

      Sweet Music in Harlem

      Searching his Harlem neighborhood for his uncle's missing hat, an energetic African American boy unintentionally creates an exuberant gathering of the neighborhood's jazz musicians for a magazine photograph; a fictional story inspired by Art Kane's historic photograph of jazz greats, Harlem 1958.