Susie B. Won't Back Down by Margaret Finnegan

How I Heard About It:
*Margaret Finnegan is my "Kids Need Mentors" author that we will be working with during the 2021/22 school year.  I shared her novel, We Could Be Heroes, with my fourth grade class.  We had the opportunity to Zoom with Margaret after finishing Heroes.  The author was kind to send me a copy of her newest novel.  I recently finished and so enjoyed the story of Susie B.


What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:
*Susie B. has an assignment to write to a famous hero. She has chosen to write a series of letter to Susan B. Anthony.

*She wants to run for student council for a variety of reasons, but isn't sure she has a chance because she isn't one of the "cool" kids.

*Susie B. is hopeful she has a chance, until the "top dog" decides to enter the race.  

*As she continues to write letters to Susan B., Susie learns the history woman may not have been the "upstanding" hero she thought she was.

*During the election season, Susie B relies on some old friends while training to gain the trust of new and additional friends.


What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
*I so enjoyed We Could Be Heroes and was excited to read another story by Finnegan.  She did not disappoint.  

*The character of Susie B. was fresh, unique, and so much fun.

*The theme of the underdog trying to rise to the top was presented in a kid friendly and entertaining manner.  

*There were tender and heartwarming moments along with funny and laugh out loud scenes.  

*I don't normally enjoy stories told in letter form, but the format worked quite well for the story of Susie B. and Susan B.


Who Should Read It:
*This would be an ideal novel for readers in third through fifth grade.  I think it would make for a strong class read aloud.  Readers in grades six through eight could handle the text quite easily.  Happy Reading!


Rating:   4 STARS out of 5 Stars