I read Dr. Jo to my granddaughters this past week while they were visiting. The book appealed to both the five year old and almost nine year old. It's a wonderful choice for young readers to celebrate Women's History Month (although I know that was in March and we have now slipped into April).
Sara Josephine Baker, still a child, decided she would become a medical doctor after both her father and brother died from typhoid fever. She became one of few female doctors during a time in history when the general public showed prejudice toward professional women. As a result, when she and her friend opened a practice together, she did not have enough clients to stay in business. Not one to be deterred, she found an alternate route to her dreams. She became a public health official and was sent to Hell's Kitchen in New York. Here, among the immigrants and some of the poorest and most desperate, she used her medical background to educate families and promote clinics to help parents know how to properly care for the children's health (as well as their own). Things we take for granted today that keep us healthy like proper diet, fresh air, and dressing babies appropriate for the heat index were things that had to be taught. (Babies at the time were being tightly swaddled while enduring the heat of summer in the tenant housing. Dr. Jo actually created a line of clothing that was loose fitting and comfortable for babies and convenient for their mothers.) Sara Josephine Baker (Dr. Jo) is a great role model for young girls and a likely inspiration to children of all ages.
The author, Monica Kulling, a Canadian author of children's books, has written over 50 children's books. Our grandchildren have received a number of her books as gifts and we highly recommend this author.
I have given the DR. JO book five stars and highly recommend!