Classified - by Traci Sorell (Hardcover)

About the Book

The inspiring true story of Cherokee aerospace engineer Mary Golda Ross

Book Synopsis

An American Indian Library Association Youth Literature Award Honor Picture Book

Mary Golda Ross designed classified airplanes and spacecraft as Lockheed Aircraft Corporation's first female engineer. Find out how her passion for math and the Cherokee values she was raised with shaped her life and work.

Cherokee author Traci Sorell and Métis illustrator Natasha Donovan trace Ross's journey from being the only girl in a high school math class to becoming a teacher to pursuing an engineering degree, joining the top-secret Skunk Works division of Lockheed, and being a mentor for Native Americans and young women interested in engineering. In addition, the narrative highlights Cherokee values including education, working cooperatively, remaining humble, and helping ensure equal opportunity and education for all.

"A stellar addition to the genre that will launch careers and inspire for generations, it deserves space alongside stories of other world leaders and innovators."--starred, Kirkus Reviews

Review Quotes

"[A] valuable addition to units on Indigenous individuals or women in STEM."--Booklist

"[S]potlights the story of an innovative Cherokee aerospace engineer, whose life sets an inspiring example for all children."--School Library Journal

"A stellar addition to the genre that will launch careers and inspire for generations, it deserves space alongside stories of other world leaders and innovators."--starred, Kirkus Reviews

"Through realistically cartooned digital illustrations and straightforward text, readers learn how Ross's experiences reflected these traits. Because she valued learning and had a passion for math, Ross was able to persevere."--The Horn Book Magazine