Steadfast

Frances Perkins gasped in disbelief when she visited a factory and saw the horrific conditions that workers endured. Moved by the injustice, she felt compelled to help, setting her on a path of social work.
But, when Frances witnessed New York City's terrifying Triangle Factory fire in 1911, her desire to assist the American worker transformed into a lifelong mission. Determined to fix the problems that led to the tragedy, Frances worked to change a catastrophically broken system at a time when women were discouraged from speaking up, let alone having careers. She saw the potential for radical workplace reform, if she could persuade her male colleagues to listen to her. Rather than shrink from challenges, she followed her beloved grandmother's advice to embrace life's opportunities and walk through open doors. In truth, Frances kicked them open along the way.
With courage and integrity, she became the first woman ever to serve in a U.S. Presidential Cabinet, creating an enduring legacy. As Secretary of Labor, she was the force behind the New Deal and Social Security, vast programs that protect American workers to this day, including a minimum wage, a forty-hour workweek, and an end to child labor. This is the inspiring story of a heroic trailblazer. She's the most important woman you likely haven't heard of - yet.
In her third picture book, writer/illustrator and Children's Choice award winner Jennifer J. Merz introduces readers to the bold visions of Frances Perkins. This book will delight children and parents alike with gorgeous, handcrafted, cut-paper illustrations on every page and engaging, yet sensitive, prose.
Features fully annotated back matter, providing a perfect opportunity to learn more about this shining female role model and her steadfast fight for justice. Empowering, inspiring, and informative, this picture book biography should not be missed.

Winner of the Children's Choice Award, Jennifer J. Merz is back with her third picture book, an engaging and enlightening nonfiction biography on American trailblazer Frances Perkins. With stunning, cut-paper illustrations on every page, STEADFAST: Frances Perkins, Champion of Workers' Rights will delight and inform children and parents alike. Jennifer J. Merz is an artist and picture-book writer/illustrator who creates intricate, handcrafted collages. Inspired by the work of Matisse and Romare Bearden, she builds her pictures using the special papers, fabrics and trims of the textile world that is part of her personal and family history. Jennifer received an MFA in Illustration from the Fashion Institute of Technology in NY. She holds a BA in Studio Art and Elementary Education, and an MA in Art Education. She enjoys giving author presentations and is a member of SCBWI, CBIG, and the Author's Guild. A longtime resident of Allendale, NJ, Jennifer divides her time between the NY-Metro area and the Maine coast. She resides with her husband and their pug. They are the proud parents of two spirited women who, like Frances Perkins, bristle at injustice and walk confidently through open doors. She invites you to learn more at www.jennifermerz.com