The Only Woman in the Photo: Frances Perkins & Her New Deal for America

Frances Perkins was a shy girl for most of her younger life. She saw bad things happening to the people all around her, which hurt her feelings. So Frances decided that she would do whatever she could to prevent harm from coming to people in the USA.

She moved to New York City and began her quest for justice. Frances delivered food to the poor. She insisted that landlords give tenants a break on their rent. She delivered donations to neighborhoods that were going without. She began speaking publicly about a woman’s right to vote and would talk to anyone who would listen. She insisted that factories could be safer for their employees, which gained the attention of New York’s governor, Franklin D. Roosevelt.

When Herbert Hoover lost the presidency to FDR, Frances became the first woman ever to join a presidential cabinet. As one of the most powerful advisors in the nation, she became a key part of Roosevelt’s New Deal – a fresh start for Americans in need. The title of this book comes from the fact that often, when group pictures were taken with the president, she was the only woman present.

This story is certainly inspiring for girls, but also for anyone who wants to make a difference. I recommend this book for ages eight and up.