In the 1970s, firefighting was firmly closed to women, and in this expressively illustrated picture book, Rinker (Gloria Takes a Stand, 2019) tells the story of Brenda Berkman, a former law student who fought to change that. When Berkman found that the New York Fire Department's (FDNY) physical test was unrelated to the job, and when women were given men's equipment that was too big and got in the way, she had the test changed and powered through the equipment issue. Once in the job, she formed United Women Firefighters and became an FDNY chief. This gratifying story is told in cheerful, accessible, inclusive language refighting is not described as "men's work," for example, but as a job "men usually did." Engaging, realistic illustrations of Berkman and her colleagues, created in India ink and black and gray acrylics with digital coloring, complement the positive tone of the text. Back matter includes details about Berkman and her perseverance and lists several sources for readers who want to investigate further. Recommended for both school and public library shelves.

In 1977, New York City's fire department opened its entrance exam to women, but none of the women who applied passed the physical test. One of them, Brenda Berkman, sued the FDNY for discriminatory entrance testing. After winning in court, Berkman became a firefighter -- but endured cruel on-the-job discrimination for years. Hunt's expressive mixed-media illustrations and Rinker's well-shaped story effectively convey Berkman's persistence and resilience, which paved the way for future female firefighters. An author's note discusses "Modern Trailblazers," and an endnote adds biographical details. A bibliography and list of websites are appended.

She's the best woman for the job!Growing up in the 1950s, Brenda Berkman had to find ways to play the sports she loved even though they were not considered appropriate for girls. When she decided to take the test to become a firefighter in 1977, she was no stranger to going against the grain and embarked on a landmark court case to level the playing field, correct the bias skewing the tests, and allow women to enter the New York City Fire Department. Contextualizing descriptions of the sexist beliefs of the time are interwoven with Berkman's story, which focuses on her will to fight discrimination legally, in the court of public opinion and inside the fire department, as well as her love of and dedication to firefighting. Casually rendered cartoon illustrations are tied closely to the text and show the drama and importance of both fighting for equal rights and fighting fires. While there is no explanation of the use of the word girl in the title and why it is insulting for women to be referred to as such, overall this selection is a positive addition to the growing collection of social justice books for children and will appeal to future firefighters of any gender.This tale of the first official NYC female firefighter holds quality and feminism at its core (author's note, biographical note, bibliography, websites) (Picture book/biography. 5-9)

Gr 2-4 Even though Brenda Berkman grew up in a time when there were "girl things" and "boy things," she did not accept it. As an adult, she studied law but found it unfulfilling. When she heard on the news in 1977 that New York City was accepting applications for women firefighters, she signed up. While she passed the written test, Berkman failed the physical test, and sued the city for discrimination, citing the city for not testing fairly. She won. The book tells the story of Berkman's persistence, adversity, and will. Rinker notes though that the fight for equal rights in the FDNY did not end with the legal victory, but continued: Berkman was not accepted socially into the fire department, and she and the other 40 women who passed the exam struggled to find their places. Playful illustrations complement the text, showing Berkman's bravery and strength, and characters with expressions of hope and heartache. Back matter offers additional information about Berkman, a bibliography, and relevant websites. VERDICT A great story to read aloud, this book will please students researching the history of firefighting or seeking barrier-breaking role models. Lia Carruthers, Gill St. Bernard's Sch., Gladstone, NJ