NONFICTION - ELEMENTARY

Mystery Driver: The Story of Alice Johnson and the First Soap Box Derby

by Elizabeth Tracy (text) & illus. by Anna Aronson
MIT Kids. Jun. 2025. 48p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781536231571. Gr 1-5
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Gr 1-5–Brave Alice Johnson is used to flying through the sky with her pilot father but since the Depression started there is hardly enough money for basic necessities much less fun—until a soap box derby is planned. But it’s only for boys. Alice is undeterred and, with help from her father, carefully constructs her soapbox, gets up before dawn to master piloting it and ultimately comes in third place, surprising everyone (except her father) with her skill and gender. The illustrations have a soft pallete and create an unmistakable feeling of the era while still being sweet and childlike. Back matter, including an explanation of racing physics, a biography, and further details of Alice’s life give more information for curious readers.
VERDICT In another untold story of a girl smashing the patriarchy, add this to larger collections where picture book biographies are popular.
Reviewed by Melisa Bailey , Jun 30, 2025

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