Amelia Bloomer; women's rights, history, and FASHION!?

You Forgot Your Skirt Amelia Bloomer
Written by Shana Corey & Illustrated by Chesley McLaren

This spunky picture book is very sneaky. It takes on an important part of American Women's History with charm galore. The Ludwig Bemelmans (of Madeline fame) inspired illustrations are full of whimsey. Even the font was designed by illustrator McLaren and gives the fact filled text a feeling of fanciful fun (And she is incredibly prolific! You must check out her fashion illustrations. They are utterly charming.)

Amelia Bloomer, born in 1818, was one of the key women's movement voices of the 19th century when women's clothing was at it's oppressive height. Corsets that displaced women's internal organs, topped with 20-40 lbs. of fabric, lace, wool, and flannel were considered "proper". No wonder their waists were tiny! Of course fainting was part of the bargain. Oh, and they couldn't move their arms very well either. Doesn't that sound like fun? Anyway, when Amelia's friend returned from Europe where all of the women were wearing pantaloon type undergarments under shorter dresses she sewed some of these pantaloons up and began wearing them around town. She created quite an improper fashion stir riding around on her bicycle. Thus, these pantaloons were dubbed "Bloomers" after her.
Amelia Bloomer wasn't just a fashion feminist; Hear Ye! Hear Ye! In 1849 she also founded and became the editor of The Lily, the first newspaper devoted entirely to women's issues. BRAVO! Not bad for a girl who only had a two year education. Check out this website for more info on one of our country's most remarkable women.

This picture book is so clever and fun that it could become your little girl's favorite book. It certainly is one of mine.

P.S.- You Forgot Your Skirt Amelia Bloomer is appropriate for 5-8 year olds and even older if a child is looking for user friendly research material for a history report.

To be continued. . .