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Through this book, young readers will be made familiar with the incredible story of Thea Bowman, a cheerful, caring, and devoted woman who defied the odds of segregated America to become a nun, a teacher, and an inspiration to generations of students. From a young age, Thea's dedication was apparent as she set her mind to goal after goal and pursued them without wavering. Moving away from home, finishing school even after contracting tuberculosis, joining the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration, and beginning a teaching career at age twenty-one were all just inevitable steps in her journey of faith and service. Though there was initial pushback to an African American teacher in some of her early schools, even as a nun, she was able to change minds by demonstrating her passion for education and support of children.
After earning her Ph.D. and accepting positions teaching English literature at the collegiate level, Sister Thea would continue to be called into service, helping to define and support the cause of Black Catholicism in the United States, going on speaking tours, hosting revivals, and even recording her own album. Her life story is presented here with photographs and at an accessible, engaging level for children and teenagers by the author, who had a personal connection with Bowman. With this book, children will learn the values and tolerance Sister Thea taught while celebrating her own culture, learn about twentieth-century American history, and come to know a hero whose works, words, deeds, and attitude are still being appreciated today. Though she may not be a household name, Sister Thea's cheerful determination will inspire a whole new generation through this biographical work.
This book may read more like a primer than a comprehensive biography, but it speaks with clarity and gives a true sense of Bowman's life and accomplishments at a pace that invites a broader audience to enjoy and learn. As a book written with younger readers in mind, the pace allows for full explanation and cohesive storytelling about Bowman's life without getting mired in asides and digressions. Chapters snap and focus on the details and facts, punctuate with photographs, personal letters, and anecdotes, and move on without hesitation. A glossary is included at the back of the book to help readers, not just children, understand some of the more niche subjects covered in the text.
Setbacks and frightening moments are handled delicately, with honesty, but with less hand-wringing or gravity than some may expect. Part of this is probably for the benefit of younger children or students who may read this book in school, but it also feels very much in character with Sister Thea, whose disposition never seems to let her get discouraged or distracted. Despite some of those heavier themes, her story is uplifting and infectiously positive, and should prove to be a useful example for people in any stage of life. That the information comes from someone who had a personal connection with the woman herself not only lends the book an air of authenticity but also helps the humanity and personality of Sister Thea make an instant connection on the page.