Always remember that just because someone says, “you can’t”, that doesn’t have to stop you. You might have to go in a different direction, and it might take you a little longer, but you CAN achieve your dreams! – Raye Montague
Meet Raye Montague, a girl of color from Arkansas who designed the first ship by computer in just over eighteen hours! Raye grew up at the time when engineering was not taught to black students. She defied all the odds to become a naval engineer and the first woman program manager of ships in the United States Navy.
This book touches on the sexism and racial inequality that Raye faced every step of her way. Her story is presented in a rhyming tale. The book also contains a colorful timeline of events, complete biography, fun facts, real photos and even a note from Montague herself!
It is a good read for elementary school kids. My almost five-year-old daughter loved it. This is her new favorite bedtime read now 😊
“The Girl With a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague” is the third book in an educational series by Julia Finley Mosca about the inspiring lives of the amazing women scientists. Links to other books in this series
Find The Girl With a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/dp/1943147426/.
For reviews of other children’s books featuring diversity in technology and engineering, see STEM Area: Technology and STEM Area: Engineering.
For reviews of other children’s books featuring gender and racial diversity in STEM, see Diversity Type: Gender and Diversity Type: Race.
For reviews of other books that are great for the 6-8 age range, see Age Group: 6-8.
Also see our full STEM listings of books and other resources that feature diversity in STEM.
