Rough, Tough Charley

by: Verla Kay; Illustrated by Adam Gustavson

Published by: Tricycle Press

Reviewed by Jamie Driggers

In the old west, Orphan Charley lived and worked in stables from a very young age while carefully hiding a potentially life-changing secret. Though he was gruff and unusual, he was also punctual and in high demand as a stagecoach driver. Late in life, Charley ran a stage stop, voted in elections and joined a lodge. It wasn't until his death that it was discovered that Charley was really a woman.

Based on a true story, Rough, Tough Charley is a unique children's book to be treasured. Verla Kay's "cryptic rhyme" is reminiscent of Nancy E. Shaw of Sheep in a Jeep fame and Kay's folksy style will appeal to fans of Abe Lincoln: The Boy Who Loved Books (Winters), yet she blends the styles to create something nearly exotic with flawless cadence. The illustrations perfectly complement the text to fashion a children's book for the ages. This author has won many awards for her work.

My three children give it six thumbs up. This mama agrees.

Armchair Interviews says: Both boys and girls will love the story of Charley who lived a life unlimited by gender in a time when gender mastered what a person could be.

Author's Web site: http://www.VerlaKay.com