Ileana Ros-Lehtinen: First Latina Elected to U.S. Congress

Few people would have thought that Ileana Ros-Lehtinen would grow up to become one of the longest serving members of the United States House of Representatives. Throughout her career, this groundbreaking congresswoman has worked to advocate for women, education for all, veterans, LGBTQ rights, and marriage equality. She was the first Latina, the first female Florida Republican, and the first Cuban-born person to serve in the United States Congress. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen led the way for other women in public office. Open this book to read about this icon who helped to shape the United States.

Gr 4-6–Notable Hispanic Americans are profiled in these six volumes. Each book begins with a fictional exchange among youngsters, who discuss how they plan to emulate the subject. This is followed by information about the individual’s life from childhood to the present. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen and Nydia Velazquez were the first Cuban American and Puerto Rican American elected to Congress, where they fought for the rights of their constituents. Mario Molina’s interest in chemistry made him a pioneer in protecting the ozone. Sylvia Mendez continued to fight for educational rights long after her parents won a court decision to allow her to attend white schools. The struggle of each is related. For example, Molina faced opposition with his theory on chlorofluorocarbons and their effect on the atmosphere. The narratives are informative but not exciting. Readers might question why these people are considered “Unsung Heroes” given the numerous awards and accolades they have received. VERDICT Informative but dull, this series will be used for reports but browsers will pass. Purchase where there is a demand or to support the curriculum.--School Library Journal, November 1, 2020