The story of Kate Moore is not well known, but it should be told to inspire others. When Kate is five years old, her father is appointed lighthouse keeper on Fayerweather Island. As Kate grows up, she learns about everything lighthouse keepers have to do, including how to maintain the lighthouse, and when her father becomes too old to do all his duties, she takes over the job at the age of 13. As the author describes in great detail how difficult the lighthouse keeper's job is, you can't help but be inspired by Kate Moore's bravery. Her heroism is recognized by newspapers after saving 23 people from the sea. After her father's death, Kate becomes the official lighthouse keeper. I thoroughly enjoyed reading Kate's life story and how she defied typical gender roles to help her father.
There is something unique and distinctive about Emily Sutton's illustration style. In her illustrations, I particularly like how she depicts movement. The pictures show how rough and choppy the sea is and how windy it is. You really can imagine what it must have felt like during a storm.
This picture book biography would be a great addition to a classroom/school library. Kate's story of courage and determination needs to be shared.
