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What Do You Do with a Voice Like That?: The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan

Chris Barton (Goodreads Author),

Ekua Holmes (Illustrator)

4.48 · Rating details · 614 ratings · 145 reviews

Congresswoman Barbara Jordan had a big, bold, confident voice—and she knew how to use it! Learn all about her career in this picture book biography of the lawyer, educator, politician, and civil rights leader.

Even as a child growing up in the Fifth Ward of Houston, Texas, Barbara Jordan stood out for her big, bold, booming, crisp, clear, confident voice. It was a voice tha ...more

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Hardcover, 48 pages

Published September 25th 2018 by Beach Lane Books

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Lists with This Book

2019 Mock Caldecott

83 books — 148 voters

Otis and Will Discover the Deep by Barb Rosenstock

Juvenile & YA Nonfiction 2018 (Mock Sibert, 2019)

139 books — 44 voters

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Average rating 4.48 ·

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· 614 ratings · 145 reviews

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Start your review of What Do You Do with a Voice Like That?: The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan

Jul 05, 2018 Donalyn rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2018-nerdy-book-club-picks, mg-ya-picture-books-nonfiction

At least once a week, I wish out loud that Barbara Jordan, Ann Richards, and Molly Ivins were still alive. My state would be a different place. Fabulous introduction to Jordan’s life and work. Stunning illustrations by Ekua Holmes.

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Jul 20, 2018 Alia rated it it was amazing

What an excellent book & tribute to Barbara Jordan. Barton’s clear and honest writing paired with Holmes’ soulful & layered illustrations make this one a winner. I really enjoyed learning about Ms. Jordan, esp since I didn’t know much about her until reading this excellent non-fiction book. ...more

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Jun 18, 2020 Deb (Readerbuzz) Nance rated it really liked it

Shelves: biography, diversity, picture-book

Chris Barton tells the story of the amazing Barbara Jordan, born with a commanding voice that mesmerized the nation. She became a lawyer, and then a congresswoman, and a teacher. Many said, had Jordan not suffered ill health, that she would have risen high in the political world, maybe as a senator, or on the Supreme Court or even as vice-president. Barbara Jordan was a legend in her time who influenced many with her powerful voice and strong sense of values.

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Nov 17, 2018 Lorie Barber rated it it was amazing

Shelves: classroombookaday

Extraordinary, in both story and illustrations. I learned so much. Ms. Jordan’s story is singular, and can galvanize ALL generations to lift their voices in support of those who can’t, or those who might be too afraid.
Without a doubt, both a recurring #classroombookaday, especially for our literacy unit on advocacy, and a contender for the 2018 Caldecott. I loved every page.

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Sep 23, 2019 Dee Dee G rated it it was amazing

Beautiful illustrations. Nice introduction to Barbara Jordan for young readers.

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Jul 30, 2020 Kris rated it really liked it

Shelves: picture-books

I knew who Barbara Jordan was, but I also lived in Texas for a few years while she was still alive, so I have an unfair advantage. This is a great introduction to her. It covered quite a few of the major milestones of her life, and the art is great, but I really wish there had been more actual pictures of her worked into the art, or included with the author's note. Particularly since this is meant for children, I think it would have helped cement the fact that Jordan was a real person who actual ...more

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Sep 07, 2018 Gary Anderson rated it it was amazing

Barbara Jordan was a dynamic American leader during the tumultuous 1960s and 1970s. As a Congresswoman and later as a respected professor, she was a fearless advocate for marginalized individuals and populations, and she demanded ethical behavior from those entrusted with the reins of government.

I clearly remember Barbara Jordan from my childhood. My dad was fascinated with her and called me to the television whenever she was on. Her voice was not like anyone else’s. Stentorian comes to mind as Barbara Jordan was a dynamic American leader during the tumultuous 1960s and 1970s. As a Congresswoman and later as a respected professor, she was a fearless advocate for marginalized individuals and populations, and she demanded ethical behavior from those entrusted with the reins of government.

I clearly remember Barbara Jordan from my childhood. My dad was fascinated with her and called me to the television whenever she was on. Her voice was not like anyone else’s. Stentorian comes to mind as an appropriate adjective, but it falls short of capturing Jordan’s humanity and emotion. She was regal, wise, and humble, all at the same time.

What Do You Do with a Voice Like That: The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan is the awe-inspiring new picture book biography from Chris Barton and Ekua Holmes that is worthy of its subject.

Chris Barton is a master of creating voice in picture books, in this case, an engaging narrative voice that tells Jordan’s story in a conversational tone which lends itself to reading aloud. The text includes Barbara Jordan’s big ideas sprawled across big pages in colorful words with the primary narration in smaller font. Barton tells Jordan’s story beginning with her growing up in Texas, including a reference to Phillis Wheatley High School, Jordan’s alma mater. (Phillis Wheatley was an 18th Century American slave whose poetry was widely read in the colonial era. As an African-American voice in her own right, Wheatley can be considered a forebearer of Barbara Jordan.) Young Barbara decides to pursue a career in law and elective office at the state level and eventually becomes a member of the United States Congress. Jordan’s final years are spent back in Texas as a passionate professor whose battle with multiple sclerosis does not diminish her popularity or her ability to “raise a ruckus.”

Barbara Jordan’s voice is almost a separate character in this story as Barton explores its many facets. Barbara has a powerful physical voice, the unique way that language sounds coming from her mouth. What do you do with a voice like that? She is also blessed with a strong internal voice, a conscience that drives her to pursue public good. What do you do with a voice like that? And when Barbara, or any citizen, combines her individual voice with that of other like-minded citizens, a powerful vox populi can emerge. And what do you do with a voice like that! Clearly, the title is an integral part of the story with a meaning that changes depending on which word or words are emphasized.

The rich Ekua Holmes artwork harmonizes with Barton’s text to capture Barbara Jordan’s paradoxical straightforward complexity through vivid collages that make effective use of the book’s large pages. The picture backgrounds are especially interesting. Some are mysteries, some are dazzling; others are plain. The effect is to show Jordan in action and speaking out regardless of the constantly changing contexts of her time: “She shone like a bright light in a dark space.”

The design of What Do You Do with a Voice Like That? continues with helpful back matter including a thorough timeline and a touching “Author’s Note” from Chris Barton.

This book includes just one complete Barbara Jordan quote, and it booms through in powerful contrast to the softer narrative voice. In 1974, Congresswoman Jordan spoke out against President Richard Nixon during the Watergate scandal: “My faith in the Constitution is whole, it is complete, it is total. And I am not going to sit here and be an idle spectator to the diminution, the subversion, the destruction of the Constitution.” Three large red words present that page’s big idea: “The president went.”

What do you do with a voice like that? An inspirational answer to the title’s question appears on the book’s final pages as a young girl is shown visiting one of the Barbara Jordan statues in Texas. Is Barbara Jordan still relevant? Oh, yes. Thanks to Chris Barton and Ekua Holmes, she will now reach a new generation.

This review appeared on my What's Not Wrong? blog in slightly different form. ...more

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Nov 11, 2019 Julia rated it it was amazing

Shelves: childrens, elementary-aged-friendly, picture-book, non-fiction, bluebonnet-list, tween-friendly, biography-memoir

Great biography of Barbara Jordan with stunning art by Ekua Holmes.

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Jan 29, 2019 Barbara rated it really liked it

Shelves: biography, compassion, empathy, groundbreakers, families, kindness, friendship, health, history, teachers

The title of this impressive biography of Congressman Barbara Jordan brings to mind nonfiction writer and illustrator Steve Jenkins' beloved What Do You Do with a Tail Like This? Of course, it covers very different subject matter since it follows the formative years and political career--I'd almost prefer to say career of service, given the negative connotations now associated with many politicians--of this Texas native. The mixed media illustrations are filled with meaningful words and images a The title of this impressive biography of Congressman Barbara Jordan brings to mind nonfiction writer and illustrator Steve Jenkins' beloved What Do You Do with a Tail Like This? Of course, it covers very different subject matter since it follows the formative years and political career--I'd almost prefer to say career of service, given the negative connotations now associated with many politicians--of this Texas native. The mixed media illustrations are filled with meaningful words and images and are layered so that readers feel completely immersed in Jordan's life and times. Here is an example of a black woman with oratory talent who turned that ability into making a difference in the world for those that had few others to speak for them. Although it took her three attempts to win public office, she eventually succeeded, being elected as a state senator in Texas and then to Congress as a representative of her state. I loved how the author wove in personal details about her struggles in her law classes, her decision to make changes from inside the system, her teaching, and her health issues as she dealt with multiple sclerosis. The book's last lines just might inspire others today to speak out and use their voices for good just as she did. I finished the book quite impressed, inspired, and reminded that one voice, one strong and determined voice, can make a difference and must be heard. There is an Author's Note that provides additional information about Barbara Jordan and a timeline covering her birth in 1936 to her death in 1996. I was pleased to see the timeline mentions her mentoring from President LBJ and her loving relationship with another woman as well as how she tried to keep her health struggles a secret for a time. This one is well-deserving of its Orbis Pictus honor distinction. And yes, as another reviewer mentioned, I wonder what the world might be like with Barbara Jordan still in it. Where, oh, where are the Barbara Jordans of today, willing to stand up against those in power who seem to ignore those in need or don't play fair? Maybe one of them is reading this book and will find the courage to stand up against what's wrong. ...more

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Oct 11, 2018 Laura Giessler rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2019-mm-non-fiction-contenders, multicultural, bio-memoir, picturebooks-nf

What a fantastic bio of Barbara Jordan! The text is informative, and the varied font sizes and colors help to highlight key ideas. The illustrations are beautiful and engaging, making Barbara and her times "real" to the reader. The timeline in the back is excellent, full of important quotes and events in her life. I was especially inspired by some words that she spoke at the DNC, calling for an environment "which is characterized by a devotion to the public interest, public service, tolerance, a ...more

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Jan 18, 2019 Doris Smith rated it it was amazing

Shelves: picture-books, picture-book-biographies

This extraordinary book entitled: What Do You Do With a Voice Like That? The Story of Extraordinary congresswoman Barbara Jordan. Illustrations by Ekua Holmes, whose book "Voice of Freedom" about Fannie Lou Hamer won a Caldecott Honor Award are again so striking and enhance this story of one of my heroines. Hopefully she will be nominated again for these bold pictures that are in keeping with the personality of this great woman.

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Sep 15, 2018 Terry added it

Shelves: all-elementary, buy, y-2018, picture-book, biography, need-youth-review, diverse-characters, read-aloud

Wow. Just wow. What Do You Do With a Voice Like That is now on my shortlist of must-read nonfiction for young readers. Not only have I read it several times, I have also just sat back and enjoyed the illustrations.

Why this is a book ...more

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Jun 25, 2018 Madeline rated it it was amazing

This book is a beauty! The illustrations are amazing and I love the author’s note Nd back matter at the end. Readers will be inspired while learning about Barbara Jordan and what she accomplished in her life, and will walk away inspired to make their voices heard.

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Oct 15, 2018 Brenda Kahn added it

Shelves: 2018-picture-book, wndb, 2018-favorite, picture-book-biography, 2018-reading

Barton pens a lovely tribute to Congresswoman Barbara Jordan. Ekua Holmes' art is nothing short of stunning. A true must-read, must purchase, must share.

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Jan 31, 2019 Kristen Thorp rated it it was amazing

Beautiful book about an extraordinary lady.

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Feb 09, 2019 Alyssa rated it it was amazing

I can’t wait to read this with my sons. A great introduction to Barbara Jordan with beautiful illustrations by Ekua Holmes.

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Feb 28, 2019 Jon Nakapalau rated it it was amazing

Shelves: us-history, favorites, history, biography, childrens-books, cultural-studies

Excellent introduction to the life of Congresswoman Barbara Jordan.

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Feb 04, 2020 Laura rated it it was amazing

Shelves: biography-autobiography-memoir, upper-elementary, african-american

I had been looking for a book about Barbara Jordan, a hero of mine, to introduce her to my students. I attended TCTELA in Frisco, a professional conference for English Teachers, where the author of this book was featured. I fell in love with the book.

It's going to be featured on my African-American Heritage Month shelf. The art is gorgeous and I love the repetition.

I ordered a copy and finally got my copy today. Yay!

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Sep 30, 2018 Michelle Lancaster rated it it was amazing

Shelves: books-i-ve-reviewed

CHILDREN’S BIOGRAPHY
Chris Barton (author), Ekua Holmes (illustrator)
What Do You Do with a Voice Like That? The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan
Beach Lane Books
Hardcover, 978-1-4814-6561-8 (also available as an e-book), 48 pgs., $17.99
September 25, 2018

"When Barbara Jordan talked, we listened.” —Former President of the United States, Bill Clinton

The late Honorable Barbara Jordan grew up in Houston’s Fifth Ward. “She may have looked like other kids … acted like other kids,” Chr ...more

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Oct 26, 2019 Christine added it

Shelves: bluebonnet-list-2020-2021, nonfiction, picture-books, biography-memoir

The 2020-2021 Bluebonnet list came out today, and this is the first book I read because of its appearance on the new list! This picture book biography discussed the life of Barbara Jordan, an amazing woman and Texan whom I previously knew little about. As the title suggests, Barbara Jordan had an eloquent voice, which she used it to impact change in politics. She is remembered for the eloquent opening speech she gave in the House Judiciary Committee hearings during the impeachment process of Pre ...more

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Apr 20, 2019 Ivy Armitage added it

Shelves: nonfiction

As part of a Social Studies crossover on characteristics of a good leader, I selected the following Twin Text.
Nonfiction book- What Do You Do With A Voice Like That? The Story Of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan by Chris Barton.
Fiction book- Remarkably YOU by Pat Zietlow Miller.
I chose to pair these two books because they share the common theme of people using their own strengths and talents to make a difference. In the nonfiction book about Barbara Jordan the title, What Do You Do As part of a Social Studies crossover on characteristics of a good leader, I selected the following Twin Text.
Nonfiction book- What Do You Do With A Voice Like That? The Story Of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan by Chris Barton.
Fiction book- Remarkably YOU by Pat Zietlow Miller.
I chose to pair these two books because they share the common theme of people using their own strengths and talents to make a difference. In the nonfiction book about Barbara Jordan the title, What Do You Do With A Voice Like That, is a question that is repeatedly asked throughout the book. It refers to her voice and how her bold, loud voice helped her become a strong political leader. In the book Remarkably YOU, it states, “The world needs your voice and the gifts that you bring.” This extends the message of Barbara Jordan becoming a college teacher later in her life and sharing her gift with others to encourage them to use their own voice to make a difference. Both books encourage and send the message to go after your passion like Barabra did; to find what you love and what your good at. Remarkably YOU has a line that is used more than once. It states “You could change the world” which is exactly what Barbara Jordan did, first as a state senator and then a U.S. Congresswoman. To bridge the two text, I would use the Webbing activity. With this type of graphic organizer students can brainstorm characteristics of a good leader. Used as a multi-step activity I could activate prior knowledge by having students make a list of leadership characteristics. (whole group activity) Then, after reading Remarkably YOU, add to that list based on characteristics from the reading. Once we have read What Do You Do With A Voice Like That? I could them put students in pairs or small groups and have them add to their webs or create a new one based on characteristics they learned Barbara Jordan had as a leader.

Miller, P.Z. (2019). Remarkably YOU. New York, NY: Harper, an Imprint of Harper Collins Publishers.
...more

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Jun 27, 2018 Lynn rated it it was amazing

I don't usually review picture book galleys but this one is exceptional even in this form. I was so lucky to receive it and hear Ekula Holmes, the illustrator speak about her process with this book at an ALA event.

This is an inspiring story paired with stunning and evocative illustrations. Author and illustrator do a stellar job of bringing this brilliant woman and her important life to a new generation of children. It has never been more important to show that legislators can be dedicated patri ...more

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Dec 05, 2018 Margie rated it it was amazing

Shelves: book-a-day, own-these-books

Every single being is born with a gift. It might not initially be noticed, but what we do with this gift defines us. It's how we make our mark in this world. Hopefully spirits will be lifted and the quality of life of those around us will be better.

In 1936 there was a girl child born in Texas. What Do You Do With A Voice Like That?: The Story of Extraordinary Congresswoman Barbara Jordan (Beach Lane Books, an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division, September 25, 2018) written ...more

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Jul 26, 2018 GalindoLibrarian rated it it was amazing

Shelves: diversebooks, good-read-aloud, multicultural, ms-collier-s-new-favs, biography, dealing-with-difficulties, most-recent-recommendation, picture-book, teachable, sel

Expertly crafted story of "extraordinary congresswoman" Barbara Jordan! A perfect book to inspire young readers towards education, self-knowledge, growth-mindset, owning their own voice, ethics, government and civics. Such a refreshing, positive view of the power of educated civil-servants working for the public good. Loved the layering of "voice" and her determination coming through. Powerful, striking, colorful illustrations by Ekua Holmes are perfect!

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Jun 29, 2018 Raven Black rated it it was amazing

The illustrations could be a little awkward for a child reader, but the fact I had never heard of Barbara Jordan means that this is a great introduction to her. Older children (7 up) would be the perfect audience. But also would be a fun "companion" time for the "adult or teen" learner to add to a presentation or talk.

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Mar 28, 2019 Jillian rated it really liked it

Great book, great biography.

I want to take a picture of the page with her comments about Nixon and make it go absolutely viral.
("Barbara said the President must go. The President went.")

I am definitely inspired to look up more about Congresswoman Jordan, hear her voice, and ask myself what she would do, as the author confesses to doing in the end note.

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Oct 25, 2018 Robin rated it it was amazing

Shelves: nonfiction, picture-books, read-in-2018, history, biography-and-memoir

An inspiring picture book biography about congresswoman Barbara Jordan. I had not previously heard of her, and look forward to learning more about this African American and LGBT politician and educator.

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Nov 06, 2018 Katie Reilley rated it it was amazing

Shelves: picture-book-biography

Gorgeously illustrated picture book biography that tells the story of Congresswoman Barbara Jordan and her career as a lawyer, educator, politician, civil rights leader, and educator. Excellent back matter st the end of the book. Inspiring and a must read!

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Nov 10, 2018 Brenynn J rated it really liked it

I really liked this book because it was so inspirational. Now I feel like I can do anything with a voice like mine. I will always remember Barbara Jordan the Congresswoman. I would definitely recommend this book for people who like informational, inspiring books:).

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Dec 06, 2018 Elisabeth rated it it was amazing

Earlier this year Ekua Holmes blew me away with her art in The Stuff of Stars. I am equally impressed with her illustrations in this powerful biography about a different type of star. I would not be surprised if Holmes is our next Caldecott Award winner.

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About Chris Barton

Chris Barton

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I'm the author of picture books including bestseller Shark vs. Train, Sibert Honor-winning The Day-Glo Brothers, and Whoosh! Lonnie Johnson's Super-Soaking Stream of Inventions, which was included on 19 state reading lists.

My recent titles include the Mighty Truck early reader series, Dazzle Ships: World War I and the Art of Confusion (an Orbis Pictus Honor book), and What Do You Do with a Voice L ...more