Classified: The Secret Career of Mary Golda Ross, Cherokee Aerospace Engineer

Explore the remarkable life of Mary Golda Ross in "Classified: The Secret Career of Mary Golda Ross, Cherokee Aerospace Engineer," an inspiring picture book that delves into the intersections of education equity, indigenous rights, and gender equality. Awarded an Honor by the American Indian Library Association Youth Literature Award, this biography captures the essence of resilience and dedication through the story of Ross, Lockheed Aircraft Corporation’s first female engineer. Cherokee author Traci Sorell and Métis illustrator Natasha Donovan beautifully illustrate how Ross's Cherokee values of education, humility, and cooperation guided her from being the only girl in her high school math class to a pioneering engineering career at Lockheed's secretive Skunk Works division. This book not only highlights her professional achievements but also her commitment to mentoring Native Americans and young women in engineering. Perfect for elementary school readers, this narrative encourages young minds to break barriers and pursue their dreams, embodying the spirit that education and opportunities should be accessible to all.