Tyra Banks

by Anne M. Todd

Published 1 January 2009
Tyra Banks is more than just a pretty face. In addition to working as a model on fashion runways, and magazine covers for years, she is also a competent and determined businesswoman. Her savvy business sense, down-to-earth personality, strong work ethic, and desire to help young women discover their own inner strengths have made her ""America's Next Top Model"" reality show and eponymous talk show enormous hits. Banks, however, wasn't always successful. Tall and skinny as a young girl, she felt awkward, ugly, and out of place. Though she grew into her tall frame in high school, her apparent beauty did not guarantee jobs as modeling agencies repeatedly turned her away. Through perseverance and determination, Banks worked her way to become a supermodel, television personality, and household name. In ""Tyra Banks: Model and Talk Show Host"", discover how a shy, insecure girl grew up to be a powerhouse in the entertainment industry.

Venus and Serena Williams

by Anne M. Todd

Published 30 August 2009
Venus and Serena Williams have dominated the tennis scene for years - winning numerous Grand Slam singles titles to become the first- and second-ranked tennis players in the world. Venus is known for her 127-mile-per-hour serve and her graceful agility on the court. Serena is known for her aggressive court style and fashion flair. By focusing on their dreams and steering clear of the drugs and gang violence that permeated their youth, the Williams sisters have shown the world that two inner-city African Americans can not only make a name for themselves in the predominantly white, upper-class sport of tennis, but they can also raise the level of the game. As millions have watched their success on court, Venus and Serena Williams have ensured that tennis will never be the same.

Susan B. Anthony

by Anne M. Todd

Published 28 February 2009
Susan B. Anthony spent her life working to bring equality to women and African Americans. She wanted both groups to have the same educational opportunities, the same working options, and the same voting rights as white males. Anthony believed that all people were equal and deserved to the same rights under the U.S. Constitution. She organized campaigns, lecture tours, and petition drives, spent months at a time traveling the country alone, using her own money to cover her expenses. At a time when it was illegal for a woman to vote in an election, file for divorce, or own property, Anthony incited people to consider change with her clear voice, direct language, and powerful messages. Read about this pioneer for equality in Susan B. Anthony.