Abzuglutely!: Battling, Bellowing Bella Abzug

A spotlight on Sarah Aronson's new picture book biography

Editor’s Note:

Though Abzuglutely!: Battling, Bellowing Bella Abzug by Sarah Aronson, illustrated by Andrea D'Aquino, is the story of a remarkable historic figure, it’s very much a book for today too. Abzug’s Jewish identity is presented as a guiding force. Bella Abzug’s story is a reminder of the importance of having your voice heard and that speaking up requires great courage. The thorough back matter is the perfect complement to this engaging and inspiring story of a Jewish American heroine.

Author’s Note:

In 1971, the year Bella Abzug took the people’s pledge, I was a nine-year-old Jewish girl living in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (also known as the Christmas City). At that time, many girls I knew were encouraged to be polite. And not interrupt. Loud meant unlikable. That was particularly tough on me, since I already had a penchant for speaking my mind. (I could be pretty dramatic.) Lucky for me, an older cousin fostered my interest in feminism and politics. It’s no surprise to me that almost immediately, I became interested and excited by the work and voice of Bella Abzug. She had a gigantic personality. Flair like a celebrity. She had a strong New York accent—just like my dad. Best of all, she was Jewish. And outspoken. Like me. Let me tell you: I was never the same.

Writing about her has been both an honor and a challenge. I was determined to get this right, so young readers could be inspired by this amazing woman. Thanks to the team at Calkins Creek, we made sure that every fact was corroborated. We included a timeline, so kids can see what was going on during Bella’s life! And I’m so grateful to Andrea D’Aquino for bringing my words to life.

I hope that when young readers learn about Bella, they will get curious about what they can do to make the world better. I hope they will speak their truths. And most important, work with others to solve big problems. Like Bella, I believe in young people. Abzuglutely!

Sample pages from Abzuglutely!: Battling, Bellowing Bella Abzug, written by Sarah Aronson and illustrated by Andrea D'Aquino, with permission from Calkins Creek, 2024. Abzuglutely is available from Calkins Creek/ Penguin Random House and wherever books are sold.

Sarah Aronson began writing for kids and teens when someone in an exercise class dared her to try. Since then, she has earned an MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults and published a variety of books for kids and teens including The Wish List series, Just Like Rube Goldberg, illustrated by Robert Neubecker, and Brand New Bubbe, illustrated by Ariel Landy. When Sarah is not writing or reading or riding her bike along Lake Michigan, she loves talking to readers about creativity, writing, social action, and of course, sparkle power! She loves working with other writers one on one or in one of her classes at the amazing Highlights Foundation. In March 2024, Sarah was awarded the Prairie Writer Award for contributions to literature and literacy. She lives in Chicago, Illinois.

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Five tiny delights:

• Riding my bike along Lake Michigan, especially if the wind is blowing

• That first big hug from my kids and grandchildren.

• Reading a great book that surprises me. (Helping writers take feedback and soar is an extra special delight.)

• Holding hands with my husband as we explore Chicago.

• The smell of brisket. And fresh bread. And friends coming over to eat.

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Five tiny Jewish delights:

• The word, hineni. When we show up, good things always happen.

• Singing songs I learned at camp.

• Our collection of hanukkiahs! They each tell a family story, especially the one mounted on top of a fire hydrant;

• Talking about the four children every year at Passover . . . the discussion is always surprising and fulfilling.

• The smell of brisket. And challah. And latkes! And friends coming over to eat!

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