Catherine Johnson celebrates the incredible life of Josephine Baker in this "superb autobiography" (Guardian), chronicling her journey from an impoverished childhood to beloved actress, dancer and wartime heroine. Dancer, singer, actress, movie star, civil-rights activist – Josephine Baker was a phenomenon! Overcoming the poverty and abuse of her childhood in a segregated America, Josephine grew up to become one of the biggest stars of the early twentieth century, particularly adored in her adopted country of France. She used her connections to help the Resistance in their fight against the Nazis during the Second World War and later became involved with Martin Luther King Jr and the civil rights movement in the US.

Controversial and outspoken, she is an iconic historical figure and Catherine Johnson brings her story vividly to life for a young audience in this enthralling piece of narrative non-fiction. Particularly suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 8.

• Author: Catherine Johnson
• Illustrator: Katie Hickey
• Publisher: Barrington Stoke
• ISBN: 978‑0‑00‑872621‑8
• Publication date: 11 September 2025
• Dimensions: approx. 129 × 198 mm
• Weight: approx. 216 g
• Interest age: 9+; Reading age: 8+
• Accessible layout designed for dyslexic and reluctant readers (dyslexia‑friendly font, spacing, layout)

FAQs

Q1. Is this book suitable for readers with dyslexia?

Yes — it is published by Barrington Stoke, a publisher specialising in accessible texts, and is designed with a reading age of about 8 and interest age of 9+ using a dyslexia‑friendly layout.

Q2. What age is this book aimed at?

This title is ideal for young readers aged 9+ (interest age) while supporting a reading age of around 8.

Q3. What historical themes does the book cover?

It covers themes of segregation in the USA, the rise of a performance star in 1920s‑30s Europe, involvement with the French Resistance in World War II, and participation in the US civil‑rights movement.

Q4. Can it be used in schools or for group discussion?

Absolutely. The book is written in a clear, accessible voice and addresses rich historical and social themes, making it well suited to classroom use or group discussion around diversity, history and equality.

Q5. Is the author well regarded for this kind of book?

Yes — Catherine Johnson is an accomplished author of children’s and young‑adult historical novels, and this book continues her commitment to accessible storytelling.