This simple biography of Anna Sawn, a giantess, explains her startling height and the conversation it stirred up. Readers learn that Anna eventually joined P. T. Barnum’s Gallery of Wonders in NYC, was dressed in elegant clothes, and performed in plays, recited poetry and played piano. She also traveled abroad and met the Queen of England. She married a giant and they toured as the Tallest Married couple on earth. While the story is unique, I have the feeling that there is much more to it. The author’s note tells readers that Anna touched the lives of many with her grace, dignity, and compassion,” but the text doesn’t sufficiently show this.

I am not the specific target audience for this book, but as a collector of sideshow memorabilia, I couldn't resist this title when it sprang up on NetGalley.

The story of Ann Swan, a giantess who was exhibited at county fairs and who toured with good ol' P.T. Barnum, this title is an excellent overview of her life and likely a valuable discussion-starter for any kid who feels out of place due to an unusual physicality.

There's a great list of references in the back for kids (or adults) who would like to learn more.

Anna Swan was born big and she just kept getting bigger--she was nearly 8 feet tall and 400 pounds as an adult. At age 17, Anna moved from her home in Nova Scotia to New York City to join P.T. Barnum's museum. As one of his displays, Anna had the opportunity to travel throughout North America and Europe, and she found love along the way.

This is a great picture book biography. My five-year-old twins were very interested in learning about Anna. The first-person POV really helped form a connection with Anna. This could be a great discussion starter, giving the opportunity to talk about embracing uniqueness.

I read a copy of the ARC via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Throughout the centuries, people have wanted to sing "This is Me", and Anna Swan would have been one of those. Six foot tall as a twelve year old, the giant lady became an exhibit at something akin to a culture house run by PT Barnum in New York, before finding equally lofty love (actually, her husband was a little shorter) and touring the old and new worlds as The Tallest Married Couple on Earth. This pleasantly illustrated children's biography will like as not give facts about someone adults don't know of, but in a fashion making it ideal for the school shelf. I dare say there was a darker side to her growing up as such a standout – these pages vaguely refer to bullying, and the struggle to find a bed and shoes to fit – but this is a warming little read.