The beautiful middle-grade biography chronicles the life of Junko Tabei, the first woman climber to summit Mount Everest. An unlikely climbing hero, Junko failed PE class in middle school.

Growing up in a rural region of Japan, Junko had no independent female role models in the 60s in Japan. Junko didn’t want to settle down and marry after high school, she wanted to attend college and live an independent life full of adventure.

With the support of her father, she went away to college in Tokyo, where she discovered a deep interest in mountaineering. Climbing mountains helped her feel at peace when life seemed too overwhelming.

Junko overcame her natural shyness, joined a climbing club, and eventually became a master climber. She eventually meets, falls in love with, and marries a not-so-traditional Japanese climber, Masanobu Tabei, who encourages her to follow her dreams.

Readers who love biographies will love this story of an ordinary girl who grows up to do daring things. The bright illustrations help support the text, and girls of all ages will fall in love with Junko and cheer for her as she overcomes obstacles and hardships.

Oh, this book is so cute! The Rebel Girls books are adorable, and super empowering. Definitely a good addition to the amazing 6-8 series that are coming out right now, we need more nonfiction that's actually interesting to kids and isn't just spouting a ton of facts.

This is a lovely true story about Junko Tabei, the first woman to summit Mt. Everest. It's a story of perseverance and staying true to yourself. It's a story about a dangerous sport, which isn't hidden, and sensitive children might be upset about a death that occurs. It's also a story that models a romantic partnership grounded in respect and equality, which is a detail that might not be as important to children when they are reading it but is a great thing to plant seeds for later in life. The artwork is also delightful. Once again, I love these chapter books.

This historical fiction middle grade novel follows Junko Tabei who was the first woman to climb Mt. Everest. Many readers will appreciate Junko's inner strength as she follows a path unlike the average Japanese girl and woman. In school as a child, Junko was considered small and weak. However, when faced with climbing a mountain, she follows her teacher's advice to do her best and successfully completes the climb. This sparks Junko's life
Omg passion for climbing.

I particularly appreciated the accessibility of the text. This book is written in fairly simple language with a message that rings loud and clear. Junko's care for the environment in her later years is an important facet of a book that demonstrates how to follow your passion.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing an advanced read of this novel.

Junko Tabei is an inspiration for girls of any age, but especially those in middle-grade who are searching for their role in life. Learn from teachers and be open to what they have to share with you. Follow your dreams, be passionate about what and who you love and don't let others make decisions for you. "Ganbatte. Do your best"

I thouroughly enjoy this book, is really well written for the age group this book is targeted. Not horrible gory details about people passing away yet they are mention as it's a part of life. I'm really glad I picked this one up Hightly recommend to anybody who likes to read about successful women. Brilliant if you and your family are planning a trip to Japan so maybe some of the things mention here might make more sense.

Wow! I can't wait to read more of this series on women and girls who kept going despite obstacles to become exactly who they were meant to be. In this one Junko Tabei takes up mountaineering as a girl and eventually becomes the first woman to ascend Mt. Everest. The focus of the book is on her perseverance, a great trait for anyone. She often remembers her teacher's words to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Great for upper elementary!

What a beautiful book! The colours and the illustrations alone are lovely but Junko Tabei's story, written at a level to engage and inspire many young girls, is brilliant. I loved the writing style - it was easy to read and very down to earth. I also loved the activities at the end, which will be brilliant for young readers who feel inspired.

An amazing woman with an amazing story that deserves to be shared!

I think I have a new hero! Junko Tabei's story is really inspiring. It even sounds kind of like a movie story, and it's hard to believe this was a real, living person. The book is wonderfully illustrated and well written, I absolutely loved it. Plus, you can find all sorts of info about mountain climbing at the end (how to tie knots, how to balance yourself or how to even manage your fears!)
This is a wonderful book for kids, especially for girls who may be doubting their abilities or their strength. Very inspiring.

I thank the publisher for giving me a free copy of the ebook in exchange to my honest review. This has not affected my opinion.

We read from the Good Night Rebel Girls book every night (I have 4 daughters) and it provides just a nice snippet into that woman's accomplishments and life. I'm so happy they are doing more deep dive books into these amazing women! We loved it!