I must admit that I had not heard of the historical figure known as Mother Jones before I read these two picture books. Mary Jones (1837-1930) was an Irish-born American schoolteacher and dressmaker who became a union organizer and agitator. She advocated particularly for the rights of miners and children and in 1902 was even called “the most dangerous woman in America.”

On Our Way to Oyster Bay: Mother Jones and Her March for Children’s Rights by Monica Kulling, illustrated by Felicita Sala (Kids Can Press, 2016)

Using fictional children  — including Aidan, an illiterate eight-year-old who works twelve hours a day in a cotton mill — this picture book tells the story of Mary Jones leading a group of children on a march from Kensington, Pennsylvania to Oyster Bay, New York to protest child labour in 1903. The book explains Mother Jones’ message as well as describing the journey, including a stop at Coney Island to give the kids a treat. At the end of the book you’ll find biographical information, a description of child labour today, examples of organizations that oppose it, and suggestions for taking action. Illustrations are simple and muted. Recommended for ages 6 to 9.

Mother Jones and Her Army of Mill Children by Jonah Winter, illustrated by Nancy Carpenter (Schwartz & Wade Books, 2020)

While this picture book recounts the same march as On Our Way to Oyster Bay, it is narrated in the first person by Mother Jones, even using some quotes from her speeches and autobiography. The fiery tone and use of ALL CAPS really brings the story to life, as the book describes the plight of child workers and Mary Jones’ passion for justice. Here’s a brief sample: “And what a sight we must’ve been: a bunch of scraggly ragamuffins with backpacks, out on the open road, led by a crazy old lady.” Similar to the first book, the muted illustrations work well. Since Mother Jones and Her Army of Mill Children is more detailed, I’d recommend it to slightly older children. It ends with biographical information, a bibliography, and four black and white photographs. Recommended for ages 8 to 10.