Showing results for "Billie" in Biographies

Eleanora's journey into legend took her through pain, poverty, and run-ins with the law. By the time she was fifteen, she knew she possessed something that could possibly change her life—a voice. Eleanora could sing. That remarkable voice led her to Harlem nightclubs, the Apollo Theater, and a place in the spotlight with some of the era's hottest big bands. Billie Holiday sang from somewhere inside her that made it seem as if she had lived each lyric, and in many ways she had. This unique talent is what made Billie Holiday more than a singer. She was an artist.

This friendly, fun biography series focuses on the traits that made our heroes great - the traits that kids can aspire to in order to live heroically themselves. Each book tells the story of one of America's icons in a lively, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction listeners and that always includes the hero's childhood influences. This volume features Billie Jean King, the world champion tennis player who fought successfully for women's rights.

From tennis legend Billie Jean King to the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team, athletes have fought for equity and fairness for women in professional sports. Discover the pro athletes who have used their platform to speak out and affect change for all women.

Billie Jean King grew up in a family of athletes. It was no surprise when she quickly began to excel at tennis. She became the top female singles player in the world and won 129 career singles titles, including Wimbledon and the US Open. Beyond being an excellent athlete, Billie Jean King used her voice to stand up for other women playing tennis who were not paid nearly as much as male players. In 1973, Billie Jean captured the world's attention when she beat Bobby Riggs in the "Battle of the Sexes," proving women were just as good at tennis as men.

Travel back to 1916 with Ruth Bancroft Law to learn more about the early days of aviation in America. A remarkable pioneer, Law was one of the most daring, courageous, and successful aviators of her time. She set several records and inspired the nation with a bold and historic flight. In the process, she showed the world that women could be influential leaders and superb pilots.

Travel back to the late 1800s to learn more about the true adventures of Luella Agnes Owen, a female pioneer in the study of caves. Luella had to overcome many obstacles to reach her goal of becoming a scientist, but she succeeded. She became one of the world's leading authorities on caves at a time when such a career was unusual for a woman.

In 1973, two of the world's most famous tennis stars took part in what became known as the "Battle of the Sexes". Bobby Riggs embraced the idea that men were superior to women in every way and claimed that he would defeat any woman on the tennis court. Meanwhile, Billie Jean King was determined to beat him. She knew she could win and prove that women were as just good as men.