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2025 Caldecott Honor Book

“Climber, climate activist, mother, and inspiration. Growing up in Japan, Junko Tabei (1939-2016) was eager to scale mountains even as a child. From her first climb of Mount Chausu at age 10, Junko knew this life was for her. As an adult, she often heard the message that mountains weren’t for women, that she should stay home with her family. A determined Junko “became a mother who climbed for her daughter” and set an ambitious goal—becoming the first woman to climb Mount Everest.”

– Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

 

Up, Up, Ever Up! Junko Tabei: A Life in the Mountains

Written by Anita Yasuda
Illustrated by Yuko Shimizu
Published by Clarion Books

Junko Tabei dreamed of a life climbing mountains. But men refused to climb with her. Sponsors told her to stay home. And gloves were not made to fit her hands. Eager and unstoppable, Junko wouldn’t let these obstacles get in her way.

Instead, she planned an expedition to summit Mount Everest with an all-women team. Battling icy peaks, deep crevasses, and even an avalanche, Junko refused to give up. She climbed step by step . . . up, up, ever up!

After summiting the world’s tallest peak, Junko took on a new challenge: protecting the wild spaces she loved for future generations.

This gorgeously illustrated celebration of a trailblazing climber who shattered gender stereotypes invites us to dare to reach our dreams—no matter how big.

Primary ISBN: 9780063242418
Publication Date: September 2024
Available As: Hardcover
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Japan, Nepal

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Home Country

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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Teacher Guide 

Source: www.anitayasuda.com