Parents need to know there is no bad language, sex, or violence in the book. Children may be shocked or confused by the 1960s-era sexism and racism.
Positive messages:The women show determination and pride in the face of discrimination. They are willing to sacrifice to achieve their goals. On the negative side, there are many appalling examples of sexist and racist attitudes and behavior. According to the book, then-Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson told Cobb the reason he couldn't allow women in the space program because "we'd have to let blacks in. We'd have to let Mexican-Americans in, and Chinese-Americans. We'd have to let every minority in, and we just can't do it."
Positive role models:These women are trailblazers in fields where they are still underrepresented today.