Charley Parkhurst in Children's Books

Rough, Tough Charley by Verla Kay


This 2007 picture book by Verla Kay (illustrated by Adam Gustavson) tells, in verse, the story of stage coach driver, Charley Parkhurst. Only at her death do people discover that Charley was actually a woman. In the mid 1800's, she had to disguise herself in order to do the work that she loved. A time line of facts is included at the end of the book.

  Riding Freedom by Pam Munoz Ryan

Of course, astute readers of Riding Freedom (1999) by Pam Munoz Ryan (illustrated by Brian Selznick), a chapter book for children, will know from the cover illustration of Charley with her eye patch, that the two books are about the same person. My favorite illustration is the one of Charley looking at herself in the water barrel. Selznick conveys reality, yearning, and sorrow in that one evocative illustration.

The two would make a great pairing to share with students in grades 4-6 as they are based on the same real person and focus on an interesting time in America's history. Anyone can appreciate the hard work and dedication in Charley's life.