Alexander, Lori. Cactus Queen: Minerva Hoyt Establishes Joshua Tree National Park. Jen
Ely, Illus. Calkins Creek, 03/2024. [45]pp. Biography. Trade $18.99. 978-1-6626-8021-2.
GRADES 2–5. OUTSTANDING.
At the turn of the twentieth century, a young woman moved to Pasadena, California and fell in love with the Mojave Desert. Many people saw the desert as a wasteland, but Minerva Hoyt recognized the importance of protecting and preserving the fragile environment from the indifference and casual avarice of a burgeoning population. So, she embarked on a campaign to promote its beauty and value to the country and the world. Colorful illustrations reveal her tireless campaign, growing support, and discouraging setbacks on the way to establishing Joshua Tree National Park. Hoyt is white; diversity of skin tone and ethnicity is represented among ancillary characters. Indigenous people of the region are not discussed in the text. A few didactic sentences do not distract from this essential addition to California biography collections. Backmatter includes additional information, tips for young activists, and a selected bibliography. Includes California-specific content. Review based on an ARC.
Melissa McAvoy—Retired