Hidden Figures: Young Readers Edition

“The accomplishments of these four women were remarkable. But their work was even more impressive because it was achieved while living and working in the South during a time when racial discrimination was commonplace, and when most women with an interest in math were expected to become math teachers.”

In the first chapter, Shetterly explains the context in which the women were working and living. She uses simple language to explain the complex contextual relationship between technological developments, racism, and sexism to young readers.

“But few of the women were granted the title 'mathematician,’ which would have put them on equal footing with some male employees. Instead, they were classified as ‘subprofessionals,’ a title that meant they could be paid less.”

Here, Shetterly outlines some of the difficulties that all women faced working in the Langley Laboratory. Women were considered inferior to men. They were paid less and considered less important. She hence introduces the theme of Race, Gender, and Professional Opportunities.

“Some women with Dorothy’s education might have seen taking the laundry job as an unthinkable choice. Wasn’t the purpose of a college degree to get away from dirty and difficult work? In addition, the camp was far enough away from Farmville that Dorothy would have to live in employee housing during the week and only go home on weekends. But Dorothy didn’t care. She would do whatever was necessary to save enough money so that her four children might be able to get the best education possible.”

This passage illustrates Dorothy’s perseverance. She was willing to do anything to support her family, even work that other educated women might consider beneath them. It also shows the limited opportunities for Black women. Shetterly uses a rhetorical question to prompt reader engagement with the limitations placed on educated Black women.