Mr. Justice Holmes

Reach for this book when your middle schooler begins questioning the fairness of the world or shows a budding interest in how society is structured. This biography follows the life of Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., from his youth in a literary Boston household and his harrowing service in the Civil War to his long tenure on the Supreme Court. It is an excellent choice for children who value logic and integrity, as it models how personal grit and intellectual honesty can influence the lives of millions. Judson presents a sophisticated but accessible look at a man who never stopped learning, making it ideal for the 10 to 14 age range. Parents will appreciate how the story bridges the gap between historical events and the abstract concept of the rule of law, fostering a sense of civic responsibility and the importance of thinking for oneself.