Mae Makes a Way:
The True Story of Mae Reeves, Hat & History Maker
Illustrated by Andrea Pippins

CCBC Choices Book of the Year
RISE Feminist Book List Honoree
Read an excerpt!

Mae had a dream to make one-of-a-kind hats. But the path for a Black female designer was unclear, so Mae made a way, leaving her home in the segregated South to study at the Chicago School of Millinery. In Philadelphia, she became the first Black woman to own a business on South Street. A mother, a successful entrepreneur, and a community advocate, Mae led the way.

Published in collaboration with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, acclaimed author Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich (Two Naomis) and award-winning illustrator Andrea Pippins (I Love My Hair) bring the life of fashion entrepreneur and civic organizer Mae Reeves to the page. And when you are done reading, explore Mae’s store and styles in person at her permanent exhibit at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Reviews
“A fine introduction to a determined trailblazer.”
—The New York Times

"A vital piece of literature that documents an amazing woman who continuously persevered despite racial disparities.”
—Booklist

“In effervescent prose…Rhuday-Perkovich traces both Reeves’ family life and her career, from early years as a schoolteacher and student at the integrated Chicago School of Millinery to fame as owner of a Philadelphia shop….A pleaser for younger readers, particularly fans of fashion and fashion design, in search of role models.”
—Kirkus