Jane Jacobs: Champion Of Cities, Champion Of People

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Jane Jacobs, born over a century ago, remains a relevant figure in discussions about cities and community. In this first biography for young readers, debut author Rebecca Pitts uses archives and Jacobs's writings to illustrate the journey of a determined young girl who became a pivotal advocate for urban life. Jacobs challenged the prevailing notion that cities should be designed by experts and sanitized, arguing that such approaches overlooked the needs of residents. Instead, she promoted diversity, community, and the vibrancy of street life, emphasizing the importance of grassroots movements for creating equitable cities. Her fearless stance often put her in opposition to influential figures like Robert Moses. This biography not only recounts Jacobs's life but also serves as an inspiration for young activists today, encouraging them to draw from her activism "playbook" to foster change in their own communities. The narrative highlights the importance of local issues and the power of community organizing, offering valuable lessons for today’s teens.