Sanctuary: Kip Tiernan and Rosie’s Place, the Nation’s First Shelter for Women, written by Christine McDonell, illustrated by Victoria Tentler-Krylov, and published by Candlewick Press

Sanctuary: Kip Tiernan and Rosie’s Place, the Nation’s First Shelter for Women, written by Christine McDonnell, illustrated by Victoria Tentler-Krylov, is a biographical picture book about Kip Tiernan, a community and women’s activist during the Great Depression. Inspired by actual events and women in need in her community, Kip started Rosie’s Place, the first women’s shelter where “women wouldn’t be reminded they were poor, a shelter with no chores, no questions asked, just good meals and warm beds”. Her continued value for humanity is evident throughout all her efforts to bring food and shelter to communities and future generations in need. Both text and watercolor illustrations showcase the love and humanity of our unhoused population and the value of human connection. The picture book’s back matter includes detailed information and sources about Kip’s life and her activism that led to establishing a place of not only shelter but also compassion and respect for women.

Author: Christine McDonell
Illustrator: Victoria Tentler-Krylov
Award: 2023 Honor Book for Younger Children