The Lobster Lady
Charlesbridge
ISBN: 978-1623543938
This intriguing picture-book biography tells the true story of Virginia Oliver—the Lobster Lady—who at 102 years old is the oldest person lobstering in Maine.
Still hauling lobsters at over 100 years old, Virginia Oliver is admired in the state of Maine and beyond. She has been lobstering on and off for over 93 years and is fondly known as the Lobster Lady among locals. Virginia is a native of Rockland, Maine.
The Lobster Lady chronicles a day in Virginia’s life while illuminating all that she remembers from growing up and starting a family on the mainland in Maine and on her family’s island, called the Neck. Readers get a sense of Virginia’s life and an idea of all that goes into lobster harvesting.
Lyrically told and beautifully illustrated, The Lobster Lady is a tribute to the incredible life of a Maine icon and female pioneer.
Awards & Recognition
Maine Lupine Award Winner 2023
New England Book Award Finalist 2023
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Reviews
“This sweet, beautifully illustrated tale of one exceptional seafaring grandmother and her life in the Pine Tree State follows ‘the Lobster Lady,’ Virginia Oliver, the oldest person lobstering in Maine. […] For fans of picture-book biographies that are quiet, gentle reflections on a life lived boldly.” – Booklist
“This inspiring story is set on full-bleed images done with chalk pastel on roughened paper that convey a strong sense of the waterwoman’s world, the boats, the sea, the sky. […] A cleverly told, engaging portrayal of an indomitable woman.” – Kirkus Reviews
Educator Resources
Activity Guide from Charlesbridge (Downloadable PDF)
Explore More Book Guide from Island Readers and Writers (Downloadable PDF)