Anthology of Amazing Women: Trailblazers Who Dared to Be Different

Gr 5-7—In this fascinating anthology, Lawrence has selected individuals who have left indelible marks upon history. Featured trailblazers include Beyoncé, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Mary Jackson. Lawrence also highlights many other women who aren't typically covered in history texts for this audience. Divided into eight sections, this collection provides one page of informational text and a full-page portrait for each of the 50 women. In addition, six are briefly highlighted with a small portrait and one paragraph description in the introductions to the sections. (Anne Frank and Hillary Clinton are among those to be found on various introductory pages). The author does a commendable job of selecting figures from world history, describing their accomplishments in an enlightening manner, and discussing the obstacles they faced. The striking illustrations are unique and vividly capture in color the essence of each woman. After reading just a few of the profiles, readers should feel motivated and inspired. VERDICT For its notable selections and broad range of subjects, this title is highly recommended for biography and history collections for middle school libraries.—Jeanette Lambert, formerly at Nashville-Davidson County Schools