She Takes a Stand

August 24, 2015
This far-ranging collection of brief biographies, part of the Women of Action series, introduces 16 female social and political activists from the 19th century onward. The featured women include Rigoberta Menchu Tum, who fought the genocide of indigenous Guatemalans during that country’s civil war (1960–1996); Sampat Pal Devi, who opened a sewing school in her Indian village and formed the “Gulabi Gang” of empowered women in 2006; and Megan Grassell, a contemporary teenager who founded Yellowberry, a company that makes “young, cute, and realistic bras for girls,” as an alternative to sexualized undergarments. Ross portrays his subjects with honesty, highlighting both their missteps and accomplishments, while emphasizing how anyone can become an activist with enough passion and will. Ages 12–up.

July 1, 2015

Gr 7-10-The latest in this series profiles 16 women from across the globe who have fought for human rights. Suffering personal injury, imprisonment, and a multitude of hardships, these women never gave up their goals. Divided into three parts-"Claiming Rights and Respect," "Rising Up Against Greed," and "Rejecting Violence"-this well-written and solidly researched book profiles a varied selection of women from the late 1800s through the present day, including Margaret Sanger, who fought for women's reproductive rights; Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani teenager who won the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize for speaking out for women's education; Mary Harris "Mother" Jones, who advocated on behalf of unions; Kalpona Akter, who brought increased awareness to conditions in overseas textile factories; Ida B. Wells, who used the power of her pen to bring attention to the horrors of lynching; and Buffy Sainte-Marie, a Native American known for her social activism and songwriting. Each chapter begins with a quote from the woman profiled and includes several photographs. VERDICT An excellent compilation and a notable addition for all library collections to enhance women's history.-Patricia Ann Owens, formerly at Illinois Eastern Community Colls., Mount Carmel

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