Modern HERstory

July 15, 2018
A collection that chronicles the stories of 70 diverse women, girls, and nonbinary people from the 20th and 21st centuries from many traditionally underrepresented groups. A compilation of single-page biographical sketches accompanied by striking full-color portraits, this book focuses on individuals who have all played or are currently playing a part in rewriting history and revolutionizing the way we view and navigate the world. Some, such as Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, and Jazz Jennings, will be well-known to young readers. Others, such as Patsy Takemoto Mink, a Japanese-American woman who broke racial and gender barriers when she was elected to Congress in 1964, are historically significant advocates for equity and inclusion who are frequently overlooked in traditional texts. This book is an important introduction to social justice work, specifically that which pertains to racial, sexual, religious, and ableist discrimination and oppression. It provides a quick and accessible reference source for anyone interested in how change can be effected from various levels, from the academic front to grass-roots movements. It will show readers that activists are not monolithic and that they themselves are never too young, small, or different to work toward change. A crucial message of inclusivity and sensitivity is present throughout.This engaging work is about movers and shakers--folks who made moves and shook up the status quo for the betterment of all. (glossary, biographies, organizations, hashtags, index) (Nonfiction. 12-18)

COPYRIGHT(2018) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

October 1, 2018
Queer Muslim American activist Imani presents the stories of 70 activists, leaders, and influencers. Imani “deliberately prioritize the stories of women, people of color, and LGBTQ people” included, who range broadly in terms of ages, professions, and backgrounds, as well as “abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities.” An opening chapter focuses on such figures as “trailblazing” NASA scientists Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan, while later sections highlight performers, writers, and business leaders, focusing significantly on lesser-known people, among them Feminista Jones, activist and mental health social worker; Vilissa Thompson, advocate for people with disabilities; and Su’ad Abdul Khabeer, founder of Sapelo Square, a resource for black Muslim Americans. The book thoughtfully contextualizes the work of each individual, supplying readers with a shared vocabulary through which to discuss issues of social activism and women’s liberation. A lively collective portrait of passionate, pioneering women and nonbinary people. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 12–up.

October 1, 2018

Activist, journalist, and founder of the nonprofit Equality for HER, Imani's book is one we need during the #MeToo and Black Lives Matter movements. What differentiates her work from many of the memoirs and gender studies published since the 2016 election is her ability to explain dispassionately what systemic oppression is--and how, if we are to comprehend the significance of women and nonbinary people such as those profiled here, we must consider intersectionality and the institutional barricades concomitant to all forms of discrimination. With an introduction by indie pop singers Tegan and Sara, along with an extensive glossary including hashtags, this volume is designed to create conversations young feminists wish to have with their family. It's accessible yet theoretically sophisticated and filled with sketches of foundational figures, movement leaders, and various kinds of people involved in a revolution against dominant discourse. VERDICT This collection would be a welcome addition to any introductory women's, gender, and sexuality studies course. It should also be shared among feminists and the those passionate about fighting oppression based on class, disability, gender, race, and sexuality.--Emily Bowles, Univ. of Wisconsin, Madison

Copyright 2018 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Although you may listen to Rihanna's songs, did you know she supports the Clara Lionel Foundation and several other charities? Are you aware that Geraldine Roman is the first openly transgender elected official in the history of the Philippines? Or that Winnie Harlow is contributing to conversations on positive body image? Imani offers short profiles of more than 50 modern women and nonbinary people. Some, such as Oprah, Ellen DeGeneres, and Serena Williams, may be more familiar to teens, while other entries will be introductions to the courageous work of revolutionaries creating change through blogs, campaigns, and businesses. This is an excellent source for those interested in current biographies and hashtag movements. Burgeoning activists will be inspired and may gain a better understanding of their power in the world. VERDICT This quick read is recommended for browsable nonfiction collections.-Pamela Schembri, Horace Greeley High School, Chappaqua NY

Starred review from September 1, 2018
In this accessible, awe-inspiring collection of biographies, black queer American Muslim activist Imani creates a new textbook of history's heroes, free of erasure and white-male bias. The 70 women and nonbinary people featured in this book revolutionized their field of expertise?be it science, literature, entertainment, politics, or activism. Each conversational profile packs a punch of information, leaving readers with a solid introduction to each individual. As the title suggests, these are modern folks, the oldest among them including playwright Lorraine Hansberry; Title IX pioneer Patsy T. Mink; and NASA heroes Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan. Other highlighted powerhouses include the founders of the Black Lives Matter movement; Women's March organizers; writers such as Roxane Gay and Janet Mock; and entertainer-philanthropists like Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, and Rihanna. There's also a section dedicated to people who made their way on the internet, highlighting the success of Issa Rae, Feminista Jones, and others. The final section of the book looks to the future, honoring revolutionaries born in or after the year 2000. Imani's collection is galvanizing and hopeful, leaving the radicals of tomorrow with proof that all people?no matter their race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or abilities?can change the world.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)