Published by Twenty Watt (part of Kings Road Publishing), 2018.

This is a fabulous anthology. It’s accessible yet heavyweight. You can dip in and out of it or get lost in its pages. You can read about women who are very much in the public consciousness as well as lesser known women from history. I love how wide-ranging the book is; women are celebrated in all fields, and across race and history.

The book is divided into eight sections: Art and Design; History; Politics; Science; Sports; Music, Film and TV; Literature; and Business. This impressive variety highlights the range and versatility of women; they can and do excel in all areas. Each of the eight sections has an initial double-page spread featuring mini biographies of six amazing women. Then the rest of the section has more detailed biographies of five to eight other amazing women in that field.

I really enjoyed reading Sandra Lawrence’s introduction. It sets the feminist tone for the book and is a powerful call to arms. We are reminded of the prejudice and barriers to attainment that women have faced throughout history. She outlines the excuses society has used to explain why women “can’t” do things, and the criticisms levelled at women who do.

Her epilogue reminds us that prejudice and inequality still exist today, albeit often in a different form than in the past, and she ends by urging a new generation of trailblazers to seize the day. Inspirational and motivational stuff!

This is a wonderful celebration of fifty extraordinary women. A celebration of bravery, determination, intelligence, innovation, discovery, and talent. It celebrates female groundbreakers who have pushed the boundaries of human excellence and endeavour, often changing history and society along the way.  It’s a powerful book that will amaze and inspire girls and boys.

Rating: 💙💙💙💙💙

Suitable for children aged 8+

Thank you to Twenty Watt for sending me this book to review.