2021-10-21
A visually lively survey of some wonderful, changemaking women of the world.
Based on a feature that ran in Wonder Woman comic books in the mid-20th century, this anthology collects short biographical comics of women who have had a positive impact on the world. These sketches are organized into five sections: Strength, Compassion, Justice, Truth, and Equality. Among the 24 subjects are those whose influence has shaped science, politics, social reforms, entertainment, sports, and more. Figures likely familiar to readers, such as Beyoncé, Malala Yousafzai, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, share the pages with remarkable lesser-known women like Teara Fraser (Métis), the CEO of Indigenous- and woman-owned Iskwew Airlines, and Nigerian scientist and climate change activist Francisca Nneka Okeke. The authors and illustrators likewise include a broad array of voices, including popular and beloved voices such as Danielle Paige, Traci Sorell, Kami Garcia, and Marieke Nijkamp. Narratively and artistically, the stories vary in style but are united by the overarching theme. While the biographies are short—each section opens with a single-page introduction to a woman who exemplifies the thematic trait, followed by more in-depth profiles of six to eight pages each—the book serves as a compelling introduction to many real Wonder Women around the globe, and the celebratory, galvanizing tone will inspire further research and action. Subjects and creators alike range widely in race, ethnicity, nationality, sexuality, and gender identity.
An engaging entry point to the lives of significant women. (contributor biographies) (Graphic nonfiction. 12-18)
