Customer Reviews

Her Story: A Timeline of the Women Who Changed America

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Honoring over 420 years of signal achievements by American Women

If the purpose of "Her Story" was to impress the reader with the enormous number of talented and courageous women who have often passed unnoticed in American history, the authors have succeeded remarkably well. Each of the book's 220+ pages is crammed with 10 or more vignettes describing remarkable women who have changed history, whether we knew it or not. The books is laid out in chronological order, starting in 1587with the settling of Roanoke Island by Virginia Dare, among others and stretching to 2007, with the naming of Drew Gilpin Faust to the presidency of Harvard..

This is not a book about the wives and mothers of famous men, though such can be found here as well. The women in the book have each achieved some lasting fame on their own. Dolly Madison is included for saving paintings from a burning White House, not for being First Lady. The same goes for Jackie Kennedy, who is lauded for her efforts to highlight the place of the arts. There are many lesser-known women to celebrate as well. One surprise was to learn that the person behind the Apgar test given to newborns was Dr. Virginia Apgar. Women are positioned chronologically at the pinnacle of their careers, whether at the time of a great achievement or when their achievements were recognized. Nearly every one of the 2000+ descriptions here are accompanied by photographs or paintings made at the time of he women's work. The women included are artists and entrepreneurs, athletes and aesthetes, scientists and executives, cooks and advocates.

Criticisms? By necessity, the descriptions are very short, reducing a woman's life to one or two peak achievements. The progressive side of the ledger is also heavily represented. You will find Mother Cabrini (noted for her work among the poor) but not EWTN's Mother Angelica, Anita Bryant or Tammy Faye Bakker. Too, some may dislike honoring those who advocate for women's reproductive rights. Conservatives (and I believe progressives too) are lauded not for their views, but for the positions they held or the work they performed. If that bothers you, so be it.

"Her Story" is not meant to "include the ladies" for the mere sake of politically correct inclusion. These women have made tremendous achievements, often in a climate of male doubt about their worthiness. The end of the books contains two indices -- one for names and one that groups women by professions, from abolitionist to youth group founder. A wonderfully eye-opening book that speaks volumes about the ability of women to contribute to human experience. An inspiration for anyone -- female or male, old or young -- who needs reminding of the enormous potential of women.

So many women! So little space! The strength and weakness of this book: hundreds of women listed--many unknown to the average citizen--who made a difference in this country. And, unfortunately, that large number of women and the timeline format limits how much information can be provided. This is a jumping off point to find out more about the women whose stories pique your interest. Yes, it's a good "coffee table" book, designed to be dipped in leisurely. It's also an eye-opening revelation about the contributions women have made to this country.

This was fabulous!! So many women "heroes" I'd never known about. I have placed this book on the coffee table of our summer cottage so that all our guests/renters can learn from it as well. Beautiful collection of some incredible women.

[[ASIN:0061246514 Her Story: A Timeline of the Women Who Changed America]

This is an extremely beautiful book that everyone should own for their Library. It is written in a unique, timeline format which is very informative. The authors secured many hundreds of photos of the women they include in the timeline. A truly remarkable book.

This is a thoughtful and extensive account of the inspiring achievements of women throughout history who made their mark on our world. They aren't simply the wives of important men, they are women who changed the world because they didn't believe anyone who said they couldn't. It's a marvelous gift for girls and women of all ages.

I found this book fascinating. I learned so much about women's past accomplishments, their courage, persistence. and stamina. I pick it up and can hardly lay it down. I so want to share it with other women. I bought six copies as gifts.

This is a superior resource book for people of any age to begin to look at women's contributions to United States history. Nine hundred women are listed on a timeline with a picture of a woman or an artifact that represents the woman or event. It is a beautiful book. The authors have thoughtfully provided both an alphabetical index and an index by profession. An excellent book for a gift for girls and boys and any adult who has an interest in history. There is a very nice f oreword by Madeleine Albright. It is well worth the very reasonable price.

The book arrived soon after I ordered it and is in perfect condition and was about half the price I was about to pay for at the Museum shop where I first saw it. It occurred to me that I should try Amazon when I returned home and I am very pleased with the product and the seller.

Her Story is a tremendous gift to those who want to remember and learn from history. The book's outstanding layout and compilation of the many important women in our history should be read by all. The book makes a great gift, especially girls and younger women who need to learn about their foremothers. I bought three to donate to my local libraries.

Well-done. Inspiring stories. Much appreciated by the young girl and older woman to whom they were given. Very worthwhile.