Having a broad level of knowledge about the subject matter, I still only knew three of these impressive women: Cherokee Chief Wilma Mankiller, activist and former vice presidential candidate Winona LaDuke, and ballerina Maria Tallchief. There are two women featured who were born in the mid-19th century; the remainder are contemporary. The interview-based approach provides information that may not have been gleaned had the author simply researched other materials.

I would use this book to inspire Native students – especially girls - to pursue their passions and learn of how others have overcome obstacles in their way, as well as to combat prominent stereotypes of non-Natives that there are not any accomplished Native women.

Ten outstanding Native women are profiled. Included are women from the past as well as women making history today. Winona LaDuke, Maria Tallchief, Wilma Mankiller, Mary Kay Tilta are four of the courageous women profiled in the book.