“Gr 3-7-Chickasaw/Cherokee narrator Rich smoothly voices Ojibwe history professor Phillips’s 51 mini-biographies of Indigenous women “whose actions, words, or discoveries have served as an inspiration to others.” Each segment lasts just two to three minutes and ends with a resonating quote and quick suggestions to “Explore More!” Many of the women are pioneering firsts: first Indigenous woman published author Jane Johnston Schoolcraft (1800-42; Ojibwe); the first Indigenous American to earn a medical degree and the first Indigenous woman doctor, Susan La Flesche Pictotte (1865-1915, Omaha); the first Indigenous woman engineer, Mary Golda Ross (1908-2008, Cherokee); the first Indigenous recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Annie Dodge Waukena (1910-97, Diné); Maria Tallchief (1925-2013, Osage), the first American ever to hold the rank of prima ballerina; and the first Indigenous woman to go to space, Nicole Aunapu Mann (b. 1977, Wailacki). The 51st entry features the Canadian protest movement, Idle No More; an additional 10 sheroes are further named, including Phillips’s activist grandmother, Margaret Newago Pascale (1921-2002, Ojibwe), who served in WWII. Rich uplifts each chapter with graceful respect. VERDICT An ideal read-aloud title to pair with print, featuring Indigenous Amazonian artist T?I’s stupendous portraits, especially for reluctant readers.” – School Library Journal November 2026
“As an Indigenous woman, what an amazing read from start to finish…Everyone needs to read this and get inspired, because nothing can stop you from achieving your goals.” – Customer review
“Female Native and Indigenous heroes are everywhere, if only we know where to look! Dr. Phillips’ book introduces us to the many heroes–the artists, activists, visionaries, and more–who’ve made a difference. Read, share, and be inspired!” – Dr. Sarah Park Dahlen, Associate Professor, Library and Information Science, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
“Wow–this is a must read! Even if you’re familiar with several of these incredible Female Indigenous Heroes, I guarantee you’ll gain a better understanding of them, their contributions, and often some new-to-you information about each one.” – Traci Sorell, award-winning author of We Are Still Here! Native American Truths Everyone Should Know and We Are Grateful Otsaliheliga

Katrina Phillips is an Associate Professor of History at Macalester University, specializing in Native history and the history of the American West.

Born and raised in northern Wisconsin, Professor Phillips is a proud citizen of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe. She holds a BA and PhD in History from the University of Minnesota. Professor Phillips is also a public historian and the author of several children’s books.

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