Inspiring, short biographical stories for girls (and boys) about twenty different “hooligans, rebels and rabble-rousers” who bravely spoke and acted against injustice, each in their own unique way. These true stories highlight how childhood experiences (including bullets, abandonment, serious illness) shaped these extraordinary individuals, while showcasing their resilience. I loved the addition of the mixed media portrait of each inspirational female, with the addition of some prompting questions to encourage further discussion and exploration.

This would be a wonderful addition to any library or family bookshelf. I know several pre-teens and young women who would love this as a thoughtful, inspiring gift.

With thanks to Atmosphere Press for the digital review copy, via NetGalley. This review is voluntary, and all opinions are my own.

Hooligans, Rebels, and Rabble-Rousers is a treasury of short stories about brave women who have overcome so many awful experiences just to become inspirational leaders of their time. Between RBG and Aretha Franklin, there are stories that young readers can relate to, can develop empathy over, and learn about history through social justice. It's an excellent gift to any young reader, both girls and boys, who want to learn more about how we can overcome slavery, illness, and bullies in the world.

The stories are told in a way that makes it easy for young readers to digest, so some of the atrocities that these women endured are told at a level that's not as violent or upsetting as it could be. This will definitely spark an interest in young readers to get to know the women who have paved the way before them.

The mixed media art style is also quite powerful. I found myself looking at the images for quite a long time because the art alone tells a story.