"[An] inspirational collection ... Tarnowska presents a range of extraordinary women, including queens, writers, scientists, activists, athletes, and artists from several countries ... A few (Nefertiti, Cleopatra, Amal Clooney) will be recognizable to American audiences, but most won't be, making this resource all the more valuable. Readers will be impressed ... this serves as a necessary spotlight on women from a region where they are particularly underestimated and as a testament to female achievement as a whole."

"Courageous leaders, activists, creators, and pioneers guaranteed to inspire ... A compilation of short biographies of 25 Middle Eastern women, all trailblazers in their fields, and their achievements, from ancient times to the modern day. Each chapter (about four pages long) introduces one woman, highlighting her achievements on the first page, which faces an illustration in a range of styles but with saturated colors that complement the page backgrounds. The second spread goes into further detail about each subject's life. Some of the women included from long ago include Empress Theodora, Queen Nefertiti, and poet Rabi'a al Adawiyya. Among the present-day women are Manahel Thabet from Yemen, a scientist, economist, and mathematician; Maha al Balushi, an Omani pilot and activist; May Ziadeh, an Egyptian writer and feminist; and Amal Clooney, a Lebanese British human rights lawyer. A variety of different accomplishments and careers are introduced, particularly for present-day women. Tarnowska defines terms, identifies present-day areas where some of these women live or lived, and writes about how each woman succeeded and what she has done to change the world. Many, ranging from Cleopatra to Zahra Lari, an ice skater from Abu Dhabi, followed their dreams, whether or not they were supported by family, friends, and community. These biographies will both inspire readers and correct misconceptions and stereotypes about women from the Middle East. There is a glossary but no bibliography or list of resources. A map serves to define the region. (Collective biography. 9-13)"

"Gr 5-8–[A]n entertaining reading experience … the conversational tone will engage readers. The colorful artwork enhances the text. Using distinctive styles and design elements, five different illustrators bring the women to life … VERDICT ­Recommended for upper elementary and middle school libraries looking to expand their collected biographies or women’s history nonfiction sections.”

"One of the most impressive biography books we've seen in ages, a truly fabulous collection of amazing women gathered together in one mighty tome."

"This is a book you will enjoy from cover to cover! Here in one unique volume are twenty-five outstanding women from the Middle East, who have created a legacy through strength of vision, leadership, courage and sheer determination ... The illustrations in the book are beautiful with an amazing use of color and different styles throughout ... If I could step outside my door today and buy one book, this is the one that I would choosesuch a good book."

“Writer, translator and storyteller Wafa’ Tarnowska’s portraits of 25 pioneering women date from the era of Egyptian Queen Nefertiti (1370–1330 BCE) to contemporary scientists, pilots, architects and astronauts, among others. Her book offers young readers long-overdue role models from the Middle East. Written in a charming, conversational style, Tarnowska’s profiles are educational and empowering … carefully chosen and beautifully illustrated profiles inspire and challenge stereotypes about women in the Middle East.”