Readers have likely grown up learning about civil rights leaders, such as Martin Luther King, Jr. and Rosa Parks, but what about all of the countless others who stood up for the rights of Black Americans? This work explores the stories and contributions of 17 women not often featured in the history books, but who left their mark on freedom today. This book adeptly presents backstory and definitions on the court cases, political figures, and historical moments of the Civil Rights Movement. Readers are further immersed as segregation and the Jim Crow South are vividly described to set the scene with every story. Each chapter shares the life and accomplishments of a woman during this time, featuring at least one photograph of the subject and notes of sources for the information presented at the end of each chapter. From Leah Chase feeding the movement from her restaurant, a safe haven for Black people, to Jo Ann Robinson, who fought segregated transportation long before Rosa Parks, there are incredible stories herein. The racism and sexism these women faced make for an inspiring read. A solid nonfiction ­historical read, with short but impactful stories of women fighting for civil rights.

School Library Journal

Martin Gitlin’s The Spirit of Freedom: Powerful Women of the Civil Rights Movement is a fascinating and illuminating exploration of the inspiring lives and legacies of unsung Black women activists of the Civil Rights movement. It is essential reading for anyone interested in what motivates an activist, no matter their race or gender.

Jean Rawitt, author of Inspired to Action: How Young Changemakers Can Shape Their Communities and the World

Gitlin's ability to spotlight such brave women who changed the course of the Civil Rights Movement should inspire all of us, and ignite courage to stand up for the continued progress of our own communities.

Nihar Suthar, author of The Hope Raisers