Starred Review Brassy bank robbers, brave trailblazers, and ball-busting debutants make all sorts of noise in this collection of 15 stories. The settings span North America between 1710 and 1968, and the stories feature a variety of heroines. Some love boys, some love girls, and some don't love anyone; they are siblings and daughters; and they represent a multitude of ethnicities and social classes. Though several of the stories contain fantastical elements, this is ultimately historical fiction at its finest, and it boasts a host of hot YA authors, including Marie Lu, Marissa Meyer, Elizabeth Wein, and Kekla Magoon. The collection as a whole is strong, though standouts include Leslye Walton's "El Destinos," a fable of fate in 1840s Texas; Andrea Cremer's "High Stakes," which pairs a mythological creature with the dynamics of America just before the Civil War; Lindsay Smith's "City of Angels," about a would-be screenwriter who falls for her starlet roommate in 1945 L.A.; and Robin Talley's "The Whole World Is Watching," a chillingly timely depiction of the 1968 Democratic National Convention protests in Chicago. Each individual story is thoroughly researched, and each includes an author's note explaining the context. The heroines are tough and memorable and full of heart, and the concept is irresistible. Stock up is one will practically sell itself.

Fifteen historical fiction short stories spanning 1710 to 1968 embrace gutsy girls of all races and social classes, with both real-world and other-world powers. An escaped slave girl disguised as a boy pirate, an Inuit orphan, a New Orleans belle, the three fates living as Mexican Americans, a Gorgon Civil War assassin, a Northern loyalist embroiled in a Southern spy plot, a Western school teacher, a Chinese medium, Alaskan saloon owners, an aspiring Negro aviator, Great Depression survivors, and girls exploring sexuality and civil rights define themselves beyond family expectations and societal stereotypes within periods of social turmoil. Some characters' painful and admirable sacrifices lead to success. Other characters redefine success and, with danger and uncertainty, follow their hearts. Each bravely continues her journey, some even after death.Creative, engrossing, and well crafted, these stories will spark interest in women's roles in American history, ancient myths, and folklore legends as they explore universal and personal themes of love, risk, integrity, personal rights, and coming of age. An "Author's Note" accompanies each story and explains its background or inspiration. Some authors suggest follow-up sources. Teachers may wish to cherry pick selections for specific units of study and age groups. The book in its entirety promises to hold the most appeal for senior high and college young women.Lucy Schall.