Seven Brave Women

A book that tells the story of a family over generations, shows strong women, and expresses an unapologetic, matter of fact opposition to war would be of interest if it were not so well done. But it is well done. Telling the stories in the voice of the author's daughter is brilliant, tying the past to the future.The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous.I have bought copies of this book for my nieces and great-nieces, from adult to infant (OK, the infants will have to grow a bit before they understand, but even they like the pictures.) I think it would be good for the boys to read it, too, but I think that would be a harder sell.

Reading this book to my kids made me want to find out more about my own great-great-great grandmothers!

I found this book to be simply inspirational. Hearne sets up a time line of sorts, depicting seven strong, determined women from her heritage who are rugged yet feminine and caring. Each woman differs remarkably in her interest and education, but is portrayed as a positive and vital part of the family. The focus on the wars through out the lives of these women demonstrates the integral part women played on the homefront, more often than not with out the credit they deserved. This is a book that would spark interest in female readers who might not otherwise be curious about their own heritage.