Modern HERstory: Stories of Women and Nonbinary People Rewriting History

by Blair Imani, Tegan and Sara Narrated by January LaVoy, Blair Imani, Various

Overview

An inspiring and radical celebration of 70 women, girls, and gender nonbinary people who have changed--and are still changing--the world, from the Civil Rights Movement and Stonewall riots through Black Lives Matter and beyond.

With a radical and inclusive approach to history, Modern HERstory profiles and celebrates seventy women and nonbinary champions of progressive social change in a bold audiobook for all ages. Despite making huge contributions to the liberation movements of the last century and today, all of these trailblazers come from backgrounds and communities that are traditionally overlooked and under-celebrated: not just women, but people of color, queer people, trans people, disabled people, young people, and people of faith. Authored by rising star activist Blair Imani, Modern HERstory tells the important stories of the leaders and movements that are changing the world right here and right now--and will inspire you to do the same.

Editorial Reviews

DECEMBER 2018 - AudioFile

January LaVoy narrates Blair Imani’s compilation of the life and times of a diverse collection of women and nonbinary leaders who identify as LGBTQ, racially and religiously diverse, handicapped, and disadvantaged. LaVoy’s steady narration is minimally emotional, perfect for the short sketches of these 60 leaders of progressive social change. LaVoy voices the few direct quotes in a warm, inviting way, and definitions of the terminology that pertain to LGBTQ persons enlighten listeners to the diverse new vocabulary that describes identity. Imani’s selection of subjects breaks down stereotypes and established definitions of gender. Each biographical sketch highlights the accomplishments of famous, infamous, and little known persons from the last half of the twentieth and into the twenty-first century. M.B.K. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine

Publishers Weekly

10/01/2018
Queer Muslim American activist Imani presents the stories of 70 activists, leaders, and influencers. Imani “deliberately prioritize the stories of women, people of color, and LGBTQ people” included, who range broadly in terms of ages, professions, and backgrounds, as well as “abilities, sexual orientations, and gender identities.” An opening chapter focuses on such figures as “trailblazing” NASA scientists Katherine Johnson, Mary Jackson, and Dorothy Vaughan, while later sections highlight performers, writers, and business leaders, focusing significantly on lesser-known people, among them Feminista Jones, activist and mental health social worker; Vilissa Thompson, advocate for people with disabilities; and Su’ad Abdul Khabeer, founder of Sapelo Square, a resource for black Muslim Americans. The book thoughtfully contextualizes the work of each individual, supplying readers with a shared vocabulary through which to discuss issues of social activism and women’s liberation. A lively collective portrait of passionate, pioneering women and nonbinary people. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 12–up. (Oct.)

From the Publisher

Activist, journalist, and founder of the non-profit Equality for HER, Imani’s book is the one we need during the #MeToo and Black Lives Matter movements…This collection would be a welcome addition to any introductory women’s, gender, and sexuality studies course. It should also be shared among feminists and those passionate about fighting oppression based on class, disability, gender, race, and sexuality.”
– Library Journal (starred review)

“Blair Imani is an agent of social change who uses her background in grassroots activism to tell the stories of revolutionaries, both past and present, who are the catalysts of change our world so desperately needs, but you don’t have to take my word for it.”
–LeVar Burton, actor, educator, and activist
 
“Modern HERstory should be required reading for everyone.”
–Tegan and Sara
 
“Blair Imani educates readers about the HERstory of unsung heroes who work tirelessly to make the world a better place for all, while simultaneously blazing a trail of her own as a pioneer in activism for the next generation. Today, so many young women and LGBTQ people lack positive role models, and this book is an important step to inspiring the next generation of people to aim high and be proud.”
–Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD
 
“Blair Imani has given us an encyclopedia not just of the often overlooked in history, but also of the people who are changing the direction of our country today—this is who to follow, watch, celebrate, and emulate. We need these role models and fighters—and this book!”
–Dawn Laguens, executive vice president and chief brand officer of Planned Parenthood Federation of America
 
"Modern HERstory shines a remarkable light on important figures from our past, while inspiring new generations to be bold, courageous, and unafraid to stand up for what is right."
–Andrew Aydin, National Book Award–winning author of March and Run
 
“Through powerful storytelling and bright images, Blair Imani sends a clear message to next-generation activists and changemakers—this is their moment, they are the present, the now, and yes, the future. Instead of waiting to be passed the proverbial torch, the heroes in Imani's book claim their role as torchbearers whose lights are blazing inspiring trails for each of us to follow.”
–Jamia Wilson, executive director and publisher of Feminist Press
 
“I had chills while reading this entire book. THE ENTIRE BOOK. I was moved, inspired, and informed by the stories of these unbelievable people. I was also indignant: how could my history classes not have included such important pioneers?! Run out immediately and purchase multiple copies to send to your friends. I promise, they'll thank you.”
–Claire Wasserman, CEO and founder of Ladies Get Paid
 
“Changing society’s narrative often requires us to look back over our historical mosaic; admit what we got wrong; recognize who was silenced, marginalized or erased; and then reorganize and rewrite. Modern HERstory offers an inclusive approach to this kind of truth-telling.”
–Monica Lewinsky, anti-bullying advocate
  
“Modern HERstory is an empowering and educational read, filled with the stories of activists you should know and names that should fill our history books. In these turbulent political times, Blair Imani's first book reminds us that the change we need will only come from a coalition of activists working across differences and movements.”
–Sarah McBride, author of Tomorrow Will Be Different
 
“Blair Imani's Modern HERstory is a major contribution to the exhausting and endlessly important project of broadening our shared narrative. I wish I had a book like this growing up.”
–Lauren Duca, award-winning journalist
 
“Blair Imani's book is essential reading. These powerful stories of activism and bravery will amaze and inspire. This book opens our ears to the neglected voices of herstory. May those voices—and many more—be heard!”
–Emma Sulkowicz, artist and activist
 
"Blair Imani's Modern HERstory is like a woman's heart. Filled with compassion, understanding, and acceptance, the book embraces women of diverse experiences, including transwomen like myself, in order to inspire people to aspire and work for a happier and more inclusive society for all. When you feel like giving up, you have got to read this book!”
–Representative Geraldine Roman, first openly transgender member of the Philippines Congress
 
"With Modern HERstory, Blair Imani provides readers with crucial insight to understanding modern social justice movements in a way that is both vital and accessible. By shining a light on contemporary women and nonbinary people who are making history in real time, some lesser known than others, Imani reminds readers that heroes can emerge from anywhere, that activism takes many shapes and forms, and that history is not simply a matter of the past but something occurring in real time and in powerfully unexpected ways. The people presented here do not represent a new type of activism; rather, they represent people who've long been present in freedom movements and are too often overlooked."
–Bree Newsome, artist and activist
 
"Modern HERstory is a necessary part of any budding revolutionary’s library. Blair Imani has compiled over 70 stories of self-actualization from figures across a wide array of faith traditions, cultural origins, and social strata. It’s a major and inspiring feat that is necessary for our times. Everyone should feel represented, and Imani’s work elevates and preserves the history of women and femmes in a way that is empowering for diverse women/femmes everywhere. As a grassroots community organizer, I’m using this book as a resource so that I am grounded in all the ways women/femmes have fought for our collective liberation. This is a clear reminder of the power that all women/femmes have, and of the magical ways in which, despite the forms of violence we face, we exist, resist and create together.”
–Rana Abdelhamid, CEO and founder of MALIKAH, gender justice organizer

"A lively collective portrait of passionate, pioneering women and nonbinary people."
–Publishers Weekly

". . .accessible, awe-inspiring. . . .a new textbook of history’s heroes, free of erasure and white-male bias. . . .Imani’s collection is galvanizing and hopeful, leaving the radicals of tomorrow with proof that all people—no matter their race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or abilities—can change the world."
–Booklist (starred review)

". . .an important introduction to social justice work, specifically that which pertains to racial, sexual, religious, and ableist discrimination and oppression. It provides a quick and accessible reference source for anyone interested in how change can be effected from various levels, from the academic front to grass-roots movements. It will show readers that activists are not monolithic and that they themselves are never too young, small, or different to work toward change. A crucial message of inclusivity and sensitivity is present throughout. This engaging work is about movers and shakers—folks who made moves and shook up the status quo for the betterment of all."
–Kirkus

School Library Journal

Winter 2018

Although you may listen to Rihanna's songs, did you know she supports the Clara Lionel Foundation and several other charities? Are you aware that Geraldine Roman is the first openly transgender elected official in the history of the Philippines? Or that Winnie Harlow is contributing to conversations on positive body image? Imani offers short profiles of more than 50 modern women and nonbinary people. Some, such as Oprah, Ellen DeGeneres, and Serena Williams, may be more familiar to teens, while other entries will be introductions to the courageous work of revolutionaries creating change through blogs, campaigns, and businesses. This is an excellent source for those interested in current biographies and hashtag movements. Burgeoning activists will be inspired and may gain a better understanding of their power in the world. VERDICT This quick read is recommended for browsable nonfiction collections.—Pamela Schembri, Horace Greeley High School, Chappaqua NY

DECEMBER 2018 - AudioFile

January LaVoy narrates Blair Imani’s compilation of the life and times of a diverse collection of women and nonbinary leaders who identify as LGBTQ, racially and religiously diverse, handicapped, and disadvantaged. LaVoy’s steady narration is minimally emotional, perfect for the short sketches of these 60 leaders of progressive social change. LaVoy voices the few direct quotes in a warm, inviting way, and definitions of the terminology that pertain to LGBTQ persons enlighten listeners to the diverse new vocabulary that describes identity. Imani’s selection of subjects breaks down stereotypes and established definitions of gender. Each biographical sketch highlights the accomplishments of famous, infamous, and little known persons from the last half of the twentieth and into the twenty-first century. M.B.K. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine

Kirkus Reviews

2018-06-24
A collection that chronicles the stories of 70 diverse women, girls, and nonbinary people from the 20th and 21st centuries from many traditionally underrepresented groups. A compilation of single-page biographical sketches accompanied by striking full-color portraits, this book focuses on individuals who have all played or are currently playing a part in rewriting history and revolutionizing the way we view and navigate the world. Some, such as Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, and Jazz Jennings, will be well-known to young readers. Others, such as Patsy Takemoto Mink, a Japanese-American woman who broke racial and gender barriers when she was elected to Congress in 1964, are historically significant advocates for equity and inclusion who are frequently overlooked in traditional texts. This book is an important introduction to social justice work, specifically that which pertains to racial, sexual, religious, and ableist discrimination and oppression. It provides a quick and accessible reference source for anyone interested in how change can be effected from various levels, from the academic front to grass-roots movements. It will show readers that activists are not monolithic and that they themselves are never too young, small, or different to work toward change. A crucial message of inclusivity and sensitivity is present throughout.This engaging work is about movers and shakers—folks who made moves and shook up the status quo for the betterment of all. (glossary, biographies, organizations, hashtags, index) (Nonfiction. 12-18)

Product Details

BN ID:	2940169500615
Publisher:	Penguin Random House
Publication date:	10/16/2018
Edition description:	Unabridged

Read an Excerpt

INTRODUCTION
(Continues…)

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Excerpted from "Modern HERstory"
by .
Copyright © 2018 Blair Imani.
Excerpted by permission of Potter/Ten Speed/Harmony/Rodale.
All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.
Excerpts are provided by Dial-A-Book Inc. solely for the personal use of visitors to this web site.

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