In the United States, it has been difficult for any woman to gain success and recognition in her chosen field. For black women the problem was two-fold — being a woman and being black. 

In this book, the lives of four black women are told. Each woman, although ignored in history books, had an impact on the shaping of America. Juliette Derricotte, who worked with young people, died a victim of the prejudice she fought to change; Maggie Mitchell Walker improved the quality of life for thousands of people through her innovative banking techniques; journalist Ida Wells Barnett wrote biting articles and books lashing out against discrimination and lynching; and, Séptima Poinsette Clark revolutionized adult education and remedial reading programs.  

“...change must come through women — and largely the efforts of black women....” These words spoken by Juliette Derricotte more than fifty years ago have been proven true. For black women have always led in the struggle to improve the condition of their sisters. And, in learning about these little known but important women, each reader will gain a new understanding of the meaning of bravery encourage. 

From the book