Foreword -- Introduction -- She dared to rule : queens, empresses, and heads of state -- Amazing strength : maverick warriors and freedom fighters -- Brains unleashed : trailblazing women in science and medicine -- Unstoppable force : bold athletes and daredevils -- Her pen was mightier : dazzling writers and poets -- Brilliance unbound : virtuoso women in the arts -- Bright stars : sheroes of the silver screen and stage -- Ecowarriors : women protecting Mother Earth -- Awesome activists : fighting for equality and social justice.