Female innovators who changed our world How women shaped STEM

This biographical directory offers individual profiles of over 40 women who have made important STEM contributions. Entries average four or five pages, include personal details and technical descriptions of professional achievements, and often mention additional women who were prominent presences in similar fields. Coverage is international and, with few exceptions, concentrates on individuals representing the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Author Shimizu categorizes subjects according to broad subject areas ("Healthcare for Children," "Protecting the Earth") or overarching themes (patent holders), which is helpful because some names may not be familiar to readers. Her essays are thoughtful and engaging, and occasionally peppered with Britishisms (whilst, unbeknownst). Throughout, the text conveys an empathetic tone, acknowledging incidents of misogyny, discrimination, misappropriation of work and credit, and outright dismissal, while celebrating examples of brilliance, perseverance, and fierce determination. Back matter includes extensive chapter notes, many citing academic and professional journals. This accessible compilation focuses overdue attention on groundbreaking women of STEM and will hopefully spark renewed interest in their many contributions.