Review

Textbooks, Readers, and References

Linda G. Adamson has added another volume to her collection of reference works about women. In Notable Women in American History, she profiles 500 women, chosen to meet specific criteria. These women must have lived in the United States or its territories, be a native or naturalized American citizen if they lived in the twentieth century, and have enriched American life in some way. In addition, each woman must have been the subject of a full-length biography or autobiography which is accessible to the public, written at an adult level and published since 1970. Actors, authors, and poets must have also been recognized by their professional peers. A wide range of professional fields is represented, including entertainment, politics, and science. Adamson arranges her entries alphabetically by the subject's surname. After a short biography, each entry features up to five annotated sources to further guide researchers. Among these sources a researcher might find diaries and journals as well as monographs. Appendices cross reference entries according to year of birth, area of accomplishment, and ethnicity.	1
This volume, while serving as a general overview of the contributions of selected American women, is clearly a reference work. Although it does not provide enough information on any one woman to support significant research, it does serve as a launching pad to direct students interested in exploring specific American women. It is appropriate for high school and college students and would be at home on a library or classroom reference shelf. Diction and syntax are clear and straightforward, and the biographical sketches average 250 words. Because Adamson requires that each entry be the subject of biographical works, she does not include some names that would be interesting for students to explore if they were constructing an overview of the contributions of women to America. Sacajawea and Pocahontas are included, but neither Rose Greenhow nor Phyllis Schaftley are. Over 130 women represented were born in the twentieth century. Also included are women who have begun their contributions through the careers of their spouses. Adamson profiles Coretta Scott King and other "famous wives" who sometimes are eclipsed by the careers of their husbands.	2
This work can be a significant early research tool, useful to both teachers and students. Its appendices are useful for cross-referencing areas of ethnicity or areas of expertise. For instance, if one were exploring the development of education in America, thirty-four women are listed in the appendix as having made a significant contribution in that field. This volume can also serve as a stimulus for discussion on the range of women's contributions to and influence in America. Adamson's work is successful as a reference work in its own right as well as a guide to other sources.	3
Eastern Guilford High School, Gibsonville, NC   Karen Cobb Carroll

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