Lives of Girls Who Became Famous - A Deep Dive Review

by Sarah Knowles Bolton (Author)

Updated at: 02/03/2025

Sarah Knowles Bolton's Lives of Girls Who Became Famous offers inspiring biographies of diverse women who defied societal limitations to achieve greatness. This collection profiles remarkable figures such as Louisa May Alcott, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and Florence Nightingale, showcasing their varied contributions as writers, poets, and reformers. Bolton highlights the significant challenges these women faced – financial hardship, gender inequality, and societal expectations – emphasizing their resilience and unwavering dedication. Ultimately, the book serves as a powerful testament to the potential of young women, encouraging readers to pursue their ambitions with courage and perseverance, regardless of obstacles. It's a timeless message of hope and empowerment.

3.7 / 5 ratings

Review Lives of Girls Who Became Famous

Reading Sarah Knowles Bolton's Lives of Girls Who Became Famous felt like stepping back in time, not just to the late 19th century, but to a world where the very idea of a woman achieving greatness felt revolutionary. Published just twenty years after the Civil War, the book offers a fascinating glimpse into a period of immense social change, a time when women were actively fighting for their voices to be heard, and their rights recognized. While the language sometimes feels a bit archaic—a charming quirk, I think—the stories themselves are incredibly powerful and humbling.

Each chapter, a mini-biography of a remarkable woman, is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. From Louisa May Alcott, crafting enchanting stories despite financial hardship, to Elizabeth Barrett Browning, penning breathtaking poetry while battling illness, to Florence Nightingale, revolutionizing healthcare in the face of entrenched prejudice, these women faced unimaginable obstacles. Bolton doesn't shy away from the challenges they encountered—the societal expectations, the financial struggles, the sheer uphill battle for recognition—and it's precisely this honest portrayal that makes the book so compelling. It’s a reminder that success isn't a straight path, but rather a journey paved with perseverance and courage.

What struck me most, however, was the deeply held faith that permeates many of these women's lives. Bolton highlights their devotion, their conviction, and their willingness to speak out against injustices like slavery, the mistreatment of Native Americans, and the horrors of war. Seeing these women—figures already known for their accomplishments—framed as devout Christians who actively fought for what was right added another layer of profound respect and admiration. It's an inspiring example of faith in action, demonstrating how deeply held beliefs can fuel a passionate commitment to social justice.

The book isn't just a collection of biographical sketches; it's a powerful message of hope and empowerment. It shows young women—then and now—that limitations imposed by society are not insurmountable barriers. With courage, determination, and unwavering belief in oneself, anything is possible. Reading these stories, I found myself reflecting on the progress made since 1886, while also recognizing that the fight for equality and justice is ongoing.

However, I do understand the perspective that the book lacks a certain modern motivational flair. Compared to today's self-help books, it doesn't offer explicitly stated, actionable steps to success. Its strength lies not in offering quick fixes, but in presenting inspiring role models whose lives were dedicated to meaningful change. The lack of modern motivational techniques might be a drawback for some readers, but I found the historical context and the inherent inspiration within the lives of these extraordinary women to be far more compelling. Ultimately, Lives of Girls Who Became Famous is a treasure – a historical document and a source of inspiration rolled into one. While it might need a little airing out (as one reader humorously noted!), its message remains timeless and profoundly relevant.

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