Amazons! Women warriors of the world by Sally Pomme Clayton and Sophie Herxheimer

Frances Lincoln Children's Books, 2008. ISBN 9781843076603
(Age 9-12) Seven stories from around the world make up this go-girl book, which is well worth a place in a library collection. Ranging from the story Queen of the Amazons, set in Greece, to Durga demon-slayer, set in India and Warrior princess set in Egypt, this terrific collection retells stories that illustrate the bravery, cunning and intellect of its heroines, as well as something about the culture of the country. After each story is a section that contains either facts, interactive games, tips or quizzes about how to be an Amazon today. I particularly liked the Amazon spell, based on a 6th century Sanskrit hymn that starts with:
Help me face this challenge,
Slay the demons of fear.
Help me listen to my dreams
Show me self-confidence..

Sophie Herxheimer's illustrations are sure to please with their bold colours and representations of heroines and events that reflect the different countries that the stories originated in.
The collection would be a good one for a teacher or parent to read aloud, and girls will enjoy the messages about strength, intellect, courage and love and being the best that you can be, as well as having great fun with the interactive sections.
Pat Pledger