Susan B. Anthony Slept Here

This is one of those titles that could fit as easily into either of two categories: travel or women's studies. As a travelogue, the tape falls somewhat short in important details such as exactly where a traveler can find the statues, museums and sites associated with the famous women mentioned here; however, these places are interesting enough to pique a viewer's curiosity to do a little research. As women's history, the tape looks at achievers in four categories: adventurers and athletes, artists and performers, groundbreakers and heroes, and suffragists and stateswomen. Well-known contemporary women host the mini-bios for each category: gold medalist/sportscaster Donna de Varona introduces the lives of Babe Didrikson and Annie Oakley; actress Blair Brown profiles Georgia O'Keefe and Bessie Smith; Dr. Mae Jemison, our first African-American woman astronaut, discusses Madame C. J. Walker and Christa McAuliffe; Hillary Rodham Clinton highlights the work of Susan B. Anthony in securing the vote for women. Other notable women and the places associated with them are given a hasty tip-of-the-hat, which makes one realize that there really are a lot more "women's" historic sites than many people realize: Helen Keller, Harriet Tubman, Louisa May Alcott are mentioned, but what about the Grimke sisters, Mary McLeod Bethune, Mary "Mother" Jones, or Margaret Mead...? There are just too many people and places to cram into one hour...heyyyyyy, maybe a series is in order? FFH, are you listening? Entertaining, educational and inspiring, this tape is highly recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (R. Reagan)