Activist Emma Goldman was a remarkable woman and, as this sharp, informed biography shows, a ferocious, engaged, observant, and compassionate child and teen as well . . . The book is fearless in exploring Goldman’s considerable strengths as an orator and activist, while also rounding her out as a full woman who became the unofficial spokesperson for the free love movement, who was a loyal friend, and who carried the scars of a nightmare childhood all of her life . . . Heiligman also does exceptional work in exploring how any single speech, warm exchange, or relationship that Goldman had also changed the other people involved.” —BCCB
“The complexities and passions that characterized Jewish, Lithuanian-born writer and anarchist Emma Goldman (1869–1940) drive this comprehensive, thoroughly researched biography by Heiligman . . . Drawing information from Goldman’s own works, Heiligman builds a vivid portrait of a resilient figure who navigated prejudices against immigrants, Jews, women, and the working class at the dawn of the 20th century.” —Publishers Weekly
“Well-researched and comprehensive . . . will feel relevant to contemporary teens. Vividly portrays the life of a champion who stood up—loudly—to injustice.” —Kirkus Reviews