The Woman Who Heard the Sun and Other True Stories Overlooked by History

Based on the acclaimed New York Times project, this engaging and dynamic book shares the true stories of remarkable people too often overlooked by history—an inspiring, eye-opening collection that empowers kids to see themselves as changemakers.

This is a celebration of extraordinary individuals whose contributions have been left out of traditional accounts of history. While textbooks and obituaries have too often highlighted powerful, wealthy white men, this collection brings forward the women, people of color, LGBTQ+ pioneers, and people with disabilities whose courage, creativity, and curiosity transformed the world.

Through 18 riveting narratives, readers will meet hidden heroes like Miki Gorman, the marathon champion who defied expectations; Sarah E. Ray, who challenged segregation years before Rosa Parks; Ralph Lazo, who voluntarily joined Japanese Americans at Manzanar to protest internment; and Regina Jonas, the world’s first woman rabbi—among many others. Written in vivid yet accessible prose, these powerful accounts invite young readers to rethink whose voices belong in history and to imagine their own potential to make change.

Beautifully designed and illustrated with full-color photographs, this is a history book that resonates long after the final page is turned. | Amisha Padnani is an award-winning staff editor at The New York Times and a keynote speaker on topics such as diversity, where she often highlights people who are underrepresented in society. She has been interviewed on NPR, Democracy Now, CBC, CBS, and the BBC. Porter Magazine named her Incredible Woman of the Year.