As we in the United States have the right to speak the truth, we also have theneed to be told the truth. Throughout history, politicians, writers, environmentalists, political activists, and others have used this freedom to motivate and empower Americans to challenge the status quo. Artist Robert Shetterly's fifty portraits, combined with thought-provoking quotes and concise biographies, offer a powerful view into what it means to be American, to hold American values, and to be part of a democratic society. Included are Frederick Douglass, Rachel Carson, Chief Joseph, Rosa Parks, Cesar Chavez, Mark Twain, Woody Guthrie, and more.

In tribute to this country’s proud tradition of protest, fine artist Shetterly has chosen 50 Americans who have stood up for what he calls “the promise of America,” presenting them in a series of accurately painted head-and-shoulder portraits with their names and a pithy quote scratched in. His selections, equally divided between men and women, range from such usual suspects as Martin Luther King, Jr. and Elizabeth Cady Stanton to the less-familiar likes of child peace activist Samantha Smith, political columnist Molly Ivins, authors Frances Moore Lappe (Diet for a Small Planet) and Jonathan Kozol, plus controversial figures such as Emma Goldman and Dwight Eisenhower, the telling quotes are reprinted in the margins to make them more legible. Opening with an eloquent general statement of purpose, and closing with biographical comments on each entry, this gallery of writers, politicians, rabble-rousers, troublemakers, scientists, celebrities and activists will have a stirring cumulative effect, even on children unacquainted with many of their causes or accomplishments.

Kirkus Reviews, starred review