Historic Girlhoods, Part One

A vivid portrait series brings together the lives of young women who shaped, and were shaped by, the currents of their times. From medieval saints to pioneering explorers, each chapter offers a snapshot of a girl’s world—her family, her surroundings, and the moments that set her apart. The book’s rich illustrations complement the narratives, letting listeners picture the faces of Joan of Arc, Pocahontas, Catherine the Great, and many others.

The opening scene transports us to 14th‑century Siena, where a modest dyer’s daughter, Catherine, pauses beneath a tree and beholds a breathtaking vision atop the white façade of San Domenico. As saints and Christ extend a silent blessing, the experience leaves her both awestruck and secretive, hinting at the deep spiritual currents that will guide her life. Through Catherine’s quiet wonder, the work invites listeners to explore how early encounters with the extraordinary can echo across a girl’s future.