"Pryor's exhaustive research serves her subject well."-Christian Science Monitor"There is drama aplenty. . . . Pryor writes with clarify and sympathy about Barton's foibles and problems, making even the most mundane organizational difficulties seem suspenseful."-Susan Reverby, New York Times"Irresistible. . . . Clara Barton, compassionate angel, becomes Clara Barton, neurotic, adulterer, careerist, embittered octogenarian-an authoritarian boss unable to brook criticism or delegate authority, who demanded loyalty from all and prompted one aide to dub her 'the Queen.'"-Carlin Romano, Philadelphia Inquirer"Destined to become an important reference work for years to come."-Abigail McCarthy, Washington Post"Barton established and headed the American Red Cross, was superintendent of a women's reformatory, played a key role in providing medical aid and relief to Civil War battlefronts, and helped establish the New Jersey public school system. Yet her character was far from saintly. Her desire for approval and recognition was boundless, and her overachieving zeal alienated contemporaries. For this outstanding biography, Pryor uses Barton's recently discovered diaries, plus letters and other primary sources, to portray a complex, troubled heroine without delving into historical psychoanalysis. A tribute to a remarkable woman. Highly recommended."-Library JournalMeticulously researched and well written. . . . Pryor has done an excellent job in bringing the real Clara Barton to life."-Civil War History"Probing, thoughtful, fascinating, and beautifully written."-American Studies