Review of "Speed Queens"

 While I have known about some accomplishments by female drivers in American auto racing (Sara Christian being the first female NASCAR driver, Janet Guthrie being the first woman to race in the Indianapolis 500), I had no idea that women have been a part of motorsports since the 1890's and that was especially true in France and England.  This book is just as much a history lesson as it is a sports book.  Here is my review of "Speed Queens." 

Title/Author:

“Speed Queens: A Secret History of Women in Motorsport” by Rachel Harris-Gardiner

Rating: 

4 of 5 stars (very good)

Review:

Ever since the early days of motor sports in the late 19^th and early 20^th century, women have always been part of the scene, including some drivers.  While their male counterparts may have achieved the most fame and fortune, the contributions by women should not be overlooked.  This comprehensive book by Rachel Harris-Gardiner gives these women their much deserved recognition.

Unlike many books that showcase women in traditionally male fields concentrate on those who broke barriers – the first one to do a particular feat or accomplish something great.  This book does much more than that.  Harris-Gardiner has done extensive research to find not only those “firsts” but also recognizes those that may not have been the first to do so but still contributed to motor sports in many ways.  The reader will also learn a great deal about different types of motor sports in both Europe and the United States.  These go well beyond NASCAR and F1 racing, although they are included.  Motorcycles, early motor vehicles and how smaller car designs helped more women become drivers are also discussed in the book.

While the book does have a good organization and is easy to follow in a chronological sense, I had to read this carefully as there are so many names to follow when Harris-Gardiner discusses their contributions.  This is especially true in the early chapters when discussing the French and English women who were the early pioneers of female racing.  While this is a good thing because so many women and their accomplishments are recognized, it will not be a quick and easy read.

It doesn’t matter what form of motorsports a reader enjoys – this is a book in which any fan of any type of racing should pick up and admire the courage, skill and hard work of the women portrayed in this comprehensive look at their roles in motorsports.

I wish to thank Pen & Sword History for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Link: amazon.com/Speed-Queens-Secret-History-Motorsport-ebook/dp/B0BXLKK5MG/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=