By: Noah Whitfield

In a world where history is too often penned from a narrow perspective, Badass Bitches of History: 31 Unconventional, Strong, Defiant Women Who Changed The World bursts onto the literary scene as both a cultural wake-up call and a bold celebration of female tenacity. Released on April 27, 2025, and already climbing bestseller charts, this unapologetically titled book reclaims the term “bitch” and uses it as a badge of honor for the women who dared to disrupt the status quo.

Authored by Harrison Klein—with visual and creative support from collaborators including Olivia Whiteman—this powerhouse collection showcases the stories of 31 extraordinary women from a range of eras and regions. From ancient rulers like Cleopatra to modern activists like Malala Yousafzai, the book traverses time and geography to spotlight women who embodied courage, resilience, and transformational leadership.

Reclaiming the Narrative

At the heart of the project lies a deeply personal motivation. “I’m constantly surrounded by powerful, formidable women who are too often overlooked or mischaracterized,” Klein explained in a recent Q&A. “Society tends to label them as ‘bitches’ when they break the mold or refuse to conform. This book is a reclamation of that label.”

Rather than shying away from the controversial title, Klein leans into it with a reframing that challenges societal perceptions. For him, “bitch” becomes an acronym for Beautiful, Intense, Trustworthy, Competent, and Harmonious—traits that resonate through each profile. “Being a badass isn’t about being cruel—it’s about owning your strength, authority, and voice,” he emphasizes.

The book aims to uplift and empower, particularly younger readers and those from marginalized communities. “Empowerment might be overused, but the idea behind it matters,” Klein said. “This book offers both a blueprint and a rallying cry—showing what’s been done and what’s still possible with courage, clarity, and relentless determination.”

Crafting the Legacy

While Klein is the sole writer behind the narrative, he credits his team for helping bring the vision to life through layout, illustrations, cover design, and the development of thoughtful interactive features. “There were no co-authors involved in the writing itself,” he clarified. “The individuals credited supported the project creatively, helping shape the book’s visual identity and reader experience.”

These creative flourishes are not merely decorative—they’re part of the book’s educational mission. Each chapter includes journaling prompts and exercises designed to help readers connect with the featured women on a personal level. Whether it’s reflecting on Harriet Tubman’s courage or Marie Curie’s intellectual grit, the activities invite readers to internalize these stories in a meaningful, actionable way.

Shared Threads of Greatness

Despite the varied backgrounds of the women profiled, Klein sees a unifying theme: they were all radically brave. “These women are united by five distinct traits: courage, clarity, competence, confrontational power, and an unbreakable will,” he said. “Each made world-changing breakthroughs by standing firm in the face of tremendous pressure.”

The book’s structure reflects this ethos. Rather than chronological order or geographical grouping, the profiles are curated to highlight personal transformation and societal impact, underscoring how rebellion, resilience, and vision can ripple through history.

Figures like Wu Zetian—the only female emperor of China—and Joan of Arc, the teenage warrior-saint, sit alongside contemporary changemakers such as climate activist Greta Thunberg. This interplay between past and present positions history not as something distant, but as a living force—a conversation in which today’s readers can take part.

Resonance for a New Generation

Since its release, Badass Bitches of History has resonated widely, reaching #1 on Amazon and receiving glowing reviews for its bold tone, inspiring content, and inclusive approach. It arrives at a cultural moment when discussions around gender equity, representation, and historical revision are increasingly urgent and necessary.

For Klein, the book is more than a tribute; it’s a challenge. “I want every young woman or marginalized reader to feel seen, inspired, and equipped to rise,” he said. “These are not just stories of the past—they’re blueprints for future greatness.”

And with that, Badass Bitches of History does what so few history books attempt: it moves beyond facts and timelines, offering instead a fierce, empowering manifesto wrapped in biography. It reminds us that the women who changed the world didn’t do it quietly—and that maybe, just maybe, it’s time we stopped asking them to.

Available Now

Badass Bitches of History: 31 Unconventional, Strong, Defiant Women Who Changed the World by Harrison Klein — available in paperback and Kindle editions on Amazon, and other major retailers.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author, Harrison Klein, and do not constitute professional advice. While the article celebrates the achievements of historical women, individual interpretations of history may vary. No claims or guarantees regarding outcomes are made in relation to the content presented. Readers are encouraged to explore additional sources and perspectives for a broader understanding.