What would a hospital be without nurses? How could an army go into battle without them? Before Florence Nightingale (Clarion, $18.99) appeared on the scene, such was the case in British military hospitals. Although she gained her greatest fame for shattering this particular glass ceiling during the Crimean War, however, Nightingale’s accomplishments extended far beyond the end of the war. She braved severe family opposition to answer what she understood to be a call from God to serve, a vocation she continued to perform in myriad ways for the rest of her long life. Noted biographer Catherine Reef’s latest book provides a fascinating glimpse into how one woman’s intelligence and grit changed the world forever, as well as a reminder of the essential and courageous work that nurses continue to do today. Ages 12-15.