"Amazing Women of West Michigan" is a celebration of women who strive to make their community a better place to live. From doctors and lawyers to social workers and artists, the thirty-five women featured here are each unique in the role they fulfill. They come from a wide variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds, yet all exhibit the same sort of courage, strength, and determination. These amazing women have overcome difficult circumstances, pursued nontraditional careers, and changed lives with their care and compassion. Their stories as told by author Crystal Bowman -- accompanied by Tim Priests exceptional black-and-white photographs -- celebrate lives well lived and will inspire readers of all ages in western Michigan and beyond. Just a few of the remarkable women portrayed here: Suzanne Geha -- television news anchor Terri Lynn Land -- Michigan Secretary of State Gaiane Akopian -- ballerina Pamela Carrier -- police captain Ethel Footman Smothers -- childrens book author Sister Patrice Konwinski -- Chancellor of the Diocese of Grand Rapids