Throughout history, African American women have tapped hidden sources of strength and inspiration to conquer impossible odds. We have persevered through dangerous times. We have nurtured families, loved knowledge, and pursued dreams as various and different as the women who dreamed them. Along the way, we have forged new identities, fought for human rights, and made history.

Now Janus Adams offers you a daily invitation to share in this life-affirming legacy. In these pages, you will discover famous and unsung sisters who have contributed to our strength. Each has a new story to tell, and each day is a new opportunity to appreciate their precious gifts of motivation and compassion. Here are 365 uplifting meditations on courage, daring, and resistance that bring us valuable reminders of how real women in real times-from Harriet Tubman, to aviator Bessie Coleman, to Wild West legend ''Stagecoach Mary,'' to world-renowned writer Maya Angelou-created a better way of life for themselves and a better world for others.

In reading their stories, we ensure that these women live on-as shining beacons to light our own quests for happier, more fulfilled lives.

Glory Days

'' Each of the 365 days of the year chronicles the triumph of the African-American spirit. These powerful and precious moments in Black history should inspire all people.'' -Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole former president of Spelman College, Anthropologist, and author, Freedom Days

''A book to be handed down just like a family Bible-to be read byfamily member after family member, generation after generation.'' -Hattie Winston actress, founding member of the Negro Ensemble Company

''I've added Freedom Days to my morning ritual of inspirational reading.'' -Fort Worth Star-Telegram

''Adams's inventiveness and keen imagination are remarkable. . . . There is no way one can put this book down, once having started searching for personal connections to 'our' days and months.'' -Carol Taylor New York City Sun