Jane Daoud became curious about gladiatrices and ancient female athletes. Many stories of course have been omitted from history, and others distorted, i.e. women were the pre-show entertainment! Outraged, Jane decided to write poems about these women from a clearer perspective. Jane enjoys skiing and playing tennis, and wishes she was still as fit as she once was! Jane is an Australian-based New Zealander and this is her first collection of poetry. She has previously enjoyed using storytelling in a therapeutic setting, and with those nearing the end of life. She now hopes to spend more time writing for the screen, as well as short stories and poetry.

"Jane Daoud gives voice to the power of women through reflections on what is possible, what has been achieved and what has not been seen with eyes wide shut. Stories of gladiatrices, dagger wielders, weightlifters, pirates, bikini girls, and jockeys tease the senses and makes one think about what is assumed, unobserved and lost to the true telling of his story and her story. Women know that women have power. It’s not a secret that they have kept to themselves. Ever. Jane allows anyone, everyone, all of us, to see and think differently, to peer into, and then appreciate, what is actually in plain sight: women and their power, casually but rightfully worn." -– Margot Foster AM LLB OLY

"If there is little good poetry on sport, there’s even less on women’s place in the history of physical endeavour. The Power of Women splendidly redresses some of the imbalance, introducing us to some of the most fearless and fearsome women who have ever put their strength to the test. With poems spanning ancient history to the modern Olympics, via a touch of piracy, this collection will convince you that women have paved the way to excellence in many and diverse fields, including taking up arms when necessary. It delivers a whole new understanding to the concept of going to the gym." -– Laurice Gilbert, Past-President, New Zealand Poetry Society