Girls and women have made great strides throughout history—and continue to do so today. During Women’s History Month in March, we celebrate the women who have inspired us through advocacy, courage, kindness and accomplishment, and empower our kids to do the same. These books show what a difference girls can make—at home, at school and in their communities.
Board Books
“This Little Trailblazer: A Girl Power Primer”
by Joan Holub
Through bright rhyming text and bold pictures, meet 12 trailblazing women who changed the world with courage, innovation, creativity and determination. This board book inspires girls to see themselves as leaders in every possible field, from computers and law to fashion and athletics.
“Baby Astronaut”
by Dr. Laura Gehl
Take your little scientist into space with Baby Astronaut and her crew! She’ll complete her mission and consider important questions like “Can plants grow in space?” and “Can astronauts sleep in space?” before returning to Earth and her own cozy bed.
Picture Books
“The World Is Not A Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid”
by Jeanette Winter
Growing up in Iraq, Zaha looked at the wavy sand dunes, flowing rivers, ancient ruins and swirling stars and dreamed of building things that could swoosh and zoom and flow and fly. With simple text and magical illustrations, this biography connects Zaha Hadid’s vision of the natural landscape with her daring “impossible” buildings that curve like a shell, wave like the marsh grass and soar like the birds.
”Chicks Rule!”
by Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen
When the Rocket Club posts a sign saying “No Chicks Allowed!” Nerdy Chick sees red but is not deterred. She gathers chicks of all flocks and feathers to work together, lift one another up and launch themselves out of this world.
Elementary Readers
“She Persisted in Science: Brilliant Women Who Made a Difference”
by Chelsea Clinton
This diverse collection of short biographies highlights women who made a difference in the world and used their skills, smarts and persistence to overcome obstacles. From Florence Nightingale to Greta Thunberg, you’ll find personal snapshots inspiring kids to learn more about the women and the many fields of science introduced here. Featuring Alexandra Boiger’s spirited artwork and an inspiring quotation from each scientist, this book brings these amazing women and their achievements to life.
The Princess in Black series
by Shannon Hale
Princess Magnolia may look like your typical princess, but she’s ready to take on any trouble—monster alarm! with superhero bravery, cleverness and a black disguise. With humor, fast-paced action and lively illustrations, The Princess in Black series upends our expectations and shows young readers the many ways a girl can save the day.
Middle Grade
“Proud: Living My American Dream”
by Ibtihaj Muhammad
This biography shares the motivational life story of Olympic fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad, including how she overcame feeling out of place in her sport as the first American woman to compete in the Olympics wearing a hijab.
Teen
“Watch Us Rise”
by Renée Watson
Best friends Jasmine and Chelsea are on a mission—they’re sick of the way women are treated at their progressive NYC high school, so they decide to start a Women’s Rights Club. Their online posts of poems, essays and videos soon go viral, and so do their trolls. Their bravery in speaking out and up will inspire future activists and creatives.
“Feminist AF: A Guide to Crushing Girlhood”
by Brittney C. Cooper
Hip-hop and feminism combine in this empowering guide with attitude from best-selling author Brittney Cooper and founding members of the Crunk Feminist Collective. Featuring loud and rowdy girls, quiet and nerdy girls, girls who rock naturals, girls who wear weave, outspoken and opinionated girls, girls still finding their voice, queer girls, trans girls and gender nonbinary young people who want to make the world better, “Feminist AF” uses the insights of feminism to address issues relevant to today’s young women.
