March is Women’s History Month. This important part of history has long been overlooked until recent years. While the influential work of women should be studied and celebrated all year long, this emphasis in March gives us a chance to begin the dialogue with our children. The books that we read together play a big part in that dialogue. Below is a list spotlighting 10 children’s books that celebrate courageous women throughout history.
Little Dreamers- Visionary Women Around the World by Vashti Harrison
This wonderfully illustrated collection features the stories of eminent women from across the globe. Highlighting architects, astronomers and scientists among others, “Little Dreamers” shows girls how pursuing their dreams can change the world.
Lady Legends Alphabet Book by Beck Feiner
An Alphabet book for the 21st Century! This colorful compilation introduces young readers not only to their letters, but to 26 notable pioneers for women’s rights. Including Frida Kahlo, Amelia Earhart, Rosa Parks, Marie Curie and many others, this book is the perfect introduction to strong women leaders.
A Girl Called Genghis Khan by Michelle Lord
Maria Toorpakai Wazir dreamed of playing sports in a culture where women weren’t allowed such freedoms. After pretending to be a boy for years, she went on to become a professional Pakistani squash player. Even though the Taliban targeted her and her family, she never surrendered her dreams and is forever inspiring Pakistani women today.
Be Bold! Be Brave!: 11 Latinas Who Made U.S. History by Naibe Reynoso
A delightful bilingual rhyming book highlighting eleven Latinas that made U.S. history in varied professions. These women include Ellen Ochoa (first Latina astronaut to go to space), Antonia Novello (first female U.S Surgeon General) and Sonia Sotomeyer (first Latina Supreme Court Justice).
How Women Won the Vote: Alice Paul, Lucy Burns, and Their Big Idea by Susan Campbell Bartoletti
The story of how two friends went from a London jail to leading the U.S. women’s suffrage movement in a fight for equality. Paul and Burns’ fearless crusade culminated with the 19th Amendment, granting women the right to vote.
The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read by Rita Lorraine Hubbard
Mary Walker’s life began in slavery and ended during the Civil Rights Movement. While accomplishing much throughout her long life, she set out to do one last thing—at 116 years old, she finally learned to read. Mary Walker demonstrates how women can do anything, at any age.
Malala Yousafzai Warrior with Words by Karen Leggett Abouraya
A champion for education, Malala Yousafzai stood up against the Taliban to advocate for Pakistani women’s rights. This picture book makes her remarkable journey of strength and survival accessible to young readers.
Shining Star: The Anna May Wong Story by Paula Yoo
Anna May Wong was the first Chinese-American actress to receive recognition in the cinematic world, despite facing heavy discrimination. Her work paved the way for Asian-American actresses that would follow her.
Harlem’s Little Blackbird: The Story of Florence Mills by Renée Watson
Florence Mills, a girl born to former slaves, rose above her circumstances and achieved her dream of becoming a successful stage performer. This charming story shows the power of one woman’s voice.
Sharice’s Big Voice: A Native Kid Becomes a Congresswoman by Sharice Davids and Nancy K. Mays
The inspiring autobiographical account of how Sharice Davids rose to become one of the first Native American congresswomen. Despite a society working against her, she used her voice to make an impact in her community.
